STRATFORD.

Taranaki Daily News, 16 September 1918, Page 3

STRATFORD.

(From Our Own Correspondent.) [All communlcitlons, letters, etc, left nllh Kr H. J. Hopkins, bookseller, will recelre prompt attention.] gED GROSS CONCERT. Stratford, Sept. 14. It was something approaching a "hard luck" story that the stage manager (Mr, F- Eaniord) had to tell at the above concert held last night. Owing to indisposition and other causes, more than half the performers carded on the souvenir programme were nnaible to assist. Fortunately, a contingent from 'Hawera filled the breach, but it could have been overcome earlier with Stratford talent. The souvenir programme was practically valueless, and consequently the stage manager had to announce each item. It was first intended to make the charges 4s and 3s, but these were no popular prices, so a reduction was made to 3s, 2s, and Is, hut the public not keen on the idea, and consequently the attendance was disappointing, and, to make it more of a financial success, a Shropshire lamb was auctioned several times, swelling the total to £2O. Worked the right way, this concert should have gathered in a £4O to £6O "house," considering the purpo=e—Red Cross funds—but the promoters failed _to gauge the public temperament. In justice to the performers, it should be mentioned that all their items were thoroughly enjoyed, and merited better lock in size of audiences, Mr. F W. G. cornet solo was a fine item, his playing being quite up to the best ever given here, whilst the dancing of Miss Lvnn Edwards also hit the popular taste. Mrs. Hollands (Stratford) and Mrs- Wylds (-Hawera) proved talented vocalists, whilft Miss Jenkins, in her solos, also in the duct with Mr. Morris, well deserved the recalls. Miss Kelly added variety with recitations of a grave and gay nature, whilst Mr. Morris (soloist) "and Messrs Hooker and Dunstan (duct) also assisted with items that secured the approval of all. The comedy element was left to Mr, Gormley (Hawera), and, although he is now a familiar figure to Stratford audiences, his items were all applauded to the echo and relished by the audience The accompanist? were Mrs. J. H- Thompson, Misses Purser and Moon, Mr. C. H. Fox, and Master Keith Ward. Private J- Stewart . (Cardiff) was farewelled in the echoolhouse last evening, there being a largo attendance of the public. Mr. Rogers made the prestation, accompanying the gift with all good wishes for the future. Songs were contributed by Messrs J. Lister, T Wilson, and S. Sharj, whilst Mr. Sullivan gave a Russian step-dance and Mr. Bt.lton recited. The floor was in excellent order for dancing, and the music by Mr 0 H. Fox fulfilled every desire. 'At Midhirst last vening there was a crowded floor at the farewell tendered to Private A. Petersen, a well-known resident. Mr. G. P. Harkness. in farewelling their guest, presented him with a shaving outfit, and trusted he would be able in due course to return conscious of having done his duly- Songs were contributed by Mrs. Hatcher, Miss 0. Martin, Mews Hamilton, Drury, Chapman and Martin Whittineton. selections on piano by Misses Anderson and Riley, recitation bv Mr. Stephenson, and i reading bv Mr.' Mail. The duties of M.'sO. were in the capable hands of Messrs J M. Shotter and F. Carter, and the music by Miss AndersonMr. Coyne (31 vqtes) defeated Mr, Coe (■2O) in the election held to fill the vacancy on the Whangamomona County Council caused by the resignation of Cr. Finnerty. Stratford's qnota for the 13th CI draft, leaving on September 25, consists of P. T. Bloxham, G. B. Green, B. R. Murray; from Midhir«t, C. E. Fowler. Mr. Doufflas Hill, a member of the N.Z. L. and M.A. Co.'s staff here, was presented by the manager (Mr. W. A. Hewitt) with an electric iron and cooker, m view of his approaching marriajre. Messrs Hewitt and Young made speeches. Mr. Hill suitably acknowledged the gift.

There are plenty of folks who appreciate nice pictures in the home. To those on the look-out for illuminations fit to grace anv walls, we can recommend n call at C E. .lames' Warehouse. Here one can get the pictures in all sbanw and sizes, framed and nnframed, on the premises. Mr. James is also offering Treat values in ladies' handbag?. etc.— Advt.