Repertory Theatre’s First Play Was Fine Effort

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 15, Issue 75, 28 July 1950, Page 4

Repertory Theatre’s First Play Was Fine Effort

For a first effort the presentation of “You Can’t Take It With You,” a three-act play by Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman, by the Whakatane Repertory Theatre on Wednesday night and which concluded last night was a creditable production. Although the standard reached by long standing amateur theatre bodies could not be expected the play was presented smoothly and with few apparent hitches. Enunciation by most players could be clearly understood but here and there words were inaudible while some members of the cast were prone to recite instead of speaking. The scenery and lighting were very well arranged and added to the atmosphere. It is difficult to criticise fairly a new amateur theatrical body but in their first presentation the Whakatane organisation may feel pboud of this effort. There were mistakes but these will probably be corrected in future plays. Experience is all that is wanted and that will come with further plays. There should be no lack of this as it is understood the committee has seven more plays under consideration. The play was attended by a large crowd on both nights and the applause at the end was enthusiastic and spontaneous.