GRINGOS AND SENORITAS AT ST JAMES

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 765, 11 September 1929, Page 17

GRINGOS AND SENORITAS AT ST JAMES

SUCCESS OF “RIO RITA” p e p—in the singing', the ballets, the humorists’ “line o£ chatter,” and the delightful antics of that bright little laugh-getter. Miss Janette Gilmore—that describes “Rio Rita,” the vivid musical comedy of TJ.S.A-.-Mexican border life now running at St. James Theatre. . . . Miss Gladys Mpncneff. retaining her delightful voice, puts new life into the now well-known "Rio Rita” selections. The singing of all the principals is excellent. Mr. Leslie Pearce, as tho dare-devil captain of the Texas Rangers, suits the part very well, and Mr. lan Iredale, as the handsome but villainous Mexican general, carries, his part splendidly, his enunciation being perfect in spite of the broken-Euglish accent’which he has to adopt. He is one of the outstanding performers of the production- . The voices of Miss Moncrieff and Mr. Pearce blend perfectly and the several selections they sing together are well received. The singing of “Rio Rita” and "Was it a Dream?” are given a new freshness by these two. Miss Moncrieff attracted unusual attention. toe, for the exquisite gowns which she wore during the various acts. Mr. Pearce, in riding trousers, calfskin vest, riding boots and carrying the low-swung "six guns of his adopted profession, looked well in the P Much of the success of the show, however, must' go to Miss Gilmore and Messrs. Mallen and Norman, who, during breaks in the theme of the production, kept the audience in a. constant uproar with their small talk” and eccentric dances. Gifted with ready wit and a pair of rubber legs. Mr. Norman keeps things moving on the humorous side throughout the production. Mr. iviallen shaxed honours with him and Miss Gilmore capped the success of the humorists part. Her true American accent added a bright touch to the reality of the show.