Bennett’s Maori Opera Company.

Huntly Press and District Gazette, Volume 4, 6 August 1915, Page 2

Bennett’s Maori Opera Company.

MINERS’ HALL NEXT MON- j DAY. Huntly is to be favoured by a j visit from Bennett’s famous j Maori Opera Company under the direction of Mr Charles J Archer who will produce at the j Miners’ Hall on next Monday, j August 9th, the beautiful spec-! acular Maori Opera “ Hineraoa ” —a romantic story of Maori mythology. The maid Hinemoa was forbidden to marry and the plot of the story is laid out amid enchanting scenes in the locality of Rotorua. The lyrics and music which are by that talented New Zealander Mr Percy Flynn are said to be very inspiring and the story together with its songs and dances very artfully constructed. The opera, which is in 3 acts and 9 grand table ,ux will be interpreted by a full company of 30 people. The • part of Hinemoa is allotted to Miss Tirita Butt whilst that of Tutane tai (Hinemoa’s lover) is sustained by Mr Tiawhi Rogers. The dresses are authentic and many interesting Maori dances and hakas 'constitute supplementary numbers of the play. The opera is sung in English and it can therefore be appreciated by everyone. A full orchestra supply the music under the baton of -the composer. The above company have been well received in Auckland where they have played to good houses during the week and Huntly patrons can rely on seeing something novel in musical opera. The prices have been fixed at dress circle and orchestral stalls 3s. Dress Circle, reserves 4s and back stalls 2s. Dress circle reserves 4s and back stalls 2s, Reserves may be booked at McNees.