FORMER IDOLS OF THE STAGE

Waikato Times, Volume 124, Issue 20734, 18 February 1939, Page 17 (Supplement)

FORMER IDOLS OF THE STAGE

RETURN TO AUSTRALIA RE-VISITING SCENES OF TRIUMPHS Theatre-lovers whose memories extend to the end of the 19th century will remember vivacious Viennese actress Grace Palotta, who came to New Zealand with a Gaiety Company 40 years ago and entranced everyone with her charm.

Miss Palotta arrived in Sydney last week in the Orcades on a threeweeks’ visit, and, judging from the numerous inquiries about her, she will he heavily feted during her brief stay. Stic will visit her sister, Mrs Leslie Victor. Miss Palotta was always ready to help any worthy charity, and her kindness was striking. She has a fascinating Viennese accent, and. although her voice was not remarkable, she could “put a song over.” Her greatest hit was “Oh. Listen to the Band.” She appeared in Hamilton during her New Zealand tour. When the Gaiety Company returned to England, Miss Palotta stayed in Australia and appeared in some farces produced by Mr Hugh Ward. She lived in Melbourne for some time, where she worked for a smart frock salon, and later continued with this firm in Colombo. For the past years she has been living in Vienna, but she recently left her homeland for Jersey.

MEMORIES OF NEW ZEALAND JULIUS KNIGHT REMEMBERS As his ship steamed away from the South of France, a Dunedin resident on his way to England settled himself to a game of quoits. He had not been playing long when an elderly man began offering advice on how to play the game. Conversation began between the two, and when the Dunedin man said where he came from, the stranger, who had come aboard at the last port of call, beamed. “New Zealand.” he said. “It does not seem so very long since my n«m e was known from Auckland to the Bluff.” The Dunedin man was interested, and the stranger produced his card. It read. “Julius Knight.” Mr Knight loved New Zealand and his audiences. The Dunedin traveller and the actor spent much time in exchanging interesting reminiscences before the two parted. Mr Knight said; “I want you to take hack to New Zealand my regards to old friends and to the country, and I want you to see that the message is made known.” The Dunedin man, now that he is back home, is carrying out his promise. Mr Knight no longer acts, hut leads a quiet life in retirement. His main diversions are golf and taking his dogs out for runs. His health is good.