MINSTREL ENTERTAINMENT AT OHAUPO.

Waikato Times, Volume XXIX, Issue 2353, 9 August 1887, Page 3

MINSTREL ENTERTAINMENT AT OHAUPO.

The commodious and well-finished new hall just built by Mr (1. F. Millar’s was opened last Thursday evening to a bumper house, when the curtain rose to the Amateur Christy Minstrels in a lengthened and varied programme, which was carried through without a hitch, reflecting great credit upon all concerned, which, considering the recent formation of the troupe, and mostly their first appearance upon any stage, is remarkable. The audience testified their appreciation in frequent applause, and the roars of laughter showed their groat amusement. Tam bo and Bones worked capitally. Massa Johnson was also well done, and the songs were gencrally well rendered. In the farces all did their best, and their efforts were very successful. The whole concluded with a dance, kept merrily up till lanterns were not required. The object of the entertainment was to form a public library, and the respectable sum of ten guineas results after paying all expenses. Encouraged by this success, it is contemplated to give another performance shortly,—(Own Correspondent.) Unr local nigger troupe gave their maiden performance in Mr W. G. Millar’s spacious hall on Thursday evening. To say the place was filled would be ridiculous, as it was literally crammed, many _ only finding standing room. The question was many times asked, whore did all the people-.come from ? The troupe were hardly second to professionals, and acquitted themselves in first class stylo, not a hitch nccuring during the whole'time. The pleasure of the evening was somewhat marred by one of the audience, who would persist in helping in the choruses. I believe this is not the first time - that this individual has tlistingnished himself in public. The riddles and witticisms of Hus performers were irresistible, and Tambo (Aitken), a bom actor, kept the audience in roars, whilst Bones (Prince) was an able companion. The local hits were much appreciated, such as, Why is game so scarce in Ohanpo ? Because so many Hunters are about. Why is Oliaupo the most aristocratic village in Waikato? Because so many Princes are living in it. Why is Dailey’s beer like Johnson’s (Chapman) eye-tooth? Because it is kept in a hogshead! The singing and acting of Messrs It. Hunter, Marshall, Kusabs, Walsh, Toomuall, Cowley, Holloway, Parkos and Chapman was really very good, although I must say the last named rendered a song, entitled ’’ Over the Carden Wall,” which, had it been omitted, would have been more appreciated. 1 would suggest also that some of the other members should take a little more part, and not allow one to monopolise most of the singing. A sum of about £lB was taken. This will give an idea of the number present. The whole concluded with a dance, which was kept up without flagging Until daylight. Refreshments were amply provided.—(A Correspondent, August Oth, 1887.)