‘The White Sheep Of The Family Bright Production

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29851, 18 June 1962, Page 17

‘The White Sheep Of The Family Bright Production

A professional attitude, apparent in programme, set and players. was remarkably well sustained in the Christchurch Boys' High School Drama Club's production of lan Hay's three-act farce, “The White Sheep of the Family," presented in the school hall on Saturday evening. The play, the story of a family engaged in what must be the second oldest profession in the world, provides ample opportunities for humorous caricature, which were exploited to the full by a cast who knew exactly what they were doing and enjoyed doing it. David McPhail, who took the major role of James Winter, J P.. the professional elder cracksman, who prefers the term “self-employed individualist,” acted with deftness and aplomb. The brusque. club-man voice never faltered, and his miming the true creative artist's emotions in cracking a crib was a work of art in itself

It is far from easy for a schoolboy to play the part of a middle-aged matron, but Rodney Greaves, as Mrs Winter, making excellent use of a voice admirably suited to the role, sustained it without the slightest difficulty. A face seemingly full of teeth and rather gawky movements only added to the reality of his portrayal.

Christopher Whitta played the Vicar, with high, fluting clerical tones, and it must be admitted a tendency to upstage the rest of the cast, making a great deal of a relatively minor role. As Sam Jackson, the fence, Anthony Brittenden looked

the part, but seemed uncertain as to how he should speak His accent, which ranged from Cockney to Kensington. was the main jarring note. The younger ladies (sic) were, naturally enough, not entirely at home in their respective roles. Michael Morrissey, as Janet the maid, obviously found it easier to remain in character than did Brian Taylor and David Caygill in the straighter parts of Pat and Angela. Both needed to speak more clearly and cultivate a greater range of expression. The completely straight narts were taken by Douglas Cooper, as the Assistant Commission. and Barry Empson, as Peter Winter. They were somewhat overshadowed by the more comic characters, but held their own well' and always appeared at ease Towards the middle of the third act the plav showed a tendency to drag. This seemed to be as much the fault of the playwright as it was of the players, but if the play is to end on a high note the last 20 minutes or so do need more attack “The White Sheep of the Family” was produced by Mr C. A. Macintosh, and will continue until June 19. On June 23 it will be presented at Aranui High School. — D.J.O.C Head Injuries.—Laurence Norton, of 445 Armagh street, suffered head injuries when two cars collided at the corner of Armagh street and Stanmore road about 12.20 a.m. yesterday. He was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital.