Religious Drama Society Presents “The Builders”

Press, Volume C, Issue 29684, 30 November 1961, Page 19

Religious Drama Society Presents “The Builders”

The Christchurch Religious Drama Society has increased the scope of its activity lately; rod now, after a successful festival towards the end of September, offers a full-length play, “The Builders.” to complete the work of the present year. “The Builders” is being presented for a short season at the Museum Lecture Hall. The producer is Yvette Bromley. The opening performance last evening was marred by hesitations. A play of this kind, crammed with ’ Christian symbolism and recalling in every other sentence New Testament sayings and situations. must be acted with authority. If the actors are self-conscious, the audience is embarrassed. The cast attacked a difficult play with great courage, but, generally speaking, gave the impression of being under • rebeareed Keith i Cooke, as St. Francis of Assisi, was the life and soul of the play-last evening; and his attempt to catch the tone of one who. as it were, lives in two worlds and interprets material things after a spiritual fashion, deserves great praise. Che prayers were particularly fine, and

the parable of the prodigal son only a little less so. Bruce Caygill, as the Sailor, followed bravely where. Mr Cooke led, but lacked the power to give his part enough emotional depth. Margery Brouard. who appeared in several guises, was good in all of them. She knew her lines and really believed in what she was saying On the other hand, Gavin Henderson’s version of St. Peter was something of an enigma. Les Green’s role was straightforward, and his acting, particularly in the first scene, was very convincing. To introduce the presentation of “The Builders,” the University Church Music Group sang a programme of carols for the season of Advent. This was a delightful performance, prompting the thought that it wa» indeed a refinement of musical scholarship to sing airs so difficult with such an effect of graceful simplicity. Particularly attractive were “The Miraculous Harvest” and “Es ist ein’ Ros’ entsprangen.” The group was conducted by Norman Hindley- „ _ _