NIGGER MINSTRELS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22198, 27 August 1935, Page 12

NIGGER MINSTRELS

ATTRACTION AT REGENT Delightful holiday entertainment for children is provided in the programme being presented at the matinee sessions at the Regent Theatre this week. The principal attraction is an old-time nigger minstrel show presented by the pupils of Miss Lilian O'Leary. Over 40 talented juvenile performers comprise the cast, and the production goes with a swing from the opening scenes until the end. The costuming would do credit to a professional company, while the ballet numbers are presented with marked polish. Opening with " Handy Loo," the number which made Irving Berlin famous, the programme includes such popular choral numbers as " Lily of Laguna," " Lore in Bloom," " Dancing With My Shadow," arid the everpopular " Way Down Upon the Swannee Ribber." Solos and duets also are given by a number of very clever young performers, whilo there aro some splendid dancing itpms. Many new jokes aro included in some bright negro repartee, which had the adult section of yesterday afternoon's audience, in addition to the children, rocking with laughter. The accompaniments throughout aro played by Miss Dorothea Ryan at the Regent Wurlitzer organ. A more colourful or pleasing entertainment for children could not be desired. In addition to the minstrel show, the thrilling English film, " Drake of England," is shown. The supporting pictures include a news reel and an hilarious technicolour cartoon.