A LAVISH PRODUCTION.

Waikato Times, Volume 113, Issue 18850, 21 January 1933, Page 16 (Supplement)

A LAVISH PRODUCTION.

"WALTZES FROM VIENNA.” SPECTACULAR MUSICAL PLAY. ‘‘Waltzes from Vienna," the Williamson attraction at the Theatre Royal, can be summed up as the most lavish stage production seen in Melbourne for a decade (says a Melbourne paper). Lavishness in all directions is the show's outstanding feature, with settings, costuming and

lighting all bearing a hall-mark that show’s clearly that the Firm scorned expense. It is a musical spectacle, and both music and spectacle are ever-chang-ing. Dealing with the musio of Johann Strauss, a fictitious romance binds the musical and spectacular sides together, though at no time does the music obtrude. You are conscious of Its beauty, but the everchanging score never allows one particular melody to predominate so that It would draw the attention away from the enjoyment that the stage provides. Shirley Dale as Resi, the Innkeeper s daughter, and Miriam Sabbage, as the Countess Olga, are two newcomers to the Australian stage, and both act and dress their parts superbly; while John Moore, as Strauss, jun., plays so finely that his performance in this respect alone deserves a tribute. Sydney Burchall takes the vocal honours; unfortunately the rest of tho principals, though their voice s are satisfactory, are drowned by the full orchestra. Perhaps, however, this fault will be rectified as the season progresses. Very little comedy is provided, and w’hat there is is capably taken care of by Cecil Kelleway and Leslie Don ighey. The ballet looks and works well, and the dances arranged by Maggie Dickinson leave nothing to be desired. Ivy Kirby, an English solo dancer, makes the hit of the show; her work is delightful. The smoothness of the piece is marvellous, and at no time is there the slightest hesitation. Another feature worth mentioning is the new lighting scheme, which makes the use of footlights no longer necessary. It w r orks well.