FRANCIS BENEFIT CONCERT.

Patea Mail, Volume II, Issue 172, 2 December 1876, Page 2

FRANCIS BENEFIT CONCERT.

The Francis benefit concert took place as announced on Wednesday evening Last, when we are glad to say a very fair house was present. It proved, though but little preparation'had been given, to be one of the most enjoyable entertainments that has been given for some time in Patea. Everyone went, home pleased, a most unusual thing in amateur amu-ements, and they really had every reason to be satisfied. The music was good throughout, and those who took part in the performance have occasion to be gratified with the results. The , opening overture, the “ After Dark Galop,” was exceedingly well played by Mrs Taplin and the Messrs Connolly. Following on tins, 'Mr Dixon sang " Queen of the Night” admirably, and was in better voice than we have ever before hoard him. A very amusing song, That’s where the laugh comes in,” was sung by Mr Oakley, and was followed by a Olnisty song and chorus, " Break it gently to ray mother,” which' was exceedingly well sung. Mr Hirst then’ appeared and gave “ The Englishman,” illustrated with a'large ensign, with which he considerably emphasised the song, and was encored vociferously. Mr Baggett gave, “ Mother says I must’nt,” with great humor, and on being encored sang “ It’s very aggravating when one’s love’s not true,” which was equally well received. Miss Ooutts then played a pianoforte solo with great taste, and was deservedly applauded. Next on the list was Mr Taplin, who sang the *• Vicar of Bray” in great style, and he was followed by Mr Jackson, who look as his text •• Dissipation.” Messrs Patterson and Dixon next sang a duet, “ The Larboard Watch,” very well indeed, after which Mr Oakley came forward and convulsed his audience with a stump oration. It was exceedingly well done, and what is more without hardly a minute’s preparation, Mr Patterson next gave “ The Keefer,” which went well, but we fancy that that gentleman is more at home in 'Scotch songs. A quartette was next sung, •• Kiss me, mother, ere I die,” Mr Dixon taking the solo part, and it was heartily applauded. Mr Chambers then sang “ Out in the Greenfields,” and his efforts were so well appreciated that an encore was demanded, when he gave “The Drum Major,” which was also greatly approved of by the audience. A duet, by the Messrs Connolly, on tha flute and violin, was a treat to real lovers of good music, and the concert wound up with a quartette singing the old Christy song “ Be kind to thy father, &c.” Mr Taplin was the soloist, and sang it with great expression and feeling, the piece going well throughout. After this Messrs Adamson and McCoy essayed sundry feats on the single trapeze, which, we venture to say, were as well executed as could have been done by any professional acrobats in the colony. These amateur artistes fairly astonished the spectators, who little thought that there was such gymnastic talent hidden in their midst. We hope to sec them again, on future amateur occasions. The projected ball was a failure, as there were not sufficient people ready to dance to justify it being gone on with. The benefit, however, was a great success, thanks to the hearty spirit that animated the jfiayers and the Committee, and it will be of material service to the cause. We must not forget to say that special thanks are due to Mrs Taplin and to Miss Coutts, who most, generously came forward and rendered valuable aid on the piano. Mrs Taplin deserves extra thanks for most kindly lending her piano, free of all charge, in addition to her valuable services, but the charity of both ladies deserves grateful thanks at all hands, which we feel sure they will receive. Altogether the benefit was a groat success, and is likely to bo substantial in its results. May equal fortune wait on all future entertainments, got up for equally good ends.