BUSY MR BENYON

Otago Daily Times, Issue 27389, 15 May 1950, Page 6

BUSY MR BENYON

Versatile Performer THESAURUS OF MAGIC If “The Great Benyon" were any more versatile, he would have to be twins. During the first half of his show “ Bam-800-Zalem ” —for the benefit of the slow-witted, the programme thoughtfully gives “ Bamboozle ’Em ” as a translation —he appears as (again quoting the programme) a Chinese conjurer, Japanese balancer, Arab magician, Persian necromancer, Red Indian wonder worker, Dutch mimic French lightning artist, Spanish juggler, English ventriloquist and New Zealand wizard. This oneman combination of the United Nations' and Superman opened his Dunedin season at His Majesty’s on Saturday night. As may be inferred, the show .is largely devoted to Mr Benyon—or, if the rapid changes of costume and the programme notes are to be taken fairly literally, the show has an all-star cast comprised of Monsieur Benyon, Herr Benyon, Big Chief Benyon, Benyon Effendi, Benyon San, Tovarich Benyon, Senor Benyon and a man by the name of Wilson who used to live in Timaru. Mr Benyon, indeed, makes no secret of the fact that he is an old Timaruvian who was last seen locally on the stage of the Princess Theatre with a Fullers’ bill some 30 or more years ago. Since then, he has managed to pick up most of the tricks in the book of magic. Some of them are very good—his mindreading act and the haunted cabinet were quite the best of the evening’s show.

Supporting Mr Benyon were Sean and Evelyn, who offered mild comedy and song; Doreen Benyon, with some popular songs; and Ernisto Verrecchia, who played an accordion. • The decorative group of ballet youngsters looked harrased and seemed to be making the show up as they went along. Assheton Harbord maintained reasonable equilibrium in the orchestra. In his little curtain speech, Mr Benyon gave the key to the show when he said that it was devoid of the off-colour jokes which mar so many revues. Because of this, parents need have no qualms about sending their children along. On this score, it could be thoroughly recommended —youngsters would indeed be enchanted and intrigued by the show and a lot of parents would probably enjoy taking them. The show is staged by the Benyon family for other families to see. They will have their opportunity for the rest of the week, and there will be a change of programme next Friday.