BRILLIANT SUCCESS.

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 663, 17 January 1933, Page 3

BRILLIANT SUCCESS.

“A Brighter 1933” at St James Theatre.

Revue at its best describes the entertainment presented by Stanley M’Kay and Paul Warton in their production, ‘A Brighter 1933,’’ at St James Theatre last evening. The theatre was crowded and the performers received Quite an ovation at times. Some excellent revue and vaudeville companies have been seen in New Zealand, but it is safe to say that seldom, if ever, has there been better entertainment than that provided by this talented company. The show went with a swing from start to finish, and there was not a dull moment. It was certainly an excellent reminder of the “ good old days,” when “ flesh and blood ” shows were more numerous and so popular. If 1933 is to he as bright as suggested in “ A Brighter 1933,” then there will be no regrets at the close of the year. The comedians, a feature of the show, were entirely free from vulgarity. The dressing in the many pretty and ehtrancing ballets, as well as in the individual numbers, was on an elaborate scale, and the various scenes and stage effects were on a par with the best revue, vaudeville or musical comedy companies seen here. An outstanding performance was given by the soprano, Amy Rochelle. For years Amy Rochelle has been a favourite with audiences in Australia and New Zealand, and deservedly so, for her voice is of great volume and exquisite sweetness. Her clever and unique impersonations of a child’s “chit chat” arc! singing were most realistic and were well received by the audience. One of the best performances of the evening was the trio given by Amy Rochelle, Rene Rich, the talented violinist, and May Brook, at the piano. That old favourite, Fred Bluett, so well and popularly known throughout theatre-land in Australia and New Zealand, was given a great reception on his first entrance. As usual, he was not long in establishing himself as a comedian of outstanding merit. No matter in what capacity or what he did he had the audience In roars of laughter. Walter Reynolds, English comedian, also made a “ hit ” with his bright jokes and actions. His act with Addie Collings, a particularly chic and bright performer, was enthusiastically applauded. The Genettes, simultaneous and novelty dancers, were recalled again and again, and they proved themselves excellent exponents of the art of tap-dancing. Together with the Gaiety Girls they put on- one of the best shows seen here for many years. The numerous ballets—dancing of all kinds—-were a feature of the entertainment. The company is strong in specialty acts, and it is safe to say that nothing could be more thrilling than the daredevil aerial act of the four “ Flying Wartons," when a girl is ejected from a springboard to do a double somersault high above the stage, on to the shoulders of a partner. The acrobatic and ladder posing act by the aerobatic ballet was another splendid exposition of beauty, grace and skill combined. Rene Rich, playing her violin, was a triumph. It is many years since such an artist with such extraordinary talents has been heard in Christchurch. She came through with flying colours and created marked enthusiasm. Her technique is brilliant, her tone warm and sympathetic, and there is plenty of power. This artist has matured in style since her last visit, and worthily upheld her reputation of being one of Australia’s most brilliant violinists. Her playing of a chorus in harmonics and her imitations of the bagpipes were a delight to listen to. She was equally at home in classical as well as lighter numbers, the latter being given in response to insistent demands for encores Matinees will be given on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and changes of programme on Monday evenings.