OPERA HOUSE.

New Zealand Illustrated Sporting & Dramatic Review, Issue 1370, 27 July 1916, Page 32

OPERA HOUSE.

The large audience at the Opera House on Monday night found much to divert them in the capital fare presented by the Fuller management. Two breezy entertainers in Merton and Rydon opened the first half of the bill, and set things going with a will by their happy art. Miss Hazel Morris, a bright, dashing artiste, who specialises in ragtime and coon songs, gave the necessary emphasis to each and was generously applauded. Old Dandy favourites in Mr. Athol Tier and Miss Peggy Ross

made their first appearance under the Fuller regime, and met with a most appreciative reception. Mr. Tier, whose height accentuates his terpsichorean antics, made his turn a shriek all through and his quiet methods in handing over comicalities were readily approved. Miss Peggy Ross sang with distinct charm “The Long, Long Trail,” and was associated with Mr. Tier in an eccentric goblin dance that evoked an insistent recall. Other newcomers were Connor and Wilt, two dapperly turned out artists, who marked their musical offering with a personality of their own. The tenor sang and played; one delivered himself of a decidedly humorous item, and both sang together agreeably, being accorded special favour. Kingsley and Graham duetted most acceptably, and closed the first portion of the programme. Bert Le Blanc’s musical burlesque company took up the running in “The Gay Mrs. Cohn” and supplied frolic and fun for an hour or more to the accompaniment of hearty laughter. Mr. Le Blanc as the old millionaire Ike Cohn with a young spendthrift wife had a part in which he revelled, and with Mr. Jake Mack as Morris Levi, a shopkeeper, keen on their patronage, there were plenty of situations in the comedy line. Miss Maud Miles was well fitted in the title role, and her attractiveness was set off in some striking gowns, while her musical numbers “Men, Men, Men” and “My Pals are Calling” were charmingly rendered. Miss Nellie Fallon as Lily Cohn was a dainty little figure in her songs and dances and was a large factor in the general success of the presentation. Notably popular were “Just Bring Tulips Along” and “My Little Hong Kong Baby.” Mr. Carlton Chase was conspicuously in the picture, and had a couple of good vocal numbers that were flatteringly received. Bright dressing and striking scenic effects added to the gaiety of a production that goes with vim from beginning to end.