DRAMA ENTERTAINMENT.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVI, Issue 8, 7 December 1935, Page 2

DRAMA ENTERTAINMENT.

In so-called “ancient” Greece the drama was availed of to a very great extent in order to teach history and provide for the presentation' of contemporary “nows” much in the manner of the newspaper as wc know it to-day. In Grecco, however, the people assembled for self-expression—not forprofit. Service to the State was the keynote of that civilisation; the greatest reward was self-satisfaction. The development or rebirth ,of drama to-day is regarded as a sign of the return of the civilisation of ancient Greece, and the submergence of all considerations of reward is, it is suggested, evidence of the building-up of a higher culture. New Zealand has taken its place with the nations of the earth in this rebirth, and the great, interest being evidenced in drama to-day is not indicative of any change of heart, but rather is it a gesture calculated to give full rein to those natural qualities of expression which have been dormant for many years. The chastening effect of war has been one factor in showing in correct perspective the relative values of spiritual inoral, physical and psychical inclinations’. Drama is being carried practically into the nursery to-day. In Palmerston North the Municipal library, as the natural cultural centre, has given a lead with the result that to-day the junior library members are intercsed in dramatic prceentaion. To give some idea of the growth of this movement, an entertainment of an exceptional nature is offered to the public in aid of the Mayor's Christmas appeal at the Municipal Hall on Tuesday next, tho 10th hist., at. 7.30 p.m. In addition to the production of “The- Dyspeptic Ogre,” a modernised fairy play (produced by Linda Bennett), the members will also present “My Lady Greenslpcvcs” (produced by Mrs M. Wilson). In addition light entertainment is being provided by Miss B. Orystall (elocution), 11. Wollerman and Master Billy Wollerman (vocal), Barbara and Beatrice Scott (vocal), The boy glee singers and Mr G. King (ventriloquist) and his pal “Rufus.” Splendid entertainment is promised and as the admission charge is only 6d for adults and 3d for children tho whole of tho proceeds will .be handed to His Worship tho Mayor for tho Christmas Appeal Fund. Donations of sweets for sale at the hall may be left with the librarian (Mrs E. L. Christian) on Tuesday.