PRINCESS THEATRE

Hokitika Guardian, 19 December 1930, Page 3

PRINCESS THEATRE

AMATEUR PR ESENTATIONS

There was only a moderate attendance at the Princess Theatre last night for -'the presentations by the St. Paul’s Amateur Dramatic Club which produced two new and interesting pieces to a, local audience. There were several fresh faces introduced, and ‘the old favourites appeared in congenial parts. The Melody sextette, with Miss Gioso at the pamo, played an overture and two interludes, and won hearty applause. The first piece presented, by the amateurs was “The Man on the fcjida.” This was a detective comedy introducing a number /of typical stage char deters. The dialogue was smart, not to say modern, and all the characters were well portrayed. The performers all spoke up well, and the elocution was good throughout. There were several bright spots in the working out of the plot which called for the unmasking of the villain who proved to be an honoured guest within the fold. The pompous M.P., his Girl Guide d,auglilhir, the constable, and the servants were the leading characters. The individual called upon to repose on the sola, and so give the play its title, had but little to do. but the characterisation was good, and the suspect quite looked the part The play was well staged with all necessary details, and the parts were appropriately dressed. The situations were well brought out with respect for values, and the whole presentation must, he regarded as a pleasing success, the attention of the-Midi once being thoroughly captivated to the end.

Tn the second piece, “Lend Me live Shillings,” there was an. amusing fareo buiHb round domestic Infelicities, and in the general mix-up rminv amusing incidents were poitia\ed. The star was an impecunious guest at a ball who was endeavouring to borrow enough money for a taxi home. SoveraJ good characters surrounded him, and much fun was created bv the difficult situations which arose to the discomfiture of the principals. Lit* all well regulated plays built on familiar British lines, all came right in the end. The impecunious one had his reward in finding a wife' instead of borrowing five shillings, and all ended on a very laughable note, as a true farce should.

Revd. Knowles Smith took occasion to thank one and all for their assistance and help, He mentioned sneejfillv the orchestra, Mr Jeffries. Messy-' Renton and Cov., Mr Lynn, and ‘•uni the Company had its reward in the pleasure derived by proonrmg and producing the plays which it wOS pleasing to ;sce had so acceptable » retention 'at the hands of the and ienee. The -proceedings closed will) the lieartv sinning of the National Anthem % 'the Company and assemblage.