THE GREAT WHITE WAY

Evening Star, Issue 22687, 29 June 1937, Page 10

THE GREAT WHITE WAY

HARD HIT BY DEPRESSION W.P.A. THEATRICAL ORGANISATIONS u Probably more than any other husi&ess the theatrical world suffered from the effects of the depression. Before the decline the number of legitimate and musical shows produced on Broadway annually totalled about 125, but during depression years the nuraoer dropped to from 15 to 25, Since then, however, the number has been steadily climbing, and at present there are approximately 95 productions being staged on the Great White Way,” said Mr Ben M'Atee in an interview to-day. ' “ What happened to the artists during those years? Well, a great number obtained work in films r particularly in short features, while others drifted into commercial broadcasting and cabaret entertainment,” continued Mr M'Atee. “ This latter was very acceptable to vaudeville artists, although it no doubt affected legitimate shows to a certain extent. For tlio price of a meal (generally about 5dol) customers can see first-class entertainers. The items are staged in a similar manner to the big productions, with a proper stage, ballets, spectacular numbers, and brilliant individual items.” ... Referring to a recent cable concerning the action of_ the W.P.A. (Works Progress Association) in discharging pver 2,000 employees, Mr M'Atee praised the excellent work done by this organisation. When the depression came the Government found employment for out-of-work artists,_ stage hands, and others connected with the theatre by subsidising touring companies. At one time the organisation had over 100 shows on the road, presenting everything from opera to musical comedy and Shakespeare. t Hamlet ’ was presented by negro players, and scored a tremendous hit. When Sinclair Lewis had completed It Can’t Happen Here ’ he presented the performing rights to the W.P.A. free of cost. The play had brilliant seasons, and over 20 companies played it throughout the States. “ New Zealand is a great little country,” said Mr M'Atee, “ and its people could not he more friendly. It reminds one of the States very much—particularly the audiences, which are more American than any I have previously played to.”-