CHAUTAUQUA.

Hokitika Guardian, 1 March 1921, Page 1

CHAUTAUQUA.

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The Overseas Entertainers at the - Opera House, yesterday, appearing under the auspices of the Chautauqua organisation, drew bumper houses, and the audiences were delighted with the relined and delightfully interesting fare provided. Last night the programme opened with “Marclia Aliiitaire,” descriptive of a band approaching, playing a selection, and then moving off again, the strains dying away in the distance. This roused the audience at. once to a high pitch of enthusiasm, and tlie overture “Raymond,” ■. which followed, confirmed the esteem in which the artists were hold. The five ladies constituting the enteretniners are all expert musicians, and each and all, whether in solo or concerted music, gave special delight to the auditors. The music of “India” with its plaintive recurring melody was quite a good example of the artistry the performers were responsible for in their fine varied programme. In the trios, ’cello, violin and piano, | two special numbers were heartily received, the familiar “Cavatina” (Raff) being an especial favourite. Miss Ericson proved a delightful vocalist, and her “Spring Song” placed her on the host, possible terms with the audience. “Sorter Miss You,” and “My I ove is like a rod, red Rose,” were recall items, no less popular. The solo cornetist, Miss Ferguson, proved a particular favourite all through the evening, her executive ability being of the highest order. Very impressive was her rendition of “The AA'anclerers,” finishing with the moving note of the “Last Post.” Variation qf a most agreeable character was afforded by Aliss Truitt, who in the main presides over the drums, (lute, etc. Li her recitations with musical accompaniments, Mi ss Truitt captured the whole I audience, The lady opened with Kipling’s “Road to Mandalay.” The story of “Unde Tom’s Cabin” as told by an old farmer who saw the play for the first time, was exquisite. “Spooks” was delightfully humorous and altogether clever. The “Gavotte” played on the ’cello by Aliss Gerrard, was anoiber special item, rivalled as it was by an equally fine rendition of “Le C gne”—the performances stamping the player as a very fine artist indeed. Last but not least, came Aliss Carstens< n who is a brilliant violinist —a player of easy grace and charm. Of her items, “A Spanish Dance” was vociferously received. In “A Norwegian Air,” adapted for the G string, the young lady disclosed her complete mastery of the violin. A vocal and instrumental medley-concluded a particularly bright programme in which every item had been applauded to the echo.

To-day Miss Ruby Rage Ferguson i wife of nil American officer) and Captain Densimore Upton, will the lion r ds. The former is an entertainer of exceptional ability, who comes with a groat reputation. Captain Upton is :i “big” man in every sense of the word, and his out of door chats are something to carry in the mind for all time.