QUEEN'S THEATRE.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 6869, 21 February 1884, Page 2

QUEEN'S THEATRE.

DunoHn.theatregoers.are certainly indebted to Miss I'oiiicroy for the series of interesting revivals she is now.giving at tho Queen's Theatre. One of the freshest and brightest of old English comodieß, "Slio Stoops to Con' quor," formed last night's programme, and it was a very hsalthy sign to notice that the house, if not absolutely full, was one of very respectable dimensions. Tho much-abusud public are nowadays credited with a taste that cannot by any possibility rise above the level of French farces or bloodcurdling melodratn.».3, simply because they tsiippoit such in a moderate measure when any management chooses to supply thorn in, presentable form. But they will also tupport something bettor when they get it, ai(d ths fault, if any fault there U, %3 not all on one tide. No one who witnessed last night'a performance would deny that there is vitality in those old pieces that do-

ighted our disciiminaling forefathers,

laughter and applauso was frequent as tho pungent dialogue and cleverly-designed situations unfolded themselves, and although many of thi) company no doubt followed tho accepted models at a respectful distance, their acting was without exception intelligent and fairly effective. ■

Mis 3 Poineroy made a charming Miss Hardcastle, the playing with a naivcli which showed her to be more at home in lighter parts thau many who have recognised her dramatic power would be ready to believe. The rapid changes of programme which she is undertaking prevented her being quite lotter-perfect throughout, and the character has not porhaps received all the attention that marks many of liar other studios; still it was a clever and enjoyable performance. Mr Arthur Elliot, as Marlowe, appeared to better advantage than he has during either of the preceding nights of the season. The part, with its many brilliant opportunities, appeared to be thoroughly appreciated by the actor, aud to his easy and consistent playing the piece owed much of its success. Miss Blanche Lowis grappled bravely with the onerous work entailed upon tho representative- of Mrs Hardcantle, and acquitted herself very fairly. If her powers occasionally flaggea, they never failed her, and the stormy scenes proved very amusing. Sho was greatly assisted by Mr Kennedy, who was dully humorous as Tony Lumpkin. Mr Joyce's Hardcastlo was also a creditable performance, and iie participated in one very warm call before" the curtain. Miss OF. Lewis as Miss Neville, and Mr Cbas, Hall as Hastings; also acted very acceptably. Mr Arrowsmith was ludicrous as Gregory, and the remaining parts weie also fairly iillea. To-night "The Lady of Lyons " will be put on, Miss Pomerby, of course, filling the role of I'auline.