THE FARMER’S WIFE’

Evening Star, Issue 19222, 13 April 1926, Page 4

THE FARMER’S WIFE ’

The second performance of ‘The Fanner’s Wife ’ at His Majesty’s Thentre last night was witnessed by a largo audience, who evidently enjoyed it very much, lor the house was singularly quiet and attentive and the applause well timed, indicating that tho people wore watching and listening intelligent! v. Though fife drama is superficial as to plot, it gives onportunity for good acting. Miss Dons Johnstone’s impersonation pf tho capable ami comely Araminta Dench, tho housekeeper who eventually scores over tho other women, may he classed as a staee triumph. Tho strength or the portrayal is its fine ingredient ot restraint. Araminta docs not throw herself at “tho wanter.” She m her own way insists on being courted. Misj Jolinstono captured not only the farmer, but every man in tho audience. Mr Townsend Whifiling, cast as liarmor Sweetland, sets the scenes for Araininta with much discretion and stage knowledge, being carelul to present the fanner as quite an ordinary typo of man, who is seeking not for an nnge , but a womanly womaiu Mr Ldwm Brett’s personification or outdoor man of ail work could not be improved upon. The drama lends itsolt to amusement that is continuous; yet here and there it provides n genuine thrill, as, for instance, in the third act,. when Richard Conker confesses that it is Sibley Sweetland that he is after, and hungrily draws her to aim tor their firstlviss. Such a scene supplies a test as to whether tho play is going right A little touch of such emotion, it not ringing true, ordinarily leads to laughter “or maybe a little gulping, but that is not so in this case. Miss Daphne Bairn, ns tho girl, and Mr Graham Stuart, as the lad, have led up to the situation by good acting in suitable environment, and the issue is a delightful summing-up of the sweethearting. One or two other scenes are on the same piano, thanks to the good acting of Miss Susan Richmond, Mr Reginald Trewson, Miss Frances Cave, Miss Violet Ley, Miss Emmalino Orford, and other members of this strong company. ‘ The Farmer’s Wife ’ is to bo repeated this evening for the last time but one.