ALHAMBRA THEATRE

Otago Witness, Issue 2985, 31 May 1911, Page 70

ALHAMBRA THEATRE

There may bo no new thing under the sun but the Fuller's organisation manage ito 'bring out a surprising continuation of novelties that can hardly fail to draw large and appreciative audiences. At the aihambra on May 50 a fresh programme was submitted, to which a gocd start was given bv the orchestra playing the Pirates of Penzance" overture, in such excellent Style that its repetition may be looked forward to with pleasure. The first part ot the musical programme included numbers by favourite members of the company, and the first appearance of Miss Elena Anderson an attractive contralto, whose tolos met with evident appreciation. Miss Lucy Lavina, tho popular soubrette, in good voice and brimming over with vivacity, was warmly applauded for her attempt to " find a sweetheart " amongst the audience. The great attraction cf this part of the evening's entertainment were contributions in dance, song, and frolic by the clever juveniles Violet, Mercia, and Hu:a Elliott in their trio " 1 couldn't find a nicer little girl." They subsequently appeared in even more attractive guise with Miss Maud Fanning in her very striking coon impersonation. The American comedy double, Harris and Vernon, increased their popularity by appearing in a most diverting act called " The Tramp's Good-luck." In this broad farce they .caused continued laughter, and their clever dancing kept up a pedal patter like a hailstorm on an iron roof. Amongst the first appearances were the two Ridgways, a brace of grotesque hand-balancers, who may be declared in common parlance to be "as clever as they are made." They seemed just as much at their ease when balancing on an Eiffel tower of chairs, as they were when going through their feats on the stage floor. The Tossing Testros gave an extremely clever exhibition of juggling, hat-balancing, and billiard-cue performances that Roberts would not, having regard to his reputation, have attempted." A deliriously costumed lady assistant was not only slight and graceful of limb, but had no small skill in sleight of hand tricks with gyrating plates and parasols. The balancing of a. Japanese rickshaw that crowned the turn showed phenomenal strength, as well as nicety of poise. These new items, coupled with the fresh contributions from members of tho variety company, already established in popular favour, made the new bill of fare bright and enjoyable from first to last. The programme should not be missed by those seeking a good evening's enjoyment.