“UNDER THE PALMS.”

Gisborne Times, Volume V, Issue 77, 6 April 1901, Page 3

“UNDER THE PALMS.”

An exceptionally enjoyable entertainment took place at the Matawhero Presbyterian Church on Thursday evening, when the sacred cantata “ Under the Palms,” a choice gem among cantatas, was given by the Matawhero choir, under the able conductorship of Mr Gardiner. The building was crowded, among those present being many from town, the wet weather notwithstanding. The church was beautifully decorated—in fact the work of the decorators may be fairly classed as the best ot the kind ever seen in the district. Over the heads of the vocalists was a lovely canopy of nikau palms, the greenery being brightened by choiee tlowers. Then there was a beautiful floral arch, bunches of luscious grapes being entwined with the tloral work, the whole being set off by branches laden with lemons. The effect was charming, and the visitors wero delighted. The music for the cantata was played by Miss Nora Stephenson. The solos, which were excellently given, wore taken by the following : Misses Stephenson, Gardiner, K. Gardiner, I. Hall, McSrcgor, Messrs Pickcn, G. Witters, W. Witters, W. Hall, Seymour Bolton, and John Parker. The connective recitation was given by Master Andrew Pickcn, who did his part very well. The choruses were all remarkably good, a special feature being the children's choruses. A very pretty thing was the singing of individual lines by three little girls with sweet and clear voices. This portion of the cantata was part of a chorus, and delighted the audience. Of course, encores were not allowable, or they would have been given for every item ; as it was there was enthusiastic applause after each item. The chorus, “ Praise ye the Lord,” was most impressively given. The lady choristers each had a pretty floral wreath upon her head ; all were attired in white dresses, with bright coloured sashes, the cliildrcn having their hair hanging down. In their hands they carried bouquets, and in the chorus these were held at anil’s length in token of thanksgiving as indicated in the Scriptures. Mr Gardiner, the choristers, and the organist are deserving of hearty congratulation for the way in which the cantata was produced. It delighted all who were present.