IMPETUS TO LEGITIMATE STAGE

Dominion, Volume 30, Issue 159, 2 April 1937, Page 16

IMPETUS TO LEGITIMATE STAGE

Large Theatrical Company Coming

Arrangements have been completed with Mr. A. B. Marcus, a prominent American entrepreneur, for an extensive tour, beginning in April, by (he largest foreign theatrical company yet to visit New Zealand. It will consist of SO performers.

“'THE Marcus Show will bring with -*• it theatrical equipment valued at £100,000.” said Sir Benjamin Fuller, who, with Messrs L. S. Snider and G. B. Dean, has arranged the tour. It will be capable of producing three complete, full-length productions. The company, size and weight, of baggage and scenery are so extensive that, it will be necessary to engage special trains for transport.

“The presentation of the Marcus Shows throughout Australia and New Zealand is sure to give the legitimate stage that added impetus which has been my object for two years,” added Sir Benjamin, “and the public will be able to see lavish productions as seen in New York, San Francisco, London, and Paris.” Mr. Snider said that the success of the Marcus Shows is indicated by the fact that, for 30 years they have been in continuous operation, and under the one management, and have always

been successful in New York and San Francisco. “As an indication of the size of the company,” continued Mr. Snider, "there is a ballet of 30. Marcus is essentially an impresario, and is looked upon in the United States as a genius in adorning his figurantes. Many of the Marcus girls have been seen before in Australia and New Zealand in the lavish ballets and scenes of the Samuel Goldwyn and other film productions. Some of the shows inelude as many as 30 episodes. The company has its own stage orchestra, and the catch line about tons of scenery has never been truer, as there are even massive curtains, specially made, in which to pose show girls as a finale to scenes.” To arrange final details, Mr. A. B. Fuller will sail for Suva to meet the company, which will be en route to New Zealand, and Mr. Dean, managing director, and Mr. J. Percival, an executive of Snider and Dean Theares Ltd., will visit New Zealand.