MYSTERY IN AN INN

Southland Times, Issue 20885, 21 September 1929, Page 8

MYSTERY IN AN INN

“SEVEN KEYS TO BALDPATE.” The fact that seven keys to Baldplate Inn appeared despite the existence of only one is only part of the mystery of the clever comedy written by Earl Derr Biggars, an American writer who with this play leapt into dramatic prominence. It broke some of the accepted canons of dramatic writing in that it subjects the audience to a series of surprises and practices a number of deceptions, while telling a story within a story. It is an interesting fact in con nection with the production of this play by the Invercargill Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society that few people have confused it with the society’s operatic activities. This play represents a departure by the society. When it was founded, its rules provided for the establishment of a dramatic section but until this year it was not considered advisable to undertake this work. Now, however, the society feels that it can offer to the public a dramatic production which will be in keeping with the reputation it has established in the comic opera field. This clever, rapid play has been carefully prepared and when the curtain rises on "Seven Keys to Baldpate” next Tuesday it is felt that the audience will be quite satisfied that the society has been wise in striking out along this new line. The plans have been rushed and the booking has been very heavy so that big houses are assured. On the opening night the members of the football team which won the Ranfurly Shield, the ladies’ hockey team which brought back the “K” Cup and the boxers who were so successful at the New Zealand Championships will be present as the guests of the society. The season is limited to two nights, and if the public support warrants it the society will attempt something more ambitious next season.