DUNEDIN OPERATIC SOCIETY

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22672, 10 September 1935, Page 10

DUNEDIN OPERATIC SOCIETY

PRODUCTION OF "THE GEISHA"

Those ingredients which make musical comedy such delightful fare for entertainment seekers are contained in "The Geisha," which the Dunedin Operatic Society will present at His Majesty's Theatre for a week's season commencing on Saturday afternoon. The basic quality of this type of entertainment—music—is undoubtedly the main feature of "The Geisha," but few musical comedies have such an interesting love story and clever comedy situations running through thd whole story, which is essentially Japanese in its theme and treatment The comedy is sheer good fun, as wholesome as it is fresh. The Operatic Society's productions have been distinguished by the originality and talent of the ballets, and the Stan Lawson School will again provide this important section of the entertainment. A well-balanced and able cast of principals lias been assembled for "The Geisha." The company ie particularly strong in vocalists, with Miss Freda Elmes, Pennie Marshall, Arthur Lungley, Harold Bain and Anita Winkel in the leading parts. Bernie Hammonds, Reynolds Herbert and Irenee O'Sullivan can be relied upon to make the most of clever and amusing situations, and Misses Freda Elmes and Pennie Marshall are both personable and clever. As O Mimosa San, the chief Geisha girl, Miss Elmes has an exceptional role, one in which her talents should have full scope. She needs no introduction to Dunedin audiences, and Miss Marshall, too, should show in the part of Molly Seamore, the madcap English schoolgirl, that her inclusion in the cast ie more than justified. To the role of Lady Wynne, Irenee O'Sullivan can be expected to give a distinctive touch, as her work is always finished. Miss Winkel has an excellent part as Juliette, the French interpreter. Harold Bain is the juvenile lead as Reginald Fairfax, Molly's fiance, and will be heard with Miss Elmes and Miss Marshall in several song numbers. The pompous Marquis Imari is portrayed by Mr Reynolds Herbert, and Mr Bernie Hammonds has a rich comedy part as Wun Hi, the Chinese proprietor of the Tea House of Ten Thousand Joys. Mr Angus Gorrie will be the stage manager. Over 80 male and female voices will be heard in the choruses, which have a tunefulness and brightness equal to the solos and duets. The tea house and garden scenes are said to be delightfully amusing, and the dance interludes to the fast-moving comedy of intrigue and romance should enhance the entertain ment value. "The Geisha" will be produced by Mr F. H. Lampen. The box plans are now open at the D.I.C.