THEATRE ROYAL.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXX, Issue 4444, 17 June 1875, Page 3

THEATRE ROYAL.

Last evening there was a very good attendance at the Theatre Eoyal, on the occasion of the production of Shakspere’s famous comedy “ Much Ado About Nothing,” but the greater portion of the audience was down stairs. We regret this exceedingly, because the cry as to the degeneration of the stage is continually going forth, and the most eager to take up the wail are those who, if they attend a theatre, are generally to be found in the upper part of the house, yet when a comedy of the very highest class is brought forward, the dress circle is conspicuous by a “ beggarly account of empty boxes.” We must confess we were much disappointed. However, those who did attend were amply rewarded. Than Miss Colville’s Beatrice nothing could have been finer, with her gay, dashing, piquant acting she played the part thoroughly all through, and richly deserved the marks of approval so freely lavished upon her. Mr. Hoskins's Benedick also was a canital performance, and imparted to the audience a very correct idea of the character. Of the other well played parts, Mrs. Hill’s Hero, Mr. Booth’s Claudio, Sir. Burford’s Don Pedro, Mr. Hydes’s Dogberry, and Mr. Hesford’s Leonato, are specially worthy of mention, and also Miss Marion Moore for her well-received song, “ Sigh no more Ladies.” The scenery was well got up, and the dresses worthy of more than passing notice. The Bridal scene and the finale were really grand. For to-night the beautiful drama, “ Court and Stage,” is announced; and we are requested to draw attention to the fact that the price of admission to the dress circle has been reduced to the old figure.