GALA DANCE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 18 March 1940, Page 6

GALA DANCE

WAIRARAPA INTERHOUSE ASSOCIATION massed drill display. I A BRILLIANT SPECTACLE. I The Masterton Municipal Hall was packed on Saturday night for the Wairarapa Interhouse Association’s gala dance. The floor was in splendid order and the music supplied by Jack Barnes’s Rhythm Boys was fully appreciated. The feature of the even■ng was a massed drill display by the teams taking part in the parade at the Exhibition on Easter Saturday. Presented for the first time to the public,' the display was a surprise to the spectators, who appreciated to the full the wonderful work carried out by the girls during their many weeks of arduous training. The colourful, neat uniforms of the teams and the many beautiful evening gowns in the background presented a brilliant spectacle. Despite the slippery floor the girls went through their paces with smartness and precision, and received a tremendous ovation. After forming up at the end of the hall, the girls presented a line sight as they marched down the hall to the stage, where they gave their display. On behalf of the Interhouse Committee, Mr George Daubney apologised for the absence of Mr L. B. Maunsell, and introduced Mr J. H. Cunningham, who in the course of his remarks referred to the spirit of friendliness fostered among the girls by their participation in the association’s activities.

Opportunity was taken by the Mayor, Mr T. Jordan, to heartily congratulate the girls on their wonderful showing, and he wished them every success at the Exhibition, where he would see them on Saturday night. Mr Jordan’s remarks were endorsed by Mi J. Robertson, M.P. Mr paubney paid a tribute to the splendid work carried out by Miss Thompson, as’ instructress, his remarks being supported by Sergeant-Major C. E. Rogers, N.Z.P.S., who later dismissed the parade.

The team leader. Miss Phyllis Cretney, thanked Miss Thompson, Ser-geant-Major Rogers and the Interbouse Committee for their active interest, and presented Miss Thompson with a set of double Ciro pearls. Miss Thompson expressed her thanks to the girls for their kindly action. Miss Thompson was also presented with a halo autographed by all the girls by Margaret Costello. Under the leadership of Mrs Miller Hope the assembled girls gave an impressive rendering of "God Defend New Zealand.”

On the call of Mr Jordan three ringing cheers were given for the girls. The elaborate supper arrangements played an important part in the outstanding success of the gathering, the tables being artistically decorated in blue, yellow and red tones.