“HIT THE DECK”

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 505, 7 November 1928, Page 17

“HIT THE DECK”

TO-MORROW AT HIS MAJESTY’S To-night at His Majesty’s Theatre the J. C. Williamson musical comedy, headed by Annie Croft, presents for the 'last time the delightful musical play, “’fhe Girl Friend.” To-morrow (Thursday) evening British sailors will take possession of the theatre, when “Hit the Deck,” a musical comedy which strikes out on a new course, will be given its Dominion premiere. “Hit the Deck” has already won a good name abroad. It was adapted from Hubert Osborne’s play, “Shore Leave,” which was also turned into a successful film. The music is by Vincent Youmans, who was responsible for “No, No, Nanette.” Members of the British Navy are much in evidence throughout the story. At tho inception of the play naval men, including marines, are enjoying themselves at the coffee house of Looloo Martin, at Plymouth. Looloo falls in love with Bill Smith, who is ordered away to China. Becoming passing rich by the disposal of a valuable heirloom, Looloo follows her Bill out to 'China. Manly fellow, he refuses to marry, her because of her wealth, and is lost sight of for some time. Eventually Looloo returns to her coffee house. Bill Smith again heaves into view, the problem of the disposition of her wealth is satisfactorily solved, and other difficulties overcome. There is a dance on the quarter-deck of H.M.S. Inscrutable, which provides a very fine spectacle. Even this is excelled by the brilliance of the scene at the China seaport town.

Annie Croft is Looloo, and the full strength of the company, including Reginald Sharland, Leo Franklyn, Gus Bluett, James Hughes, Les Donaghey, Billio Lockwood, Mary Rigby, Katie Towers, Bunny Beatty, together with the fascinating chorus and ballet, appear.

A special feature is May Beatty’s singing of the song riot, “Hallelujah.” There is plenty of love interest, heaps of comedy, and a dramatic interest that keeps the play moving swiftly. The box plans are at Lewis Eady, Ltd., and the day sales at the theatre kiosk.