“THE VAGABOND KING”

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 586, 12 February 1929, Page 15

“THE VAGABOND KING”

HIS MAJESTY’S THIS EVENING To-night at 8 o’clock the J. C. Williamson, Ltd., management will present for the first time to play-goers of New Zealand the gorgeously mounted, picturesque, humorous and very tuneful musical play, “The Vagabond King,” which was acclaimed in Sydney as the finest comic opera ever staged in Australia. The scenic and lighting rehearsal, which took place last evening, under the direction of Mr. Victor Tatnell, the stage manager, passed off without a hitch, so that there is no possibility of a hitch during this evening's performance. There are still a large number of seats in central positions, in either the dress circle or reserved stails, for the initial production of “The Vagabond King,” which may be selected at the box office from 9 o’clock this morning. When it was presented in dramatic form, “The Vagabond King,” then known as “If I Were King,” enjoyed a record run in London, but as a musical play it has eclipsed for popularity even “Rose Marie” and “The Maid of the Mountains.” The settings are spectacular and luxuriantly colourful, the dressing is superb, the music bright, high-class and vigorous, and it is said that never has a musical play been presented by a stronger combination of artists as that which has been engaged for “The Vagabond King.” Its music, which is by Rudolph Friml, composer of “Rose Marie,” is said to be much above the average heard in comic opera, some of it verging on the border of grand opera. The story of “The Vagabond King” is thrilling and romantic, and the authors have provided some genuinely humorous material for the comedians. Lovers of good singing will welcome the reappearance of those two brilliant artists. Miss Strella Wilson and Mr. James Liddy, who were specially engaged for the characters of Katherine and Francois Villon respectively. It is said that they are both enjoyed at their very best in “The Vagabond King.” The two leading comedy roles are entrusted to Messrs. Arthur Stigant and Cecil Kellaway, probably two of the most popular musical comedy artists who have ever appeared*in New Zealand. The cast also Includes: Arthur Greenaway, Lou Vernon, Rene Linton, Arthur Mayes, Eileen Ogden, Lois Evans, Beatrice Kendrick, Georg? Conyngham and other favourites. The ballets and ensembles are features of the production, and another feature is the work of the GO choristers and the full operatic orchestra. The Play was produced by Mr. George Z. Highland.

Only a limited number of performances can be staged of “The Vagabond King,” and there will be a matinee on Saturday aftex*noon.