BACK WITH DIVISION

Dominion, Volume 37, Issue 195, 16 May 1944, Page 5

BACK WITH DIVISION

Kiwi Concert Party In Itqly N.Z.E.F. Official News Service. NEW ZEALAND DIVISIONAL HEAPQUABTEJfS, ITALY, May 13. After well-earned leave and a successful tour of New Zealand, the Kiwi concert party is baejt again with its division. In spite of some new faces, it is still the same non-stop show, with’the same driving spirit which has royally entertained members of the Second N.Z.E.F.. in Crete, Egypt. Syria and Tripolitania. Fears that the loss of some of the original members who were debarred on physical grounds from returning to us overseas might affect the performances proved false' yesterday afternoon when the party presented its first performance to the division in'ltaly. The current show met a most enthusiastic feception from a large audience, which included General Freyberg and staff.

The theatre was a typical divisional creation. When the curtain rose on a stage skilfully constructed of tree-trunks as well as sawn timber, the green sloping bank was thronged with lightly-clad New Zealanders. The weather was perfect for the occasion, with bright sunshine. No fewer than.nine of the old party renewed acquaintance with the divisional audience. In addition, there were some popular new performers. As before, the party is completely mobile, self-contained, and well-equipped for the task of entertaining troops only a few miles from the front lines.