WILLIAMSON COMPANY

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22226, 28 September 1935, Page 16

WILLIAMSON COMPANY

There was a very largo demand for seats when the box plans were opened yesterday for the approaching production of the spectacular musical pla.v "Roberta," which is to be staged for tho first time in New Zealand at His Majesty's Theatro on Wednesday night next by J. C. Williamson's musical comedy company, headed by Madge Elliott and Cyril Ritchard. A large stall' of mechanics and electricians have arrived from Sydney, and they are busily engaged in preparing for tho opening performance. The very interesting and romantic plot of "Roberta" gives the producer, Mr. Cyril Ritchard, an unparalleled chance to please the feminine section of his audience by showing them clothes and yet more clothes in most attractive settings. One of the scenes is a fashion exposition at Roberta's, the mannequins displaying gorgeous gowns to appropriate music, against a background of rich rust velvet hangings. It is said that Madge Klliott has a role in "Roberta 1that might have been written for her, and her dancing is one of the features of the show. Miss Ethel Morrison as Aunt Minnie (Madame Roberta) has achieved one of her best successes, and Leo, Franklin in the role of Billy Hoyden ia said to be highly humorous. Frank Leighton is entrusted with the light comedy role of John Kent, and Marie Lo Varrc is said to bo at her best as Mine. Nunez. Miss Uiano ])u Cane, a noted London actress, will make her first appearance as Sophie Teale, and Field Fisher will appear as Lord Henry Delves. The cast also includes Arthur Clarke (baritone), Vera Wallace, Miss Leslie Crane, John I)obbie, Mary Rigby, Charles Zoli, Jean Slapotfski and Jerry Connolly. During the season "High Jinks" and "Our Miss Gibbs" will also be staged.