KING’S THEATRE.

Otago Witness, Issue 3099, 6 August 1913, Page 61

KING’S THEATRE.

A programme* of vaudeville items of an exceptionally high standard of merit comprises the newly introduced entertainment at the King’s Theatre, and the various contributors were accorded most flattering receptions on the 4th at the hands of a crowded audience. Huxham’s talented company of Serenaders again supplied the entire first half of the programme, and did so in a manner that gave complete satisfaction to those present. Their items included a generous selection of concerted numbers, and these were rendered with charming precision and beautiful effect. Humour of a genuine quality and a true ring finds a largo place in many of their songs, and their closing item entitled “The Lantern Scena,” in which some delightful effects were obtained by the use of Chinese lamps, was as clever as it was original. The Rolvos—a lady and gentleman to whom must be accorded an absolutely pre-eminent place in the sphere of balancing—were new arrivals, and their daring feats were watched with wonder and breathless interest. No turn of the kind has ever been seen locally before, and it would bo difficult indeed to imagine any improvement upon the Rolvos’ performance. The two mount upon a pedestal, aiid, while there, the male member stands his partner upon one arm and shoulder, and, balancing her there, ho slowly revolves in a circle. Ho also passes the lady right over his shoulders, and the pair per-

form many other feats of strength and balancing of a truly wonderful nature. Another very clever turn, but upon different linos, was that presented by Matthews and Mack, a pair of American burlesque artists of the vigorous and breezy order, who also made their first appearance. A sketch entitled “ Virginias Upside Down ” provided the vehicle for a vast supply of humour, the greater portion of which was provided by one of the pair who impersonated the grotesque character of a Hebrew-Roman. Many of the jokes and quips introduced by the couple were extremely amusing, and their acting was at all times forceful and convincing. It was the sort of turn that leaves a pleasant impression upon the mind, and that earned for the artists an enthusiastic outburst of applause. Miss Vera A 1 alton, the possessor of a full rich contralto voice, was another very successful contributor to the evening’s entertainment, and was vigorously recalled for her initial effort. Mr Sam La Mert, a tuneful sifflcur, with an extensive repertoire, and Messrs F. J. Sidney and Co., jumpers and “ whirlwind ” dancers, also present turns which lend diversity to the programme,' and prove most acceptable. The same artists will appear tonight.