Obituary Mr Walter Prictor

Press, 3 May 1984, Page 12

Obituary Mr Walter Prictor

PA Dunedin Mr Walter Prictor, the “leading lady” of the World War II Kiwi Concert Party, has died in Auckland. He was aged 71. Mr Prictor was renowned for his female impersonation role in the all-male party. He became a favourite with thousands of servicemen. He had two voices, baritone and soprano, and his singing voice was a huge asset to the party. He was described as the Kiwis’ “prima donna.” His friend and fellow con-

cert party member, Mr Morris Double, remembered the story of Sergeant Prictor’s memorable performance one evening for officers of the British Eighth Army. Sergeant Prictor swept in, dazzling the British who complimented the New Zealanders on their taste in female companions. The “lady” was wined, dined, and flattered. He even danced with a senior British officer. Later in the evening he sang and then with a flourish removed his wig and proved a real sen-

sation. Mr Prictor was born in Dunedin and educated at George Street School and Otago Boys’ High School. He was a chorister at Holy Innocents and when a boy his soprano voice attracted national attention. Before the war he worked for Whitcombe and Tombs, Ltd. Mr Prictor retired in Auckland after a period working as shop supervisor at Whitcoulls’ Queen Street branch. He was married briefly and is survived by a brother.