BRIGHT ENTERTAINMENT.

Taranaki Central Press, Volume IV, Issue 302, 5 December 1936, Page 2

BRIGHT ENTERTAINMENT.

Success Of Recital At Stratford.

A lengthy and varied programme with a minimum of delay and a high standard of performance made the concert presented by Miss M. Lawrence, Mrs Angus Wright and their pupils last night one of the most enjoyable that has been seen at Stratford for many years. The remarkable aptitude of the younger performers was particularly appreciated by the audience. A feature of the evening was the singing of Miss Doris Gilmore, Hawera. The number “To a Miniature” was brilliant, having an old world setting with its immense Dresden lady, out of which Jean Evans stepped to dance in a stately fashion alone, finishing with her cavalier. Little Jean Evans showed a finish and ability seldom mqt with in one so young. She later rendered a solo item “On the Good Ship Lollipop” in the white aviation costume made famous by Miss Jean Batten. She captured her audience immediately' with her singing and skilful dancing.

Miss Lawrence’s items were executed with rhythm and grace, displaying the technique of a dance artist. Miss Phyllis Spencer's elocutionary items were warmly applauded. The pianoforte items displayed careful training and did much 'to enhance the well balanced programme. The national dancers gave finished performances.

The unison singing of Mrs. : Wright’s children’s choir contributed considerably to the success of the production providing bright, full toned singing, clever ac’tion and. plenty of colour. Jean Evans’ sweet voice was again heard in her Du ? ich mill solo, supported by a full chorus. The Howard instrumental quartette, well known to S'tratford audiences, ably' upheld its reputation. Maisie McNeil in the pianoforte solo, Beethoven’s “Waltz” showed great promise and her duet with May Payne, another skilful performer, was particularly appreciated. May Payne also gave a solo and lrene> Martin and Margaret Murray’ played the duat “Sleigh Bells.” Pam Whitmill showed considerable talent in her pianoforte solo “Poet and Peasant.” Among the dancers Doreen Bloomfield, a. very tiny performer, delighted the audience. The “Acrobatic Dance” by Wilmer Marr and the “Adagio” by Dorothy Bedford were also popular items. The recital was presented with originality in scenes and frocking. The lighting was in the capable hands of Mr A. E. Pollock.

Both teachers were accorded a great reception when they appeared at the final curtain to assist in distributing the numerous floral and other tributes.

Mr. T. T. Murray spoke on behalf of the promoters and visiting artists. The music was in the hands of Miss G. ’ Silver, assisted by Mrs Wright.