HIS MAJESTY'S THEATRE.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21267, 23 February 1931, Page 3

HIS MAJESTY'S THEATRE.

“ the house that jack BUILT The presentation of the delightful pantomime, “ The House That Jack Built,” by the J. C. Williamson Company, was again greeted by enthusiastic audiences at His Majesty’s Theatre on Saturday afternoon and evening. To say that the audiences were enraptured with the beauty, vigour, and rhythm of the production would be no exaggeration, for it is undoubtedly one of the most delightful variety entertainments it has been the good fortune of Dunedin audiences to enjoy for many months. “The House That Jack Built” is a pantomime which no one should miss, for theatre patrons of all ages will revel in its exquisite fancy and light-hearted nonsense. Although there is comedy aplenty, buffoonery is not allowed to overweigh the value of the more spectacular side of the production through which runs a romance of the most charming kind, in keeping with the fanciful and appealing tales so beloved of youth. Jim Gerald as Dame Barleycorn is as irresistible as ever, and his pranks and acceptable nonsense are greeted with every evidence of appreciation. He is ably supported in the comedy parts by Roy Rene and Phil Smith, both comedians of considerable talent, who assist him in keeping the house in the best of humours all night. Miss Amy Rochelle plays the part of Jack Bilder exceptionally well, bringing to her performance a dashing style that suits both her and the part. The role of the Fairy Queen is played by Miss Kathleen Goodall, who undoubtedly scores one of the principal hits of the production. She has a delightful soprano voice, which is heard to excellent effect in her number, “ Just a Memory of Long Ago,” a selection of old-time favourites which must be included in one of the most appealing vocal selections in the pantomime. The Fallow Sisters, the Paulasto Brothers, the delightful little dancing girls, and the competent ballet are only a few of the most spectacular concerted dancing presentations ever seen on a Dunedin stage, including the Vegetable Ballet, the Phantom Army, the Illuminated Swing, and numerous others, whilst the grotesque antics of Lily the Cow, embodying the Paulasto Brothers, form an hilarious interlude. “ The House That Jack Built ” should certainly be seen, for, in addition to the unusually high standard of entertainment provided by the production, intending patrons must be reminded that half the proceeds of the tour are to be devoted to the Earthquake Relief Fund.