BRIGHT MUSICAL REVUE

Wanganui Chronicle, 21 January 1947, Page 2

BRIGHT MUSICAL REVUE

“WATCH YOUR STEP” SCORES A HIT Expectations of bright entertainment which lead to the Opera House b ing packed last night for the revue “Watch Vour Step” were fully fulfilled, as the instantaneous applause which greeted the items showed. Musical films have not lessened the popularity of the flesh and blood vaudeville show, as was indicated last night. On the all too rare occasions when a stage show is presented it can be assured of the support of Wanganui theatre-goers, and “Watch Your Step” is one that by its own merits is winning favour. It is described as the first real post-war overseas revue with the entertainment presented by a company of variety artists from the Tivoli Theatre Circuit.

Star of the show was big, baulky—and at times slightly baudy—Joe Lawman, who added further lustre to his refutation as one of Australia’s best comedians. He was the life of the show and his frequent appearances kept the audience in mirthful mood. One of the secrets of his success was his friendly way in making the audience part of his sallies, and he demonstrated the acme of the comedians’ skill in making the audience laugh with him instead of at him.

Royston, the triple voiced ventriloquist, was outstanding, and he showed that during the war years when he served as an R.A.A.F. pilot he has gained further mastery of the difficult task of voice manipulation since he last appeared on the New Zealand stage. With his two dolls, “Skeeter" and "Nellie” he was an instant success.

Beauty and grace seemed to build to a climax in the half-dozen song scenes, presented most attractively. “I’ll Be Your Sweetheart” and the flower scene were the most spectacular. The solists, Adele Taylor (soprano) Maurice Tansley (tenor), the man of many parts, Ophir Rees, and the comedienne, Joy Robins, had the capable support of the Kickline Ballet, aided by a full orchestra under the direction of Vince Burke. The versatile Jandy, a musical clown, delighted, and won well-merit-ed applause for his playing of the bells. Other pleasing numbers were the Three Siscos (whose whirlwind juggling was effortlessly perfect), Le Harley (merry magician), Sherry (soubrette), Eileen Bourke (singing violinist), Jarrett (novelty entertainer), the Morrell Trio (yodelling in Swiss, Dutch, and hillbilly fashion), and the Elite Dance Duo. The programme will be repeated today at a matinee and to-night.

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