Controversial Play Not Cut

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30898, 3 November 1965, Page 1

Controversial Play Not Cut

Reports that parts of the controversial play, “For Heaven’s Sake,” would be cut out before it was presented to the Ecumenical Youth Conference in Hamilton in December were incorrect, said the secretary of the National Council of Churches (the Rev. D. M. Taylor) in Christchurch yesterday.

“There have been no changes in the play because of criticism,” Mr Taylor said. “The youth committee organising the conference studied this play very closely before

reaching a decision. At that time certain changes were made to make the play more suitable for New Zealand. “This is an American play, and it was necessap' to adapt it to local conditions,” he said. “I am not prepared to disclose the changes that have been made. The whole cutting edge of the play would be lost if we revealed beforehand exactly what was in it.” “Those who are criticising it have not even seen this version,” Mr Taylor Said. “Their condemnation is based on what they know of the original American play. The whole purpose of the production is evangelical, and I am certain that it will do more good than harm.” Mr Taylor said there had been protests to the National Council of Churches over the head of the youth committee. “Our executive has full confidence in the conference planning committee, which is a most responsible body,” he said. “It is clear to us that all this criticism is based on inadequate knowledge of the musical."