AMUSEMENTS.

Press, Volume LIV, Issue 16118, 24 January 1918, Page 2

AMUSEMENTS.

THEATRE ROYAL.

The comedy, "Good Gracious, Annabelle,'' as interpreted by Miss Marie Tempest and her clever company, delighted another very largo audience at the Theatre Royal last night. "A PAIR OF SILK STOCKINGS." To-night will see the concluding production of the season. Christchurcn has seldom had such fare offered as that presented during the Mario Tempest season,' and "A Pair of Silk Stockings" is reported as such a laughable piece of artistry that it would seem a fitting finale to the series of sparkling attractions already presented. The central figures of the comedy are Sam and Molly Thornhill, recently freed—owing to a misunderstanding— from the bonds of matrimony by the law, and they are not at all pleased about if. The play deals with tlie diverting adventures occasioned by Sam's determination to clear up the mistake, although Molly stubbornly refuses any opportunity for au explanation. This plunges Sam into a tangle of intrigue, leading to the most Humorous complications and situations, till at last he achieves his purpose and the sun shines brightly on the finale. The dialogue is described as "sparkling /with the merriest wit and delicate satire." As Molly Thornhill Miss Tempest appears to have captivated the Australasian and Wellington critics. Of Mr Graham Browne as Sam, a leading critic writes: "The detailed perfection of his characterisation almost defies criticism." Other members •of the company have earned unstinted praise for their artistic work in this comedy, which will occupy the Theatre Royal stage for the three remaining nights of the season.

OPERA HOUSE. To-night will see the last appearance °f that popular revue comedian, Mr Paul Stanhope, who has amused thousands at the local vaudeville theatre since Boxing Day. A veiy satisfactory audience enjoyed the company's production of "lloley-Poley" last night, and also expressed their unqualified approval of Mr C., the clcver raconteur, and the other vaudeville items.

To-morrow night -will see the reappearance of that talented' combination, the Walter Johnson Kevue Company, so well and favourably remembered from_ their last appearance here. Their opening production is entitled "Tho Parisian Models," and is said to combine excellence of production with all the comedy and brilliant music usually associated wit ft this collection of players. The oast will include all the old favourites—Gus Franks, Harry Burgess, Lydia Carne, Lola Hunt, 801 - Millottc. and the brilliant ballet which pioved So popular in their previous visit here. The musical comedy comprises two acts, and occupies a large part of the programme, consequently the curtain will rise on the vaudeville section at 7.4-5. The plans for tho opening night are now on view at Milner find Thompson's, where seats may be booked. Inte-iding patrons are advised to make their reservations in advance. The usual matinee will be held on Saturday.