“TUTANKHAMEN”

Dominion, Volume 24, Issue 225, 19 June 1931, Page 5

“TUTANKHAMEN”

The Wellington Operatic and Theatrical Society’s decision to extend the season of the play “Tutankhamen,” should meet with general approval, for it is a long time since , such an able, well-balanced cast has been seen in amateur productions in the city. The play itself is an unusual one, and makes unusual calls on the performers, but it gives them plenty of opportunities for individuality and creative ability, and the players as a whole perform excellently. The main work devolves on Mr. Norman Aitken, Miss Gretta Stark, Mr. Ray Kemp, and Miss Rita Kemp, and it would be difficult to find a more perfect combination as "leads.” ' . ~ . . Supporting the main cast is a ballet, or exceptional ability—some of the dancing is the equal of anything that has been seen in recent professional shows that have some to Wellington. Miss Phyllis Oliver does some particularly effective toe-danc-ing, and her duo with Mr. Leonard Young is one of the star pieces of the show. Miss Ella Liardet performs well in a duo with Miss Jean Denham, and again in a solo item, "Lotus Flower,” in which she attains a very high standard. Mr. Norman Aitken is cast in the comedy part, George Washington Blatant, an American tourist, and is responsible for most of the humour in the play. Mr. Ray Kemp, as Tutankhamen himself, uses his bass voice and splendid elocution to good effect, and receives good support from Miss Rita Kemp, as Tjl, his wife. Miss Kemp s singing in the dramatic numbers is excellent. Miss Gretta Stark, as Lady Veronica Blatant, presents a wonderful study ot English and American contrasts. But it is as much in its general spectacular effects that the play is appealing; it is one that lends itself to the art of the producer, and the nine scenes that deal with ancient Egypt in all its glory, with the Pharoahs and their courts, presents wonderful sights. Box plans for the extended season are at the Bristol. A special children’s matinee will be held on Saturday afternoon, and at this the children's essay competition on "The Costumes of the Court of Tutankha•mcn," will be announced.