COMIC OPERA SEASON

Press, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22518, 28 September 1938, Page 8

COMIC OPERA SEASON

REVIVAL OF “THE DESERT SONG” “Balalaika.” the spectacular musical extravaganza of the J. C. Williamson Royal Comic Opera Company, attracted another capacity house to the Theatre Royal last night. Attractive music, gay costume" . ...iu settings, artistic dancing and an interesting story combine to make this presentation a really bright show. “Balalaika” will be presented again to-night and finally tomorrow night. There will be a matinee this afternoon at 2 p.m. Great interest will be taken in the revival by the company on Friday night of “The Desert Song,” which must be ranked as one of the greatest stage attractions during the last 10 years. Its glorious choruses, colourful settings, and the adventurous -omance of the Red Shadow and Margot will ever remain a delightful memory. Exciting desert romances naturally make an appeal to the general run of playgoers, and they provide scope for lavish stage presentations. The settings for “The Desert Song” are an admirable feature. But the elements which keep this opera as refreshing now at it was when it was first staged are its long and varied string of tuneful melodies and its splendid comedy scenes. Audiences always get a thrill when the Red Shadow makes his appearance on a white horse, as he will do in the approaching revival. Special interest will be taken in Mr George Hancock’s performance of the Red Shadow, and his rich baritone voice should be heard at its best in the various numbers attached to that role. Miss Violet Carlson and Mr Don Nicpl will provide most of the humour in “The Desert Song.” and Miss Diana Ducane should make an excellent Marg°“The Desert Song” will be presented for three nights with the only matinee on Saturday afternoon. The season will end next Monday night. ,