PANTOMIME IN GISBORNE

Gisborne Times, Volume LXIV, Issue 11011, 25 January 1926, Page 6

PANTOMIME IN GISBORNE

Gisborne theatre-goers have a treat in store during the coming Race AA’eek, as Mr Stanley McKay lias made arrangements for his English and Australian! Pantomime Co. to stage at the Opera House the productions that the press and public of Auckland acknowledged as the best of their kind ever brought to New Zealand. Music lovers will be interested to know that, included in the company, is Mr A. E. Y. Benham, the singer that Melba declared had the finest bass voice in Australia. The diva sent this young singer to England and the Continent, where the finishing touches were put. on a voice of extraordinary power and beauty. AVhile in England Mr Bonham appeared with great success at the Albert and Queen’s Halls, London, as well as at most of the principal music halls, including the Colosseum. Another artiste, whose beautiful lyric voice has a range of three octaves, Miss Ruth Bucknall, has also a big London reputation. It will he remembered that Mr McKay first brought Esther. Osborne to Gisborne and on this occasion has endeavoured to go a lot better by bringing two worldknown singers and Australia’s greatest girl violinist, Rene Rich. The latter young lady has had a wonderful career in Australia, where the press writes of her as a genius. Excellent comedy is provided by Frank Perryn, English comedian; Arthur Meredith, quaint dame impersonator; and Australia’s funniest girl. Maudie Stewart. Amongst the specialities are the Wonder Rascals, without doubt the most amazing whirlwind acrobatic act ever brought to New Zealand. The opening production is “Little 80-Peep” on Monday next, and frequent changes are to be made during the season. Seats may he reserved at Tattersall and Bayly’s.