UTUWAI

Manawatu Standard, Volume LXV, Issue 228, 25 August 1945, Page 7

UTUWAI

(From Our Own Correspondent.) After threo weeks' practice the UrnutoiUtuwai Young People's Club staged its first concert, and had what could be claimed a good house. Miss V. Bell, at the piano, played the National Anthem, followed by her own contribution; the openin"- song was a nautical number "Steamboat Bill" ; the nine girls, most attractive in sailor costume, Mr D. McEwen, the only male, as the pilot, were greened with much applause. Several choruses followed, with dancing and action by the four girls of the ballet, Misses M. 1 ettigrew, P. Enright. M. Sinclair and J. Forbes. Further numbers were: Song and dance. Misses S. Buckman, J. Searle, and G. Davis; songs, Mr E. Higgmbottom; poi dance, Misses P. Enright M. Smith and Mrs M. McMinn; Highland reel, Miss J. Forbes; tableau Cactus Mack and his Saddle Tramps" (Mrs McMinn accompanying the numbers on the guitar and Manu Smith with ukulele), "Old Shop," and "There's a Bridle Hangin' on the 'Wall," and other contrasting cowboy songs; Hawaiian scene, with beautiful and appropriate costumes; Mrs McMinn again on the guitar was soloist -and sang two songs; Miss P. Enright as "Ukulelo Lady" was delightful ; Mrs M. Te Rangi, of Palmcrston North, gave an exhibition of the Hawaiian hula dance; Misses M. Pcttigrew and J. Forbes were two delightful gossips, and the comic trio. Miss M. Pcttigrew. M. Smith and D. McEwen, also scored; Miss Bell played "Joys of Spring," and the young people then presented a one-act play "The Bloaters," the cast being: Misses J. Forbes, B. McPhail, P. Forbes, M. Pcttigrew, and I. Osborne, M. Sinclair. P. Enright. and M. Smith. Miss McPhail was outstanding as also was P. Forbes. Visitors from the city were hard to convince that they were girls taking the parts. The grand fTffa'.o was sung with gusto, accompanied by Mrs McMinn at the piano. The programme was acclaimed by all present. Mr C. Searle voiced the appreciation of the audience, and Mrs Smith and the j-oung poople were given musical honours and cheers. A number of residents attended a thanksgiving service at the hall on Sunday, conducted by Mr Heap, of Apiti. Appropriate hymns were' sung and a eacrcd duet, "Sweet Peace," was rendered by Mrs Smith and Mr C. Searle. Mr Heap gave an interesting address. Mr Heap was accompanied by his wife and three children.