LURE OF THE STAGE

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 527, 3 December 1928, Page 15

LURE OF THE STAGE

LITTLE THEATRE SOCIETY’S SUCCESS TRIBUTE TO ABLE PRODUCER “In Mr. Kenneth Brampton we have a very able producer—even though he does not wear an astrakhan collar,” declared Mr. L. P. Leary, president of the Little Theatre Society, in a bright speech from the stage at the conclusion of the society’s performance on Saturday evening. Mr. Brampton had thanked the public for its interest—the hall on Saturday evening was packed—and the players for the enthusiasm which had marked their work. After mentioning that some young and promising players had been given an opportunity in the latest productions, he called Mr. Leary on to the stage. The lure of the stage persisted, in spite of all counter-attractions, said Mr. Leary. Touching on the fact that Mr. Brampton did not affect an astrakhan collar he was reminded of his own chance association with one of the profession, who did. “Ho was an actor of the tragedic school,” said Mr. Leary, “and I met him in a London street. He tried to borrow five shillings. Well, anyone who knows me knows how difficult that is. However, he managed to get half-a-crown. Then, in his gratitude, he began to recollect that he had once toured New Zealand, and knew my father. Xext, he insisted that I go home with him and meet his wife, *a fine old English gentlewoman.’ It took a long time for us to get to his home, and as we at length approached it, a tousled head appeared through an upstairs window, and the fine old English gentlewoman said, ‘Oh, you’re there, you old swine, are you?' (Laughter.) The proposed formation of a Little Theatre Club, as a branch of the society’s activities, was mentioned during the speeches, which were a brief but pleasant termination to a successful season.