OPERATIC SEASON

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 214, 29 November 1927, Page 17

OPERATIC SEASON

“MIKADO” TO-MORROW Evidence of the immense popular - ity of the Gilbert and Sullivan productions with the Auckland public is not hard to find at present. Last evening’s performance of “Ruddigore” again attracted a packed “house,” and a large attendance is anitcipated this evening and also at the final matinee performance to-morrow afternoon. To-morrow night the first of the many changes of programme to be made during the present season provided by J. C. Williamsofi’s Comic Opera Co., will take place, when the ever-popular “Mikado,” will be presented for a short season of two nights. It is one of the most spectacular, melodious and entertaining of the series, and in erpreted by this talented and extremely versatile company it should prove in every way enjoyable. The charming solos and choruses, and the grotesque but telling, humour in “The Mikado” have always appealed to lovers of entrancing music and clean, crisp fun.

Additional interest is added to the production by the fact that the gifted sopi'afto and clever actress, Miss Strella Wilson, will appear for the first time in New Zealand as the dainty and demure Yum-Yum, and that she will be a success goes without saying. Miss Winifred Williamson will be in the part of the venomous Katischa, Miss Effie Armstrong as Peep-80, and Miss Mabel Gibson as Pitti-Sing. On the male side the cast is particularly strong. Mr. James Hay as Nanki Poo will be heard to distinct advantage in the many tuneful solos, duets, and trios in this most charming of operas. Mr. Chas. Waleen will be in his favourite role of Ko-Ko, one of the best in his extensive repertoire. Mr. Bernard Manning fits the part of the Mikado most satisfactorily. Mr. John Ralston will appear as Pooh-Bah. and Mr. Lance Fairfax is cast for PishTush. “The Mikado’* will be followed by “Patience,” “Yeomen of the Guard,” “lolanthe,” “Gondoliers,” “Pinafore,” “Princess Ida,” and “Pirates of Penzance,” in the order.as given, and there will be matinees on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The box plans are at Messrs. Lewis R. Eady and Son, Ltd.