A FINE EFFORT

Evening Post, Volume CXL, Issue 39, 15 August 1945, Page 9

A FINE EFFORT

TECHNICAL COLLEGE PLAY The production last night by the pupils of the Wellington Technical College of the dramatic . phantasy, "Ambrose Apple] ohn's Adventure," uncovered some really promising junior talent, and those who helped in the staging of it deserve full marks for their enterprise and ability. It was something of a risk, perhaps, asking young people to assume the sophisticated mantla of this particular play, but it was a risk well taken, and, moreover, it was refreshing to see a departure from the old stock stuff that students are usually asked to play. The spectacle of enthusiastic young amateurs plugging their way through the chaste preciseness of Shakespeare, for instance, may have its cultural points, but it can be dreadfully depressing. By contrast, last night's performance was highly entertaining. A break into the . moderately modern field, with a mixture of straight drama, adventure, and humour, such as "Ambrose Applejohn's Adventure" (a stage success of the early twenties), has much to commend it. The cast was well chosen and the acting of a high standard. Diction, which had clarity and volume, was a pleasing feature. Ballin Turner, as Ambrose Applejohn, played the part with a poise and assurance that would have done credit to an experienced oldster. His was a surprisingly mature performance, both as the meticulous squire and the blustering, blasting pirate chief. A little more economy in gesture would help. Audrey Inkersell made an excellent impression as Anna Valeska, the dancer. She had a good stage presence, and supplied a lively exotic note. Her accent was well sustained. Anita Bradley as Ambrose's cousin and Shirley Tasker as his aunt were both convincing, as was Bruce Hamlin as the Russian. Others who played their parts capably were Will'iam Earnshaw, Robert Burch, Shirley De Cent, May Schreiber, Trayton Wickens, and Huntley Dryburgh. The producers were N. A. Byrne and J. V. Burton. The scenery, by F. V. Ellis, and the art department, and R. E. Keall and the building department, was splendid, and the lighting effects, in charge of Murray Wilson and Roy Simmons, were important to the success of the play. Incidental music was supplied by the competent college orchestra, under A. H. White. The play will be repeated at the Technical College Hall for the next three nights.