CENTRAL OPERETTA

Taranaki Daily News, 26 September 1940, Page 8

CENTRAL OPERETTA

SPLENDID PRODUCTION Nothing better fro*n« juvenile performers than the Central school operetta "The Princess of Poppyland," which opened last night at the Opera House, has been seen at New Plymouth _ for many years. Good - training, artistic frocking and effects and a well-chosen production were important factors, but in addition some splendid talent was shown and everything blended into a highly creditable whole. It was bright, tuneful and well east. A big part in the success of the production was played by Mr. C. H. Olds, who is producer and accompanist. He has made the most of really good material. Notable features last night were the good enunciation and the high quality of the singing, but the spectacular ballets added an attractive balance. In the training of the children for the dances the school was fortunate to have the help of Mrs. John Stannard (formerly Miss Elwyn Riley), who has a happy knack with children s numbers. The stage effects were good and the general impression was heightened by the bright, fresh frocking. The costumes were designed by Miss F. Ritchie assisted by Mesdames Foster and Fairey and they had outstanding co-operation from the parents of the big company of 100 children. The staff generally did good work with Mr. H. S. Kibblewhite as stage manager and the brisk tempo showed that efficiency behind the scenes matched talent on the stage. The singing of the children was a delight, particularly in the choruses, but there were some fine individual efforts. Possibly the highlight of the whole performance was the duet between Margaret Fairey and Audrey Hewett which was really delightful. Another fine number was the dance of the Spanish gipsies which was little ahead of another fine ballet, a flower dance. The story is, briefiy, that of a wandering prince who falls in love with a princess. Another of her suitors, a wicked baron, steals a precious casket and then thvows the blame on the prince whose identity is unknown. A last-minute twist reunites the lovers with the blessing of the maiden's father. Peter Hobart Eave a forceful character study as the king and Rosemary Broomfield was charming as the princess and sang sweetly. The part of the prince was a difficult one for a boy but Ron Morris did it well. The acting honours, however, went to Laurie Geden who was a thoroughly credible villain. Humorous relief was skilfully provided by Earle Rogers, John Thomson and Max Feek, who figured in some uproarious scenes.

Alaric Wilson was excellent as the court chamberlain. Margaret Fairey and Audrey Hewett completed the list of principals. The other parts were those pages, gipsies, Eastern potentates (whose entry provided an effective clirnax), court attendants and populace. The proceeds of the operetta are in aid of the new dental clinic.