“LABURNUM GROVE.”

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVI, Issue 168, 17 June 1936, Page 2

“LABURNUM GROVE.”

AT OPERA HOUSE TO-NIGHT. Into the miclat of a quiet Sunday night Clipper in a London suburban home, Mr J. 13. Priestley flings a bombshell, and with almost scientific enjoyment watches the reactions of a group of ordinary and everyday people to its effect. That would appear to be the Summings up in brief of his sparkling comedy, “Laburnum Grove,” to be presented for the first time in Palmcroton North by the Little Theatre Society to-night at the Opera House. The reactions, however, are not entirely confined to the stage side of the footlights —-the audience shares them, and the tension of suspense increases with every line and movement of the swift moving plot, relieved by the rippling humour of exceptionally witty dialogue and amusing situations. ‘‘Laburnum. Grove” ic a play callijng for skilful handling on the part of each individual player, and in the cast selected for this evening’s performance, the Little Theatre Society has been exceptionally fortunate in its choice. As George Radfern, about whose easygoing placidity the action of the ) play revolves in ever-increasing tempo, Mr J. I*. MeDavitfc is in his element; while he is admirably supported by Miss 1* reda W hittaker, Miss Lorna King, Miss Stella Petersen, and Messrs Ronald Rees, Garth Brown, Dudley Rabonc, lan Young, and S. T. Bristowe. The play is produced by Mrs L. Bristowc. A delightful programme of incidental music has been arranegd by the musical director. Miss Dorothy SouthejBaker, under whoso baton is a band of eight players. “Laburnum Grove” will be presented to-night, to-morrow, and on Friday!