THE WANDERERS.

Waipa Post, Volume I, Issue 39, 29 August 1911, Page 3

THE WANDERERS.

Mr Geo. Stephenson’s clever company “ The Wanderers” appeared before a packed house in the Town Hall last night. The company since its last appearance here has been strengthened by the inclusion of Misses Beatrice Mercer and Lilian Irvine, and Mr A. J. Black, bringing an already strong combination up to a very high standard. The sterling quality of “The Wanderers” performance when last here, left no doubt as to their welcome when next appearing. Last night’s performance has further enhanced their prospect of future bumper houses. “The Wanderers” form a clean and clever combination. Miss Beatrice Mercer, whose grace of manner, carriage and finished artistic bearing Is a contralto of exceptional richness, every note is full of music. The mellow fullness in the lower register is most charming. Her rendering of “ Out on the Rocks” was very fine. Miss Lilian Irvine, a pleasing soprano, was heard to advantage with Miss Mercer and Mr Jas. Harvey in

the trio “ Sailing.” This was perhaps the gem of the evening. Mr A. J. Black is a decided acquisition to the company. Of his three clever recitations, “ The Auctioneer,” by the late Thos. Bracken was perhaps the most appreciated. Miss Ruby Guest, mandolin and banjoist, with her winsome smile, had the audience with her all the time. Miss Everill Haggie was in good voice and brought down the house with her song “Jammy Face.” Mr Jas. Harvey (tenor) gave a sweet rendering of “ Flight of Ages.” The vagaries of Mr George Winstanley’s double voice greatly pleased the audience, and left them wondering how it was done. The part singing by the company was tuneful to a degree. The “bottle” chorus was as good as ever, Mr Leslie Holmes taking a big hand in the trimmings. This bundle of bunkum is still the same titillating rib-twister. Mr Herbert Brahms still ably acts as accompanist. The company plays in Cambridge to-night, and leaves Wellington for Australia on l6th September, returning to New Zealand in 12 or 18 months. We wish Mr Geo. Stephenson and his clever company luck —they deserve it.