ENTERTAINMENTS.

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume VI, Issue 348, 6 February 1917, Page 7

ENTERTAINMENTS.

“THE SENTIMENTAL BLOKE.*’ MR. LAW RENCE CAMPBELL AT NAPIER. A DELIGHTFUL ENTERTAINMENT Mr-, Lawrence Campbell, the clfevdr Australian elocutionist who is now appearing at Napier under the direction of J. and N, is not unknown in this diM-fi'ct. His recital of “Not Understood” and other pieces five years ago. or thereabouts, is still green in

the memories of many- who were fortunate enough to hear him, and since that time n« one has created an equally good impression in these parts. Time, that mellows almost ail things, has lout its kindly aid to this singularly effective entertainer, and those who were present in the Princess Hall. Napier, last evening, wore forced to agree that Mr. Campbell, though a polished artist when first he appeared here, has in many respects gained during the lapse, of time. Always coo ! , deliberate, as one who is to be great in any profession must be, he plays at will upon the whole ■ gamut of human feelings. Laughter, tears, jealousy, envy, ignorance, tlie .smartest of humour —he expresses them all, and his work appears to be effortless. Moreover, Mr. Campbell has perfect facial control, which aids the elocutionist in no small degree.

Last night's entertainment was a veritable triumph. To those who had read the book it was a great pleasure to renew the acquaintance of “The Sentimental Bloke” in an even more attractive form. In cold type the “bloke” is a fascinating study, but some imagination is needed as tolouring. Recited by Mr. Campbell he becomes a thing of flesh and blood, almost a reality. Opening happily with “A Spring Song” the “bloke” proceeds along the tortuous path of life, made nigged by a “ma-in-law” and the usual tiffs and troubles that beset the road by which all humans travel. Ultimately Bill (the bloke) arrives at the philosophical .stage—happy man —and it is particularly in this mood that Mr. Campbell is so impressive. He is “Bill,” plain Bill “The Sentimental Bloke.”

When the performance ended there did not seem to be one in the audience who did not look pleased; indeed, it would have been difficult for anyone' to leave without showing genuine appreciation. It is a unique entertainment; an entertainment so absorbing that even the six-minute interval becomes almost intolerable. It was undoubtedly the most fascinating and intensely interesting two-hours that a Napier audience has been - privileged to enjoy for many years. Having, heard. Air. Campbell last evening it is possible to say. without the slightest exaggeration, that there would be something radically wrong in the composition of any man who could see this performance and honestly declare that it was not a treat.

Tiie performance «ill be repeated .tonight. ‘ . On Wednesday evening Hastings residents will be able to aya.il themselves of the late trains. Those who do so for the. purpose of hearing “The Sentimental Bloke” will have no cause for regret.