ENTERTAINMENTS AND MEETINGS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XL, Issue 12272, 16 May 1903, Page 6

ENTERTAINMENTS AND MEETINGS.

HIS MAJESTY'S THEATRE.

The attendance at His Majesty's Theatre last night, when Mr. George M'usgrove's Comedy Company again produced "Sweet Nell of Old Drury," was the largest of the season, the house being packed to overflowing. The performance was witnessed by His Excellency the Governor, Lord Ranfurly, the Countess of Ranfurly, and suite, the viceregal party occupying the two circle boxes. Paul Kester's delightful comedy drama made a great impression, Mis 3 Nellie Stewart excelling herself in the title role. _ Her conception of the part met with universal and enthusiastic appreciation, and the popular actress was given an ovation. Mr. Harcourt Bcatty's finished performance as Charles 11. was recognised as masterly, whilst Air. Harry Hill, as Judge Jeffreys, and the other members of the company, filled their roles admirably. Seldom has a play taken such a hold upon theatre-goers as "Sweet Nell" has done, and it is not often that stage productions in this city are so lavishly mounted and costumed as is this charming seventeenth century play. It will be noted with pleasure that the management have decided to give a special matinee performance of "Sweet Nell" on Wednesday next, when children will be admitted to all parts of the house, except the amphitheatre, at half-price. OPERA HOUSE. The last night of Mr. Wm. Anderson's Dramatic Company's season will be marked to-night by tho first production of Frank Harvey's "emotional drama, " The World Against Her." This is described as a play for all classes, appealing particularly to the gentler sex. It will be presented by a strong cast, and with excellent mounting and effects. ______________ OLD CHUMS' ASSOCIATION REUNION. The first reunion of the season in connection with the Old Chums and Schoolfellows' Association was held in the Federal Hall last night. There was a very large attendance, over which Mr. C. Grey presided. The enthusiastic nature of the gathering and the number present spoke eloquently of tho flourishing condition in which this popular association finds itself, even so early in the season. Amongst those contributing to the. musical programme were Messrs. Diamond, Harvey, White, George, Fitzpatriek, Lewis, Rowe, Butt, Stackpole, Atkinson, Richmond, Harkins. Armiger, McAuliffe, Beckford, Edwards, Hay, Craig, Atkinson Brothers (quartette), Grav, the Old Chums' orchestra, and the Figaro" septette. Messrs. Alf. Bartl-ey, Armiger, and Bragge shared the accompaniments. The toast of " Kindred Clubs" was responded to by Messrs. J. McK. Geddes (Auckland Savage Club), V. Gazzard (Orphans' Club), A. E. Greenslade (Old Thames Boys' Association), and F. E. Baumo, M.H.R, (Natives' Association). At intervals the usual loyal and other toasts were honoured with heartiness, the function passing oft' agreeably to all concerned. BENEFIT CONCERT. A benefit concert, in aid of Mr. Burrs, who was injured by a recent accident, was hold in St. George Hall, Grey Lynn, last evening. There was a good attendance, and the performance passed off most successfully. The concert programme, which was under the direction of Mr. J. P. Culhane, proved very enjoyable. Mr. W. Pnrcell was musical director, and Mr. Arthur Smith acted as hon. secretary. The concert was followed by a dance, which was also well patronised.

ST. BARNABAS' LITERARY SOCIETY. A preliminary meeting of the St. Barnabas' Literary and Social Society was held in St. Barnabas' Hall on Thursday evening. There was a fair attendance. The Rev. E. J. McFarland occupied the chair, and gave an introductory address. Mr. McFarland was elected president, and a committee was formed.

AUCKLAND UNITED DAIRYMEN'S ASSOCIATION. The Auckland United Dairymen's Association held their annual meeting yesterday at the Agricultural Association's Rooms, Mr. J. Massey presiding. The financial statement showed a debit balance of £14 4s. The election of officers for the ensuing year resulted as follows: President, Mr. John Massey; treasurer, Mr. Hurndall ; Executive Committee, Messrs. J. Taylor (Devonport), S. Hodge (Papatoetoe), S. J. Ambury (Auckland), H. McKenzie (Mangere), H. Holland (IParnell), A. J. Hurndall (Ponsonby), H. Pilkington (Tamaki). Hamer (Auckland), and T. Eyre (Mount Roskill).