“THE BEST PEOPLE.”

Manawatu Standard, Volume LIII, Issue 255, 25 September 1933, Page 4

“THE BEST PEOPLE.”

FINAL PRESENTATION. There could not have been a single patron who did not leave the Opera House on Saturday evening feeling cheerful and smiling, for the “Best People,” presented finally by the Palmerston North Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society after a season of three nights was brimful of sparkling comedy. It is a matter, for pride that the city has such a number of accomplished actors and actresses in the ranks of this flourishing society, for therein lies a medium of expression fliat not only gives pleasure to the immediate participants, but also to the audience, and should therefore be encouraged. Too much cannot be said of the acting of tho characters, and still more difficult would it be to differentiate between them, so true to type and convincing were they in their respective roles. The stage settings and the dressing were a tribute to the artistry of those responsible and tho performance was complete in every way. Of course, no “last night” is complete without the presentation of bouquets, and the stage, after the last posy was passed over the footlights, resembled a flower garden. Tlie president of the society, Mr B. J. Jacobs, made a brief speech of thanks, first to the public for their generous patrouan-e, and then to tlie players who, he said, could always be relied upon to show excellent results for their hard work and energy. Through their past efforts the sum of approximately £2OO had been raised and tho proceeds of “The Best People” also would he donated to the Mayor’s Relief Fund. A society such a s the Operatic Society, said Mr Jacobs, was an excellent moans of bringing out and encouraging talent, and especially during these (lavs was it necessary to provide some levity, some temporary escape from worries. Special thanks were due to tho ladies and gentlemen who provided tlie incidental ■music, to Messrs Collinson and Cunninghnmo, Collinson and Son, Andrews' and Sons, and 11. 11. Blandford Ltd. for the loan of properties and assistance, and also to Mr P. Cousins, the producer. The knowledge of Mr Cousins was a valuable asset to the society, said Mr Jacobs, and the high standard of tho play spoke volumes for Mr Cousins’s energy and ability. Much praise was also due to tho society’s very capable secretary, Mrs M. Hansel. Another great worker, continued Mr Jacobs, was Mrs 11. Palmer, whose husband was largely responsible for the formation of tho society. Mrs Palmer could always bo relied upon to supervise the wardrobe department to perfection. Also to Mr O'. McGrath were thanks duo for excellent stage effects. Mr Jacobs again thanked tho public for their continued support.