OPERA HOUSE.

New Zealand Illustrated Sporting & Dramatic Review, Issue 1355, 13 April 1916, Page 34

OPERA HOUSE.

There is an abundance of good things at the Opera House this week. The ranks of vaudeville have been strengthened by the inclusion of Mr. Fred Maguire, a former J. C. Williamson artist who appeared in “The Girl in the Taxi.” With a fine presence and an appealing voice, Mr. Maguire scored a marked success, his songs being happily chosen and delivered with rare expression. An engagingpair are Belle and Betty, who opened well with a tuneful musical offering and followed it up with a clever exposition of dancing, illustrative of various nations. Headline honours also went to Bates and Wade, their feats of strength being alternated with acrobatic comedy stunts, which met with hearty approval. The La Merts again upheld their reputation in a whistling and piano duologue, and won warm recognition for a novel turn. In the forefront of public favour is Carlton Max, who has brought ventriloquialism to a fine art, and has to share honours with his dummy, whom he makes his mouthpiece for some highly original observations. Mabie and Malfe add refreshing variety with their grace and gaucherie tespectively as allied to dancing. Shariat and Lang, as before, shone in the ranks with their combined comedy turn, a melodrama burlesque, keeping the audience convulsed with laughter. Mr. Sydney Bach gave a welcome interlude, taking as his theme “Mrs. James,” a Welsh landlady blest with mubical boarders. Mr. Bach blended humour and music in his own inimitable style. Miss Agnes Rawes sang a couple of ballads with bright acceptance and gained generous applause from her old friends. Another varied