STATE SCHOOL CONCERT.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXV, Issue 1166, 1 November 1913, Page 2

STATE SCHOOL CONCERT.

The Town Hall was filled last night with an appreciative audience on the occasion of the above concert, and the varied programme was thoroughly enjoyed- The bill o’-fare in the first halt was. provided by the junior and senior pupils, and the manner in which the children acquitted themselves reflected the highest credit upon the teachers—particularly as the concert was organised at such short notice. Niuian Ross, the diminutive junior chairman, fairly brought down the house with his opening speech, and his clear announcements of the various items would do credit to many an adult. The cradle song by the infants was very tuneful, and the neat dresses or the little ones, and their happy and healthy faces, • made a fine setting. “Ten Little Niggers,” dressed in gorgeous costumes, to say nothing of the bride, created roars of laughter by their antics and disappearing. Doris Ruback recited the “Irish Fire Brigade” with great credit, and entered into the humour of the piece, to the delight of the audience. Doris gives promise of elocutionary talent above the average. “The Quack Doctor,” by Willie Griffin, attired in immaculate evening dress and top hat, with his nostrums and patients (Hazel Newlh and Willie Ross), backed by a strong chorus, kept the audience in a simmer ot laughter. A very clever little sketch. Six little tots, dressed in “nighties,” told the audience why it was no joke to be a baby. The butterfly dance by eight junior girls was particularly attractive, while the coloured lights gave a fine spectacular effect to the dancers. The remaining items were provided by the senior pupils, and A. Walls officiated as chairman. The opening chorus, “A Hunting we will go” was made more realistic by several of the boys attired as orthodox huntsmen. Sarah Henderson, a little Scotch lass, recited the “ Dominie’s Happy Lot,” as only a Scotch lassie could recite it, and she spoke her lines very nicely indeed. The part songs “ Come from toil,” and “ Poor old Joe,” were a feature of the concert, and in this particular we desire to pay a tribute to the patient training of Mr Gabites. Iris Williams, who possesses a particularly sweet voice, captivated the audience with her singing of “ A Dollv and a Coach,” and had to respond to an undeniable encore. Austin Charles and Ella Patterson as “Darby aud Joan,” sang of the happenings of their youth—a long time ago. The singing and acting of these two young people was a star item. Arthur Thomson and Reg. McEwen —two extremes so far as size was concerned —scored a big success with the dialogue, “An interrupted speech.” The club drill by the senior girls and drill and march by the cadets were splendidly executed items.

Mr Piraui, chairman of the Board, who was received with applause, congratulated the townspeople upon its school committee and efficient staff of teachers. He spoke of the functions of a committee whose duties, if they rose to them, were above the cleaning of the school, but everything depended upon the personnel of a committee. He was pleased that a start had been made locally with technical classes. He hoped the technical classes would be followed by converting the school into a District High School. It was regrettable that local clever children had to go to Palmerston to continue their education when the same facilities could be afforded locally. He instanced what bad been done in other centres of less importance than Foxton in this connection. He was a believer in school concerts as it provided an indication of the tone of and work done in the school. He made some flattering remarks in reference to the local teaching staff and committee.

Mr Horoblow, chairman of committee, thanked all those who had assisted to make the concert a success. Referring to Mr Pkani he said there was no keener enthusiast in the cause of educatiou in the the Dominion, and he hoped to see the day’ when Mr Pirani would occupy the portfolio of Minister of Education. (Applause). Mr Jacfcsou, head teacher, made acknowledgment on behalf of the staff and childlen.

A varied picture programme concluded an excellent entertainment.