" The Yeomen of the Guard."

Feilding Star, Volume XV, Issue 233, 7 February 1894, Page 2

" The Yeomen of the Guard."

— • On appearing in the Assembly Rooms last night to produce the above celebrated opera, the members of the Marton Operatic Society must have been very gratified on witnessing the large audience which had assembled, and the bursts of applause which were bestowed on the performers during the evening was convincing proof that i their efforts were appreciated. At the close of the opera the audience must have been of one mind only, viz : That the performance was a decided success. The piece went swingingly from beginning to end, with scarcely a visible hitch, and Dr Skerraan, as stage manager, and Mr W. J. Smith, the musical conductor, must have spent much time and trouble in drilling the performers so efficiently into their differ- ! ent parts. As a rule, in amateur societies, there is a certain amount of stiffness exhibited by the members while on the stage, but this was conspicuous last night by its absence, eacli individual performer appearing at his or her ease. Although the singing was, perhaps, in some instances, rather weak, it was on the whole very good, the choruses especially being given with much spirit. Mrs H. K. FitzHerbert, as " Phoebe Meryl " acted her part exceedingly well, as was applauded for her pathetic singing. Miss Brandon created quite a favorable impression by her impersonation of " Elsie Maynard." This young lady acted splendidly ; she is gifted with a pleasing voice, and possesses a thorough appreciation of the somewhat difficult character she has to represent. Mrs Awdry's singing and acting were much admired, and she capably filled the part of " Dame Carruthers." Mr W. L. Little, as " Lieutenant of the Tower," went through his piece in a dignified manner, and was altogether a success. The impersonation of " Colonel Fairfax " was entrusted to Mr A. R. Fitzherbert, who proved that he was equal to the task, and he received considerable applause for his singing and acting. The prominent role of Sergeant Meryl was ably sustained by Mr R. F. Bishop, who sang well and looked his part all over. As " Jack Point " Dr Skerman was very funny, and managed to keep the audience highly amused ; in fact, lie was the life of the whole piece. The Doctor was in capital voice, and he was repeatedly encored for his singing. Mr O. Bayne, was undoubtedly in his right place as " head jailor," and he acquitted himself very well indeed. The minor parts were all well sustained, and one and all contributed in various ways towards the success of the opera. The scenery, and pretty dresses, combined with the actions of the singers during the choruses, had a very pleasing effect. The orchestra, which was ably conducted by Mr W. J. Smith, contributed some capital music, and aided in no small degree in bringing the perfornianae to a successful ending. Mrs Esatn presided at the piano with her usual ability. The Society perform in Palmerston on Friday evening next, and there is not the slightest doubt but what they will be greeted there, as they deserve, by a bumper house.