THEATRE ROYAL.

NZ Truth, Issue 147, 11 April 1908, Page 6

THEATRE ROYAL.

Fullers' Entertainers.

Business, at the Theatre Royal this week has' simply boomed and that pleas,ont managerial fact is ascribed to the big programme that has been presented ad which is calculated to appease the appetite of any of the hungriest of Royal patrons. The Biograph Pictures, as usual, are to the fore and are up-to-date m every respect, indeed, so sympathetic were some of the scenes' that this critic's tears simply spoiled his beer. James Opie's character songs are well selected but he should keep* to the heavy dramatic business ; the introduction of alleged humor is calculated to make the audience hurl rude remarks at lum. The Harmonious Huxhams are still as melodious as of yore and their comedy business is bright and conducive to mirth. Jack Willis is at home m his Scottish characters, and the "Pics." ought tp take an injunction out against him for stealing their thrums and coppers. Rupert Christie, the boy soprano^ is still m strong voiqp, and his popular songs are being hummed all round town. Frank Melvin and Vi. Frawley, according to the programme, say smart 'things, sing ond dance m Flannigan's home, and a most unhappy home it is, too. Vi'. Bonetta and Reg. Williams are a bright pattering pair, who liven up proceedings considerably, after which they give way for Hugh Lloyd, whose performance on the "Cordc Elastique," which means a good thick rope, simply knocks out anything m the ropewalking line. He booms ahchtypunds and plays a fiddle and somersaults till the cows come home, and has to repeat his performance befo_§ the audience feel satisfied that their eyes are not deceiving them. Anyhow, those who think 'they can walk the rope and emulate Lloyd will have a chance next Tuesday. Wednesday ond Thursday, when a novel competition will be held, for which a prize of £2 will be given. .The programme gives further particulars. The fast week is announced ol Miss Lavinia Tyson and her illustrated ballads, but Miss Eva Lee and her piccanninies go on like the much mis-quoted ybrook. The "Pics." are irresistible. Their boxing turn beats Bill Squires-Tommy Burns go, and is the funniest act ever put on. To-night will see a complete change of programme and full houses ought to be the. order of the week.