HIS MAJESTY’S THEATRE.

New Zealand Illustrated Sporting & Dramatic Review, Issue 1459, 11 April 1918, Page 32

HIS MAJESTY’S THEATRE.

“THE STORY OF THE ROSARY.” After a successful week’s run at His Majesty’s Theatre, “Seven Days’ Leave” was replaced on Monday night by another of Waltei’ Howard’s dashing plays, “The Story of the Rosary.” With its atmosphere of war and romance, influenced by the fine acting of Mr. Allan Wilkie and his company, it appealed to a large audience who followed with keen interest the stirring incidents revolving around a Servian regiment of dragoons. The story tells of the steadfast love and devotion of Captain Paul Romain in contrast to the bitter rancour and hatred of his cousin, Captain Philip Romain. Both are in love with the Princess Venetia Sabron, who, however, favours the former and becomes his wife, just as war has been declared. Later, Paul is believed to have been killed, and Karl Larose, Paul’s good friend, saves Venetia from the machinations of Philip. Venetia decides to seek peace by entering a convent, but at the psychical moment Paul returns after being a prisoner of war, and the gallant soldier and his bride are happily re-united. Mr. Allan Wilkie distinguished the role of Captain Paul Romain with his manly bearing and sincere acting, and enlisted the heartfelt sympathies of the audience. Mr. Vivian Edwards gave a study of Karl Larose, faithful friend and soldier, that stands out as his finest work. Mr. Walter Hunt showed his undoubted ability in the masterly way he handled the role of Captain Philip Romain, his touch being delicate and incisive in suggesting villainy. Mr. Henri Doret and Miss Adele Inman supplied the light comedy element to good effect. Miss Marie Ney played the part of the Princess with charm and showed herself keenly appreciative of dramatic colour. Mr. Herbert Leigh nicely appreciated the value of the kindly old priest’s lines. Mr. Robert Inman as the colonel. Mr. Ronald Riley as Nicodemus Winkel, and Miss Nellie Ferguson as a nun fitted adroitly into their respective characters. The production was well staged, most realistic being the hurling of a shell with destructive effect into a building, while the convent scenes, the singing of “The Rosary” by Miss Olive Stevens, and the spectacular effect illustrative of the title all contributed to strengthen its appeal to the audience. The season closes on Saturday night.