THEATRE ROYAL.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XXXXV, Issue 19, 23 January 1903, Page 3

THEATRE ROYAL.

THORNTON COMEDY COMPANY. As was anticipate!', this papular oompiny met wi'h a very enthusiastic reception on Thursday evening, when tht The\tre was well filled. "Facing tho Music" is about as funoy a comedy us anyone could wish for, and as a consequence the hughter was hearty and continuous throughout the performance. Mr Frank Thornton was in his element as John Smith, and his clever impjrsona'ion was duly appreciated by great deal to steady affairs in ths Eist. the large audienc?. In the part where, on account of his multitudinous troubles, he suffered temporary deraention, h : s acting was powerful. The R:v. Join Smith, a well-meaning though veiy straight-laced cleric, was xcellently impersonated by Mr John Desmond, while Mr Galway Herbert, with his infectious laugh, added greatly to the gpnernl jollity as Dick Desmond. Mr Alex. Bradley was a grcd Colonel Smith, with a t ste Lr whisky, and Mr Joseph Wilson made a pompous, conceited detective. Miss Vera Fordyce and Miss Lsonie Uorbury entered thoroughly into the fun of the piece, and eirned much apphuse for their diver tctingasNora and Mabel respectively. Miss Phoebe Alircer wai a charming Miss Fotherioggav i aLd Mrs Walter Hill, as Mrs Pointing, gave a capital portrayal of Smith's housekeeper. The comedy was p-eceded by a musical farce, " A Test Match," in which the parts werev/A\ sustained by Miss Phoebe Mercer, and Mes rs Herbert and Wi'son. The litter sang several songs with considerable effec". Another visit from this company will be hemily welcomed.