STAGE ACTIVITIES

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21218, 14 September 1940, Page 13 (Supplement)

STAGE ACTIVITIES

Compliment to This Page From Wellington A letter from a stranger in Wellington this week, forwarding me some stage news, began: “ For years I have wanted to write and tell you how much I enjoy your page. I always endeavour to read it every week in the Public Library. When times have been bad your page is the only theatrical news I have been able to afford, for which many thanks.” Thank you. It is always nice to know that one’s work is appreciated, especially so far afield. Gladys Moncrieff in Vaudeville Gladys Moncrieff heads the new show, “Time of Your Life,” at Sydney Tivoli. She sings “My Hero,” from “The Chocolate Soldier,” and the “Merry Widow” waltz. Don Nicol, who used to be in comic opera with Miss Moncrieff, is on the same bill. “Student Prince” in Sydney The newly-organised comic opera company will commence a season with “ Student Prince ” in Sydney next Saturday. The chorus will number 60, reviving memories of past glories. A revival of “Vagabond King” will follow. John Howard will appear in the title role and Leonora Laye as Kathy, while Lewis Dawe will be the principal comedian. Others in the cast will be Frank

Bermingham (recently in New Zealand with the Celebrity Concert Party), Dot Rankin, Joy Parsons, Eric Bush, Charles Zoli, Ronald Whelan and Lorna Forbes, the wellknown Shakespearean actress. There will be a chorus of 60 and an orchestra of 25. News of Ruth Draper Ruth Draper—vividly remembered in New Zealand—has just finished a very successful tour of South America, during which she gave several performances on behalf of the Red Cross. Blitzkreig Merely a Nuisance! A London cable from her daughter, Pat, to Mrs Guy Nelson King (Marie Burke, former musical comedy star), now in Sydney, was reassuring. It said: “Blitzkrieg merely a nuisance stop we mow ’em down stop I’m happy and safe, and the show is doing well stop Don’t worry.” Mrs King had not heard from her daughter for some time.