WONDERFUL GROWTH

Evening Post, Volume CXXXVII, Issue 140, 15 June 1944, Page 6

WONDERFUL GROWTH

MR. DU CHATEAU'S ACORN

The Wellington Repertory Society, which held its annual meeting last night, has now a thousand members, with a waiting list probably longer than the membership with which the society began; it is strong financially; it is supported by active and enthusiastic workers. Indeed its chief worry (apart from war-caused difficulties) is how best to use its prosperity—to .cater for >a maximum membership and growing public support in a large hall, or by a longer season in a small hall. That problem would- be largely solved if Wellington had a . civic theatre, planned ideally for repertory. productions. That is in the future, and members hope not too-distant future. Meanwhile the society is carrying out with zeal the work to its hand. To the long and creditable record of pre-war performance, bringing to Wellington what is best of tlie old drama and a wide selection of the best of the new, the society has. added the wartime achievements of high standards maintained 'in face' of all difficulties, arid new tasks undertaken—varied entertainment for the forces,. assistance in raising patriotic.funds, and kindly remembrance (with parcels) of the many members overseas.

It is a most encouraging and even inspiring record; and all this has grown from the acorn planted by ah enthusiast, Mr. Leo dv Chateau, some nineteen years ago. . The', proverb about great oaks growing from little acorns is, true enough, but! in real life disappointing, for the oak grows slowly. With .this oak there has been both quick growth and strength. Mr. dv Chateau not merely planted his idea, but, like Omar, Khayyam, "tended it to grow" (and with better results than Omar had). He outlined his proposals to. Mr. W. M. Page,', also an enthusiast, who became the first president, and together they formed a band of great capacity—histrionic, artistic, organising. Many of .them still take the keenest active interest. ' Mr. dv Chateau produced ~the-first play for the society in 1926, and from then on tlie growth has. been steady and'strong. It, is an effective answer to people, who say: "You can't, start anything in Wellington." The city is, indeed, quite ready to support the arts, when understanding and active people lead.