“ARCHIE” AT ST. JAMES

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 405, 13 July 1928, Page 15

“ARCHIE” AT ST. JAMES

BRIGHT MUSICAL COMEDY A pair of pink pyjamas forms the centre around which the plot of “Archie,” the delightful musical comedy at present playing at St. James new theatre, develops. To whom did the garments belong? Was it “Archie”? Was it the stern and gouty Sir Michael? Was it but the best way to find out would be to go and see. It would be unfair to give away all the intriguing situations of the plot. There is not a dull line in “Archie,” and thoroughout its four cleverly arranged scenes, musical and vocal numbers are interspersed with highly pleasing effect. The story revolves round three figures—Archie Cobb, who is, or was, too weak-spirited to manage his wife; the wife herself, who secretly wanted a caveman and was thus delighted when Archie unexpectedly assumed that role; - and Sir Michael, a severe old fogy with a strong bias against Mrs. Archie Cobb. Such a plot offers endless opportunities for amusing situations, of which

Jimmy Godden and Elsie Prince fully avail themselves. Mr. Godden’s humour, ever young and fresh, rang true and was thoroughly appreciated j by a crowded house. Mr. Godden has a way with him which is even more popular than on his last visit. The arch-enemy of gloom, he raises a laugh with even the tritest remark. Combining the gift of comedy, singing, dancing and character impersonation, Miss Prince made even more secure the position she won in the hearts of Auckland theatre-goers during her last visit with the “No, No, Nanette” Company. Her vivacity and sparkling charm ensure her a splendid reception whenever she appears. Other names appearing in the cast are by no means new to Aucklanders —Mr. Charlton Morton, Mr. George Willoughby, Mr. Leonard Rich, Miss Betty Lambert, Miss Elsie Parkes and Miss Nellie Deane all being old friends. The musical numbers of the show are catchy and melodious. “Under the Cairo Moon” was the hit of the evening far Miss Prince and Mr. Godden, “A Lane in Spain,” “There’s Everything Nice About You,” and quite a few others adding spice to | the general musical effect. Dancing and lighting effects play a great part in the success of “Archie,” which will be played to-night and j Saturday, after which “Sunny” will be 1 staged.