HUMPHREY BISHOP CO

Waikato Times, Volume 108, Issue 18157, 23 October 1930, Page 8

HUMPHREY BISHOP CO

SPLENDID NEW PROGRAMME. WITH AN INTERESTING TALKIE. Before a large audience at the Civic Theatre last night tiie Humphrey Bishop Company added to its popularity by presenting an all-new programme, in conjunction with the screening of the Him version of Zane Grey's widely-read book, "The Lone Star Hanger.” The combination of the flesh-and-blood show and a talkie again proved very attractive, and the audience soon realised why this type of entertainment has become so popular in England and America. One of the most appealing features of the Humphrey Bishop Company has always been the ensemble work; the members, under the guiding hand of Mr Bishop, work together delightfully, with the result that the programme swings along with a refreshing and exhilarating snap. From the opening introduction until the Soldier Finale there was not a dull moment last night. The baritone, Mr Walter Kingley, was in exceptionally good voice, his rendering of "The Cobbler” being a very fine effort. He was equally successful in other solo numbers, and was associated with Mr Maurice Barling and Mi®Fred Webber in one of the most popular interludes of the evening—the male trio in items grave and gay. Mr Barling again proved himself a very clever comedian, and kept the audience in a simmer of merriment. Mr Arthur Hemsley, too, was very funny in his comic numbers. Les Desiree and Sidney Montigue are two of the most talented dancers seen in Hamilton; they are extremely agile, and their acrobatic work is marvellous, but they never lose the rhythm and grace of the movement. Mr .Montigue is also a very likeable light comedian. Thelma Trott, Elaine Maye, Gwen Weston, Fred Keeley, and Fred Webber helped .considerably in making things entertaining, and the work of the orchestra must not be forgotten. The Soldier Finale was a spectacular and humorous production, with Mr Barling as a very amusing Sergeant-Major. Altogether, the new programme presented by the Humphrey Bishop Company is one that should not be missed.

A Very Fine Talkie.

“The Lone .Star Ranger,” which headed’ the talkie portion of the programme, is one of the most interesting films seen in Hamilton. It brings the West, "down on the Rio Grande,” with all its colour and excitement and romance, right to the audience, and holds the attention from beginning to end of the intriguing story. Last night’s audience found it’ very -exciting, and enjoyed it thoroughly. Incidentally the scenery is particularly impressive. Beautiful Sue Carol, as the New York girl who seeks and finds romance in the West, and George O’Brien (he of the magnificent physique) as the Texas Ranger, did splendid work, and were supported by