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Hokitika Guardian, 23 August 1927, Page 2

Tm-: Westland Competitions which are concluding to-night, promise io be quite an outstanding record in the way of all round success. The Society fs to he congratulated certainly on promoting an annual event- which with the proper support of public and competitors can do so much good in a community way. Incidentally it might he remarked the competitions have been well managed and run in such a way a.s to please patrons greatly. The Competitions, as was remarked by the •Judges, the first night, have improved in standard. The quality i.s distinctly better. This of course, must he attributed in the main to the tutors and to the fact that those competing have now more confidence, and understand lietter what is required. There was an instance of this improvement in the'first two days, which was noticeable. Some of our young ladies who have done so well in the elocutionary section, .showed quite a distinct improvement in manner and delivery of matter on Saturday, after getting over the first experience of stage anxiety the previous evening. The Competitions have certainly discovered some excellent and very (promising talent among our young ladies, which i.s altogether worth while. In regard to the vocal and instrumental side, hero again tutors have produced many promising candidates. The work evidenced patience and .perseverance in the training which will he of life long profit to those who have devoted some of their young lives to such useful pursuits. They .will continue better ■members of the community because of their application, which must in the end lie all a labor of love—for they are improving themselves, and it i.s all for their own benefit. It was good to see such splendid support from Greymouth. The entries from that quarter make up the male section. It is to he hojxnl the example shown will he an incentive to our young men to take up their personal improvement in the.same direction. The Hokitika young men are locking in enthusiasm in that direction and if through the schools and dubs the defect, could he remedied, the change would lie of great social value. While music anil elocution are the chief "urk ol the Competitions. Hie introduction of a dancing section has been worth while, and wa,s sjiecially appreciated by the public The Society is doing remarkably well, and its work and worth are proving well worth while in the public interests. Long may it flourish.