ROYAL COMIC OPERA COMPANY.

Press, Volume LII, Issue 15512, 12 February 1916, Page 10

ROYAL COMIC OPERA COMPANY.

"THE DANCING MISTRESS."

Last night the second novelty of the season, "The Dancing Mistress," by Lionel Monckton, was presented at the Theatre Royal to a large audience. In the first act we are permitted a

glimpse into the mysteries of a "Finishing 'School for Girls," with bevies of charming girls suitably demure and mischievous in turn, the latter in prcfcrence. Lessons proceed under the baton, of a severe singing master, French and dancing are practised with amazing disregard of conventional modes of instruction by teachers aud pupils. A "Tuckwoman," a pseudo riding-master, a butler, as a novel proposition in tho staff of a girls' school, and a crowd oi* j«ibrothers," whirling tho girls round, I enliven the proceedings. There the foundations are laid/tor the ultimate pairing of the amorously inclined. The second act moves us into the heart of Alpine snow-scenery, whereto the principals drift and congregate for no tangible reasons whatsoever except tobogganing and ski-ing. Beino; tip-to-date in every way, even, an aviator duly makes his appearance. And the infectious gaiety of the company finally disports itself in London at an 'hotel of, fashion, and'all, who suffered from the pangs of love were suitably relieved. There should never have been any difficulty about it from the beginning. It is the way musical comcdy is made. The music savours of the routine that turns out scores, .by the dozen, but it is bright and clever, skilfully scored, and some of the songs, notably You ave in Love," -which -was so far Mr Derek Hudson's best and most' satisfying vocal effort, and "My Boy," similarlj" tho most pleasing production on the part of Miss Ethel Cadman; stood out conspicuously in melodious invention. Miss Maggie .Moore deserves prominence for her clever delineation or Mdlle. Touchet, intended 9s a typically French mistress of the language, and the "Dancing Mistress" of Miss Etlicl Cadman- presented a winsome figure, excelling in grace of movement and agility. Very cleverly was acted the role of the "Tuckwoman," by Miss Minnie ■Love, especially in the livst act. where the good-natured vulgarity of the species was admirably portrayed bv the talented young lady. . Mrs George Lauri brought put successfully the austerity • of the typical Lady Principal, and Miss Nell Payne personified daintily the millionaire's daughter. Among the men, Mr Phil. Smith, as "Widdicombe," the irrepressible butler; had the best innings, and tool: full advantage of his somewhat laboured opportunities in his most approved style. MiReginald Roberts made the most of a stereotyped lover's part, and Mr Leslie Holland as Teddie Cnvanagh. probably the first aviator on 'the stage, and shining in a complete aeroplane outfit, followed suit in the ardour of his wooing, let alone his prowess as master of the air. All the numerous small parts were well filled, without exception. The dresses of the ladies were fascinating, and the scenery and lighting effects appropriate and pretty, and the whole staging complete without a hitch. The orchestra, under Mr Harry Burton, maintained a standard of -efficiency and brightness equalling the previous production. "The Dancing Mistress" will be played for the last time to-night..,

On Monday night the company will appear in a representation of the tuneful and humorous musical comedy. "The Quaker Girl.*' which holds the record, so far as J. C. Williamson's companies arc concerned, for the biggest theatrical business in Christchurclii when it wa« first played here about two and a half years ago. On Tuesday night the company will make their final appearance in the comic opera. "Ma Mie Rosette." which had a very succcssful revival in Wellington recently.