‘THE BELLE OF NEW YORK’

Dominion, Volume 24, Issue 66, 11 December 1930, Page 7

‘THE BELLE OF NEW YORK’

There is little wonder that the elaborate and spectacular presentation of the world’s favourite musical comedy ‘ The Belle Of New York,” now at the Grand Opera House, continues, to attract record houses. The colour of the production is striking in the extreme, but that is but one of its many splendid attributes. The acting throughout is superb, while the dancing ensembles, and, in particular, the solo tap numbers by Jim Gerald and Amy Rochelle, are as pleasing as anything seen in Wellington for many a long day. So well known are the musical numbers that It would be futile to dilate at length upon them, but It is sufficient to say that each and every one is brought back with a sparkle and freshness that is quite exhilarating. Miss Romola Hansen's voice, of singular purity, quite captivated last night's audience. Included in the specially-selected J. C. Williamson cast are Miss Romola Hansen, who makes a perfectly delightful Salvation Army lass, and Sidney Burchall is at his best in the romantic baritone part of Harry Bronson. Jim Gerald achieves an outstanding triumph as Blinky Bill, and Amy Rochelle as Cora Angelique. The clever young comedian Don Nicol Is the Polite Lunatic, and Kissy Fitzgarter is played by Dulcie Davenport. Miriam Lester will appear as Fili, Herbert Browne as Mons Fricot, Bernard Manning as Kenneth Mugg. Sydney Wheeler as Doc Sniffkins, Leslie Donaghey as Count Patsi, and Cecil Pawley as William.

Playgoers accorded Leslie Holland an enthusiastic welcome when he made his appearance as Ichabod Bronson, a character he has portrayed well on former occasions. Box plans are now open at the Bristol.