CAMBRIDGE COMEDY COMPANY.

Waipa Post, Volume I, Issue 47, 26 September 1911, Page 3

CAMBRIDGE COMEDY COMPANY.

On Saturday the above company visited. Te Awamutu. -During the day they were entertained by the local Golf Club, who had arranged for the entertainment of players from Hamilton and Te Kuiti. A very enjoyable day was spent, both visitors and local enthusiasts having a very pleasant outing. In the evening the company appeared in the local Town Hall, and staged the comedy “The Pickpocket.” Whether due to the popularity of the members of company or whether as an expression of sympathy in the movement to 'obtain funds for stage decorations, or whether as a result of the efforts of Mrs Wm. Taylor, who- primarily arranged for the visit, it would be impossible to say t but probably due in some measure to all three causes, the hall was well filled with an appreciative . and enthusiastic audience. The comedy was performed throughout in a very creditable manner, and reflected credit on both performers and stage management. Mr F. J. 'Reynolds as Mr Fredrick Hope — a husband with a green-eyed grievance against the wife he passionately loved—is deserving of special mention. His acting was very forceful, while Mrs A. H. Nicoll as his wife was quiet and charming. Both were deservedly popular with the audience. Aunt Maria, a fastidious maiden aunt, was ably represented by Miss Hill. This lady’s make-up calls for special mention, and could not have been improved upon. The local favourite, Mr G. Warren, appeared as Andrew, a waiter, a role which he represented to best possible advantage. His success was shown by the frequent applause and laughter which greeted his appearance. The audience was much disappointed in not being favoured with an introduction to Mrs Andrew. Mr J. Banks as Mr Gregcry Grumbleton —whose supposed ailments were numerous and complaints frequent —caused no end of merriment. Had he complained of stomach-ache he might have been more readily believed. Miss Lundon, in the role of poor uncle’s attentive niece, played her part very naturally, her manner from the commencement making her a decided favourite with the audience. Mr C. Meredith as Osmond Hewitt proved himself possessed of very considerable ability. His representation of a “Johnnie” with an eyeglass and a “ haw-haw” was both entertaining and clever. The audience wanted him on the stage all the time. Mr A. H. Nicoll had all the required dignity necessary for the role of Dr. Shaw. Miss Hudleston appeared as a French maid. Other characters were represented as Walter Johnsop (an eccentric gentleman and as ugly as sin) Mr H. H. Speight; Policeman, Mr K. Browne; Inspector) JMr A. Richardson; Johnson’s servant, Mr J. Hursthouse. Throughout, the Comedy was performed in such a manner as to keep the whole audience fully interested and amused, and Mr Warren and his versatile company may rest assured of a real good welcome when they next visit Te Awamutu. At the conclusion of the Comedy, supper was provided, after which a most enjoyable dance was held. It is expected, that a substantial amount will be available for the Stage decoration fund,