“THE VAGABOND KING”

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23517, 4 June 1938, Page 27

“THE VAGABOND KING”

SEASON OPENS TO-DAY

“ The Vagabond King ” season, which will be opened at His Majesty’s Theatre with a matinee this afternoon, promises to be most successful. For over three months the members of the Dunedin Operatic Society, have rehearsed this spectacular musical comedy. “ The Vagabond King ” is being presented for the first time in New Zealand by amateurs, and the local society is to be congratulated on its enterprise.

On this occasion the Dunedin Operatic Society will feature Miss Reta Stone, as Katherine, and Mr James Macfarlane, as Francois Villon. Miss Stone will make her debut on a Dunedin stage, and her attractive personality should win for her instant success. She has a definite flair for acting, and her rich soprano voice is more than equal to the demands made upon it by the vocal score. Mr Macfarlane, in the role of Villon, has the most spectacular role that has yet come his way. and his rendering of “The Song of the Vagabonds” with the full chorus should be a,feature of the show. Miss Freda Elmes, in the role of Huguette, has a part which suits her. She will be heard in two numbers. Miss Tui Northey, as Lady Mary, and Harriet Hamer, as Margot, add quaint touches of humour. jMr Stan Lawson, In addition to producing the play, plays the role of Guy Tabarie, and with Mr Richard Murphy as Oliver, should keep the audience in good humour. The part of the eccentric King Louis has been entrusted to Mr Richard White, who is favourably known to Dunedin theatre-goers, as is Mr S. G. Lock, who has been cast as Tristan. Others who play prominent parts are Donald Munro, Mark Gaston, E. W. Griffiths, Jack Johnson, E. Ombler, and John Gordon and there is a full operatic chorus of 75 voices, and a large orchestra under the baton of Mr James Clark, the musical director.

The ballets for the production have been designed and trained by Miss Rosetta Powell, and Mr Stan Lawson is responsible for the entire production. The costuming has been specially imported from London, and it is claimed to be the finest ever seen on a Dunedin stage, being the original costuming as used in the London production.

The box plans for the season are at the D.1.C.. and day sales are at the Rialto. The box plans for Monday’s performances are also at the Rialto.