“Tony Draws a Horse”

Hutt News, Volume 20, Issue 14, 27 March 1946, Page 7

“Tony Draws a Horse”

HUTT REPERTORY PRODUCTION AMUSING MODERN COMEDY Tony, in “Tony Draws a Horse," like the title-characters of that other smart comedy “George and Margaret,’’ is not seen on the stage, but his drawing of a horse—on a wall, not in a lottery—has what the cables call far-reaching repercussions. It causes a temporary separation between his father and mother and much marital upset between his grandfather and grandmother, and almost wrecks a young romance. Tony’s drawing is well done and biologically correct; his mother sees in it a form of self-expression that should be encouraged, his father a sign, of something “not quite nice" that needs disciplinary action. The audience probably feels that thdy are both wrong—that what Tony needs is a good spanking, not for the subject of his drawing but for putting it on a wall in the home; also for his rude remark to the little boy next door! However, that would be taking the play too seriously; it is really an intriguing comedy, modern in theme, with many .witty lines and some deeper moments of romance and psychology. The unexpected “twist" by which the problem is solved (incidentally one of the best acted scenes in the play) gives a delightful ending to a very entertaining comedy. Enjoyment, of Audience. The Hutt Repertory Theatre was wise in choosing something light and bright for. its opening production of 1946, the season, thus starting very happily. Judging by the responsive laughs and applause the audience enjoyed “Tony Draws a Horse" very much. As seen on Wednesday night the work of the players was uneven, much of it excellent, some of it less satisfying. Occasional faults were “masking” (one player hiding another) and inaudibility. An outstanding performance was given by R. St. J. Pedler as Grand jfa; he was well in character throughout and his facial expression was realistic. Briton Chadwick’s Garcon in the French cafe was a very clever piece of work, showing how important the subsidiary parts can be. Annette Chadwick, as the mother of Tony, gave a sound performance, not exploiting all the possibilities of the character, but making it natural and convincing. Joyce Hammond had a difficult role as the “managing” yet “fluttery” Mrs Parsons, and despite a tendency to over-emphasis and the need of an older make-up, made a success of it. Beth Pickering and A. B. Douglas were the young lovers, D. J. Dalglish the father of Tony, and M. S. Pitkowsky the rather henpecked Mr. Parsons. Others in the cast were Phyllis Earaes, Vivienne Aldred, Rosemary Craven, Marie Pescini, Keith Reed and G. A. Blundell. The stage settings were excellent, splendid work having been done in overcoming the disabilities of the hall regarding the manipulation of scenery. Briton Chadwick was producer, and others helping in thie general success of the production were G. A. Blundell, stage manager; Ron. Doig, technical director; Sally Mayo and Joan Orr,. properties, and Harry Painter, make-up. An orchestra, under the direction of Mr. S. Wood (at the piano), provided well-played incidental music. It included Mrs. Eric Rothwell leader), Misses I. Lister, S. Lister and N. Lister, Messrs C. Trimmer, D. Parsonage, G. Rogers, R. Gibb and J. Jowett. Presentation to Member. At the final performance on Friday evening the president, Mrs. Craig Mackenzie, farewelled one of the society’s most active and valuable members, Mr. Ronald Doig, and made him a presentation. Since the formation of the society Mr Doig has filled the honorary role of electrician, carpenter, stage manager, etc., and is about to leave the district to reside in Wanganui. A pleasant social hour brought a successful season to a close. The Repertory Theatre’s next production will be looked forward to with interest. The society is undoubtedly Playing an important part in the cultural life of the community.