"TUTANKHAMEN"

Evening Post, Volume CXI, Issue 142, 18 June 1931, Page 5

"TUTANKHAMEN"

EXTENDED" SEASON.

- In deciding to oxtond the season of "Tutankhamen" two moro nighis and a matinee, tho Wellington Operatic Society is paralleling the oxperienco of Auckland with the piece. In that city on three successive occasions over a period of seven years, "Tutankhamen has each time established attendance records. Those who have seen tho Wellington production will no doubt agree that "Tutankhamen" is a complete departure from tho traditional operatic performance. Gone arc tho conventional two, or porhaps three, well-defined acts with tho Inevitable sequence of chorus-ensemble and sou bound tight by the traditions of libretto and plot. "Tutankhamen" is directly of the modern spectacle school, ushered in by Oscar Asche in 19,12. Actually the script of the piece is light—a clever and workmanlike plot that presents tho producer with an opportunity, not a full set of instructions and minute direction. The responsibilities of local talents are thus enormously, increased, but so also are the occasions for them to exhibit ingenuity, Individuality, and creatlveness. Tho present production shows qualifying evidence of all thebe qualities. ' . „„„ One of the most-.pleasing features of Tutankhamen" is the plenltudo and. V'f 111 * ™ the dancing Mr. Joe Knowsley has used the dramatic possibilities of tho ballet to good effect. In casting "Tutankhamen" the choice has been wise. Mr. Kay Kemp's bass voice and stately elocution give Tutankhamen flc regal dignity one expects of the part. His work contrasts well with Rita- Kemp, who as ■Tji the Queen Mother sings the most dramatic numbers of the piece in P™}:' 11™*1*?Mr." Norman Aitkon and Miss Gretta Stark are as happily chosen as could be.wished to interpret tho viewpoints of both America and England before the Court of the Pharaohs. Box plans for the extended two nigh s are a Tho Bristol. A special children's matlr.ee will also bo held on Saturday afternoon. In connection with this - a children's essay compettion on "The Costumes of tho Court of lv tankhamen" is:''announced. ■■