BENEFIT ENTERTAINMENT.

Gisborne Times, Volume V, Issue 117, 28 May 1901, Page 4

BENEFIT ENTERTAINMENT.

The Theatre Eoyal was crowded to the doors last evening, when a concert was given in aid of the widow and family of the late Mr Blair. Gisborne people never fail to respond to an appeal in aid of the widowed and fatherless, and the extent to which their sympathy had been evoked in this particular case was evidenced by the crowded assemblage which congregated in the theatre last evening. Prior to the concert, the City Band played a number of selections outside the hall, and at 8 o’clock the programme was commenced with the overture “ Majestical,” which was played by the members of the Orchestral Society in a very pleasing way. Mr Buckingham, who has gained for himself a warm place in the hearts of Gisborne audiences, contributed the next item, “The Deathless Army,” which he sang in such a way that he had to respond to an undeniable encore, giving “ Queen of the Earth. Mrs McConnell’s singing of “ My Love,” was rapturously received. Seven little school girls rendered “ The Little Chick,” which greatly tickled the fancy of the audience. Mr J. East contributed the next song, “When the Heart is Old,” and was warmly applauded. The song “ Bid Me to Love ” was very nicely sung by Miss A. Perris. Mr W. Ratclifle made his reappearance on a local concert platform, and in fine style contributed the comic song “Dobbs’s Visit to Paris.” The | audience were enthusiastic for a rocall, and in responding Mr Ratcliffc contributed the comic song “ Strolling on the Sands,” achieving a distinct success. Little Miss Gertie Poswillo sang “ Baby and I,” and was warmly received. The next item, “As Your Hair Grows Whiter, ” was given by Miss Heaney, who was accorded very hearty plaudits. Mr G. Goldsworth appeared before a Gisborne audiouce for the first time, when he gave an excellent rendering of the recitation, “The Last Shot.” “Father O’Piynn ” was then sung by Mr Buckingham, who again had to respond to an enthusiastic encore, and in response he sang “ True Till Death,” in capital voice. During the interval Mr Buckingham, by permission of the management, gave some humorous illustrations of how to sing and how not to sing. The second part of the programme opened with the selection “Dewdrops,” played by the Orchestral Society in a manner which evoked rapturous applause. “ The Doctor Says I’m not to be Worried ” was the next song given by Mr W. Ratcliffe, and he again scored a success. Mr A. Webb, whose abilities as a reciter are so well known, recited “The Man From Snowy River,” and received hearty applause. Mr Buckingham again appeared, contributing the item “Arm, Arm, Ye Brave,” in an excellent manner. Mr Haras gave an exhibition of his skill at step-dancing, performing the sailor’s hornpipe, which earned for him warm plaudits. The orchestra played another selection. As a finale to the programme, the extravaganza “ Knave of Hearts ” was produced, and was exceedingly well performed. The characters consisted of King of Hearts, Mr R. Bin-ell ; Queen of Hearts, Miss Birrell ; Ace of Hearts, Miss A. Davis ; Knave of Hearts, Mr S. East; King of Diamonds, Mr C. Fends; King of Clubs, Mr P. Sheridan ; King of Spades, Mr T. Hood; Ladies of Court, Misses Driller, Heaney, Anderson. All sustained their characters well, and the piece went off with a good swing, the amateurs scoring a decided success. The accompaniments during the evening were played by Miss Butt, and Messrs East, Dalrymple, and Bull. The concert was, indeed, a great success, both financially and otherwise, the takings at the dooralone being J 628