MR ROBSON’S RECITALS.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 2748, 13 January 1882, Page 2

MR ROBSON’S RECITALS.

Mr Robson, if not exactly a phenomenon is very nearly so, as those who attended the Theatre Royal last night will unanimously testify. His previous performance gave us a very clear idea of his powers as an; elocutionist ; last night’s night drove home the nail of conviction. Without reviewing in detail every item of his performance,we may say, briefly, that he displayed some of the best qualities of the actor, and consummate talent as an elocutionist; while his memory is surprisingly good, enabling him to render passage after passage with, generally, perfect accuracy. His rendition of the famous “ Raven ” possessed the merit of originality : his conception was the outcome of a thoughtful and appreciative mind. In his humorous selections he was remarkably happy, his facial powers being extraordinary. “ Cousin Peter ” will not soon be forgotten ; while the “ Bashful Man ” Was an old friend in a new and effective guise. In the borrowing (or bond) seene from the “ Merchant of Venice,”. Mr Robson was very effective, although his impersonation of the Jew was not in accordance with our idea of the character. His soprano singing was in itself a treat, and the “ Last Rose of Summer” suffered nothing at bis bands. He explained that to sing soprano was with him quite an easy matter, and his performance verified the statement. Mr Robson possesses considerable charm of manner, snd is an accomplished narratist. His description of a bit of Australian scenery was s kindling to many pf us. Th & finale of the evening’s entertainment was, by request, the graveyard scene from “ Hamlet,” In this Mr Robson’s remarkable histrionic powers had ample scope for display, and shone to advan tage, notably in the role of the gravedigger. The Marionette playing of Mr Robson exhibited . the gentleman in another light to immense advantage. M. Lorenz, who presided at the piano, is a capital .thoughtful player, and rendered the part allotted to him with tastp and good execution. Altogether this entertainment was one of extremely high character, and wo greatly regret that a better house, ora less meagre one at all events, did not reward the performers. Mr Robson had occasion, during the evening, to request a stoppage Of the noise of people at the entrance doors. We shall be'-glad to see a vestibule or some such i,liter court to the theatre/! Noises from outside sow enter unchecked, and are very disturbing to the comfort of audience and performers alike.