“WHITE CARGO” HAS UNUSUAL THEME.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17991, 30 October 1926, Page 6

“WHITE CARGO” HAS UNUSUAL THEME.

TALENTED CAST PLAY INTERESTING PARTS.

Although New Zealand audiences have the reputation of being very matter-of-fact. they changed their attitude when Leon Gordon presented Ills sensational drama. " White Cargo,” in Auckland, prolong'd cheering providing a scene of enthusiasm seldom witnessed in this country. it remains to be seen whether Christchurch will receive tjie muchdiscussed drama with such warmth when it Is presented at Theatre Royal on Wednesday night. The indications are that a record season will be established. In writing “ White Cargo,” the author states that no conscious effort has been made to create or eliminate sensationalism. Neither Is it Intended to depict actual conditions. It is an attempt to portray the struggle for development in a country which steadily defies encroaching: civilisation, and a “ damp rot ” which penetrates not only the vegetation and Inanimate objects, but the minds and hearts of the white men who endeavour to conquer it. As Witzel, the man' who had hung on at the rubber-planting station till he became a fever-sodden wreck, Mr Gordon lias a powerful part, in which he displays great dramatic force, especially in the scene where he endeavours to frustrate the marriage between Langford, the young Englishman, and Tondaleyo, the half-caste enchantress. This character, played by Miss Helen Stransky, has been responsible for more criticism and discussion than any other character ever on the Australian stage. As the “Doctor.” Wallis Clarke, who also makes his first appearance in New Zealand, provides a. wonderful character study of a once-distinguished surgeon exiled for Ills drinking excesses. The box plana open at The Bristol on Monday.