“A FLORENTINE TRAGEDY”

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 373, 6 June 1928, Page 17

“A FLORENTINE TRAGEDY”

PRODUCTION TO-NIGHT “A Florentine Tragedy,” a brilliant Oscar Wilde play, will be presented this evening and to-morrow evening by Mr. Theo. Tresize, in the new Lewis Eady Concert Hall. The central figure is Simone, the merchant, a man who combines in his being both hatred and justice, and in the play he is betrayed by his wife Bianca for a passionate whim. Mr. Theo. Trezise plays the role of Simone, while Mrs. Coralie Stanley McKellar portrays the part of Bianca, the wife whose eyes are blinded by exotic romance. Mr. Fryer-Raisher is the Prince of Guido, a light, irresponsible cavalier who accepts life as a delightful playground and who believes that forbidden fruits are sweetest. Miss Ethel Rae plays the only other role in the production, that of Maria, Bianca’s maid. The beautiful 14th century costumes add to the exotic air of romance and gallantry of the period, and nothing has been overlooked in the way of furnishing, stage lighting and effects, to give the correct atmosphere to this gem of English blank verse.

The arrival of Jack Holt’s “Vanishing Pioneer” company at Rockville, Utah, at one of the great national parks of the United States, increased by 50 per cent, the population of the village. Normal strength is 200 souls. The company is there on location from the Paramount studios in Hollywood, making a picture from a Zane Grey novel with John Waters as director. Roscoe Karns, Lillian West* Marcia Manon and Jack Holt’s little son are on location with the company.