The pan, not the man

Extravs have been produced for long enough now for intending authors to know that an Extrav must take some pointed criticism and exaggeration of the contemporary political machine to obtain a maximum of audience appreciation. The applause which resulted when a man made up as Peter Fraser merely walked onto the stage should be further proof of this. And though lavatory humour is to some extent a substitute for wit it should not be so much encouraged on the stage of the Opera House. Again, of course, a failing of past Extravs. but unfortunately not a falling which it is worthwhile perpetuating.

Maureen Ross-Smith, Bill Short and Jeff carried the show along, appearing with an enthusiasm which some of the other members of the cast could have well imitated. Maureen especially gave the whole thing a dash and gusto which it really did not deserve. A magnificent performance. The voices of all three could have benefited from a microphone, and someone should have realised that a key which suits Jeff's voice will not necessarily suit Bill's voice.

Ponsonby, Carstairs and Colonel Carruthers spoke their sometimes witty, sometimes stale and sometimes staling lines with empirical efficiency, and sang and danced adequately enough. They appeared to best advantage on the Monday night, when they came on impromptu and told Polo Club stories for about ten minutes. But people will persist in saving that recognition of homosexuality is a sympton of the decadence of a nation. And any reference to Lesbianism, however brief, as in the St. Vitus scene, can. only be deplored. Very few people seemed to think it funny.