"THREE WISE FOOLS."

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume XLI, Issue XLI, 23 August 1921, Page 8

"THREE WISE FOOLS."

The fact that this excellent play was written by a New Zealand boy, coupled with the knowledge that so capable an actor as Mr John O'Hara was leading the company, led Hawera people to expect a most interesting performance, and they were not disappointed; in fact, their expectations were fully realised. The plot of the play is woven • round the "inheritance" left to three elderly bachelors of a young and attractive girl, the daughter of a girl with whom years before they had all been desperately in love, and it works out to a striking climax, giving the leading characters ample scope for display of clever acting and much amusing by-play. As the wealthy banker, the most vigorous character of the three, Mr O'Hara gave a very clever interpretation of a man who combined great business ability with the kindest heart imaginable. As in all his work, | it was the art that made his "silent" i acting so effective that was his strong--est feature. It was a very delineation of character, and thoroughly delighted his listeners. Robert Toms as Gordon, Arthur Cornell as Dr Gaunt, and Frederick Esmelton as Judge Trumbell were all very good. As Miss Fairchild Dorothy Seacombe showed herself possessed of no little ability, and gave a veiy clever and attractive presentation of a character that demanded much good acting in many difficult scenes. She deserves great commendation for her work. As Mrs Saunders, the housekeeper, Miss Margaret Sutcliffe had not a great deal to do, but she acted the part to the life and made an excellent impression on her hearers. The other part's were all well sustained. An efficient orchestra discoursed very good selections during the evening. The dressing of the stage and the general effects were very good indeed.