TAUPO DRAMATIC SOCIETY

Taupo Times, Volume II, Issue 90, 9 October 1953, Page 9

TAUPO DRAMATIC SOCIETY

TWO PLAYS READ The fact that about fifty m6mbers attended the Taupo Dramatic Society's play reading on Wednesday of last week showed that these evenings still retain their popularity. Two plays were read, the first a drama, "Blind Man's Bluff." The second, "Elizabeth Refuses," was a comedy based on portion of Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice," and written for the stage by M. Macnamara. "Blind Man's Buff" was produced by John Kellett, the cast being as follows: Anne was read by Grace Booth, David by Tom Curham, Mary by Iris Taylor and the doctor by the producer. The cast succeeded most effectively in keeping up the mysterious atmosphere of the play. As the blind man, Tom Curham accomplished miracles by "reading" the play whilst blindfolded. "Elizabeth Refuses," the story of an early 19th century mother endeavouring to marry off her daughters, was excellently presented. Lois Denize was splendid as Elizabeth Bennett, second choice of the pompous Mr Collins. The latter part was a difficult one most creditably portrayed by the producer, Jack McBeth. Avis Acres gave an excellent characterisation as the enthusiastic, highly strung mother, as also did Doris McBeth as the majestic Lady Catherine de Bourgh who fears that her son is endeavouring to make a match with Elizabeth. Margaret Beale gave her usual good performance in the small part of Jane Bennett. Following a suggestion made to the Society's ajmual meeting, the committee has arranged with the British Drama Council, Wellington, for a tutor to visit Taupo on the weekend of October 9th and 10th, to give instruction in acting, stagecraft and make-up.