OTAGO WOMEN’S CLUB

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23951, 28 October 1939, Page 19

OTAGO WOMEN’S CLUB

LITERARY CIRCLE PARTY The chairwoman of the Literacy Circle welcomed a large attendance of members on Tuesday night, when the circle held its annual party. The entertainment for the evening was arranged by Mrs Oswold Stephens, and consisted of four sketches from Dickens, by members of the circle, and items by two guest artists Mrs Beaumont and Mrs Dick. Following the chairwoman's opening remarks. Mrs M S, Park the vice-chairwoman, presented the prizes for the original short story Mrs Hervey receiving the first prize, and Miss McDougall being placed second During the evening Mrs Dick played “The Harmonious Blacksmith’ - and Mrs Beaumont sang ' What Shall Do, Love," both items being of the Dickens period Mrs Wilkes played the accompaniment for the son" The four sketches, which were announced by Mrs Wakefield Holmes, were as follows: “Dick Swiveller and The Marchionness,’’ from “The Old Curiosity Shop. This sketch was produced by Mrs Park with Miss McCarthy as the airily irresponsible Dick, and Mrs Rennie as the down-trodden little drudge, who was so pitifully grateful for Dick’s kindness to her. “Mr Bumble and Mrs Corney,’’ from “Oliver Twist.”

produced by Mrs Oswold Stephens. The first sceri£ showed the Beadle’s courtship of the workhouse matron, and the second scene gave a glimpse into their married life. The parts were taken by Mrs A. C. Stephens and Mrs Oswold Stephens. ‘ Miss Squeer’s Tea Party,” from “ Nicholas Nickleby." Mrs Rennie made an effective Miss Squeers, with Miss Holland as her friend, Tilda Price Mrs Hervey played the bluff John Browdie, and Mrs Focken brought Nicholas himself to life. This sketch was arranged by Miss Holland. “An Untimely Interruption,” from “The Old Curiosity Shop,” arranged by Miss Farnie, was responsible for some excellent portrayals of Dickensian characters, make-up being very skilfully used Mrs S. P Cameron was Quilp, the dwarf; Mrs Norman Ellis, Mrs Quilp; Miss McCarthy, Mr Samson Brass; Mrs Porteous, Mrs Jiniwin; and Miss Neal was the boy. At the close of the evening, Mrs Fairbairn moved a vote of thanks to Mrs Stephens and all her helpers for providing such a delightful evening. Supper was served in the dining room.