“OUR BOYS.”

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXX, Issue 411, 16 July 1908, Page 3

“OUR BOYS.”

Only a moderate audieuce greeted the above production by the Levin Amateur Dramatic Company in the Public Hall last night. No doubt to-night’s attraction was responsible for the nonattendance of a number of people. We regret that our talented neighbouring amateurs did not receive better patronage from Foxton theatre-goers. Those who did attend, however, witnessed a firstclass performance, and expressed the utmost satisfaction with the production. Wo have no hesitation whatever in saying tha.t last night’s production of this comedy lost none of its good points by the extremely clever acting, excellent dressing and staging by the Levin amateurs. Mr F. Hedgeman, as the aristocratic Sir Geoffrey Champneys, looked and acted the part to perfection. Mr V. Fitzherbert, his son Talbot, deserves more than special mention, and possesses histrionic talents quite above hack company —to use a spotting phrase. We doubt whether a professional star could have outshone him. Mr W. Barratt as Perkyn Middlewick, the retired butterman, created roars of laughter for his originalities and quaint make-up. He was splendid. Mr J. Phillips, as the buttermau’s son, acted with easy grace without any tendency to overdo his part. Miss R. Smart, who has a good stage appearance, made a very favourable impression, as Violet Melrose, the heiress, Mrs W. Barrett, as Mary Melrose, simply revelled in her part and shared the honours with Mr Fitzherbert. Miss M. Williamson as Clarissa Champneys, filled her somewhat difficult role very capably. Miss Mary Gunn, as the lodging house slavey, was simply immense. The minor parts were capably filled by Mr C. G. Banks and Mr J. C. Johnson. We congratulate the Levin amateurs on their work, which we can assure them compares more than favourably with the productions of other amateur companies in different parts of the Dominion. The .musical portion of the programme was supplied by Mr Berthold’s orchestra.

The - management desire us to thank all those who lent furniture for the staging of the piece.