COLOURFUL OPERA

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23178, 26 October 1938, Page 16

COLOURFUL OPERA

"BALALAIKA" SEASON Exceptional interest is being taken in the production of the spectacular musical play, "Balalaika," which is to commence a short season at His Majesty's Theatre on Saturday, when afternoon and evening performances will be staged. Prqduced by the J. C. Williamson Royal Comic Opera Company, "Balalaika" has a cast of more than 100, including outstanding artists from England, America and Australia. All members of the large cast are unusually capable at acting, singing or dancing as the case may he, and not a few combine all three accomplishments. The mubic is decidedly tuneful and reflects the true spirit of the production, while the mounting and Crocking are other features which are sure to please. Features of "Balalaika" are the remarkable dance scenes, the beautiful Russian ballets being created and arranged by Thaddee Slavinskv, who was a prominent member ol Colonel do Basil's Monte Carlo Russian ballet. "Balalaika" is an outstanding production ift every way and may be called a musical comedy, a musical play or even a comic opera as fancy pleases. The sceno of the story is the Russia of pre-revolutionary days when the Tsars ruled in pomp and held courts which were the last word in splendour, not to mention intrigue. A cast of 40 principals includes Violet Larlson, George Hajicock, Diana " Nicol. Box plana will open this mpnunjf.