THE THEATRE

Evening Post, Issue 60, 11 March 1936, Page 4

THE THEATRE

STAGE ENTERTAINMENt

A WORLD-WIDE TREND

With the advent, of the: 'talking picture a heavy blow was struck at the legitimate theatre, or, as it is popularly called, the "flesh-and-blood" show. But signs are not wanting now that the public, perhaps. because they .want a little variation, will patronise shows that provide first-class entertainment and introduce something that is novel. Sir Benjamin Fuller, who arrived from Sydney by the Wanganella today .on a business visit, agreed, when interviewed, that there was a world-wide trend again towards stage entertainment. .

In view of the fact that an international vaudeville company is at present playing under his banner at the .St. James Theatre, Wellington, Sir Benjamin was asked if he intended opening up a vaudeville circuit again throughout New Zealand and Australia. He said that five hundred artists would beirequired, and they could not be got together in the twinkling of an eye. As a result of the talking-picture era stage artists had drifted .into other avocations. He felt, however, that there was a demand for stage, shows with good talent. ■ ,

In reply to another question, Sir Benjamin said that in his opinion there was good talent in Australia arid New Zealand without combing far and wide for it. "We didn't have to go abroad for a Bradman, did we?" said Sir Benjamin. "The boy from Bowral; sprang into the limelight over-night. They say he is'mot a stylist, but he can knock up the runs, can't he?"

This comment indicated Sir Benjamin's faith in Australian and New Zealand talent, and, to illustrate his experience of its worth', he "added that whereas '• at one time 95 per cent, of his artists were imported the position eventually was reversed, 95 per cent. of them being drawn from Australia and New Zealand. -

While stage entertainment appears to be making some headway again, Sir Benjamin agreed that it could not oust tho talking picture. That was here to stay. _■ __^