"Sweet Lavender."

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLI, Issue 8039, 16 March 1905, Page 5

"Sweet Lavender."

The " Palinerston Players" staged Pinero's drama "Sweet Lavender," at the Lyceum Theatre, last night, to an audience, which, though fairly largowas not of such size as the merit of the performance or- ths- worthiness of the financial object dtsrved. Those present wero > one the le-<s appreciative, however, ari'i in '• Sweet Lavender," as presented by " The Players," they found ample scops for the expre-sion of their pleasure. " Sweet Lavender " i* one of ■ he be-t of Pirn ro's many exquisite compositions, and it requires tasteful and artistic treatment. "'Tho Players "are cait»inlv to be" congratulated on their conception of the writer s intention. The cast was judicuuly chosen. Mr Douglas Galloway appeared in the part of " Clement Hale," a young solicitor; and his was a fine interpretation of a rather difficult role. In all respects Mr Galloway deserved the plaudits of the audience. Mr E. G. Honey also had a comparatively heavy part—that of " Eichard Phenyl," a pauper barrister-at-law, whose purpose in life was apparently to " make merry with the fruitful grape," though withal there was a kindly and self-sacrificing element which was well brought out by Mr Honey. The fault which is so prevalent _ amongst amateurs of, speaking too quickly and theieby becoming unintelligible was, however, present, in Mr Honey's interpretation, and to a certain extent spoilt an otherwise gratifying representation. Mr S. 'Meatyard's performance as "Dr Delaney,'" an Irish physician, was noticeable for his excellent assumption of the Irish brogue. A similar remark in respect of his Yankee twang applies to Mr Kenneth Aitken's performance as " Horace Bream," a pushing and persevering young American. Mr B. Bowater, as "Geoffrey Wedderburn," a banker, played with ease and confidence. Messrs B. Eainey and G. Isaacs represented "Maw," a solicitor, and "Bulger," a barber. Of the ladies, Miss D. Tait's was undoubtedly the best performance as "Lavender," her portrayal of this dainty character earnin? for her many rounds- of applause. Miss L. Cummings, too, deserved the frequently expressed approval of the audience for her excellent interpretation of the part of "Ruth Eolt." Miss Jessie Cameron was • "Miss Gilfillian " and Miss V. McGrath was " Mrs Gilfillian," both doing what was required of them. The stage management was especially good, the arrangement of scenery and accessories bein^ most elaborate.

.To-night "Sweet Lavender" will be repeated. The proceeds are in aid of the Beautifying Society's funds.