LIVING HISTORY.

Auckland Star, Volume LXX, Issue 157, 6 July 1939, Page 4

LIVING HISTORY.

SCENES OF THE PAST.

"PAGEANT OF THE CENTURY." NEW ZEALAND'S STORY. Aucklanders will be given an inspiring insight into the colourful scenes of the past in the series of historical tableau whivli the pageantry subcommittee has decided to present as part of the official programme of Centennial celebrations in Auckland on January 23, 24. and 25, 1940. Appropriately entitled "Pageant of the Century," the scries irs calculated to set new standards in treatment and production. "The effort is probably the boldest and most ambitious form of presentation of its kind yet attempted in New Zealand, and those associated with the pageantry committee are coniident that the objective will be realised," stated the Mayor, Sir Ernest Davis, chairman of the* Auckland Provincial Centennial Council, to-day. "They recognise, as I do, that success to a large extent will be governed by the co-operation forthcoming from individuals and from the I members of amateur societies interested ! in productions of this character." Sir Ernest said that the draft svnopsiss, which had been adopted by the programme compilation section, provided for nine tableau eets encompassing the birth, growth, development and attainment of nationhood of New Zealand, and contrived in related scenes to depict the outstanding features of the history of the past 100 years. The underlying motive was to trace historical events in such a manner as to bring to this generation a keen appreciation of all the influences which brought the Dominion to its present status. In short, the pageant would provide not only a spectacle of absorbing interest but as well a positive educational medium.

"The presentation should place in its correct perspective a vieta of the mightier moments of the past and inculcate in citizens a feelinjr of pride and patriotism in the century's accomplishments," said Sir Ernest. I am advised that the services of literally hundreds of actons, helpers and participants will be required and I take an early opportunity of issuing an appeal for co-opera-tion to the members of all amateur, dramatic, literary and kindred societies.

"It is part of the call. Auckland, at the end of 100 years, is now making upon its citizens. That the appeal will be readily responded to I have no reason to doubt. I am sure that all who are competent to assist will come forward and associate themselves actively with the preparation and presentation of the papeant. which the sub-conmiitee has every reason to believe, will be a spectacle of beauty as well as an instrument of instruction. Here is an c; ]• rtunity for many to help to place another milestone in Auckland's historv and to rekindle in the embers of colourful pajreantry, a memorj* of the city's achievement."

The Mayor invited all who are willing to assist to communicate immediately with the honorary secretary of the pageantry sub-committee, Mr'. H. Roy, c/o the Auckland Power Board.