“THE DESERT SONG”

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume XIX, Issue 281, 12 November 1929, Page 3

“THE DESERT SONG”

ROMANTIC MUSICAL PLAY. J. C. Williamson Ltd. presented the romantic musical play, “The Desert Song,” at the Hastings Municipal Theatre last night, when the house was tilled to overflowing. The production, vital with all the magical charm of the East and the witchery of its movement and mystery, has caught the public imagination, and certainly J. C. Williamson, with their usual flair for detail, have staged the work lavishly, in vivid colouring, resplendent dressing, dramatic action and in a setting of rich and brilliant surroundings, which conveyed the langourous atmosphere of the Orient, at once establishing the audience in its midst. The dancing of the ballet was excellent, especially that in which the ladies, dressed as French soldiers, went through a serious of joyous measures, with a precision and grace which was delightful, and Miss Sonya Rosova, a solo dancer of high merit, who has previously made the acquaintance of the Hastings playgoers, gave a wonderful exposition of suppieless, freedom and elegance. The male chorus singing was a distinct feature of the performance, and the volume of ringing melody, raised -in perfect harmony, was refreshing and invigorating, whilst the voices of the soloists, Messrs. Douglas Herald (bass), Lance Fairfax (baritone) and Herbert Browne (tenor) blended beautifully in their trios, and their solo work was received with warm applause. “The Desert Song,” sung by Mr. Lance Fairfax and Miss Romola Hansen, was a very popular number. Mr. Lance Fairfax sang well, but rather lacked the fire ana dash of the popular conception of the overmastering shiek, whilst Miss Romola Hansen, as the heroine, sang nicely Herbert Mundin, assisted by Miss Renee Murphy. contributed the comedy element, whilst Messrs. Burchnll (French captain), Pawley (French general) and Douglas Herald (a tribal chief) gave conscientious studies of their respective responsible parts. The company generally, who acquitted themselves admirably, were supported by a capable orchestra. under the baton of Mr. C. Connolly.