THEATRE FILLED FOR COMMUNITY SING

Southland Times, Issue 24260, 18 October 1940, Page 6

THEATRE FILLED FOR COMMUNITY SING

DUNEDIN PARTY’S VISIT

The community sing which was conducted in the Civic Theatre last night by Mr R. McKenzie, of Dunedin, attracted an audience which filled the theatre to capacity. The London relief of distress fund, to which the proceeds are to be devoted, should benefit considerably. Mr McKenzie was introduced to the audience by Mr Charles Trim and Mrs Cameron, the pianist, was introduced by Mr B. S. Hammonds. Mr McKenzie was given a rousing reception, and with the aid of Mr A. Jones the singing of favourite songs went with a swing. Many donations which were received were acknowledged over the air and cheerios, in the form of “whangs,” were very popular. During the evening Johnny Hutchinson, the American negro boxer, who is to fight Vic Caltaux in the Civic Theatre on Monday night, was introduced by Mr McKenzie. Before the boxer left the stage he made a donation of £1 to the proceeds. An auction sale was held during the evening, after which Mr P. Linton Hodge thanked the Dunedin party for its visit. A bouquet was presented to Mrs Cameron.

Included in the programme were items by Mr A. Yeo’s orchestra; solos by Mr A. Jones and Denise Lister; a trio by Sunny and Flower McKay and Master Paul Nutsford: dancing by the pupils of Miss Rene Ward; items by the Invercargill R.S A. party; and dancing by the pupils of Miss Jean Miller. During the interval a display of first aid was given by members of the St. John Ambulance Brigade. Mr A. Sutherland was stage manager.

A sing will be conducted ,by Mr McKenzie at noon today in the Civic Theatre.