“THE FORTY THIEVES"

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXI, 6 April 1926, Page 7

“THE FORTY THIEVES"

STANLEY MeKAY PANTOMIME COMPANY Last evening the Theatre Royal was densely crowded when Stanley McKay s brilliant Australian company presented '■The Forty Thieves." which proved even more'interesting than the. opening production, "Bo Peep." As "Ah Baba," that versatile actor, frank Perrvn. had a part that in every way suited him, while his musical monologues were heartily encored. It is not often that a pantomime coinp- y possesses such a soprano voice as Miss P.uth Kucknall's. This little artiste appeared as "Morgiaua.' and incidentally sang with splendid effect "Dreamy Delight," "My Hero" (from "The Chocolate Soldier"), and "Roses of Picardy." and it would be hard indeed to say which of her solos received the greatest reception, they were all so good. Miss Maudie Stewart as the maid of all work, "Tinlizzi," brought down the house, and her patter and songs, when associated with Mr Arthur Meredith were screamingly funny. The latter as "Mrs K. F. Pfoops," again provided a riot of fun. Mr A. 15. V. I'enham was well suited to (he role of "Hassarac," the Captain of the Forty Thieves, and hi:s heauitful bass voice enabled him to give with telling effect "The Toreador's Song" from "Carmen" and "The Bandolero." Miss Laurie McLeod made a handsome 'Oaiieni," and her artistic Egyptian dance in Act IT. was one of the most. enjoyable items of the evening. As in "P.o.' Pe.-p." Miss Rene Rich—the delightful viol iniste—was enthusiastically recalled for her items. "Zephyr." "The Rosary," and "Mazurka de Coneerl." Mr McKay has certainly secured a star in this littlit lady, who should one day have a career. The Wonder Rascals again delighted the audience with their amazing tumbling and pyramid posing, while the lavish ami beautiful costumes and scenery again ev< ked general admiration. To-night the gorgeous exlravaganzo. "Aladdin," will be presented, when .Mr McKay will he able ,i present a new dame in the person of Frank Perryn, who also presents Wilkin Bard's favour ile .-ketch. "The Charwoman.' Mr Meredith will apj)f%" this time as a mali- comedian, "A bana/.ar.' with Laurie McLeod (Aladdin '), Maudie •Stewart ("Chcekce"). Ruth liueknall f'Prnicess"h A. K. Y. Henham ("Emperor ), and Marjoiie Abrahams ("Pe- •{ )• To.morrow will be the farewell performance, when the big metropolitan revue. "Laughing Time." will he staged. The company is deservedly popular, and crowded ' houses are assured for ib,. remainder of the season. I'h ■ plans me at I'm „'g s.