WITH THE AMATEURS

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21248, 19 October 1940, Page 13 (Supplement)

WITH THE AMATEURS

Pageant of Empire in Hamilton That “ There’ll Always be an England ” is vividly illustrated by the Pageant of Empire to be produced in Hamilton early next month, for all that has gone into the making of the Empire must assure its victory over the forces of barbarism and aggression. Events in the history of Britain marking the growth of freedom are presented in the pageant, and all that the nation stands for in the wartorn world is illustrated very strikingly. With dramatic little cameos of historical significance, appropriate music and dances, colourful costumes, and spectacular settings, the Pageant of Empire should be a great success. The proceeds will go to the patriotic funds. Wellington Operatic Society The Wellington Operatic Society is to stage “ Rio Rita,” under the direction of Mrs E. Mcßeath. who produced “ A Runaway Girl ” for the Hamilton Operatic Society last year. In the cast are:— Katie Gracie Kerr Dolly Laurie Jones Jim Ray Trewern Ed Lovatt Raymond Hedges “Going Up” at Blenheim Four performances of “Going Up” will be given next week by the Blenheim Operatic Society. A big patriotic finale has been added to the production. Red, White and Blue Revue Rehearsals are well in hand for the spectacular Red. White and Blue Revue by pupils of Miss Mavis Laurenson. The revue, with a company of 70, is to be staged on November 25. “Rhapsody in Music” in Wellington. “Rhapsody in Music” is in rehearsal in Wellington under the direction of Raymond Hedges, who was in Hamilton a few months ago. sts of grand opera and musical scenas. The leading soprano role is to be I taken by Eunice Standen. who is j making her re-appearance after an | absence of three years. She is well, remembered in Wellington as prima 1 donna of the New Zealand Grand j Opera Company. Her outstanding roles were Marguerita in “Faust”. and Santuzza in “Cavalleria Rusti-1 cana.” a role she has performed no ] fewer than 17 times. Visiting English musicians declared |

she compared more than favourably with singers in the principal English I opera houses.