RICHARD CROOKS

Press, Volume LXXII, Issue 21907, 7 October 1936, Page 6

RICHARD CROOKS

farewell concert to-night This evening at the Theatre Royal the celebrated tenor. Richard Crooks, who thrilled and delighted a large audience on his first appearance here on Saturday night* will be presented fora final concert by Messrs J. and N. Tall, and the large number of seats which have already been reserved indicates that the theatre will again be taxed to its holding- capacity. It is only orce in a decade that- New Zealand Is visited by a world famous artist, and when . one does come theatregoers and music lovers of Christchurch invariably appreciate such occasions. Before he appeared here on Saturday, Mr Crooks was already well and popularly known through his gramophone records, and this fact invested much interest in his concerts, and undoubtedly his glorious voice and his perfect artistry have enhanced his popularity tremendously. For his final concert* Mr Crooks will present a series of classical numbers which have helped to make hia name famous the world over, and his. programme will also include many popular ballads selected by himself, and others which he has been requested to sing. He wishes to state, however, that were he to comply to every request his concert would take up a period, of at least four hours, so he will present those songs for Which he has received the largest number of enquiries. Mr Crooks’ Australian tour proved the most Successful ever enjoyed by a world-famous singer, even the records established in Sydney and Melbourne by Galli Curd beifig quite overshadowed, and his New. Zealand tour promises to be equally successful. Last night at Dunedin the large auditorium of the Town Hall was filled to its capacity, and Richard Crooks was received with great enthusiasm. Seats for to-night’s farewell concert may be selected at the D.LC. Until 9 o’clock this evening* and afterwards the plans will be on view at the Theatre Royal. Tickets for the Unreserved seats may be purchased at the Theatre Royal confectionery shop the whole of to-day or at the doors this evening.