Junior Drama League Festival Continues

Press, Volume C, Issue 29499, 28 April 1961, Page 15

Junior Drama League Festival Continues

Hie junior festival of the British Drama League gathered pace last evening, when a particularly entertaining programme was given. Two schools were re-presented—Rangi-ruru and the Christchurch Boys' High, School. Three scenes from Shaw’s “Pygmalion" were played by a large cast from Rangi-ruru School. The brightest performance here was undoubtedly that given by Gwen Chapman, as Eliza; but Bridgit Vincent, Susan Kraal, Annette Le Lievre and Pamela Walker were also good in well-differentiated parts. Tne men proved rather difficult to impersonate: but Cherry Andrews played Professor Higgins with plenty or < spirit, and was well sup- 1 ported by Jan Stewart as the Colonel. The settings and costumes i had all been closely studied. 1 and altogether Adrienne 1 Lawson’s production was a pleasing one. “The Crimson Coconut” by 1 lan Hay is an old favourite,

and ! t was clear that members of the Christchurch Boys’ High School Junior Drama Club enjoyed performing it. The play was full of bright incidents, but the pace ■in general was rather slow. The third and fourthformers of Boys’ High School created quite a sensation with their version of Chekov’s “Proposal.” Lomov, a victim of hot temper, heart trouble, and love, was acted by J. A. Hopkins with a real appreciation of the possibilities of the part. B. H. Smaill was good as Matalya, but apparently experienced some difficult that the producer had not foreseen. The situation was made complete by R. E. L. Greaves in the role of the nervous, irritable father. “The Proposal” was indeed worth seeing, and credit for its success must also be given to the producer, W. O. Mappiebeck. The festival will end at the Linwood High School hall this evening. —C.E.S.