“PRIMROSE” TO OPEN AT THEATRE ROYAL.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17835, 1 May 1926, Page 6

“PRIMROSE” TO OPEN AT THEATRE ROYAL.

It is fully expected that the irrepressible fun of George Gee, one of those rare comedians whose humour is genuine, will have full plaj r in “Primrose” when the curtain rolls up at the Theatre Royal to-night. This musical show was written primarily as a comedy, and in his efforts to escape from a beauty specialist, Gee will appear in disguises ranging from a Russian spiritualist to a German professor. Margery Hicklin will have the leading role, while Dorothy Lena, Jack Cannot, Leyland Hodgson and Hugh Steyne will also have prominent parts. One of the special attractions of the piece will be the dancing, and there will be a host of piquant songs. An especially good performance of Lady Sophia Meopham may be expected of Marie le Varde. A big dancing specialty is provided by Fred M’Kay and Reita Nugent in the beautiful dance, “L'Amour ct’un Faun.” A startling novelty is announced in the lighting effects, showing for the first time in the Dominion the wonderful Samiloff colour transformations, said to be the most astounding manipulations of electric lights yet invented. “Primrose” is in three sparkling acts, the first showing the ferry landing— Little Ferry on Thames—the second the terrace of the Hotel Splendide, and the third the Vauxhall Night Club. It takes over 100 people to interpret the play, which is further enhanced by the appearance of Messrs Harry Wotton, Jack Testro, John Stuart, and Misses Winnie Tate and Ivy Parker in prominent parts. The book is by George Grossmith and the music by George Gershwin. Beautiful and big ensembles abound, and everything points to “Primrose” being one of the big musical comedy successes of the year. The box plan is at the Bristol till noon to-day, then at the Theatre Royal Confectionery where day sale tickets are also obtainable.