KING’S THEATRE

New Zealand Illustrated Sporting & Dramatic Review, Issue 1461, 25 April 1918, Page 34

KING’S THEATRE

The nautical drama, “My Jack,” hit the taste of large audiences at King’s Theatre on Saturday, the general verdict being that it was one of the best-liked in the repertoire of the Brandon-Cremer Company. The plot revolves around Jack Meredith, a waif of the sea, but rightly the heir to tjie Vanburgh estates. Sir Herbert Vanbrugh, a usurper, and Jack are in love with Dorothy Prescott, whose brother has been murdered by Vanburgh’s accomplice, Panitza. Jack is accused of the crime, is acquitted, Is shipwrecked, is nearly stabbed by the blind Mrs. Prescott at the instigation of Vanburgh, and later comes into his own, when Panitza kills Vanburgh and restores to Jack a packet of papers proving him to be the rightful heir to the Vanburgh title and estates. Mr. William Ewart made a thoroughly likable hero, winning heartfelt sympathy in his numerous misfortunes, while Mr. Kenneth Carlisle, who was kept busy plotting villainy after villainy, was rewarded with muttered imprecations from the interested spectators. Mr. Herbert Linden made a deep impression with his portrayal of the Greek, Panitza, depicting him with fervour and picturesqueness. Mr. Brandon - Cremer supplied the brightening touches as the light-hearted and irresponsible Pat Doolan, and he had good support from Mr. J. Mede and Miss Lillian Colenso. Miss Kathleen Arnold was the true-hearted Dorothy Prescott, Miss Loris Bingham gave dignity to the part of the blind mother, Mr. W.

J. Coulter was well suited as a naval pensioner, and the remaining parts were adequately filled. “Man to Man,” the great drama which the late George Rignold played through New Zealand some years ago, will be offered next Saturday at the matinee and during the coming week. Though not a new play, “Man to Man” is quite up-to-date in its construction, possessing a powerful plot, thrilling situations, and. a most diverting fund ■of comedy. It will be presented with the augmented cast and orchestra and specially-painted scenery by Australian artists and Mr. L. N. Baird. The amended prices have produced excellent results in the way of filling the theatre nightly, and will be adopted permanently.