CHUCKLES WITH JERRY

Grey River Argus, 20 May 1947, Page 7

CHUCKLES WITH JERRY

A CLEVER COMEDY SHOW The well known radio serial “Chuckles With Jerry” was presented in the Town Hali on Saturday and last evening. New Zealand’s foremost ventriloquist, Mr George Tollerton, headed the cast, which included the well known Scottish comedian, Mr Eltcn Black, who was earlier here with the Stanley McKay Company. The “Ginger Rodgers” of New Zealand, charming Miss Betty Paynter, has everything that goes to make a screen and stage success. She appears destined to go a long wayon the S'tage. She has perfect timing, equilibrium, and stage personality. Alice Eennetto. a soprano, was the leading vocalist of the company. Mr Carlton, the accompanist, opened the programme with an overture which was well received. Then George Tollerton introduced himself, after which a comedy interlude, "Father of My Child” was well presented. In a soprano solo, Alice Eennetto gave a commendable performance. A comedy interlude “The Company Recites,” and a musical novelty by Mr Carlton, were followed by the renowned “Jerry Jason,” New Zealand’s “Prime Minister of Fun”, which took the audience by storm. Adults and children alike ’rolled with laughter at this hotch-potch of nonsense, ably supported by .Elton Black, a combination of clean, wholesome and ready wit providing merriment for all. The next item, a speciality dance “Tap”, by Miss Paynter, won the hearty applause of all. A comedy interlude “Shirt off My Back”, a versatile contrast, consisted of Alice Eennetto, and the comedian, Elton Black. An Irish Jig by Betty Paynter; Magic by George Tallerton, including a Hindu Rope Trick; Salesman; Manipulations; An Amazing Card Transposition; and Magic Millinery; were items that simply must be seen to be appreciated. The second part included vocal and comedy items by Alice Eennetto; dances by Betty Paynter; “Jerry” comedy numbers, and more and more magic by George Tollerton, and comic singing by Miss Eennetto’ and Mr Black.

For a company of only five artists the versatility of the programme was notable. It is doubtful if such a company has ever proved such a crowd pleaser locally as did “Chuckles With Jerry”.