TOWN HALL.

New Zealand Illustrated Sporting & Dramatic Review, Issue 1307, 13 May 1915, Page 34

TOWN HALL.

THE RED DANDIES.

As we go to press Mr. Edward Branscombe’s company of Red Dandies are in possession of their old haunts at the Concert Chamber, making mirth and melody for old friends and new. The entertainment meted out by the Dandies on their previous visit was always cirisp and brisk without being risque, and arrested the goodwill of many hundreds outside the usual theatre-goer. On the authority of Mr. Scott Colville, the manager, the organisation has been considerably strengthened, and an extensive repertoire will enable the company to give frequent changes of programme. Leading off with the sprightly introductory “We’re Dandies Gay,” Miss Irene Vere was to mark her return with a ragtime specialty and a military song. “When a Lady Leads the Band.” The incomparable Claude Dampier was to spring several surprises on the audience in the way of character sketches, and was also to appear in trios with Messrs. Harry Borradale and Cyril Connolly. The latter is a new arrival who can dance, sing, and play the violin with equal success so he should readily be in favour. Mr. Borradale is an old Aucklander, and is always worth while, and he was down for a monologue and a chorus song, “Your Daddy Did the Same.” A new baritone of superlative degree was to be forthcoming in Mr. Joim Welby, while there could, not be a shadow of doubt about the reception Mr. Oliver Peacock could expect. Miss Ida Newton is sent over as soubrette, and is said to have many fascinating numbers her choice for the opening bemg “Courting and Married.” Miss Mona Thomas (soprano), who has many adnrrers in New Zealand, was to signalise her inclusion to the Dandies with “Here’s to Love.” The concerted items and trios could not fail to appeal and prove invigorating even in times of stress, under such titles as the rollicking “Mary McGee,” the inviting “Have a Drop,” the alliterative “Cuthbert, Clarence and Claude,” and

“Seaside Sue.” One is safe to say the Dandies are all life and go, and furnish an evening that can send everyone home in high spirits.