BRIGHT SHOW

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 68, Issue 144, 31 March 1948, Page 4

BRIGHT SHOW

Magic and Humour

TOLLERTON COMPANY WELL RECEIVED

George Tollerton’s “Big Magic Show,” with six high-class artists, was presented in the Radiant Hall hist night to a good house, the audience thoroughly appreciating a. programme that was excellent entertainment from start to finish. The outstanding artist in the show is Royston, the ventriloquist. He is undoubtedly the best ventriloquist who lias appeared at Ashburton, and the continued applause with which his acts were greeted was a sincere tribute to his skill and ingenuity. Technically he is a master ventriloquist and he introduced an original slant into his work when he sang songs together’ with two dolls. His fast and perfect timing in this act drew spontaneous applause from the audience who seemed loth to let him go. He is a real actor as well as a brilliant ventriloquist. Closely following Royston in popularity were Olga Kay and Lou Cottam, the comedians. There was never a dull moment while these two were on the stage, and Cottam revealed real showmanship ; in putting his quips across. Olga Kay was an excellent foil for Cottam’s jokes, and sang solos in a pleasant voice. George Tollerton, as master of ceremonies and an excellent magician, kept the ball rolling. His magic was truly perplexing and his “inexhaustible barrel” has to be seen (and tasted) to be believed.

Joan Reid, soubrette, and Nellie Kolle, male impersonator, are both excellent entertainers and complete a show that exercises a wide appeal. It is justifiably advertised as a “family show” as it appeals to young and old alike. For clever, varied and clean entertainment the “Big Magic Show” can be wholeheartedly recommended.