‘RUDDIGORE'

Evening Star, Issue 19709, 9 November 1927, Page 9

‘RUDDIGORE'

When tho J. C. Williamson _ Comic Opera Company appears at His Majesty’s Theatre on Monday night in tho presentation of Gilbert and Sullivan’s opera ‘ Ruddigore ’ it will bo found to contain many high-class artists who have already achieved an enviable reputation iri the realms of music and mimes. It will be remembered that when the last J. C. Williamson company played an enjoyable series of Gilbert and Sullivan operas critics were laudatory when referring to the singing and acting of Miss Strolla Wilson (who so capably fills the leading soprano parts in the present productions). In ‘Ruddigore’ she is stated to bo seen at her best. Mr James Hay, the leading tenor of the company (bo is also responsible for tbo production of the series of operas), lias now a. world-wide reputation both as singer and_ actor, and the experience ho has had in London and on the Continent has enabled him to perfect his undoubted talents. Other prominent artists appearing aro Messrs Charles W'alcnn, John Ralston, Bernard Manning, .Patti Russell, Winifred Williamson, together with many other notable performers. ‘ Rnddigoro,’ which was one of Gilbert’s favorite operas, is a burlesque on the oldfashioned melodramas, and its merit is due to the many beautiful solos and choruses it contains, the cleverness of the “book,” and the music. When, in response to a general demand, ‘ Ruddigoro ’ was revived in London some years ago even the management expressed surprise at the enthusiasm displayed by the general public and the wonderful success achieved by tbo opera. .‘Ruddigore ’ will only be staged for two nights. It will be followed by the production in rapid sequence of other Gilbert and Sullivan favorites as follow:—‘Patience,’ with matinee, on Kith; ‘Mikado,’ on 17tb; ‘Pirates of Penzance,’ on ]Btb; and ‘The Gondoliers,’ with matinee tbo same day, tbo 19th. This is a musical bouquet rarely presented, and should be appreciated to the full b.y all lovers of good music and witty dialogue. The box plan will open to-morrow.