IMPORTANT THEATRICAL EVENT.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume 44, Issue 134038, 4 January 1918, Page 2

IMPORTANT THEATRICAL EVENT.

COMING OF MR CYRIL MAUDE

Mr Cyril Maude, the eminent English actor, wil commence a one-night season at the Masterton Opera House ou Thursday, January 17th. The fame of Mr Maude is so universal that a successful season should bo a foregone conclusion. Mr Maude will make his appearance here under tho direction of J. C. Williamson, Ltd. The play selected for the important occasion is the remarkable four-act comedy-drama entitled "Grumpy," in which Mr Maude will sustain the name-part. A leading

Australian critic writes as follows of his performance: "Crowded as the Australian stage is of theatrical memory, with its largo company of eminent artists, whose characters arc still challenging down tho perspective of years, there is already an assured place for Mr Cyril Maude. At present, of course, ho stands close to the footlights of time, but amid tho impressions that are gathering now for the now distances of historyT petulant, lovable . old 'Grumpy' will never bo in the background. It is a portrait so distinguished by human qualities of portrayal that it will in tho future doubtless be recalled as a memorable dramatic event. Once 'Grumpy' steps upon tho stage he is indispensable. Mr Maude absolutely absorbs 'Grumpy/ and makes tho part vibrate with manytoned qualities of humanity." It is said that Mr Maude's impersonation presents so many contrasting elements, all polished by tho technique of tho actor, that one study is not satisfying, and there will bo many who will go a second or a third time at least. Tho play, it is claimed, is- written on entirely novel lines. It possess sensation, pathos, and a vast, deal ol* humour. It is in four stirring sets, and will be interpreted by the company in most cases that Mr Maude has had with him during its two years' run at his own theatre in London. It will doubtless be of interest to know- that Mr Cyril Maude is cousin to tho late Major-General Sir Francis Stanley Maude, who was directing operations for tho Allies in Mesopotamia. Tho box plans will be opened at tho Bristol on Monday, .lanuary Mth.