OPERA HOUSE.

New Zealand Illustrated Sporting & Dramatic Review, Volume IX, Issue 671, 15 January 1903, Page 10

OPERA HOUSE.

/ “ On and Off.” The Willoughby-Geach Comedy Company presented F. C. Burnand’s farce “ On and Off” at the Opera House the latter half of last week to fairly good houses. The piece abounds with fun and laughter, and was excellently staged throughout. The brunt of the work falls on Mr George Willoughby, who played the part of George Godfray, the amorous husband. He is handicapped by the fact chat the character he represents is an objectionable cad, even as farce characters go, but he certainly makes the most of his opportunities. As, usual not a point escapes him, and he runs through his part with dash and vim. Mr Frank Denton. who plays Alfred Godfray, the real railway inspector, whose visit to George is the cause of many complications, has a great deal to do, and does it very well This young actor seems to improve with each appearance, and his work in the piece shows what he is capable of, his interpretation of the part being particularly good. Mr Tom Cannam played the part of a fo lish father-in-law with success, and Mr George Leopold and Mr .Edwin Lester are both responsible for a good, deal of amusement. Miss Boxy Barton looks charming, and plays still more charmingly, as the wife of George Godfray. Miss Boland Watts - Whillips took the part of George’s mother-in-law in the good old-fashioned way, which leaves the poor man little or no peace. The part of Lisette, a young lady who attracts men by winking, and then when they respond to her advances boxes their ears and^eom plains bitterly of their conduct, is well taken by Miss Millie Ascoli.

Miss Marie D’ Alt n in kes the utmost of the small part of Julia. The other characters were well taken. The piece can be voted one of the best.