Thrills and Laughter in Little Theatre Production

Manawatu Times, Volume 69, Issue 66, 22 March 1944, Page 4

Thrills and Laughter in Little Theatre Production

In “Awsenic and Old Lace, ’’ aptly described as a three-act, comedythriller, chosen by the Palmerston North Little Theatre Society as their first patriotic effort for 1944, and opening a two-night season at the Opera House last evening, patrons must agree it is the most unusual play ever attempted by the society. Tho combination of arsenic and old lace suggests something sinister in the theme and the setting in the living room of a fascinating old-world house, the ancestral home of the Brewster family with its mysterious window, romantic staircase, and ; sinister cellar door provides the ueccsMiry atmosphere. It would be unfair 'to give the theme away, suffice to say the playwright, Paul Kesserling, has : concocted a plot that is delightfully idiotic to say the least ot' it, with the central figures, the sisters Brewster whose lethal benevolence towards homeless old men merrily unfolds. It says much for the society’s reI sources that an exacting cast requiring ! eleven men with unusual qualifications I could be found and there are three women, two of whom must act in absolute concert, Miss Eunice Scott and Mrs. H. Whitehead are admirably cast as the two charitable old ladies, Miss Abby and Miss Martha Brewster, who ‘ ‘ dispense hot soup and death-dealing elderberry wine with equal solicitude. “ Their performances are amazing as they remain so completely’ detached from the horrors around them. Miss Shirley Kingston brings to the part of Elaine Harper, the young modern, the iiocessary brightness and vivacity and is capable of presenting the whole gamut of emotions. With such a large cast it is not possible to give detailed descriptions, but particular mention must be made of the good showing of Mr. Joe Lorrigan as Mortimer Brewster, favoured nephew, a dramatic critic and man of the world, whose reactions to harrowing discoveries are most convincingly registered in an exacting role. Mr. Derek Bennett, as the demented nephew Teddy, who believes ho is Theodore Roosevelt, brings relief to many tense moments with his bugle blowring. Mr. W. M. Sexton responsible for a nice smooth performance as the clergyman from next door, Dr. Harper, and father of Elaine. Mr. 11. G. Bagnall scores quite a hit in the small part of il Gibbs” a down and out elderly man rather disillusioned and grumpy. The sinister Jonathan Brewster provides Mr. Len \\ ood writh a totally new role and with his accomplice, Dr. Einstein, disreputable plastic surgeon, portrayed by’ Mr. W. H. Loch, these two are responsible for many of the thrills, both giving outstanding performances. The “Long arm of the Law” has no less than four representatives, Officers Klein and Brophy, both known to the Brewster family, nicely played by two young members, Bill Nichols and Alan Fife; Inspector O’Hara, well-known and respected in the household, but tiresome about his plays, finds Mr. F. Aisher in a part very much to his liking, also Lieut. Rooney, deftly played by Mr. G. Lusk, as a capable officer used* to handling toughs. Lastly but by no means least there is Dr. Withersporn elegantly interpreted by Mr. Gordon Bagnall to complete a strong team. The whole play moves with vigour, a tribute to the work of the very able and experienced producer, Mr. A. Kingston. Contributing not a little to the pleasure of the evening was the incidental music contributed by an orchestra from Linton military camp by kind permisison of the commanding officer, which was really bright. Valuable assistance is given back stage by Mr. H. McKay as stage manager, Mr. W. Nichols, scenery; Miss Mclntyre, lighting and effects; Miss I. Nettlefoid, properties; Miss G. Cairns aud assistants, make-up; Mrs. G. .1. Bagnall, wardrobe; and Mrs. J. Walker, prompt. At the conclusion of the performance the large audience which had enjoyed so many laughs showed appreciation of the show in no uncertain terms. Mr. E. J. Smith, president, of the society, returned thanks for the attendance and called for an appreciation for the producer. The play will be presented finally this evening.