THEATRE ROYAL.

Press, Volume LXIII, Issue 18912, 29 January 1927, Page 19

THEATRE ROYAL.

"IS ZAT SO ? *

The American comedy, "Is Zat So!" which is to open at the Theatre 'Koyal tonight, has been brought to New Zealand following its outstanding success in America and England. It is genuine comedy built round an amusing story, in which there are plenty of opportunities for characterisation. There is said to be a complete absence of the treacly sentiment which so often intrudes in American productions, even when specifically built for laughs. The noveltv of a prize fight on the stage is expected to appeal greatly to New Zealand. There have been many burlesques of such incidents, including the amusing fooling in "Mr Battling Butler," but this is said to be the real thing. It is stated that the boxing bout is excellently staged and produced, and is in every way convincing. It is helped by the fact that one of the participants, Sammy Green, has been in the "ring." This is the big scene in the comedy. "Is Zat So!" was written by James Gleason and Richard Taber specially to suit the personalities of Taber and Hale Norcross, who share the two principal roles. They are described as comedy actors of genuine ability, who give perfect character studies. Mr Taber plays the role of "Chick" Cowan, and Mr Norcross is "Hap" Hurley, his trainer and manager. They work together throughout the action of the play, and share most of the acting honours. The company comes partly from' New York and partly from London, and the entire New York production will be presented in the Dominion. The box plans are at The Bristol till noon, and afterwards they may be found at Atkinson's Confectionery, when day sales may also be had.