“OUR MISS GIBBS”

Hawera Star, Volume XLVIII, 19 September 1924, Page 4

“OUR MISS GIBBS”

ANOTHER EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE. Experience and renewed association with the footlights are producing greater confidence among members of the Hawera Operatic Society, and they are leaping the reward in the shape of an increasing popularity. Last evening, when “Our Miss Gibbs” was presented for the second time the Opera House was packed, and so great was the demand for tickets that sales had to be stopped at 7.15 o’clock, to the disappointment of many who had failed to gain admission. The curtain . rose to reveal a splendid stage setting, the frocks and colours immediately claiming attention, which was retained throughout the two acts. A full description pf the various characters and the story was given in yesterday’s Star, and one can say that to the great suc-c-ess there recorded one must add that gained last evening. The work throughout was well done, and, though there were occasional weaknesses, there was that cohesion indicative; of a complete understanding among those taking part, and the production reached a high standard. Nervousness and hesitancy have been overcome, and the members of the society have learned that to secure the best results they must throw themselves wholeheartedly into their work and endeavour, to “live” their parts. The playing last evening gave clear evidence jof this progress, aiid there was a steadiness and certainty about the production that made one realise that the gap separating the amateur from the professional can be narrowed _ down considerably when the right spirit animates a society, and those who have had the 7 task of training the society, have every reason to be proud of the success. Mr T. E. Foster, the producer, has •made himself exceedingly popular with the members, and there is plenty of evidence of his long years , of professional work. He has secured that precision of movement- and general control which mean so much.

Mrs Foster is also a great favourite with members, and she 1 has given invaluable assistance.

The musical conductor (Mr. F. Ollerenshaw) has, as usual, thrown himself heartily into his work, and the orchestra, though small, carried out its part very well on the whole. A closer observance of the conductor’s beat and his indication of the strength of tone required would improve the orchestra’s work. Special credit is due to Miss Gwen Taylor, who is a member of the. chorus. One of the three colleens took ill early in the evening and was unable to take her part. Miss Taylor, without rehearsal,; and. knowing the part only from watching the three at practice, undertook to fill the position, and did it so well that no one would have known that anything had happened. Miss Taylor spoke her lines correctly, and in the dancing was excellent. The management desire it to be stated that there is no foundation for a rumour current last evening that the prices had been raised. Tickets were sold at the advertised prices until all the accommodation was filled. This evening the society will present the play for the third time, when another large attendance is expected. The “floral” Curtain at the close will no doubt bring forth many gifts of appreciation, judging by the large number of presents to the players last evening.