“OTHER MEN’S WIVES”

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 476, 4 October 1928, Page 15

“OTHER MEN’S WIVES”

AMUSING, SPARKLING PLAY MARGARET BANNERMAN’S BI SUCCESS “Other Men’s Wives,” a play in thre acts by Walter Hackett. Presented z. His Majesty’s Theatre last evening b J. C. Williamson. CAST Maitre D’Hotel Herbert Millai Angela Worthing .. .. Lily Titheradg Anthony Peel Ellis Irvir The Maid . . .. .. Margaret Banner ma Reginald De Brett .. Louis Goodric Gendarme G. Kay Soup* Sir John Deptford .. . . Geoffrey Milk Sam Worthing Arthur Cornc “I am broadminded up to a poin but beyond that I am very old-fasl: ioned.” This, from a silly little marrie woman who is being forcibly dctainc in a French hotel by a pleasant young man, does not denote that “Other Men’s Wives” is a risque French farce. When a murder is committed offstage with realistic gurglings and thuds it does not mean that “Other Men’s Wives” is an Edgar Wallace thriller. And when a beautiful maid turns out to be a beautiful society girl in search of a fabulously valuable diamond necklace it is still no indication of Mr. Hackett’s play. “Other Men’s Wives” is really light, sparkling comedy with a dash of mystery and a good deal of romance. Instead of the eternal triangle Mr. Hackett has given us a connubial square, and very entertaining theatrical fare he has made of it. The dialogue is lavishly sprinkled but never overladen with epigrams and it is witty with sufficient spice to flatter a nimble-minded audience. It might be added that several of the more subtle lines were quite beyond the audience, and escaped with only a chuckle from the more discerning theatregoers. To try to outline the play would bo disastrous, but disastrous only in the sense that a bare outline would not do it justice and it might lead people to believe that it is involved, whereas "Other Men’s Wives” is one of the most sparkling plays we have seen for some time. Then again the denouement is unexpected and the confirmed theatregoer dislikes being deprived of this surprise. But the greatest charm of "Other Men's Wives” is that it is Margaret Bannerman’s introduction to New Zealand. A more diverting or amusing play could not have been chosen and a crowded house paid tribute to this accomplished actress. Her poise, her elegance and her personal beauty almost make one forget the play itself. She has grace and charm, and a vivid personality which immediately gets across the footlights, Miss Bannerman’s emotion is suggested rather than exploited and that emotion is all the more sincere because of it. But this charming lady is best when she delves into comedy. Her refreshing treatment of a subtle phrase or a delicate situation is perfect. And her frocks . . . but the lady editor will deal with those. Since Mr. Irving last visited Auckland he has improved beyond all knowledge. His excellent speaking voice is a big asset and he now plays with the assurance and skill which has come with the aid of a good producer, Mr. Goodrich seemed to be suffering