PLAYREADERS AT OTAKI

Chronicle (Levin), 26 August 1947, Page 4

PLAYREADERS AT OTAKI

presentation of "belinda" An audience of gratifying size fyaS present to- hear the Levin Playreaders at the Parish Hall. The play chosen yvas "Belinda," an April folly by A. A. Milne. A dramatised reading was given with the necessary changes in wardrobe and costumes. - The role of Belinda was taken by Mrs. N. ThOfhley who shO\ved a firm grasp of Milne's psychology and held the atte'ption of the audience throughout. Excellent; Support was given by a well selected and uniformiy good cast. The part of Delia was taken by Miss D. gohnson, and that of B6tty by Mrs. Jo'hnson. The parts' of Belinda's two admirers were read with con-' fidence and the necessary contrast by Mr. A, Savell, as the statistically minded Mr. Harold Baxter, and Mr. P. Nichol, as the slightly exub-

erant poet. Mr. G. Sorenson read the part of the long-lost husband who adds to the. complications. Before the performance Miss Kathrine Keddell, oh behalf of the Otaki Players, welcofned the Levin Playreaders, mentioning their growth over the past -few years, their average audience having grown f-rom fifteen to 120. At the close Mr. Kirkwood thanked the visitors and assured them that their visit had been an inspiratioii to the Otaki Players "to go and do likewise." Miss Honor Lea, secretary of the Otaki Players, presented large posies of exquisite violets to the lady members of the cast. These were the gift of a member, Mrs. John Beck, who also supplied the gay spring flowers and foliage which brightened the stage. Flowers were also presented to Miss Chapman-Cohen who directed the reading and acted as stage manager. , The visitors were entertaihed at supper and they and their hosts were very soon in animated conversation about .matters theatrical. Before the Levin Playreaders departed Mr. Sorenson thanked the Otaki Players for the invitation -to read and for their hospitality. He assured members that he hoped sincerely there would be frequent exchanges of such visits. He related experiences of the Levin Playreaders and gave much appreciated advice about the activitits of such a body. Altogether the eVen'ing was a very delightful one and the pleasant fellowship augurs Well for the future.