“THE MYSTIC MIRROR."

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIII, Issue 2334, 24 September 1921, Page 3

“THE MYSTIC MIRROR."

A VERY SUCCESSFUL PRODUC-

TION,

At the Town Hall last evening “The Mystic Mirror,” a fanciful opera, produced under the direction of Mrs Kier, and staged by Palmerston North juveniles, in aid of All Saints’ Children’s Home, was presented to a good audience. The orchestra accompanying the opera was very good, and played overtures which were much appreciated, as well as accompanying the performance throughout. The story is told in three acts, of the villainous King Torpedo, who is anxious to possess the mystic mirror, which at the time accidentally came into the possession of Pearl, the belle of Silversea. King Torpedo, whose realm is in submarine depths, is a powerful person, who is able to kidnap and transfer Pearl and other persons to his cave beneath the sea for the purpose of gaining possession of the much prized - mystic mirror. However, Prince Submarine is in love with Pearl, and through his influence and power, King Torpedo’s plans a're thwarted, in which also Fairy Seafoam, who has a full knowledge of the value of the mystic mirror, takes no inconsiderable part. King- Torpedo finally undertakes to take mortal form and remain on earth a good and loyal subject. Around this story is woven a galaxy of children in gay attire, fairies, imps, sailors, etc., with a feast of songs, duets, choruses and dances, all combining to make a spectacle most pleasing to the audience and creditable to those responsible for its completion in detail. Perhaps of the three scenes, act II was the most attractive, wherein Fairy Seafoam and her retinue of dainty fairies assemble in the cave of King Torpedo’s dominion. The daintiness of the children’s attire, and the rythm of their, actions were so impressive that one could almost believe without any great stretch of the imagination, that fairies after all are possible. The scenery in this act was specially good. Some excellent voices were herd to good effect during the performance. “Bouncing i

performance. Bill Barnacle, skipper of the Saucy Jane, was the only adult performer on the stage, and it may be said that the children acquitted themselves in a manner which reflects the greatest credit on them and all concerned. Tea was provided for the performers by members of All Saints’ Church, Mcsdames Ilensky, Spring, Sea bury, D. Easton and Owen doing excellent work. Supper was provided by members of St. Monica’s Guild. Thanks are due to all who helped, especially those mentioned above, and Mr Christie, treasurer. Also Mr Reid and Mr Horace Reid The total proceeds amounted to over £27, which will be a great help to the Home.