AMUSEMENTS.

Taranaki Daily News, 19 November 1915, Page 2

AMUSEMENTS.

" MOTHER GOOSE " PANTOMIME AT THEATRE ROYAL TO-NIGHT. There is an indescribable charm about good pantomime—it is the endless variety, the constant change of scene, the sweet singing, the smart patter, the gorgeous costumes, the clever specialities, and a hundred and one dtlier attractive items which combine to produce an effect botli pleasing and stimulating It is seldom that provincial theatre-goers have an opportunity of seeing pantomime played by a specially selected east, but tonight at the Theatre Royal, Stanley M.ci*ay and Co. will present the most successful extravaganza ever staged in Australasia, "Mother Goose; or the Goose that 'Laid the Golden Egg." The story is, of course, well known, and does not need recapitulation. It is enough to say thai, it seintilates with quaint humor and original patter, and the choruses and dances are all the very latest. Heading the lompany, as Mother Goose, is Mr. Harold Gerald, who gives a splendid characterisation of the old lady. He plays the part to a nicety, and is responsible for roars of laughter, especially in his songs and acrobatic work. Another fine comedy is that of Old King Cole, impersonated by Mr. Will Rayner. In Miss Essie Jennings, the "Mother Goose" combination have one of the best principal boys ever seen on the Australasian stage. She is the fortunate possessor of an excellent figure, a fine soprano voice, and has all the dash and ginger for the part. As Little Red Riding Hood, Miss Qolcman looks pretty and acts daintily, while her singing voice is of excellent quality. Other important parts are: Johnny Stout (Miss Carmen Coleman); the wicked wolf (Mr. R. Dunbar) ; and the Fairy Princess (Miss Annie Lilcluud). The company is strong in chorus singing, while special attention lias been paid to the scenery and effects. Box plans for, the season are now open at Collier's. To-morrow afternoon there will be a matinee performance of "Mother Goose," when the children will be admitted downstairs for 6d and to the dress circle for Is; adults', at usual prices, 4s, 3s and 2s. EMPIRE PICTURES. A very attractive programme was presented at the Empire last night. "The Figure in Black," "The Heart of Flame" and ''Mabel and Fatty at the Fair" were presented as the star attractions. The first, by Kaleni, is one of those dramas that abound in mystery and kept everyone guessing until the last scene. An excellent love story is entwined round the mystery. "The Heart of Flame," by the Reliance Company, is a charming story telling of a young musician who lias many reverses in his efforts to acquire genius, but in the end is rewarded. "Mabel and Fatty at the Fair" is a com- j ecly of unusual interest. The film was photographed at the Panaiiia-'Paeific Ex-j position which is in full swing at San Francisco. Throughout, the film is crowded with wondrous sights. The other subjects were: "Noodle's Return" (a Ford Sterling comedy), "The Cause of it All" (Edison comedy) and a fine edition of the Topical Budget.