THE FLOWER QUEEN.

Manawatu Herald, 6 September 1889, Page 2

THE FLOWER QUEEN.

Tuesday night witnessed the sue* cessful performance of this cantata. The euergy shown by the ladies and children who took part in it, was rewarded by the very beet audience in point of numbers and position that we have seen fur many years, in fact the very best audience ever drawn together foi an amateur performance. The liall was actually crowded from stage to door, arid for once the applause wus rendered hi 4 the /proper wanner, by clapping of hands, and was not marred by whistles, stamping of feet, or beatiug of sticks. We earnostly trust that we have now cc. cinMd a new departure in the conduct of those attending similar gatherings. The Cantata was well staged, very fairly acted, and well sung, the choruses being most noticeable. The grouping of the oolours was very effective, and the movement of the performers assisted in producing many pretty harmonies.. The difft culty is great to select any for especial mention, where all were so dependent on the action of etch and all, but it is a groat deal to say, to the credit of all, that the whole evening went through without hitoh or failure. If any were chief, we would single out tho ladies who took up the character of the separate flowers, and naturally the Rose and the Recluso had the heaviest portion to bear, but as both these ladies are now known to the Foxton audiences, to repeat what we have a'ready men tioned of their singing would be " as painting the lily,!' or '-gilding refined gold." The applause that wa9 awarded them was evidence of the public's verdict. The hymn Tonight where the curtain rose to all the flowers kneeling in. a semi-circle, made a remarkably fine soene, and the effeot of the lime light was striking. The crowning of the Rose presented another picture that obtained well merited applause.

'lh.<s Maypole Dance given at the opening, was new and pretty, but wanted, if we may say so, a little more action and quickness. The Orchestra lent most va'uable aid, and was composed of first class musicians, Miss Giesen being pianist, Mrs R. Leary and Mr J. C. E. Isherwood let violins, Messrs Mowlem and Denton 2nd violins, and Mr Isherwood double bass. The audience were loxid in praise of the whole performance, and we are glad to notice that the energy and talent of Miss Harley was duly appreciated, for to her we believe the heaviest of the labour has fallen, though Miss McMillan and piany more have rendered moat valuable assistance. We have no hesitation in statiug that another performance would be appreciated, and learn that we may bo fortunate enough to secure it, as a movement is on foot, emanating from the performers, to proffer Miss Harley a oomplimeutary benefit. If they do, we feel sure that another packed house will welcome them.