ENTERTAINMENTS

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LIII, Issue 285, 25 April 1911, Page 4

ENTERTAINMENTS

"SHE STOOPS TO CONQUER." Despite the inclement weather; there was u gratifying attendance at St. Mary's Hall last night, when fifteen lady amateurs produced Goldsmith's classical comedy, "She Stoops to Conquer," in aid of the Back Blocks Mission fund, and most of the audience braved the elements because they felt it was their pleasurable duty. They were bubbling with joy throughout the whole proceedings, and went away delighted with the merits of the performance. The whole play went with a swing. There was not the slightest hesitation, and the sparkling humor of Goldsmith received capable illustration. All the young ladies sustained their parts remarkably well, giving a highly intelligent interpretation of their respective roles, and the evidence of no slight histrionic ability, besides proving their careful application at the rehearsals, which were held under the supervision of Mesdames F. Watson and Boddam. The performers were: Squire Hardcastlc, Miss Joyce Hempton; Sir Chas. Marlowe, Miss Sybil Fitzherbert; Hastings, Miss Dora Bedford: Marlowe, jun., Miss Loris Fitzherbert; Tony Lumpkin, Miss Constance Leatham; Lady Hardcastle, Miss Winifred Webster; Kate Hardcastle, Miss Kathleen Watson; Miss Neville, Miss Mabel Evans; Diggory, Miss Keitha Leatham; Roger, Miss Doris Mills; servants, Misses Mildred Thompson, Dorothy Saxton, Monica Lennon and Kathleen Mills. Miss Warren nbly officiated as accompanist. Mr. Brookes gave valuable aid in manipulating the scenery. During the evening, the Rev. F. G. Evans read a telegram from the Rev. Houchen, expressing, regret at his inability to attend. He also complimented the performers on the high-olass performance, and in n few graceful words paid a tribute to all who had assisted in making the function so successful The organisation and success of the performance were largely due to Dr. H. B. and Miss Constance Leatham, and the hope was expressed that the management would see its way clear to again produce the comedy at an early date. BARTON'S CIRCUS. Owing to the heavy downpour of rain yesterday afternoon mnking the ring too slippery to do justice to the programme, the management decided to postpone the performance until this evening. To-night a first-class circus performance is guaranteed, full of inteir.it and extremely entertaining. Messrs. Barton Bros, have a fine waterproof marquee, and as the ring will be thoroughly prepared during the day, patrons may rest assured on seeing every item at its best. The tent has been erected on the old tennis ground in Devon street west. BIOGRAPH PICTURES. The change of programme drew good houses at the Theatre Royal on Saturday and last, night, despite the unfavorable weather conditions. The new films are an (interesting collection. Two A.B. studies take a prominent position, the first a lifelike Indian storv, "The Song of the Wild Wood Flute," and a powerful drama, "A Salutary Lesson." A fine idea of Monte Carlo is conveyed in the .scenic picture, "Principality of Monaco." The Pathe Gazette is as usual an extremely popular film. Othor star pictures are "The Slave of Carthage," "Percy the Oowbov." and "A Wireless Romance." An exciting plot in the lastnamed hinges on a wireless message. The remaining pictures are all interesting items, and complete an enjoyable programme. This series will be repeated to-night ami to-morrow night.