A NEW “PORTABLE.”

Taranaki Central Press, Volume IV, Issue 291, 21 November 1936, Page 4

A NEW “PORTABLE.”

LATEST IN VAUDEVILLE New Type Of Company At Stratford. The appearance of a large brightly coloured motor caravan provided an unusual sight in Broadway yesterday afternoon. It is probable, however. that few of those who paused to glance at the vehicle realised that it represented the latest development in "portability” characteristic of modern times. The caravan houses thej artists, stage properties and living necessities of the Fred Argyle Variety Company, the first of its type to appeal* in New* Zealand. Portable vaudeville shows of this kind, however, have during the last two years, become familiar sights in Australian country districts. They represent the latest bid on the part of flesh and blood entertainers for a return to the popular favour that was- lost with the advent of the talking picture.

Although not as large as many of those touring in Australia the caravan has three cabins, fitted similarly to those on a steamship. In addition it has accommodation for the kitchen facilities of an ordinary house including a gas stove. Every article used in connection with the show has been planned with a view* to economising on stowage space. All the bigger pieces are aiianged so that they can be packed as compactly as possible. This caravan was made In Whangarei for the Argyle company, and in it they have toured a great part of the Auckland district and during the last six months they have mat|e a complete circuit of the South Island. They found the life an ideal Mr. Argyle told a “Press” representative this morning. Travelling in New Zealand was much more interesting than in Australia, where a large part of the territory they covered was barren and almost devoid of scenery. The caravan enabled quick and comparatively simple transport and up to the present, no mechanical trouble had even interfered with their schedule. During nearly a year's travelling in New* Zealand they had had one near approach to a mishap. While; travelling through f.|he Aw’akino Gorge one of the front wheels had come loose and was practically off the axle when it was noticed by a passing motorist.