AMUSEMENTS.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LII, Issue 107, 2 June 1909, Page 4

AMUSEMENTS.

"THE MERRY WIDOW." At last theatre-goers of Xew Plymouth are to have an opportunity ol witnessing this exceptionally popular and successful play. l n announcing a production of such magnitude it is perhaps not out of place to mention that the 'JMerry Widow" has the unique distinction of being presented simultaneously at 300 theatres in Europe without counting America, South Africa and ' Australia. This remarkable light opera will be produced at the Theatre Royal on Monday, 7th June, and the box-plans will be opened to-morrow morning at The Colonial Piano Co. To meet the requirements of this exceptional attraction Mr. J. C. Williamson's Royal Comic Opera. Co., has been specially strengthened by some important engagements; Mr Andrew Higginsou, principal baritone is new to local theatregoers and comes to us with a reputation which has practically exhausted the superlatives of contemporary critics. Australasia's favouiite artist Miss Florence Young has won fresh laurels by her brilliant performance and splendid rendering of the sparkling music in the title role. We have already given many of the favourite names which go to make up the strong east for this production 'and it is seldom if ever that local theatre goers have seen such an array of talent in one combination. One of the most important features in this tuneful opera is the orchestration, whica is said to be clever and beautiful to a degree, in fact some critics have compared it with the orchestration of many for more serious musical works. In order that full justice may be done to the composers talent, Mr. Williamson has sent a full grand opera orchestra on tour with the company under the able direction of Mr. Howard Carr, which has been mentioned by Wellington - and Auckland critics as a revelation in orchestral music and accompaniment.. A full opera chorus and ballet will support the principals and contribute the kaleidoscope splendour of the stage pictures with which the piece ulioimds, combining with the music to fascinate eyes and ears at the same time. The box plan of "The Merry Widow" opens to-morrow morning at 8.30, not f) o'clock as previously notified. Early birds are requested to form a queue, for their won convenience and to facilitate the work of the manager of the box office.