“THE VAGABOND KING”

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 585, 11 February 1929, Page 15

“THE VAGABOND KING”

HIS MAJESTY’S TO-MORROW To-night I-lis Majesty’s Theatre will be closed so that a full scenic and lighting rehearsal may take place under the direction of the stage manager and in the presence of Mr. E. J. Tait, who arrives by the Niagara this morning, of the phenomenally successful and stupendous musical production “The Vagabond King,” which is to be staged for the first time in New Zealand to-morrow evening, and is unquestionably the finest production of its kind ever staged by the J. C. Williamson, Ltd., management. “The Vagabond King” ran for tnree years in New York and London, and numerous companies are at present touring in it throughout America and in the provinces of England. Its opening performance in Sydney was a notable occasion, the enthusiasm of the audience knowing no bounds. The success “The Vagabond King” enjoyed in Sydney was remarkable, the huge auditorium of His Majesty’s Theatre being taxed to its utmost capacity during its long run, and to procure seats patrons had to make reservations weeks ahead. Eventually, in the very zenith of its success, it had to be withdrawn to make room for another attraction, but it is to be revived in Sydney later on in the year. The costuming of “The Vagabond King” has been described as really amazing; whether the grimy rags of the Parisian rabble or the elaborate robes of the courtesans, everything is effective. “Never before,” wrote a Sydney critic, “have larger ensembles been presented in a Williamson production. Those of ‘The Vagabond King’ are marked by prodigality of personnel, beautiful and stirring choruses and the galaxy of colours presented by the period costumes.” “The Song of the Vagabonds,” which is first offered in the tavern in the first act, ieffective, but when it is sung by the rabble marching out to rout the Duke of Burgundy, the audience was moved to unrestrained enthusiasm. James Liddy is said to be at his best in the role of Francois Villon, and Miss Strella Wilson’s beautiful soprano voice is heard at its best in the music allotted the role of Katherine. Arthur Stigant, Cecil Kellaway, Arthur Greenaway, Arthur Mayes are others who have assisted to make the Australian production of “The Vagabond King” the best and most successful yet staged by the J. C. Williamson, Ltd., management.

A full operatic chorus and orchestra are other features of the production, which is produced by George A. Highland.