MUSICAL COMEDY

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23205, 1 June 1937, Page 7

MUSICAL COMEDY

WILDFLOWER" OPENS ON SATURDAY In deciding to produce so ambitious a musical comedy as “ Wildflower,” the Dunedin Operatic Society could not have been other than mindful that the public has come to expect of it plays of quality and attractiveness, adequately staged and artistically mounted. If painstaking preparation and diligent rehearsing are any guide, the public will doubtless place “ Wildflower ” among its happiest recollections of the entertainment provided by Dunedin amateurs.' This musical play in three acts will be given its first presentation at His Majesty’s Theatre on Saturday afternoon next. The season will continue till June 12, with additional matinees on the King’s Birthday and the final Saturday afternoon. Mr Stan Lawson’s experience on the stage has again been availed of. He is the producer, and can be relied upon to see that, on the eve of presentation, no detail is lacking. As the ballet master responsible for the novelty and cleverness of the dancing acts, Mr Lawson is fortunately placed, as he has a complete appreciation of the dance ensembles. His work has been lightened by the proved ability of the leading members of the cast. A more talented and proficient company has not been previously assembled for any production staged by the Operatic Society. The cast includes performers who have distinguished themselves in previous productions. As Nina, the lovable madcap, Miss Freda Elmes has an exceptional role, one in which her sweetness of voice has full scope. She needs no introduction to Dunedin audiences. Miss Louise Henderson, too, should show in the part of Bianca, the “ superior cousin ” of Nina, that she is an actress of no mean calibre. To the role of Lucretia Miss Sybil Thompson can be expected to give a distinctive touch. Mr Arthur Lungley has an excellent part as Guido, the shy country lover of Nina. Mr Roy M'Dougall, the possessor of a very fine baritone voice, plays the role of the crafty Alberto, while Mr Reynolds Herbert has an unusual opportunity for characterisation as the kindly old Luigi. Mr R. P. Murphy, as Gaston, the lawyer, should provoke much mirth, for his is truly a comedy role. Over 40 voices will be heard in the choruses under the baton of Mr George Wilkinson, the society’s musical director. The box plans for the entire season open at the D.I.C. tomorrow.