MOLIERE ADAPTED

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30216, 22 August 1963, Page 16

MOLIERE ADAPTED

Christchurch G.H.S. Show A graceful performance of one of the most celebrated comedies of the French theatre was given by pupils of the Christchurch Girls' High School in the assembly hall last evening. The play, with the English name “The Prodigious Snob." is an adaptation of “Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme” by Moliere. The cast is numerous; but nearly everyone has a chance to make some contribution to the gaiety of the piece. First place, however, must be given to the prodigious snob himself—to Monsieur Jourdain who was acted with considerable aplomb by Elody Mapp. Monsieur Jourdain’s desire for distinction in the world of society was balanced by a certain fund of common sense, ■which enabled him to make unexpectedly shrewd comments at times. Both sides of his nature were expressed last evening; and. of course the humour of the part was always evident Pamela Ferris gave a pleasing performance as Madame Jourdain, and Jean Betts brought out the amusing inconsequence of the daughter, Lucille. Patricia Bond as Cleonte and Elizabeth Walker as the servant Covielle, had a sparkling scene in Act 11, and Mavis Airey and Christine Innocent were among the more ingratiating of Jourdain's beneficiaries. The various masters—of the dance, of music, of fencing, and of philosophy, all appeared with notable success in the first act.

The costumes were colourful, and the lighting was soft. Generally speaking, the cast and the producer. Muriel Cochrane, caught something of the spirit of the time and the place in this attractive production. —C.E.S.