SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE SCENES IN C.A.S. PLAY

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 16, Issue 10, 20 October 1950, Page 5

SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE SCENES IN C.A.S. PLAY

(By J.K.) It is far easier for a critic to invective than to give just praise and consequently the critic’s job of “An Inspector Calls” produced by the C.A.S. Theatre in Whakatane on Tuesday night is far from easy.

“An Inspector Calls” is one of the best plays that Priestley has written. It is quite frankly a morality and its characters, though they are never unreal, are typical rather than exceptional people. The dramatic interest is superbly sustained up to the final curtain, and the moral of the play—that every man is his brother’s keeper—is driven home with immense skill, so writes Robert Speaight. Whakatane was indeed fortunate in having this talented band of C.A.S. players to give such a fine performance. The record of the C.A.S. Theatre is a proud one and when we remember the standard of production gallantly maintained, the moment seems to have come to lift our hats to these players in gratitude for all the treats that but for them would have been denied us.

I came away with these thoughts: The simplicity of the stage sets and their effectiveness.

The 1910 costumes even to the eccentricity of the men’s tails, showed thought and gave great atmosphere to the play. Of the seven characters:

Mr Birling was' played magnificently down to the last detail of behaviour. For humanity and brilliance, his performance must rank very high. Mrs Birling was capital, though to me she seemed to speak a little too crisply and quickly. General Croft, Sheila Birling, Eric Birling and Edna were all convincing and resourceful. Frederick Farley’s Inspector was sound, strong and convincing and showed his great ability. In all a very satisfying production.