“THE DIGGERS.”

Taranaki Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 16614, 9 December 1919, Page 2

“THE DIGGERS.”

SECOND NIGHT’S SUCCESS,

Boforo eight o’clock on Monday night the Empire Theatre was packed, and the Diggers opened their “barrage” on a full -house onco more. 'lhe programme was the same as tiie ono given on Saturday night, and the soldier entertainers again met with a splendid reception. Every item was appreciated and all those' taking part aro artists in their particular parts. Ihe most outstanding feature* everyone will admit is Mr. Mr. Stan. Lawson’s impersonation of a woman. Men dressed as women generally give rather a striking impression of being all hands and awkwardness, but Mr. Lawson as a girl has brought .the iin personation to a high art, in fact he makes a very charming “professional'’ girl. . . Another Digger who made a distinct hit was Mr. G. P. Hanna. As the Padro he was irresistible, and had only to stand on his pigeon-toed feet and look rebukmgly at his “congregation” to reduce them to a state of helpless laughter. He also evoked great,applause by his clever charcoal sketches. Mr. T. Fanra created much mirth by singing ‘ Good-bye-co” as different people would sing it. First he gave the music hail stylo; then lie sang it as ho thought a minister would bo likely to enjoy singing it, to a very sanctimonious tune; and lastly ho gave the way way the Salvation Army would produce'it. Those who have not heard it can perhaps hardly imagine tho effect of “Good-byo-ee” sung to the tune of “Tho Sweet Bye and Bye,” Mr. F. Perkins in “An Old-Fashioned Town,” was greatly enjoyed and deservedly encored, giving for his recall “I Passed by Your Window.” Mr. L. Exton gave “Love, Come from Your Hiding Place,” and his return being insisted on he gave a, very pretty little love song, “There's a Girl that 1 Dote on.” ,

Mr. N. French in a ragtime selection, “Alexander’s Lack from Dixie,” was very successful, his clever step dancing being especially popular. Later in the evening a duet and dance, “Wild Thyme,” by Stan. Lawson and Frank Perkins, proved itself one of the favourite items of the programme. Mr. G. Proctor sang “God Gave You to Tic,” and received such a good reception that he vas compelled to return, when he gave “If I could only come to Thee” in a very pleasing way. The two sketches were again well applauded, “The Leave Train” in particular appealing to the audience. The orchestra, as on Saturday night, called forth much admiration and comment, and the 10 musicians which comprise it may rest assured that their efforts gave very real pleasure to every member of their large audience.