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Hokitika Guardian, 16 August 1929, Page 4

The liberal measure of success which has attended the operatic production by our local talent is creditable to all concerned. We have' ' remarked on former occasions on the self-contained character of the town, and the striking measure of . talent in various directions which crops up. To produce such an opera as “Rip Van Winkle” on the scale upon which it was carried—and which was necessary to challenge similar professional productions—was / no mean undertaking. Mrs Staveley who assumed the responsibility for the preparation and production of the opera, took on a very large task. Her experience in the past, and knowledge of the capabilities of the performers, however stood her in good stead, and a remarkably fine production resulted. A special remark is due in regard to the attention to the many little details, the sum of which completed the picture so faithfully. Seldom if ever has a local production been presented with more effective results. In both the staging and lighting there was the ground work for a pleasing picture, and those responsible are worthy of special commendation. The season ran with evident smoothness. Ail were in excellent spirits, striving to excel, the whole being under effective control. The personal efforts of the. performers were an indication each and all were out to do his or her best. It was exceedingly good to see the gensrous way in which the special dressing was provided by the performers themselves. Their generosity in that respect was most praiseworthy, seeing that the object of the entertainment was for so worthy an object. The'appreciation of the Vicar of All Saints’ Church so nicely expressed last evening when making a. well deserved presentation to Mrs Staveley, indicated the lady’s worth, and work together with that of those associated with her, were valued greatly. The fact that Hokitika has been able to do such good histrionic work, suggests that matters in the future should not be left in indefinite repose. There is every reason that study of other authors in musical and elocutionary works would be well worth while. The objective in such cases serves really a treble purpose, not alone are the public entertained and worthy objects assisted financially, but the performers derive a oenefit personally in the experience and association tlie work affords. The effect is so mutual in these matters that they might well be continued annually, for they are altogether for the benefit of the community.