MUSICAL COMEDY.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 19876, 18 February 1920, Page 7

MUSICAL COMEDY.

"YES, UNCLE," The latest, production of the J. C. Williamson firm is the musical comedy “ Yes. Uncle,” which was presented for thc first time at thc Theatre lloyal last evening before a full house. The best tribute that can be paid it is to say that tho performance was greatly enjoyed by tho audience. Tho first act was excellent, and much of tho second act was very good. The. action dragged in the final scene, which, however, was so brightly staged and dressed that the lapse could be forgiven. The story of the comedy may lie fold in a paragraph. A young artist of amorous disposition finds that marriage does not wipe out previous entanglements, and the fun of the play is in the events which load to a solution of his troubles and the pacification of an indignant lady. The chief comedy role is sustained bv Mr Alfred Frith, whose particular style ol humour fits in exactly. His cheerful nonsense has always a streak of cleverness, and the note of burlesque, though nearly always present, is just held at the right pitch. The most hearty laugh last evening was provoked by ’a little bit of dumb show, in which Mr Frith, impersonating a drapery salesman, sold a few yards of invisible petticoat material to the leading lady. Two artists who wore always bright, snappy and graceful were Mr Cyril Diehard and Miss Elliot. Their dancing was always artistic and clever, and tho auctienee highly appreciated their frequent partnerships. Mr 'William Greene carried through the young artist’s role T\ith characteristic snap and broeziness -—though sometimes a. trifle breathless-ly—-and sang in his usual capable style. Miss Cecil Bradley is undoubtedly tile prima donna of the company, and her numbers last evening were delightful. Miss 'Oracle Lavers acted daintily, and sang prettily, while Miss Mario 'Eaton made a very good study of the impassioned young Spaniard who was pursuing the inconstant artist. Mr ’ Field Fisher made a success of the far too breezy uncle round whom the plot of the play revolves. Thc dressing is in thejiest stylo of “tho Firm,” mid the orenestr.a is as bright and tuneful as one could desire. There arc a few eccentric dancing extras, which are cleverly performer], and so are eminently entertaining.