“BILLETED”

Taranaki Daily News, 22 November 1921, Page 5

“BILLETED”

SUCCESSFUL OPENING PERFORMANCE. The great run which “Billeted” had at Home, and the artistic talent which the leading members of the cast have displayed on previous occasions local* j ly, attracted a full house at the Em- ’ pire Theatre last evening, when a four- ’ nights’ 'season opened most auspiciously. As is mostly the case in all amateur theatricals, the initial performance lacks the finish and swing which • invariably marks the subsequent presentation of such a comedy as “Billeted,” in which the points, whether humorous, pathetic or satirical, depend mainly on the apt ness of the performers. It is, however, only justice to say that it was rarely a point failed to receive its full value, though some lacked that innocent spontaneity which lends an added force and charm to dialogue and repartee. The title -denotes a war-time comedy, though the piece itself has little to do with war. it being concerned with a wife who poses as a widow on account of a two years’ separation from her husband, during which two officers are billeted in her house, much to the disapproval of the vicar’s sister, who feels responsible for the mo/als of the parish. The finale, of course, is a reconciliation of husband and wife, the former being one of the billeted officers. There are several accompanying situations between the other characters, which provide material for amusing and pathetic acting, and throughout it was evident that all the performers had devoted much time and ability in identifying themselves with their respective roles.

As Betty Taradine —the deserted wife —Mrs. Claude Weston had a part which gave scope for an admirable display of her power to captivate, as well aa to exhibit a nimble and graceful wit and an affecting pathos and injured innocence. Her portrayal of a by no means easy character was artistic and natural. She had to bear the brunt of the piece, and acquitted herself with great credit, while her gowns added the final touch to an outstanding performance. As Penelope Moon, the chief parsonage in the mansion next to the mistress, Mrs. Rex Brewster ably assisted the smooth running of the comedy, and proved a valuable member of the cast after she had got over the opening part and had entered into the spirit of the comedy. As the vicar’s sister, Mrs. E". A. Walker exercised a very nice judgment in the business of protecting morals. Her conception of the part she had to portray was excellent, and it was a life-like portrait that she gave, with a finish that denoted the true artist. The cook (Mrs. R. H. Bartley) and the maid (Miss Jessie Home), though only taking minor parts, may both be congratulated on making a success of their Work. Although the leading ladies demonstrated that they possessed more natural talent for acting than the men, the latter played up well, but exhibited that stiffness to which amateurs are prone. As the husband (Peter Taradine) Mr. A. L. North displayed considerable humor and brought out his points with much effect, enhanced at times with an exaggerated smile which was infectious, though not artistic. The part of Col. Preedy (Mr. A. L. Moore) is one demanding a high conception of honor and intense sympathy, besides gentleness and courteey. While giving Mr. Moore credit for an intelligent comprehension of his task, his success was not so pronounced as it would have been had his acting been lees heavy and strident; possibly this will be remedied in the ensuing presentations. As the vicar Mr. C. H. Wynyard was more grotesque than clever* his physical contortions being such as would be more natural in a nervous curate than an amorous vicar. It was more fitting for a burlesque than a comedy. As a bank manager, Mr. A. Smith did not shine, though he introduced some quaint humor into the small part assigned to him. For the rest the one scene was excellently and tastefully staged, and the large orchestra, conducted "by Mr. Geo. Lomas, added much to the pleasure of the evening. The s'econd performance takes place to-night) when another full house is certain to eventuate, and there is no doubt that; more sparkle will mark the progress of the comedy.