FUND FOR TRENCH COMFORTS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LV, Issue 16927, 13 August 1918, Page 6

FUND FOR TRENCH COMFORTS.

"BIG STORE" ENTERTAINMENT. An entertainment which took the form of a musical extravaganza entitled "Robinson Crusoe'" was presented^in the King's Theatre last evening by- members of the " Big Store" Social Club, the object being to r(jiso funds for the benefit of members on the staff of the Big Store I who have gone on active service. The theatre was filled. The story of Robinson Crusoe formed the groundwork of tho entertainment, the libretto and music being successfully arranged by members of the club. The stage was tastefully arranged to represent tho coast of the island on which Robinson Crusoe was shipwrecked. The title role was undertaken with success by Miss E. Williams, whilo Crusoe's faithful servant Friday was impersonated by Mr. A.. Toye. Other characters introduced were: Captain Wilkins, taken by Mr. H. Bishop, who also made a successful stage manager; the Pirate King. Mr. A. Hofynan; Lieutenant Fairbanks, Mr. J. Graham; Bella Wilkins, a captain's fair daughter Mrs. J. Smith;'and the pirate's daughter, Connie, Miss-. 0. Clarke. Mr. C. D. Binnington created a great deal of amusement as Mrs. Maria Wilkins, the captain's loquacious wife- Minor characters were undertaken with success by other members of the club. For amateur performers the performance was distinctly creditable, and the audience frequently showed its appreciation by loud applause. Song and dance wero interspersed judiciously with the dialogue. The New Zealand Vocal Quartette assisted the club with several popular selections, and a number of pupils of Miss E. Beresford, who appeared in some pretty dancee, quickly found favour. Yeoman work was done by a strong chorus of girls, tastefully costumed. Miss E. Meredith acted as pianist, and Mr. J. Smith was conductor of an efficient orchestra. The roll of honour printed with a handsome souvenir programme showed that 30 members of the staff of the store are on active service. The entertainment will result : in a substantial sum being raised wherewith to supply them wih trench comforts.