“THE DUBARRY”

Dominion, Volume 27, Issue 305, 21 September 1934, Page 6

“THE DUBARRY”

Rich Musical Treat A rich and beautiful musical and artistic treat, "The Dubarry,” the radiant and picturesque play in two acts, thrilled the large audience at the Grand Opera House last evening with the champagne of entertainment. Only onee, perhaps, in a lifetime, is one privileged to witness such a show as this, which is flawless in every department, and which contains a galaxy of artists endowed with, a consummate histrionic skill. Without a doubt “Tbe Dubarry” was a revelation to a considerable proportion of the audience, mauy of whom had not realised the heights to which the legitimate . stage could aspire. J. C. Williamson, Ltd., who have brought numerous fascinating plays before the public, are indeed to be congratulated on this, their latest brilliant presentation. Great praise for the success of "The Dubarry” is due to the clever English actress, Sylvia Welling, who is definitely outstanding. This delightful little lad.y, who moves with the utmost grace, and who is subtle in dialogue, has a captivatingly clear soprano voice which she uses to splendid advantage in all her songs. She was equally pleasing as the impish girl in the hatshop, the woman of pleasure iu -the notorious salon of Madam Sauterelle, tsie “wife” of Comte Dubarry, and finally as the mistress of Louis XV of France. These parts involve some interesting scenes, notably the garret and pleaisure sakm scenes of the first act, aud the glamorous scenes that begin with Jeanne’s first .encounter with the King, and terminate with the fete in the garden of the Palace Luciennes, m which moonlight and romance, offer a high degree of theatrical glamour and give visions of the grandeur that was France. Miss Welling’s performance is enhanced by the sterling work of Mr. Leslie Holland, as the Comte Dubarry, Mr. John Dudley, a light, vibrant tenor, who was excellent in the love duets with Miss Welling, Mr. Cecil Kellaway, a favourite who extracted a good deal of quiet humour, Miss Jean Gibson, a bright, frivolous little butterfly, Miss Lorna Forbes, Miss Jean Duncan, Mr. Lou Vernon, and Mr. Ridhard Parry, to name only come. The large orchestra, under Mr. Leo Packer, is a most satisfying feature, while costumes, scenery and lighting are in accord with the best Williamson traditions.