“THE SUNBEAMS”

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 235, 23 December 1927, Page 15

“THE SUNBEAMS”

JUVENILES AT NATIONAL It is indeed seldom that a performer achieves stardom at Jackie Clarke’s age. There are few artists of his size and experience with their own revue company. Yet such is the case with this little Australian. He heads the bill at the National this week supported by the “Royal Sunbeams,” a talented juvenile combination appearing by arrangement with Chrissie • Royal, the Sydney teacher of dancing. The company made a favourable impression on the initial appearance last night. The troupe has more than a sufficiency of varniety, which, after all, is the greatest recommendation of a revue combination. Replete with belltopper and cane, a miniature Billy Maloney, Jackie “puts it across” with •all the assurance of the prodigy, and never fails to score a success.

Baby Doreen is another little performer who can dance or sing with equally satisfying results. She also ably supported Jackie Clarke in many of his offerings. Doreen likewise led the quaint little toy ballet, one of the most acceptable offerings on the programme. She was the smartly dressed French doll, with a quaint little bonnet, and attractive gown. Another interesting member of the troupe was Harry Ussher, “the boy with the silver voice.” His effective soprano was worthy of something better, however, than the sentimental ballad entrusted to him.

Gwen Jones was a bouncing sunbeam, Jean White the central figure in a Danse Fantastique, and Alice Johnson led the Radiant Ballet. Phvllis Robertson and Thelma Forrest stepped, a Danse Flirtation, while Joyce Serio interpreted different national dance characteristics. Valda Chat© was responsible for “She’s Got It,” another popular offering by the Radiant Ballet. The production was under the sole direction of Chrissie Royal, Winifred Gill designed the frocking, and G. 11. Tarr was in charge of the scenery and lighting effects. “The Sunbeams” were supported by “April Fool,” a drama of New York’s foreign underworld. The lead was taken by Alexander Carr, the wellknown Hebrew vaudevillian, who, incidentally, passed through Auckland a few weeks ago after fulfilling engagements in Australia. Raymond Keane and Mary Aldne supported little Baby Peggy, who -played opposite the star.