ENTERTAINMENTS

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLIV, Issue 1039, 11 June 1924, Page 2

ENTERTAINMENTS

HUMPHREY BIS-HOP COMPANY. FIXE PERFORMANCE LAST NIGHT. The excellent entertainment provided by the Humphrey Bishop Comedy and Operatic Company on their visit to this town some months ago had evidently neon well remembered by the theatre-going portion of the- public of Palmerston North judging from the large attendance at the Opera liouso last evening, when this talented combination opened the first of a two nights' return season. As before, every patron, whether his or her taste was in tho direction of comedy, grand opera or jazz, was catered for, and in a style that pleased. Tho programme was a very di, versified one and there, was somothing to appeal to everyone. Vocally, tho members of the company revealed themselves as being artists of no mean order, and they proved equally at home with operatic or ragtime selections. In tho concerted numbers the performers were especially pleasing and not in one instance wore they permitted to leave the stage without supplying repeat items. That tho humorous portion of the entertainment was in good hands was well demonstrated by the prolonged approbation of the audience, which, in some instances, was very loth to let the performers leave the stage. Excellent support was lent the principals by a very efficient chorus, the froeking of which was of an extremely high order. Brimful of music, mirth and melody, the programme was one well worth seeing. The overture, which featured Frank Egan, the ragtime violinist, was rendered in line style by the company's own orchestra, under the baton of Humphrey Bishop, who, at the conclusion, introduced the members of the combination to the audience in a very novel fashion. Marie Growther, Kobert Roberts and the company were then associated in "Stumbling," a number which instantly proved popular. Maurico Jaffoy and Walter Kingsley, tenor and baritone respectively, were associated in a duet, "Pixie Piper," to which they were compelled to respond with an encore. Ngairo Phipson, the brilliant young New Zcalander, for whom MiBishop predicts a splendid future, was scon to advantage in a vocal number, "Men, Men, Men," in which she was supported by tho male members of tho company. Robert Roberts and Louise Meadows provided a novelty comedy duo, which was vociferously encored. Playing the piano while standing on his hekd apparently presented no difficulties to George ttoss, who, as on his last visit here, completely captivated the audience. Lalie White, who was heard in several selections from an extensive repertoire, revealed herself as the possessor of a really fine soprano voice. A duet, "Linger a. Little Longer," was rendered in excellent style by Louise Meadows and Maurice Jaffey, who fully deserved the audience's tribute. Following some fine skits by Edward Elliott, a jester of exceptional ability, the first part ended with a well-known chorus from "Maritann," given by the company. A zylophone selection at the opening of the second half of the programme by Billy Tointoil revealed that instrumentalist as »no of high ability. Louise Meadows, Maurice Jaffey and the girls of the company, presonted a novel song scene. "Silhouette," and Walter Kingsley followed with several line vocal numbers. Cheerful nonsensities were dispensed liy George Ross and Robert Roberts, while Edward Elliott showed his ventriloquial abilities in an item with his doll, "Sunshine James." Mahana Key, an eastern maid, was at once a favourite with her , \ ooal numbers, while ragtime of heart gladdening variety was provided by llaivy Avondaie, Maurice Jaffoy, Walter Kingsley and Robert Roberts, the latter of whom led 11.0 company in the finale. An entirely differuut programme will bo presented this evening and, to el sure seats, patrons are advised to book at Gates'. EVERYBODY'S. "THE WHITE ROSE." "The White Rose" continues to meet with good support at Everybody's Theatre, another excellent attendance being registered last night. Rapt attention centred on the many thrilling incidents in tho picture, tho experiences of Bcssio Williams, the orphan girl, finding many sympathisers with that character. There is much of a romantic nature in the production, and this being tho case, it makes a strong appeal to all who see it. "The While Rose" is well up to tho standard of the producer. O. W. Griffith, and will receive its two final screenings to-night and tomorrow night. PALACE. Tho final screening of "Brass" will lie made at tho Palace Theatre this evening. "Brass," adapted from Charles G. Norris's popular novel, deals with Philip and Marjorie Baldwin, married but unhappy. Philip likes to stay at home with the baby while Marjorie goes gallivanting about cafes and ccbarets with a crew who believes in a guy life. When he remonstrates, she retaliates by suing for divorce. After the divorce, Philip finds himself entangled in other lovo affairs, from which he emerges a wiser man. KOSY. After this evening, Tom Mix will be no more at the Kosy theatre in "Eyes of the Forest." That he will happen along again in the future in further outbreaks of sensational feats is certain, but the future can take care of itself. Sufficient for to-day that all in search of an exciting subject will find it at the Kosy to-nighi, together with a good comedy subject and tho "Fox News."

MUSGROVE CELEBRITY VAUDEVILLE.

Commencing on Monday next and for a season of two nights, Mr R. A. Shepard will present another complete company of Musgrove Celebrity Vaudeville, direct from the Tivoli Theatre, Sydney. Mr Shepard recently gave theatregoers a rare treat with his Long Tack Sam Company and from press reports to hand from Auckland and Wellington this new company is said to be even better. The Herald, Auckland, quotes: "The best all-round yaudevillo bill presented in the Dominion." Ten star acts are included in the programme, headed by a comedienne of international reputation, Renio Riano, direct from the Musio Box Revue, London. Coming direct from the Palladium, London, Soli is an extraordinary novelty instrumentalist. Another Continental act is Guilly and jeanny who present an acrobatic turn, a wonderful exhibition of skill and artistry performed on a miniaturo Eiffel Tower. Donald Stuart is billed as the high and mighty magician. The Tivoli Trio of musical maids includes Clare Solly (contralto), Dallas Fraser ('cellist) and Adonia Aiken (pianist). The Alton Sisters present a novel act on the silver wire; Los Petit Totos are seen in sensational acrobatic offerings and Colino is billed as the acme of digital dexterity. A delightful turn is provided by the 5 Royal Rarotongans, musicians and dancers. The box plans for the season of two nights open to-morrow at Oates' music store.