“ Bird in Hand ”

Manawatu Times, Volume 64, Issue 278, 24 November 1939, Page 2

“ Bird in Hand ”

“IT’S A REPERTORY SHOW" The Manawatu Repertory Society brings to the public to-morrow night the John Drinkwater comedy “Bird in Hand.’' The production is in the capable hands of Miss Babette ltodgers and the season of three nights at the Empire Hall promises to be an outstanding event in the history of the society’s achievements. Added to the excellent cast chosen for the play, the society is fortunate in having the Operatic Society’s orchestra under the conductorship of Mr. C. Mowlem, whj have offered their services in support of the Repertory Society's benefit production in aid of the funds of the Red Gross. The players in the orchestra will be Mar. M. Clift, R. Law, J. Fisher, Misses D. Southey Baker, J. Paton and Messrs. L. Findlay, J. Dale, W. Leet, L. l'ascoe, F. Piper, W. O’Hara, N. Taylor, C. BeJl. The public are assured of an evening of tho highest standard both in musical and dramatic attainments and the Repertory Society tenders its thanks ami appreciation of the members of the orchestra who have so willingly offered their services. The box plans arc filling rapidly and the public are urged to book early to avoid disappointment. Scuts may be reserved at the office of tho secretary, Mr. John Edwards (above the Kosy Lounge). “It’s a Repertory Show" at the Empire Hall to-morrow. Stage Settings. The principal scene in this delightful comedy features the bar parlour of tho “Bird in Hand" Inn. Elaborate stage settings have been .carried out iu bringing to the public a glimpse of the style of Tudor architecture, which flourished at the beginning of tho 16th century. Influenced by the preceding Gothic period, the Tudor style was in vogue from about 1300 to 1560 aud incidentally was the forerunner of the Elizabethan aud Jacob-

ean periods. Oak panelled wainscoating with its quatrefoil ornament, is blended into tho antique furnishings. An impressive stone fireplace with heraldic emblems carved in the frieze strikes a dominant note in the general scheme while moulded antique plate racks and shelves are all iu keeping with the Tudor style. Studded and vertical panelled oak doors also add to the attractiveness of the bar parlour.

Iu the second scene, we see the guests' bedroom at the inn, treated with cream stucco walls, latticed windows and beautiful multi panelled oak doors, typical of tho Tudor style. The whole of the designing of the set has been carried out by the society’s honorary architect, Mr. Victor llean, in association with the stage manager, Mr. W. M, Webster, and the furnishings have been arrangod by Misses Mavis Mortland and Ruth Lees.