COUNTER TO STARDOM

Hawera Star, Volume XLVIII, 16 September 1924, Page 7

COUNTER TO STARDOM

SYDNEY STAGE ROMANCE. ROMANTIC “DISCOVERY.” SYDNEY. Sent. 5. An unknown girl, who un to> a. few weeks ago was serving behind the counter of a city store, has been engaged by Messrs. .T. C. Williamson, Ltd., the big theatrical s\mdicate, to nlay the lead in one of their new musical comedies to he produced shortly. Her stage name is “Jill Manners.” and she has signed a contract, for Inm vears. and will appear in “Consin From NoAvhere” on September 27.

The young ladv, \\ r ho is a native of Bathurst,, came to Sydney three years ago. She made an efFort then to secure an engagement on the stage, hut wa.s unsuccessful. Since, that time •she has been working at MeCathie’s. a big drapery store. A few weeks hack she sang in a benefit concert, and Avas heard by Mr. Jack Cannot, the AA-ell-known comedian. He introduced her to Mr. E. J. Tait. Avho at once realised the tone and qnalitv of her voice. She Avas given a further trial before “the firm’s” singing master. Avho Avas enthusiastic about her range of notes.

Mr. E'. J. Tait at once offered her a r *o-ntract, at an almost-unhcard-of salary—to her.

Since August 27 she has been in a whirl of excitement. Her flay is filled with attending singing lessons bv Signor Cranforte. of the Melba Grand Opera Company; dancing lessons, bv Minnie Hooper, Messrs. J. O. Williamson’s dancing mistress; and stage training by Mr. Harry Burcher and Miss Nellie SteAvart.

Tn betAveen times she attends the dentist, the manicurist, the dressmaker. and beauty specialists. She has become famous almost in a week. She Avil! make her debut on September 27, and all Sydney is eagerly awaiting her appearance.