“GAY LOVE.”

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXVI, Issue 20509, 10 January 1935, Page 3

“GAY LOVE.”

Sparkling Musical Comedy Coming to Civic. The management of the Civic Theatre regrets to announce that, owing to a previous booking, it will not be possible to extend the season of “ Danny Boy,” and this attraction, which has received remarkable patronage during the last few days, will definitely, be shown for the last two nights, to-night and to-morrow. “ Everything one can possibly ask for in the shape of brilliant entertainment.”' That is what the London “ Era ” critic said of “ Gay Love,” which will have its New Zealand premiere at the Civic All-British Theatre on Saturday. In this sparkling musical comedy theatregoers will have the opportunity of seeing and hearing two of the world’s greatest musical comedy stars. Florence Desmond, whose engagement to Campbell Black, the famous airman, was announced recently, is recognised as a most talented impersonator, and in “ Gay Love ” she is given every scope. Apart from her brilliant impersonations, in which she gives “ Don’t Blame Me ” as it would be sung by Greta Garbo and Zasu Pitts, and “ I’m No Angel ” in the manner of Mae West, she reveals a delightful pantomimic gift when, dressed as a music hall artist of the “ gay nineties,” she sings the old-time favourite, “ A Bird in a Gilded Cage.” Co-starred with Florence Desmond is Sophie Tucker. This popular star is also heard in several new song numbers. Other members of the cast include Sydney Fairbrother, Finlay Currie and Garry Marsh. Biilliant comedy with several catchy songs and a romantic story make “ Gay Love ” one of the brightest musicals yet made by the British studios. Box plans are at the theatre, where seats may be reserved at no extra cost.