AMUSEMENTS.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXII, Issue 10004, 29 March 1910, Page 4

AMUSEMENTS.

BESSES O' TH' BARN BAND. This evening will witness at the Town Hall the first of two performances by the "Besses" under the direction of Messrs J. and N. Tait, the second being one at the Showgrounds on Thursday j»fternoon, at 2.30. A Bloemfounteln criticism mentions that:—"Much has already been Raid regarding their almost unlimited musical capacities, and to those who attended yesterday's matinee, nothing' can be added to what already has been stated regarding this wonderful collection/ of firstclass instrumental soloists. One might think that owing to the small size of the theatre a brass band of their number would be anything but agreeable to listen to, but those who entertained this idea were agreeably disappointed. The "Besses" seemed to adapt themselves naturally to the small building they had to perform in, and at no time was the sound overpowering. As a body of musicians they are unique. As individual soloists they are unsurpassed. The precision and attack manifested by them is marvellous and analysing each kind of instrument performed on the impression given is that instead of there being over thirty performers it seems as if the volume given was rendered by a single performer of each instrument, such was the perfect blending and conformty manifested thoughout. At times the effect given was more, like the tremolo swell of an organ than anything else. The programme presented was a comprehensive one, including selections from Rossini, Sullivan, Wagner, Gungl, and tsalfe. The capacity of the various instruments as solo instruments were illustrated as never before in this town. Special mention must be made of the cornet solo, in all of which wonderful lip manipulation and perfect control over the instrument was evinced. The euphonium, and trombone solos were masterpieces of artistic skill, the tone was rich and;perfectly modulated,. and it is not without just cause that the "Besses" are termed the finest band in the world. "In addition to reserved seats at 3s, day sales at 2s are procurable this morning at Miss Rive's.

THOMPSON-PAYNE PICTURE'S. The Foresters' Hall proved far too small to accommodate the large crowd that attended to witness the usual change of programme last night. The programme was really first class, and was enthusiastically received. "With her Card" is one of the finest films yet shown here, and shows to what perfection cinematography has been brought. This picture ahowo how a comic opera artist has to choose between two admirers, and finally makes her choice. The chosen one becomes enamoured with a society Belle, and deserts his comic opera girl, who calls the rejected lover to her aid, and succeeds in financially ruining the faithless lover. Finally the heroine restores to him his fortune. The rivals meet at the j lady's house, and she discovers that her affections have changed, and everyone has the satisafction of seeing all turn out for the best. This is only one of many of the fine dramas depicted. "The Empty Sleeve," "The Abduction," and "The Coastguard" are all good films. The comic element is well represented in "Diamond Cut Diamond," "Don't Eat Green Apples," and "The Conscientious Musician." This programme will be repeated tonight.