CRAZY SHOW

Grey River Argus, 5 June 1942, Page 6

CRAZY SHOW

BRILLIANT REVUE IN TOWN.

The “Crazy Show,” which opened a short season at the Greymouth Town Hail last night, comes as a pleasant surprise to audiences who, during the scarcity'of these variety revues for the last few years have forgotten how entertaining they can I be. The “Crazy Show” is outstanding in many respects, in the wide range of amusement provided, and the notable talent of, the leading performers. It offers some dazzling spectacular scenes, the singing is good, and the humorous items have a sparkle and brilliance that gives a unique character to the whole show. Levante, who presents the revue and is the leading artist, not only by his own outstanding acts but by his (polished stage manner, gives a character a little .above the ordinary to the whole presentation and the quick continuity necessary for its success. He is a conjuror of real ability, able to mystify the audience and make them laugh too. He appears in a number of .items, and includes the presentation of the levitation scene, in which a young lady rises into the air and then disappears. The appearance of George Tollerton, the brilliant ventriloquist, in “Chuckles with Jerry” arouses all the enthusiasm that could have been expected. His work is as good a piece of artistry in this line as might be seen anywhere.

The singing is mainly left to the fine voices of Ursula Irving land Robert Butt, who are supported by the glamorous and well trained ballet.in their renderings of popular and tuneful songs. The ballet should deserve more than passing mention. The girls show every sign of ap J predating the grace and movement that are needed. Beautifully frocked they dance with superb skill, and are especially attractive in Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” (in which Margaret Scrimshaw is featured) and the waltz ballet, “I Fell in Love With JYiou,” (starring Ursula Irving). The “Gipsy Scena,” r in which “Souvenier d’Ukraine,” “Two Black Eves’” and "Play to Me Gypsy” are the musical numbers, is a beautiful presentation. It features Gladys Cole (accordian), Esme Levante (violin). Elvy Fergusan (violin), Gordon Girdwood (guitar) and Gwen Bazeley (solo ‘dancer). “Blue Orchids” is a verv tasteful feature with the fine dancing of Norma Neville.

The tap dancing number, always a popular one in a vaudeville show is presented with real virtuosity by Lawrie Long, who has, as one might say “all that it takes” for this kind of entertainment.

Doris Whimn is a comedienne of outstanding lability. She can tap dance and sing with admirable liveliness and she leads a hula girl scene with great success." As for the broader elements of comedy,, they a,re left in the capable hands of the “crazy gang,” consisting of Ronald Shand, Robert Butt. Joe Valli, Lawrie Long and Ed. Edwards. This high spirited crowd cause the utmost hilarity. They present a number of clever sketches in inimitable style rising to magnificent heights of comedv at times.

In everv aspect the show is first class entertainment and a refreshing change of fare for theatre goers. The box plans are at Kilgour’s There will be change of programme tomorrow night and . a special feature for. children will be presented at tomorrow aft.ernodTs programme.