J. C. WILLIAMSON MUSICAL COMEDY

Manawatu Times, Volume LIII, Issue 6766, 21 November 1928, Page 8

J. C. WILLIAMSON MUSICAL COMEDY

To-morrow evening at the Opera House the J. C. Williamson management will present for the first time in the Dominion the brilliant London musical comedy star, Annie Croft together with their new company in “The Girl Friend” which will be followed by another musical comedy success “Hit the Deck.” There was a constant demand all clay yesterday for scats at the Opera House, and the booking indicates a big season can be looked for during the company’s stay in this city. Annie Croft who comes with a big London reputation scored an instantaneous triumph in Melbourne and Sydney One critic says, “A crowded house gave an enthusiastic welcome to the new musical comedy at the Theatre' Royal on Saturday night. It is a lively piece with plenty of catchy melodies, a great deal of smart comedy, and some remarkable dancing. The piece is notable for the first appearance here of Annie Croft, an English musical comedy artist with a, charming personality, and her dancing is a rare treat.” Another critic says that Annie Croft is the,, fairest and rarest of leading women and when she smiles all the world smiles too. The company supporting this popular London star includes Reginald Sharland and Loo Franklyn, both of whom come to the colonies with English reputations. Other pcpular people in the cast are Gus Bluett, James Hughes, last here as the Sergeant-Major in “Rose Marie,” Mary Rigby, May Beatty and her daughter Bunny, Jack Dunne, Les Donaghey, Billie Lockwood, Katie Towers and the fascinating chorus and ballet of youth and beauty.