“THE BEST PEOPLE”

Manawatu Standard, Volume LIII, Issue 253, 22 September 1933, Page 3

“THE BEST PEOPLE”

A CONVINCING PREMIERE. When an Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society expects to progress with the city it is anticipated that it will so extend its repertoire and talent that patrons may with confidence lolok to it to portray all those phases of life and currents of conventionalism that are not, in the ordinary way of things, recognised. From this point of view Palmerston North is extremely fortunate, for there are in its midst those whose capabilities render it facile for them to present from the stage u convincing commentary. When tho society produced “Interference,” last season, there was just that piquancy and sincerity that whetted the appetite for a greater insight into the possibilities of tho dramatie art, and the comparatively modern production of “The Best People”—modern enough to be recognisable to-day in society—furnished the ideal vehicle for Air F. Cousins to satisfy the demand. There is no doubt at all in tho minds of those who attended last evening’s premiere ol the. season that tho society iias established a definitely higher degree of success. Designed to illustrate the gulf which is so often drawn between the “best peoplo” and the “others,” the play must perforce ho .comprehensive in its treatment and the task of tho participants in this comedydrama is a particularly severe one. For this reason the performers, last evening, deserve to have their work recognised in an encouraging manner for it was wellnigh as perfect as one could desire. The son and daughter of Mr and Airs Edward Lennox fall in love with thoso who are not in tho same cast of society’s die, and tho manner in which they strive to penetrate “beneath the surface and the show” to the true and satisfying experiences in the face of well-meaning, but hopelessly, mig l understanding parents, forms a delightful story. Eventually the father of the two young persons sees their point of view and the plot then expands to include the reactions of a mother who still strives to maintain the class barrier. - Five scenes in three acts suffice to present the story, which, behind the obvious wit, contains much food for consideration. Tho casting was splendid and one could hardly wish for a hotter selection, a tribute to Mr Cousins. Mr E. G. Spraggon plays the part ot Edward Lennox, a role which brings this versatile actor out in a new and even more convincing light. His handling of the life story of a worried and yet hopeful parent is one which demands, the maximum of insight and a certain amount of restraint, and withal a degree of dignity, and Mr Spraggon convinc'd probably more than be lias done in any other of bis appearances. Airs Lennox was portrayed by Aliss \V. Scott. Hers was ail ideal portrayul of a woman so paradoxically strong and weak, one whose type was admirably stated by her daughter: “NowAla’s happy; she’s been simply waiting for a good cry.” It required 'considerable dramatic powers to so present the 1010 that its full force was to he made apparent, and Aliss Scott made a triumph of it. Aliss Edna Boon is too well-known on the stage for her audience to be apprehensive of her ability to live her part. As Marion Lennox, tho well-to-do girl, rich in everything except tho richest things, she gave a delightful performance. She admits that “I don’t know anything; I have just been well educated,” and the stops she takes to remedy the defect serve to display her vivacity and convincing stage presence to a degree which she has possibly never previously attained. Bertie Lennox, Marion’s | brother, enables All- J. Ellison, an cx- | Aucklander, to demonstrate- his versatility | and the manner in which he portrays the | complex character of the young man in search of. “life” establishes him in a very firm position locally. The uncle of die two young persons sees All- T. Al. N. Rodgers impersonate George Grafton, a volcanic, old-fashioned and intensely conservative character. Mr Rodgers lias pleased many audiences in the past, but a more mature presentation be lias never given. 11c sustains his style admirably and is altogether most convincing and ticips to ease the tense atmosphere at times.. Lord Rcckmore, the society fiance of Marion, is well played by Air G. Siinmonds, and the characterisation he secures is very pleasing. Then appear the “other” peoplo and here indeed is splendid acting. Aliss Mavis Alortland convinced in “interference” and last night left her admirers more than ever pleased with her sincerity of characterisation. As Alice O'Neil, an actress who strives lo reform the sou of the "best people,” she plays a role requiring much restraint and expression and sue succeeded completely. As her guide in most tilings was Millie Montgomery, a vehicle for Airs L. Totter. Those who have -seen Mis Better in previous productions look lonvard to her blight work and it was not tlie easiest thing last night to-handle the part ol a “forward” actress with delicacy. Airs Rotter, however, succeeded admiraniy. Perhaps the strongest male role was that ol Henry Masters—the chauffeur who has seen "real life” in the Canadian backwoods. Mr A. E. Eising was splendid as tlie noble and principled “man” lived in a virile way. It was a triumphal performance. Aliss Uiu Hancock lias satisfied many audiences with her _ dramatic work, and in the role ol Aliss late, the perfect secretary, a fresh and none the less convincing aspect of her fnilities came to light. She gave a masterly poriormanee, albeit it was a comparatively small part. There were also in the cast Aliss Uabetto Rodgers (a maid), Air Driver (Bullock, a footman) and Mr J. Flavell (a waiter). These are new acquisitions to the society and tlie v, ay in which they handled their work inspires hope that in years to come the society will maintain its present strong position. It was fine entertainment. A word is required in connection with the excellent dressing of the production, a quality that stamps all of the society’s work, and tribute must be paid to Mrs.H. Palmer, who was again wardrobe mistress. Properties were on a most, lavish scale and Air C. McGrath, as property manager, can be well satisfied with liis work. Hie orchestra with Mrs Margaret Clift in control, and Airs R. Law as leader, was a well-balanced and pleasing combination. The bulk of tho work naturally fell on Mr Cousins, the sole producer, and liis gratification should bo unbounded in tlie line manner in which his cast followed his directions. “Tho Best People” was for the producer and the participants the most satisfying and entertaining production the society has yet presented. It will be continued to-night and to-morrow night.