“THE MERRY WIDOW”

Hawera Star, Volume LIII, 10 March 1934, Page 2

“THE MERRY WIDOW”

J. C. WHJAAMSON’S OPERA

COMPANY

FORTHCOMING HAWERA PRESENTATION.

It is some considerable time since local playgoers last enjoyed a visit from a J. 0. Williamson Ltd comic opera or musical, comedy company, so, naturally, it is not surprising to learn that unusual interest is being taken] in the appearance here on Tuesday, March 27, of their new comic opera company in Franz Lehar’s gloriously melodious opera, “The Merry Widow,” in which they achieved a sensational success in Auckland and Wellington. When “The Merry Widow’ ’ was first record audiences and since then its revivals have always been highly welcomed by theatregoers. On its original presentation here the role of Sonia was portrayed by Miss Florence Young and later by Miss Minnie Love. In the approaching production this role will be sung and acted by the brllinnt young soprano, Mrfes Romoia Hansen, who is regarded as the best prima donna at present on the Australian stage. Herbert Browne, who I will be remembered for his performances in “The Student Prince,” “Wiklflower,” “The New Moon,” and “The Desert Song,” will sing the tenor role de Jolidon in “The Merry Widow.” The important part of Prince Danilo will be portrayed by the talented young baritone singer, Mr Erie Bush, who has come rapidly to the fore since lie last toured New Zealand in “Blue Poses.” The two principal comedians of the company are Phil Smith, who played the part of Toni in the original production of “The Maid of the Mountains,” and Don Nicol, who was the Polite Lunatic in “The Belle of New York” when this opera, was last staged in New Zealand. They both are presented at their best in “The Merry Widow.’ •Miss 'Lois Green, a brilliant young Australian soubrette, will make her first appearance here as Fron Frou. and Miss Stella Collier, who possesses a soprano voice of exceptional range and quality, will sing the role of Natalie. Others in the company are Miss Marie La Varre, the popular London comedienne, Oliver Peacock, Doris Hopkins, Mona Zeppel, Charles Albert and other notable artists. Double encores were demanded in Wellington for the acrobatic dance by Eric Bush and Mona Zeppel in the third act of “The Merry Widow.” The company includes a full operatic chorus and orchestra. The stage manager is Mr Reginald Roberts. The box plans will be opened at Miss Blake’s on Saturday, March 24, at nine o’clock. A queue will be formed from 8 a.in.