THEATRE ROYAL.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XXIII, Issue 222, 2 October 1901, Page 2

THEATRE ROYAL.

"FUN ON THE BRISTOL." It was a matter of certainty that " Widow O'Brien" would prove a sufficient attraction to draw a large crowd to the Theatre Royal on Tuesday evening, and it was not surprising to find a real " bumper " house. The uproarious fun of the piece infected the audience from first to last, and rarely, if ever, has such loud and continuous laughter been heard in the building. Throughout the English-speaking world Mr John F. Sheridan'« name is associated with " Widow O'Brien," and on this character depends the success of the play. His make-up, acting, and singing were alike inimitable, and, judging by the attitude of the audience, hi scored a thorough success. There were many present who must have gone away with aching sides caused by an overdose of hilarity. This, however, was a natural consequence, and will the more readily serve to keep alive the recollection of one of the most pleasant evenings spent at the Theatre Royal. One cannot adequately describe the performance, it's one prevailing element being fun—fast and furious. All the members of the company acquitted themselves most creditably, and the scenery was most appropriate. At the conclusion of the piece a miscellaneous entertainment followed, in which the singing and acting was of a very popular and taking nature. In the burlesque of "II Trovatore" Mr Sheridan's "Ooui.t J e Luna-Tic Kruger" was irresistibly droll, and when on his final discomfiture he flourished the white flag, it fairly brought down the house. A series of living tableaux were mast artistically carried out, and and evoked great Applause, while the coon song by Mis* Barns, and the whistling song by Miss Chard were very much appreciated. Altogether the entertainment was one that hit the popular taste exactly, and many will again be present

TO-NIGHT, when the " Widow O'Brien " will be seen for the last time this season, and all the " Fun on the Bristol" removed till soma future occasion, as to-morrow (Thursday) night Mr Sheridan will produce another mirthful comedy, "ATBIPTO OHIOAQO," in which Mr Sheridan appears as an Irish lady, Johanna Murphy, who in dres«, mannerisms, temperament, volubility, and genernl externals is simply |in esistable. " A Trip to Chicago " shows a considerable amount of originality and smartness of dialogue. Ludicrous situations follow one another with a run and a sparkle, and the Hibtrnianisms are rapped out deftly and with an effervescing humour. Johanna wears some marvels in Fariainn costumes secured while travelling on the " Oontinong." Songs and dances are plentifully sprinkled throughout, the comedy " And Da Cake Walk in Be Sky" by the company being particularly effective. Mr Sheridan will introduce his hilarious dialogue " Borneo and Juliet," in which he will be seen as Juliet, so theatre-goers are sure of an entertaining evening. There are special attractions offered for Waitara and intermediate centres to-morrow night, as the management have arranged a special train after the performance, leaving New Plymouth at 11 o'clock, to carry the visitors back. We have been asked to state that seats may be reserved by te'ephone to JMr Sheridan's manager at Terminus or Imperial Hotels.