“THE PRECIOUS YEARS.”

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVII, Issue 304, 23 November 1937, Page 2

“THE PRECIOUS YEARS.”

SEASON OPENS TO-NIGHT. For a season of two nights only, the play “Precious Years” will bo presented in the Opera House to-night and to-mor-row night before audiences which promise to be capacity ones. Unusual interest has been taken in the play because it centres about the progress of Palmerston North through the past sixty years, and presents a romantic cavalcade of the precious years that have gono to the making of the city. The Priestlevs of Palmerston are a typical family who came to the Manawatii in the early days and have remained here since, and in them many will recognise something of themselves, their own hones, fears, ambitions, and achievements. The play was written for the jubilee by Messrs Winston Davis and Leslie Vcrry, and is being produced by Airs R W. Mcßoath. The play wilt provide excellent entertainment, for it has much to commend it besides its topical interest. The cast is one of the best groups of amateurs ever assembled in Palmerston North, and their performance to-night will bo a polished one. The scenery, furnishings, etc., will all contribute to the pleasure of the audience, while, music provided by a full orchestra under the baton, of Mr L. P. Haynes will be an outstanding feature. The cijistuming is excellent, . a completed wafdrobo authentic of fashions throughout the period having been arranged, Some attractive ballets and musical numbers are introduced, one of the big scones of the play being set on the -stage of the Palmerston North Opera House in 1910. The ballpts are provided by members of the ballets so popular in the production last month of “Rio Rita” by the Operatic Society. Altogether, . “The Precious Years” promises a theatrical occasion unique in the history of Palmerston North. As bookings have been exceptionally heavy, patrons are asked to. assist by being at the theatre in sufficient time to take their scats by 8 p.m. The Reason is for two nights only, so fhafc those intending to SCO tho play should make .sure of attending either to-night or to-morrow. It is felt that what they will see will prove well worth while.