THE FAMOUS N.Z. DIGGERS.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIII, Issue 2347, 27 October 1921, Page 2

THE FAMOUS N.Z. DIGGERS.

TOWN lIALL, TO-NIGHT,

The motto, smile a while and while you smile another smiles and soon there’s miles and miles of smiles, was never more aptly quoted that in connection with the Famous Diggers. Those who have witnessed tlieir performances in the past realise how completely they control their audience in the matter of laughter. In this respect the Sydney Times lias said: “We do not think these Diggers . realise how good they really are.” In the new programmes they are now submitting they maintain that the laughter will be louder than ever before. “The Patents Offiq*;” sketch is an extremely funny piece of nonsense originally done by Harry Tate in (lie revue “Box o’ Tricks,” at the Hippodrome, LoiiQoh. Mr Tate himself considers it to be the funniest sketch he lias ever played in. Another sketch which is a “sure lire” hit is “Tickets. Please,” which ran for two years on the English music balls. It is chock full of funny gags and stunts, and will be played by the comedian who originated it in England, Air Joe Valli. The burlesque, “Jazz Band” is an item which, for sheer downright comicality, wil( be hard to beat. The new Quartete has a repertoire which encompasses the very latest American and English song hits. They also introduce many novelties into their presentment of the turn. The Orchestra will he well up to tlie mark, and selections include the very latest London successes, such as “The Little Dutch Girl,” “The Naughty Princess,” and Oscar Ashe’s latest success, “Mecca.” The Oriental Dance, by Stan Lawson, in the Egyptian scene, is a big success

everywhere. Bert Barton, late principal comedian of J. C. Williamson, Ltd., gives some fine “dame” songs with patter, and just to show his versatility, put into another portion of the programme some excellent Dickens’ studies.

A lovely carnival scene and a charming oriental scene, painted by Will Back, lend delight to the eye, and the dresses, specially imported from London and Paris, make up a picture of beauty and joy. The company of twenty performers also includes Fred Webber, who is a light comedian with a charming personality, and who also has a nice offering in the way of latest songs and dancing stunts.