“NOAH”

Press, Volume LXXXVII, Issue 26362, 5 March 1951, Page 8

“NOAH”

FIRST PRESENTATION BY NEW SOCIETY A Biblical theme treated with both reverence and humour sets a difficult task for even a well-seasoned dramatic company. To have chosen Andre Obeys “Noah,” a play with such a theme, for its first performance, the Christchurch Religious Drama Society showed that it does not lack courage. The presentation on Saturday evening also showed that the society does not lack ability. Some of the players have had considerable experience in repertory and university drama work, which should stand them in good stead. On the other hand plays like “Noah” require more than mere acting ability. A simplicity of approach is essential in the treatment of such a well-known story. The producer (Mr Norman Barrett) is to be congratulated: by his treatment of it, the play lost none of its whimsical wit ana at the same time retained its inherently simple reverence and beauty. The presentation of the play in modern dress does not, as might be expected, lead to any feeling of incongruity. Rather does it give the characterisations a peculiar pointedness and timeliness, and it sharply emphasises the universality of human faults and foibles.

The play was on the whole well cast. The enunciation was clear throughout, and in the difficult chorus work the players achieved an atmosphere of spontaneity. The costumes of the animals were rather disappointing, but they made the most of their rather limited opportunities for acting. There were some effective groupings throughout the nlay. John Hendry as Noah had an exacting part The play depended largely on him for its pace, and he managed to create a feeling of coherence throughout His portrayal was excellent.

An outstanding performance was also given by Graeme Brockett as Hann. He played throughout with enthusiasm and intelligence. Anne Flannery was completely at ease as the gentle, trusting, and courageous wife of Noah. The scene of her death on Mount Ararat, leaving Noah entirely bereft of human companionship and alone with his God, was intensely moving. « Neil Churcher as Shem, and Bill Leathwick as Japheth, played with ease and carried the performance along smoothly. Judith Laver, Faith Godfrey, and Sylvia Buckland as Sella. Naomi, and Ada, brought considerable enthusiasm to their parts. Although only a small part, the role of the man from the village was Infused with dramatic intensity by Mervyn Glue, who is proving himself to be an actor of promising versatility. “Noah" will be presented at the Shelley Theatre each evening this week.