“THE DOVER ROAD”

Wairarapa Times-Age, 1 July 1941, Page 8

“THE DOVER ROAD”

LITTLE THEATRE SOCIETY PRODUCTION. The Dover Road—the shortest route to the Continent and to romance, is where Mr Latimer has set up his unique hostelry, in which he contrives to entertain couples who have taken that road. In the words of the author, “What Mr Latimer prefers to call the reception-room of his house is really the hall. . . . Over the whole room

there is something of an Arabian-night-adventure air. In the daytime, perhaps, it is an ordinary hall . . . but in the night time one wonders what is going to happen next.” And Mr Latimer himself, and all his staff, share the air of mystery that pervades the room; and he, the presiding genie, has the supernatural gift of imparting vision.

And yet, all is actually very matter-of-fact. Mr Latimer is actually a kindly and wealthy country gentleman, with a shrewd insight into character. He uses his’ wealth and his gifts philanlhropically to guide his guests to see more clearly. And (as A. A. Milne unfolds the story) delightfully he does it. Mr J. A. Kennedy’s excellent work in the past, particularly in “Housemaster” and "Without the Prince,” is reported to be eclipsed by his portrayal of Mr Latimer. He is ably supported by Mr V. Joseph as Dominie, Latimer’s butler, and, withal, his fellow-con-spirator and friend. Mr Latimer’s guests (pernaps one should say his “patients”) are all couples who have taken “The Dover Road.” First came Leonard and Anne, played by Mr J. Kent-Johnston and Miss B. Francis. Both are seasoned players who have given sterling performances in the past, but here they are stated to exceed their best. I hen come Eustasia and Nicholas, portrayed by Mrs H. R. Keltic and Mr N. Jones, two newcomers to the Masterton stage whose work is said to promise entertainment of a high standard. Mr Latimer’s efficient staff, with little to say but plenty to do. comprise Misses P. and J. Sheaii--er, Mr K. Jaine and Mr Allan Douglas. Their work is stated to bo noteworthy. A neat final curtain is contrived by the pleasing and unexpected appearance of yet another eloping couple, represented by Mrs T. Jordan .nd Mr Mackenzie Douglas. The Little Theatre Society finds it impossible to stage this production fox more than two nights, Saturday and Monday next, for both (ff which reservations are now available at Messrs Steele and Bull’s.