CHOSTIAKOFF—RYAN

Taranaki Daily News, 10 April 1937, Page 2

CHOSTIAKOFF—RYAN

CONCERT AT NEW PLYMOUTH. ENTHUSIASM FOR COMEDIAN. Senia Chostiakoff, the Russian lenor, made his • farewell appearance at the New Plymouth Opera House last night "ariiTa'gain charmed a large audience with his true and deljghtful voice. The remainder of the programme wag contributed by Mr. Vincent Ryan, whose humorous numbers received an enthusiastic. reception, and Mr. Ossie, Cheeseman, in the dual role of soloist on the piano accordeon .ancl laceompanist. M. Chostiakoff's songs were all well -known and included - several- with which his name has become prominently associated. The tenor part of the "Miserere" duet from "II Trovatore" suits his voice to perfection, the rich quality doing full justice to the magnificent music. "La Donna E Mobile" and "Santa Lucia" were two others that he sang with I'obust artistry. No Chostiakoff programme is complete without "The Song of the Voiga; Boatmen," and this was the best item of the. programme, giving him full scope for his remarkable head notes. M. Chostiakoff's songs in English were not of quite the same high standard. Nevertheless "Impatience" was a really fine number, and "Annie Laurie" and "Bonny Mary of Argyle" were thoroughly enjoyable. More Russian gongs would have improved the programme, but the audience could find little fault with it. Mr. Ryan was a prime favourite with the audience and he repeatedly rocked the house with laughter. His typically Australian comedy was well sustained through a heavy night's work, every second producing its ..quota of humour. He danced, sang and jesited with as much whole-liearted enjoyment as he gave his audience. A tour round the world with Mr. • Cheeseman was one of the highlights of the programme, the national airs he selected for his piano accordeon catching the intereSt of the listeners. However, he was heard to possibly better advantage in "Light Cavalry." He, too, received an ample share of the audience's appreciation.