PRINCESS THEATRE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 17689, 29 July 1919, Page 6

PRINCESS THEATRE

The outstanding attraction in the change of programme presented at the Princess : Theatre last night was the return of the Eopular revue comedian, Mr Paul Stanope, supported by a talented company of '; comedians and show trirls—lß in all. The , company has come direct from Brisbane, where it achieved a record of successes dur- - ing a 16 weeks' season. The initial produc- . bou selected for presentation was "See- :! Saw>" and following on the popular "Walter . George Revue Company, the new combina- '.- tion was set a heavy task to satisfy the de- ■',. inands of the publics; but fk came through, the test with flying colours, and to such' ">. an extent did it make good that the success of its Dunedin season, whether long or short, is already assured.' The "See-Saw" rovue, which supplies a superabundance of bright, wholesome, and rollicking humour, :', catchy songs, and clever dancing, was written and produced by Mr Stanhope, who appears with conspicuous success in his old character of Spike Murphy, a wealthy but ingenuous Irishman. It is two years since Mr Stanhope last visited Dunedin, and his popularity was demonstrated by the deafening applause which' greeted his initial ap- ■ pearance on tho stage. In the character of bpike Murphy, his genuine ability «as an Irish .comedian is given ample scope, and he makes the utmost use of his opportuni- . ties. Ho falls a victim to the tricks and ': wiles of a gambler, John Hunter (Mr Mark ■ Jinokson),. and an adventuress, Lady Clevo- , land (Miss Maude Miles), and as a consequence has to part with much of his hard- . earned com; but his irrepressible and jovial nature rises superior to such a minor consideration. Mr Ernest Pitcher as Antonio ■ .an Italian of doubtful reputation and-, villainous appearance, was responsible lor much of the humour of tho entertain - lnent, and proved himself a clever and vereatUe comedian. The other male members .; of the company are Messrs Harry Hart (the 'popular tenor), Trueman Neilson, Chas =■ Lawrence, arid Bert Morrison, and their performance left little to be desired. Miss : Helen Le Cam (as Spike Murphy's daughter) sings■•sweetly and acts capably, and Miss Atnel Benotto, a charming soubrette, who appeared in tho role of Antonio's daughter quickly established herself a favourite with' patrons. A ballet of eight vivacious girls. Pr s. y responsible for several pretty and effective dancing turns, and in . otner ways supported the principals very S y, M a i SpoCla Lfe ature ¥ n S th <> dancing of the Maloney Sisters. In the vaudeville ' e flf 2 ™ 6 ' wl >ich occupied tile first half of the entertainment, there was no change in the personnel of the artists as compared with last week, but all the items submitted were entirely new ■C «i my^ tlc As^ s a Sain astounded and _ baffled her audience with her marvellous psyohw power, and she appeared to be able to give expression to the thoughts of her questioners with almost uncanny precision S n*fVs red several De * aiusW S added further to the bewilderment of patrons, and at the same time enhanced his reputation as an exceedingly clever magician. Bnghtio and Carlyon kept their audience convulsed ? with their bright and breezy comedy, and Broil and Hemslev caused additional merriment with iteZ farrly sparkled with humour. Thf Mohnans sang a number of solos and duets ma manner which delighted their auditors i reSpfe 1 cordial reception. The entertainment, which reaches a high standard of excellence will be repeated to-night. ™™.uw, v,m