AMUSEMENTS. MEETINGS. ETC.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXXVI, Issue 17780, 31 January 1920, Page 3

AMUSEMENTS. MEETINGS. ETC.

A TALENTED COMBINATION. THE KIWIS. The Kiwis opened at the Opera House last night before a large audience, and at the conclusion of the fine programme they put on the opinion was both enthusiastic and unanimous that they are the best of the soldier entertainers who have yet come this way. Naturally, in the light of recent digger shows on tiur comparisons were made, yet despite the undoubted talent of some of their musical predecessors the Kiwis take pride of place. When the Kiwis opened their "Bran Pie” last night it proved dainty, delectable and full of surprises and riyb: to the fall of the curtain there was never a dull moment. Vocally, both individually and collectively the Kiwis reached a very high level, while the humour —and it was the feature of the programme—was relined and enjoyable. A good deal of interest centred around the appearance of Mr Wilfred Thompson, who is sail to be the cleverest of all the female impersonators. Mr Thompson admirably filled the difficult role with clever acting and a distinctly good soprano voice. His make up was excellent, and he acted the part to perfection. The other principals are Ernest Graham, comedian and dancer; Harold Hill, a tenor vocalist; Wally Fulford, soutrette and ancer; Will Cotterill, tenor vocalist; Skam and North, baritones; and Leighton Bane, light comedian; and Arthur Gordon, the pianis. of the party. Collectively they gave a very bright and pleasing programme to conclude with "Naughty Nellie,” a drama in three acts, in which the heroine too'.; the opportunity to make the hit of the evening with a topical allusion to a ride in a milk cart. To-night the Kiwis will again hold sway at the Opera House, and their excellent entertainment can be cordially recommended to all who appreciate an enjoyable entertainment. THE GRAND. This afternoon a capital programme will be presented at The Grand. The pictures are “The Gaumont Graphic,” the third chapter of "The Railroad Raiders.” and supporting pictures. This programme will be repeated again to-night. HIS MAJESTY’S. MATINEE TO-DAY' AT 2.30. A bachelor’s wife featuring MaryMiles Minter, is attracting large attendances to His Majesty’s Theatre. There are three splendid supports, including a button-bursting comedy. "Back to the Woods.” The box plan is at Upton’s. MURIEL STARR’S FAREWELL. IN "THE SILENT WITNESS.” A deal more than usual interest is being evinced in the coming of Miss Muriel Starr, who will appear in a new play under the J. C. Williamson direction at the Opera House on Thursday evening next. There is an old Spanish proverb which says, “Where you are welcome go seldom, where you are not welcome, don’t go at all.” Miss Muriel Starr, who has achieved one of her biggest successes as "Helen Hastings” in "The Silent Witness,” has proved one again that proverbs, like rules, have their exceptions. It is safe to say that in New Zealand Miss Starr is more than welcome. She is without doubt one of the most popular dramatic actress that has ever appeared here. It is generally allowed that as Helen Hastings in “The Silent Witness,” the play in which she will be seen here, Miss Starr again illustrates her remarkable versatility. The role is unlike any Other in which she has hitherto app ared, and has added another artistic notch to her score of successes. Said to be a play’ of varied interest, tkehe is in the piece grip and plenty’ of stirring interest of the kind that appears to the general public. It is good dramatic tare of the popular variety, and the character pf “Richard Morgan,” played by Mr Frank Harvey, is one that holds the sympathy and affection of the audience, "'he box plan will open at Messrs H. I. Jones and Son’s next Tuesday, at 9 a.m.