"MARAMA"-ORIGINAL COMEDY OPERA.

Evening Post, Volume CI, Issue 102, 30 April 1921, Page 9

"MARAMA"-ORIGINAL COMEDY OPERA.

The original comedy opera., "Marama," will be presented by the Marama Opera Company, under the direction of Mr. Scott Colville, at the Grand Opera. House next Thursday night. / This at■traction will no doubt create additional interest, because it is the work of two New Zeaknders, Messrs. E. Eibbans and Arobia Don, of Hastings. It is said that the opera is built on a solid foundation, for it has a good plot, and the muaio i» catchy and tuneful. In thSa opera there is a unique blending of European and 1 Maori life, and the lengthy casi of principals is almost equally divided between, pakeha and Maori. The scenes are hud on the seacoast near Auckland' and the Rotorua district, and in the various scenes many novel lighting effects are introduced, while throughout the opera there is an abundance of clean, wholesome comedy. Two features of the company are the full operatic orchestra under the baton of the composer, and the specially-selected troup of Maoris who provide the hakas and poi dances, which are essential to the opera. These Natives were honoured by appearing before the Prince of Walca during his visit to Eotorua. In all sixty persons will he employed in. the' presentation of the opera, and with the transport of a large quantity of scenery, properties, •wardrobes, and effects, it will be a very 'expensive organisation, but the management is determined that, wherever the opera is staged', it will be done in its entirety, and replete in every detain. The sea-son in "Wellington is limited to seven nights, and the box plans will bo opened at the Bristol on Tuesday morning.