“THE TALK OF THE TOWN.”

New Zealand Times, Volume XXVIII, Issue 6052, 9 November 1906, Page 4

“THE TALK OF THE TOWN.”

The Willoughby-Ward Comedy Company produced a double bill at the Theatre Royal, Christchurch, on Saturday evening, the 27th October, when "The Vagabond” and “The Talk of tbo Town” were staged. , In criticising the performance, the “Press” says: —“A change of bill was given by the Ward-Willoughby Company at the Theatre on Saturday night. Playgoers here fully recognise in his clever comedy work in “The Man from Mexico” that Mr Hugh Ward possesses exceptional talent as a comedian. ; Blit in 'The Vagabond,’ one of the moeb charming and affecting little plays seen here, which preceded 'The Talk of the Town.' Mr Ward appeared in suite a new role. The pathos of the part of the man who is supposed to have died gloriously for his country, but who has really sunk to the lowest depths of degradation, was portrayed -with a skill and depth of feeling which made it stand out as a most re markably artistic piece of character acting. The description of the .battles in which the Vagabond led his men was most vividly given and in the deeply pathetic finish of the piece, where, after recognising his daughter, the Vagabond decides to go out into the world unknown. Mr Ward was excellent. Miss Palotta. as Dorothy, was also good, ‘The Talk of the Town’ is one of those slenderly constructed pieces which nowadays cbmo under the designation of farcical comedy, depending mainly for success on the numerous powers of those taking part in it. Miss G'race Palotta gave a vivacious and really excellent portrayal of tho character of Winifred.. The part in itself has not a great deal in it, but the brightness and ’go’ infused into it by Mies Pnrlotta made the representation most enjoyable. Her song was capitally given, the scene with Mr Ward in which it is sung, -being admirably worked out. The other lady characters .were well filled. Mies 'Soaifn being particularly good in the Beene 1 with the postman. Mr Ward’s impersonation of Andrew Fullalove lyas a clever piece of character acting throughout, especially ivhero ho is hypnotised into the belief that he is washing a baby, in which Mr Ward was funny in the, extreme. His dancing was-excellent, and in the scene where ho appears as a pugilist Mr Ward’s clever comedy acting elicited roars of laughter. Mr Willoughby made up well as the champion heavy weight, and his dialect was exceedingly good. The other carts were well filled, and special mention may be made of Mr Cornel! as the postman.” “The Talk of the Town" will bo presented at tho Opera House on Saturday and Monday evenings.