Centennial Cabaret

Manawatu Times, Volume 64, Issue 109, 11 May 1939, Page 7

Centennial Cabaret

Exhibition Attraction On Modern Lines

MUSICAL DIBECTOE IMPOETED Per Press Association. WELLINGTON, May 9. Mr. Manuel Raymond, musical director to Frascatis, famous London restaurant, has been engaged to organiso and conduct tho orchestra at the Centennial Exhibition cabaret. He was formerly well known in Wellington as Mr. Manuel Hyman. The cabaret, which is to be run by a concessionary company, is to bo on a scale never hitherto attempted in Now Zealand. Having decided that the cabaret was to be run in first-class fashion in a style in keeping with tho rest of the Exhibition, the directors of the company, prominent Wellington , businessmen, decided to secure one of the best musical directors in the world. In London they found directing the Frascatis orchestra an experienced musician already well known to New Zealand dancers. Mr. Manuel Hyman was musical director to the Dunedin Exhibition and was afterwards sat the Adelphi Cabaret, Wellington. Before his departure for England some twelve years ago, he made a successful tour of New Zealand with his orchestra. Since then he has conducted at many of the principal London cabarets and places of entertainment, including tho Kitz and Frascatis. His services were secured only after long negotiations and on the promise of a princely salary’. Mr. Raymond is bringing with him two key men and will recruit tho remainder of his orchestra of twelve from the pick of talent available in New Zealand. Permission of the Musicians’ Union was necessary before Mr. Raymond ’s two assistants could be engaged, but this permission was given in view of the employment and experience offered New Zealand players. The cabaret will have a larger floor space than the Wellington Town Hall. It will be the largest properly laid dance floor in the Dominion. It will measure 100 feet by 60 and will provide dance space'for 400 couples, as well as room round the walls for free movement and for tables. The gallery will seat 200 onlookers. The floor will be of highly polished heart matai, rubber sprung. A bandshell at one end will provide perfect acoustics. In addition, of course, the cabaret will incorporate all the most modern appurtenances. The cloak-rooms and dressing-rooms will bo decorated in smart and tasteful modern style. The lighting will be striking and will include up-to-date colour-blending appliances. The cabaret will probably be open for three hours daily in the afternoon and three in the evening for dancing. Cabaret turns will be arranged for special evenings, and on any outstanding occasions arrangements will be made for late night sessions. No alcohol will be permitted on the premises in keeping with the high tone which the directors intend to maintain. A charge will be made for admission and for dancing. Light refreshments may be obtained.