“The Naughty Wife,” A Signal Success

Manawatu Times, Volume LIV, Issue 6628, 15 August 1931, Page 6

“The Naughty Wife,” A Signal Success

EINAL PRESENTATION TO-NIGHT.

P.N. AMATEURS ASSIST UNEMPLOYMENT FUND.

A signal success for tho Palmerston North Amateur Operatic Society has been secured with the presentation of “The Naughty Wife,” with its plot an old-time theme in an entirely new setting. Thero was an excellent attendance at tho Opera house last evening to witness tho second night’s performance, one which demonstrated to tho full that local amateur talent not only ranks with the best in tho Dominion but suffers little by comparison with many professional efforts. With its amusing dialogue and many humorous situations this three-act comedy is carried through by tho members of the Palmerston North Society from start to finish with a freshness and vigour that enhances its various engaging and entertaining features. Tho comedy, produced and staged by Mr. Fred Cousins, of Palmerston North, is mounted in an admirable manner and is dominated by four well-known amateurs. Miss Ulu Hancock, in the role of Eloise Farrington, has a difficult part to play but, with her outstanding talent and vivacious personality, emerges from the situation with colours flying; Mr. Amos MeKcgg, as Harry Farrington, also gives a splendid interpretation and combines well with Miss Hancock throughout the piece; Miss B. Mcßae, taking the part of the widow, Nora Gail, displays a pleasing voice and brings a high degree of understanding to bear on her role, while Mr. M. H. Oram produces a convincing illusion of naturalness into what is probably the most difficult character in tho cast, that of tho home wrecker. As a maid, Miss E. Boon is pleasing while Mr. A. E. Eising is equally good as the man-servant, Messrs N. Forbes and W. Fitzherbert completing the splendid cast as the uncle and chauffeur respectively. The stage furnishings anu mounting by the society reaen tho usual high standard attained and adds in no small measure to tho quality ot the production and the air of conviction that accompanies it. The fracking is another striding feature. Tho society’s orchestra, under tho baton of Mr. A. J. Graham, plays some acceptable selections between the acts and altogether the play provides an entertainment that should not tie misseu oy any person with a desire for wholesome comedy. Tho Palmerston North Operatic Society will conclude its three nights' season of “The Naughty Wife” this evening, the net profits of the venture being ior tho Palmerston North unemployment fund. A capacity house is anticipated and two and a half hours' of pleasing entertainment are in store for those attending the final performance.

Undoubtedly the society is to be complimented on the manner of presentation and the general acting ability displayed and this clever three-act comedy will be recorded among tlic best of its several productions.

Messrs C. M. Ross Co., Ltd., supplied tho wardrobe and also, with Cowlings Ltd., the furniture used in the staging. Tho sweets stall, conducted by Mrs. Evans, is situated at the theatre entrance and dispenses home-made delicacies.