PRINCESS THEATRE.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 19745, 23 March 1926, Page 6

PRINCESS THEATRE.

there was no lack of animation about the new performance at the Prince. ) theatre last night, and patrons went home after the entertainment feeling quite satisfied with themselves and with the programme submitted. Originality was the keynote of the big nine-scene revue presented by the Ooorge Ward Snapshot Company, entitled “Ku Klux Klan.” It is a spectacular and pretentious production, and there is no doubt that during its currency it will further enhance the reputation of the popular band of merrymakers. The notorious Ku Klux Klan Is used to introduce the atmosphere of uncanniness into the performance A rival organisation. "The Due Just Hand,” works by subtle means to obtain possession of the talisman of the other party. It may safely be said that (he piece surpasses all its predecessors in intrigue and extravagance. White-robed figures, gay cabarets, and pretty dancing girls all add spice and mischief to the entertainment, not allowing a dull moment to exist. The show is brimful of comedy, with a touch of the dramatic, numerous musical interludes, gorgeous dressing, and up-to-date novelties, and it makes a warm appeal to the most fastidious. The production does not altogether faithfully represent the tenets of the Ku Klux Klau faith, but it can safely be said that it lacks nothing in point of humour or action. Mr George Ward and Mr Bert Be Blanc, in the role of two detectives, are responsible for the humour of the piece. Their £util° efforts as clumsy investigators make them a subject of sustained ridicule: by attempting diplomacy and striving to pose as convincing and astute detectives they create considerable amusement. Midnight carousals by the members of the Klan, the abduction of beautiful maidens by hooded bandits, and the rough handling of this pair of woul 1-be Sherlock Holmes’s provide plenty of opportunity for Mr Ward to hang thereon a plentiful s.upply of his special brand of humour. There is also provided a series of complications and comedy scenes which are rarely, if ever, attempted in revue. Messrs Yorka Gray and Vernon Sellars appear as agents of the secret society, and provide the elements of intrigue in the plot. The many musical melodies that, are interpolated make a pretty contrast, to the dramatic, though humorous, story. The following are some of the musical numbers contributed:— “Boat and Train," Mr Carlton Chase and the Snapshot Six; "Micky Donahue," Miss Batsie Hill and the Snapshot Six: "Get That Girl,” the company: “Waiting for the Sunrise," Mr Vernon Sellars; “Six Kittle Girls." the Snapshot Six; “Plantation Days." Miss Daisy Yates and the Snapshot Sjx; “New Zealand Names.” Mr Bert Be Blanc; "Sweet Baby,” Mr Yorke Gray and the Snapshot Six; "Memory Lane," Miss Patsie Hill and Mr Vernon Sellars; and “Midnight Waltz,” Miss Bila Marion. Some excellent dancing was done by Miss Dorrie Tointon and Mr Yorke. Gray, and the Snapshot Six were responsible for some superb ballet work, which was quite a feature of a splendid performance. The vaudeville portion of the programme is bright and varied, anu if one mav judge by the measure of applause accorded the performers, one and all were satisfied with the hill-of-fare provided. Miss Estelle Bose, who is invariably well and appropriately gowned, and "ho is quite a warm favourite with Princess patrons, sang some Yiddisher songs, and related some stories. The old favourite, “Rebecca,” was given, likewise representations of a French girl and an Italian gild. Miss Bose's work is marked by a very artistic finish, and her turn went splendidly. The Janetski Trio, playing their triple marimbas, or xylophone instruments, demonstrated their remarkable skill and wide musical knowledge. They appear to have made a close study of these instruments, and certainly pring their possibilities to a more than ordinary degree of perfection. By the operation of the three instruments simultaneously quite a, tolerable body of tone is produced, together with a sparkling and vivacious effect. The principal composition played was the “Poet and Peasant” overture, and other items included “Tuckey Home,” “First, Last, and Always,” and "Teasing.” Their reception was of (he heartiest. Mr Alec Kellaway was just as popular as ever as a roving vocalist, his contributions including “Friendships,” “Dirty Hands.” “Tickled to Death I am Single,” and “I Wonder Where My Baby is To-night?” Mr Bonny Whelan did his usual entertaining with songs, recitations, and stories. His best item was “1 Don’t Want My Cigar To Go Out.” He also introduced some good patter, which met with cordial acceptance. Fullers’ Orchestra, under the leadership of Mr F; H. Stokes, performed its share of the work with every satisfaction. The same programme will be repeated this evening, and there will be a matinee this afternoon.