ACTIVITIES OF THE STAGE

Waikato Times, Volume 126, Issue 21081, 6 April 1940, Page 13 (Supplement)

ACTIVITIES OF THE STAGE

“ THE GONDOLIERS SYDNEY SEASON SUCCESSFUL

Cheerfulness and warmth characteristic of a reunion between old friends marked the return of Gilbert and Sullivan light opera, to the Theatre Royal, says Sydney Sun. No more charming offering than “The Gondoliers” could have been chosen for the opening production, and an irresistable artist in Ivan Menzies was chosen to introduce new members of the cast at curtain call. His oft-encored Duke of Plaza Toro “Courtier” dance was one of the highlights in an evening of leisurely but sparkling entertainment. Newcomers who shared the spotlight with Ivan Menzies were John Fullard, an engaging and talented tenor, from Britain, and Sara Gregory, a youthful South Australian graduate of the Royal Academy in London. Vivid Impression Miss Gregory made a vivid impression in the role of Tessa. Mr Fullard’s singing of the favourite “Take a Pair of Sparkling Eyes” earned him several encores. The “Royal Queen” quartet, so popular in previous years, had lost none of its appeal. Brilliant costumes, sprightly dances, rollicking humour, and — above all—the familiar and beloved music, combined to form an impressive premiere and an auspicious return. “The Gondoliers” was a happy choice for the opening night, both lor the audience and the artists. This week “The Gondoliers” was succeeded by “The Pirates of Penzance.” Bernard Manning repeats his vivid performance as the Pirate King.

Gladys Moncrieff in Sydney Gladys Moncrieff, who, besides being a brilliant singer, is probably the best loved woman in Australia, will sing again publicly in Sydney this month. “Let’s Be Intimate” in Sydney “Let’s Be Intimate,” a gay revue, has succeeded “The Housemaster,” lan Hay’s play, at the Minerva Theatre, Sydney. Commencing last Monday, matinees of the Shakespearean comedy, “Twelfth Night,” have been given every afternoon. Welcome English Voice “And, welcome as the flowers in spring, a good, straight, English voice,” says a Dunedin writer in paying tribute to the clever comedy work of Eddie Marcel with the Switzerland Ice Show.

Mr Marcel is the compere of the show, and the manner in which he

links up the different Items, to say nothing of his clever burlesque skating and his funny stories, is a delight.

Applauded Till Hands Ached Ballet never fails to rouse a Sydney audience, and the theatre was filled with “Bravos,” “Encores,” shouts from the gallery and cheers from the circle, says a Sydney paper ir. referring to the final performance of the Russian Ballet in Sydney. Favourite artists were applauded till hands ached. Why Megan Turned Professional When Megan Taylor, world champion skater who comes to Hamilton shortly, first appeared in Melbourne, as an amateur at the Glaciarium, she attracted an audience of over 5000, and the Williamson management immediately offered Iter a very high salary to join the “Switzerland” Ice Ballet. Eventually, realising that because of the world conditions there was not likely to be a competition this year for the world’s championship, she accepted this offer, and New Zealanders are fortunate in having this opportunity to enjoy her wonderful work. Grade Fields* Marriage Gracie Fields said after her marriage to Monty Banks, the film producer: “We had hoped to be married in London among our own people, but the illness of my mother, who is visiting me, will prevent our returning to London for six months.” Wirths’ Circus in Sydney Wirths* Circus is back in Sydney, and is drawing large crowds. It is always a feature of the Royal Show season.