OPERATIC SOCIETY

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVIII, Issue 18, 18 December 1937, Page 4

OPERATIC SOCIETY

ANNUAL MEETING. SUCCESSFUL YEAR REVIEWED. The annual meeting of the Palmerston North Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society was held in the P.D.C. rooms, Mr J. A. Nash pre l siding over a large attendance. There were several apologies tor absence. In reviewing the activities of the past year Mr Nash said that members would he gratified to learn of the progress that had been achieved, as regards staged productions and particularly the consolidation of the financial position. The year had commenced with cash in hand of only £ll, yet the balance-sheet presented revealed the substantial sum of £lOl now available. “The committee undertook two productions, one a drama, ‘What Happened Then,’ directed by Mr F. Cousins, and concluded the season with the musical comedy, ‘Rio Rita.’ Both definitely enhanced the reputation already gained, and though lifficult in accomplishment proved most convincing presentations,” said Mr Nash. “The committee feels that the results fully justify their contention that selecions for productions in tills field must be bright and modern. Further justification for the success of ‘Rio Rita’ lies in the fact of its earlier production than in former years. A pleasing feature is the support from increased honorary membership resulting from the drive by the committee; further efforts, it is felt, would be rewarded in this direction. We were pleased to welcome many new active liiembres, and trust that the experience they have acquired by participation in our activities will make them even more valuable in the future. The operatic sub-committee created a precedent by making contact with every amateur operatic society in the Dominion with a view to closer co-operation with productions. They visited Wellington, Napier, Wanganui, and Hamilton, securing; much useful information' which enabled them to direct our recent production with a minimum of excess expenditure. Much data was compiled that" should prove invaluable for further reference. I strongly recommend to the incoming committee that these contacts be maintained and the spirit of co-operation fostered between societies. In conclusion may 1 express my appreciation of the support accorded me by the officers and members of the society, and extend to all my sincere good wishes for continued progress in the future?”

11l reviewing the financial position, Mr E. G. Spraggon (treasurer) stated that the wardrobe cost for “Rio Rita” (£65) had been the lowest on record. Incidentally, a member had been so impressed by the first-night production that he had forwarded a donation of £5 ss. Mr Nash commented that all could agree that the result of the past year’s operations had been very satisfactory indeed, reflecting creditably oil the members of the special committee that had been set up. Everyone associated with the productions had worked excellently and, incidentally, the undoubted success of the production of “The Precious Years” during Jubilee week had been in large measure due to the co-operation of the society. Mr J. E. Elavell urged that greater attention be paid to discovering the talents of members, particularly during the off season. Mr Nash expressed pleasure at the presence of Mr F. Cousins on his return from America. His value as a producer was well-recognised, and it was the hope of members that he would be associated with them for many years to come.

OFFICERS ELECTED. ' The election of officers resulted as follows: —Patron, Mr A. E. Mansford ; president, Mr Nash; vice-presidents, Mrs H. Palmer, Messrs T. M. N. Rodgers, A. It. McKegg, L. Wood, E. Cousins, and D. Mitchell; secretary, Mr F. G. Murphy; treasurer, the appointment was left to the committee; auditor, Mr C. D. Fraser; lion, musical director,. left to the committee; committee, Mrs A. Coles, Misses M. Mortland, U. Hancock, B. Rodgers, Messrs M. H. Oram, L. P. Haynes, E Whiteliouse and W. Oliver. It was decided to recommend to the committee'that the cast for a production be selected at a play-reading only with tho producer present, to avoid any' difficulties subsequently. It was further recommended that monthly play readings be conducted to sustain interest. The generous offer of Mr Oliver to furnish accommodation for committee meetings was accepted with appreciation. It was also decided that the committee discuss the possibility of obtaining accommodation to provide a “home*’ for the society. MR SPRAGGON FARE WELLED. The occasion was taken to farewell Mr E. G. Spraggon, who leaves early in the new year for Dunedin. Mr Nash said all would regret Mr Spraggon’s departure. In the society he had given of his very best and he was looked upon as one of the “stars,” having been to the fore for some time past. He had also taken an interest in other societies, including the Competitions Society, and his service spoke volumes. As treasurer of the Operatic Society he had rendered excellent service and on his departure for Dunedin it was the desire of members that Mr Spraggon accept an autographed travelling rug with the very best wishes of. all.

Mr T. M. N. Rodgers, paying a warm tribute to Mr Spraggon’s enthusiastic work, said he had been untiring on and off the stage, and on the adminis J trative side. The time was arriving when the fruits of his labours could be enjoyed. Mr Cousins said the society’s loss was someone else’s gain. Mr Spraggon had proved himself a very apt pupil on the stage, and he had been more than an acquisition, being possessed of unusual capabilities. Mr Cousins added his best wishes for Mr Spraggon’s future happiness. Mr Murphy thanked Mr Spraggon for his assistance during the past j;ear on the administrative side of the society and congratulated him on his new appointment. Mr Spraggon, who was accorded musical honours, said he greatly appreciated the kind expressions of the speakers. He had thoroughly enjoyed the work and had derived an immense amount of pleasure from his association with the society during the past eight years. Thanks to Mr Cousins, he hacl .participated in his first dramatic production, and he desired to acknowledge the groundwork imparted by Mr Cousins. \ Mr Spraggon extended a very cordial invitation to members to visit him in Dunedin and again conveyed his appreciation. The gathering'joined in the singing of “Auld Lang Syne” as an appropriate termination.