ENTERTAINMENTS

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 56, Issue 96, 4 February 1936, Page 2

ENTERTAINMENTS

“FRESH FACES.” VAUDEVILLE AT MAJESTIC. Those who enjoy a good class “flesh and blood” show were well catered for at the Majestic Theatre last night, when Stanley McKay’s “Gaieties of 1936” company appeared in the revue “Fresh Faces,” before a large and appreciative audience.' Although the programme presented was well varied, with vaudeville items to suit most tastes, comedy predominated. Ike Delavalo headed quite a strong comedy team, among whom George and Joe Corelli, Joe Rox and Maggie Buckley were outstanding members. The short comedy sketches were mostly quite entertaining, and the jokes well received. * A serious dramatic item was also presented by Ike Delavale and George Corelli. Probably the most popular individual act was the remarkable tumbling of the three Alexanders in a clown act which was described as world famed. The way in which they mixed astonishing acrobatic feats with their fooling was extremely clever. Pat Reno and his performing dogs were also very well received. The three animals, worked entirely by a boy aged eight, performed some extraordinary feats, the most popular of which was their exhibition of skipping. The audience would have liked more of Elvy Ferguson, a solo violimste with an extremely pleasing stage per-, sonality. Her three numbers, ranging from the semi-classical to the extremely popular, were delightful. The programme was a long one. It is difficult to discriminate between the remaining performers, who included Colin and Patricia (Adagio dancers), Jerry Keogh (tap dancer), Russell Callow (tenor), Winnie Edgerton (soprano) and] Maggie Buckley (syncopationist). The Gaieties Ballet of six always held the attention of the audience. It appeared in a large and varied number of ballets, staged very effectively.

ST. JAMES THEATRE. What is your favourite way for getting out of an awkward situation ? Some people are upholders of the oldfashioned headache, others have urgent telephone messages to attend to. Nothing of this sort appeals to Zelma O’Neal or Betty Davies who are appealing in “Joy Ride,” at the St. James Theatre to-night and to-morrow night. When faced with the necessity for making a quick decision both get the idea of losing their memory. The startling adventures thus brought about provide most enjoyable entertainment. Gene Gerrard andi Paul Blake are the two gallant swains who invite the girls for a visit to the ancestral home in the depths of the country. Unfortunately for all concerned the four are stranded when the car breaks down, and are compelled to spend the night in this country retreat. Morning brings two things—the boys’ dowager aunt and the subsequent necessity For quick action. There are good supporting films.