EXQUISITE FROCKING

Evening Post, Volume CXL, Issue 57, 5 September 1945, Page 10

EXQUISITE FROCKING

GLADYS MONCRIEFF IN "RIO

RITA"

Exquisite frocking was a notable feature of the premiere performance of "Rio Rita" in Melbourne recently, when in addition to the lovely gowns worn by Gladys Moncrieff, those of the ballet and chorus made a distinctive contribution to the presentations, writes an Australian correspondent. Against a warm, colourful Mexican background were the multi-coloured frocks of the Mexican dancers and the picturesque uniforms of the Texas Rangers. In striking contrast was another scene in which Miss Moncrieff wore a full-skirted gown in a shade of bitter-sweet, its gathered bodice outlined with silver-sequinned applique. The ballet in this scene wore ankle-length frocks in pastel-blue silver-spangled georgette, and were partnered by dancers in blue satin suits. Miss Moncrieff chose another exquisite gown of white georgette, its bodice embroidered in an all-over design in black and silver sequins, and with it she wore a white crepe shawl embroidered in black sequins and finished with a deep black fringe reaching to the hem of her gown. In the final act she appeared in a lovely bridal gown of parchment satin and a lace veil falling from a mantilla headdress. By contrast, woman members,of the audience were dressed plainly, and without much colour. There were very few long gowns, but reminiscent of gay pre-war first nights were two tiaras which attracted much attention. Furs of all types, sizes, and shapes overwhelmed all else, and were worn with anything from a tailored suit to a dressed-up black ensemble. If you're searching for perfection, WESTHALL TEA'S a wise selection. It has Strength . . , Colour . . . Flavour, Points that must win public favour. A happy family they will be If you serve them. . . . WESTHALL TEA.—Advt.