Old-time appeal lingers on

Press, Volume CXIV, Issue 33480, 11 March 1974, Page 14

Old-time appeal lingers on

A capacity crowd in the James Hay Theatre last evening listening to the artists who performed on Christchurch stages during the war years made it very clear that old-time talent has not lost its appeal. Twenty-five years older, a little stiffer, and slightly more portly than they were when they entertained in scores of charity concerts in the 19405, more than 50 performers left families — some now grownup — to revive their acts before an understanding and enthusiastic audience, in a programme of “Civic Memories.” Many of the artists limbered up on back lawns and in garages two weeks to three months before the concert. Some played together for the first time in spontaneous combination. The names of many performers have never been forgotten; the announcement of their item brought cheers. Although Grace Torkington was older, her voice retained the i vibrancy which made her songs a local hit thirty years lago. Charles Coates manipulated i the same circle of black felt into numerous shapes and . styles of hats, from the Spanish Inquisitor to Napoleon. [Most were instantly recogj nised; they did not need his I customary’ explanation. Strath McKnight and his unmannerly friend ad libbed their way through three items of bawdy humour, drawing guffaws from their audience of 1000. The main appeal of the show was its variety. Yodelling, tapdancing, recitation, skating, by two former national champions, Doreen Noble and Judy Clancy, were mixed in with opera and light musical, acrobatics, plain buffoonery, and the golden cornet of Dave Christensen. The Buckets acrobatic team, continuing its association of 60 years with the Christchurch stage performed some India rubber acts on monopeds and bicycle. Mr Ray Lewis, organiser of Civic Memories held last year to commemorate the closing of the Civic Theatre, said that

more than 40 artists offering their talents were turned down.

They immensely enjoyed the chance to perform again, and wanted them more frequently, he said. The proceeds of the show will go toward the Town Hall organ fund.—B.C.