“PRIVATE LIVES’

Wairarapa Times-Age, 11 December 1939, Page 2

“PRIVATE LIVES’

PRESENTATION AT OPERA HOUSE ON SATURDAY. Both the Thespians and the Little Theatre Society have reputations to sustain, and it can be regarded as certain that nothing will be neglected to ensure the success of the production of “Private Lives" at the Opera House on Saturday evening next, ft is typical of the thoroughness with which the Thespians tindertake their productions that both the producer, Mr Myles F. E. Wright, and the stage-manager, Mr Evan Harrowell, will arrive in Masterton on Friday, to superintend the setting of the stage, and arrangements for the production generally. They will, of course, have the whole-hearted cooperation of Mr T. E. Handcock, Mr J. M. Lawson, and other experienced members of the Little Theatre Society. Masterton playgoers may, with all confidence, look forward to a production of the play fully as successful as that which recently created a furore in Wellington. "The play's the thing," of course, but that alone cannot ensure a successful production. Nor, having found the play, is a skilful portrayal of the characters all that is required. Production and stage-management are equally important factors, though less obviously so to the uninitiated. In the present production, there is an unusually fortunate combination of all the factors leading to success. The play is the most famous and successful of the world's most popular and versatile playwright, Noel Coward. The most exacting critics have failed to find anything but praise for any member of the cast. The production is in the hands of Mr Myles F. E. Wright, recognised as Wellington's most competent producer and the stage-manager is Mr Evan Harrowell. of whom it is sufficient to sav that he was the stage-manager in the Wellington production. Tn all the circumstances, it will be if Wellington’s experience is not repeated at the Opera House on Saturday evening-- would-be patrons turned away for lack of seating accommodation' The reservation of seats opened (his morning at Messrs Steele and Bull's (Nimmos). To avoid disappointment, early booking is essential.