Theatre Royal.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XLVII, Issue 787, 1 April 1905, Page 2

Theatre Royal.

VAN BIENE JN "THE BROKEN MELODY." Public interest in the approaching visit of Van Biene and his London Dramatic Company is rapidly increasing. Apart from the fact that the world-renowned actor-musician comes hero under the direct ion of MiGeorge .Musigrove— whoso name is sufficient guarantee of -the excellence of the company, Vim IKouc'k fame? aa an artist, both musical and dramatic, is worthy of the attention of local playgoers. "Tho Broken Melody" has created a very favourable impression in Auckland, the critics agreeing that both play and players come quite up to expectations, while the exquisite 'cello playing of Auguste Van Bleno nightly arouses great, enthusiasm. Particularly is this the case when the musical portion is blended with the dramatic, us at the close of Act I. Van Biene's powers as an actor are only second to his musical ability, while each member of the company is reported lo be minontly suited to his or her respective parts. Van Bien© has no understudy and no rival. Hp In the only actor who is also a great musician. Mr Geo. Alexander, in nn after dinner speech last year, related the story of a lady who once exclaimed : "Oh, Mr Alexander, what a lovely play ''The Prisoner of Zemin" is, but what a pity you don't ploy tho 'cello !«' When Van Hiene heard the atorv he remarked "Thank God "he doesn't." As it is his double speciality is his own nlono.