‘THE MIDDLE WATCH’

Evening Star, Issue 21717, 11 May 1934, Page 12

‘THE MIDDLE WATCH ’

STROLLING PLAYERS' SUCCESS Consistently satisfying acting by a cast of concerted and well-balanced merit invested the second presentation of the celebrated lan Hay-Stephen King-Hall comedy, The Middle Watch,’ with an atmosphere that could not but have pleased last night’s audience which filled the Concert Chamber. In keeping with their names, the Dunedin Strolling Players kept the various complications at a pace that did not make the play develop into a farce of ridiculous proportions. The presentation of such a comedy needs no demands of this nature to ensure its success, and the graceful manner in which tiie fortunes of the nautical and civilian personages fluctuate was a tribute the instantaneous success which (he climax achieved. The different delineations exacted acting of high proportions, yet there w r as no incompleteness of characterisation, and it would be invidious to single out any outstanding performance. Miss Anita Winkel’s Mary Carlton, the vivacious American lady, was entirely at ease in a difficult role, which required a nasal twang and a knowledge of unity, while she was ably supported in her frolics by Miss Molly Baker. As Marine Ogg, a part of importance and one easily marred or made, Mr Reynolds Herbert gave a delightful characterisation. The woman-hating captain of moments was excellently portrayed by Mr Douglas Dali. An enjoyable musical programme was provided by the D. 1.0. Orchestra. ‘ The Middle Watch ’ will be repeated to-night, and the final performance will be given to-morrow evening. From its success so far, the funds of the Y.M.C.A., in aid of which the play is being staged, -should be materially increased.