FULLER’S HAS BRIGHT REVUE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18623, 27 November 1928, Page 6

FULLER’S HAS BRIGHT REVUE.

The name for brightness which is associated with the shows at Fullers Opera House is well guarded by the London Revue Company, at present holding sway. Last night the change of programme found them well up to the mark, and many times the}- went a little higher, and achieved something in the way of entertainment that will not be forgotten by many of the audience, The evening snapped through* in a time that seemed distressingly short for those on the spacy side of the footlights, for each turn was of a character that engrossed the attention, and a long programme seemed to fly. Time after time, when the changes were rung on scenes and artists, the alteration was so apt and unexpected that it fascinated.

Mrs O’Brian's boy, Frank, the leader of the band and one of the brightest comedians that have been here for a long time, was at the very height of his form, and in the little sketches which the company handle so well he was inimitable. Nothing came amiss

to him, and he had really excellent assistance from that capable performer in almost any role, Janice Hart, and from Bert Lee, Marie Ward and Gordon N orville. The sketches were of variety and wit right through the evening. Bert Lee and Janice Hart were the principal associates of Frank O’Brian in that

line, and they acquitted themselves nobly. The point was always original and always a surprise, while the plots were never too drawn out. One of the most interesting and spectacular numbers was the combined one introducing the dances of all nations, with Janice Hart and Gordon Norville bearing the brunt of the vocalisation, while the light-footed side was looked after well by the Flappers’ ballet. Janice Ilart yodelled in the very best Alpine manner, to the huge delight of the audience. It was a telling number, the expert dancing and bright costumes of the Flappers enhancing the effect. Another great hit was the conducting of the “orchestra” (specially imported for the purpose from parts unknown) by Frank O'Brian, it being safe to say that “ Poet and Peasant ” never drew so much laughter before. Another excellent united effort vras staged round one of the world’s most remarkable pie-carts, in which the last of the O'Briens held sway with great effect. Audrey Lewis, that charming little singer, found great favour with “That’s My Weakness Now,” and a little “ confession.” Joe Hudson, Bert Lee and Frank O’Brian made a great thing of the “ Parsons of Puddle,” and in a little song of his own (lifted almost bodily from “ Ro.se Marie ”) Bert Lee again got a good hearing. Marie Ward had a pretty song in “ Souvenir,” and she sang it w r ell. That rhythmic fellowship, Vasco’s Varsity Boys, appeared this time in cowboy chaps and sombreros, and their efforts with the weapons of jazz found much favour. Altogether, the night went with an exceptional swing, and the crowded house was more than satisfied.