THE SCHOOL CONCERT.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXII, Issue 5, 15 December 1911, Page 7

THE SCHOOL CONCERT.

A BIG SUCCESS. Seldom lias such an appreciative audience filled the Town Hall, as the one which greeted the Stratford District High Schcool’s entertainment last night. Only two items wore given by the school children, and the quality of these was such as to make one think that they might have taken with advantage a bigger hand in the proceedings. The familiar rhyme of “Ten, Little Nigger Boys” was well sung, and the manner in which the coons bobbed up or down as the size of tiro family' changed, drew forth much applause and a well-merited encore. An effective march, headed by Master Norman Kivell, to the tune of “Jingle Bells,” was given by some thirty boys and girls, the youngsters making the most of the opportunity given them. Quite a feature of the first half of the programme were a dainty song and ance, and an encore number, by little Miss Ellicott. She has sweet and tuneful voice, and is certainly a credit to the careful training of her father, Professor Ellicott, the organiser for the coming carnival. Mrs Johnston and Mrs Rennell were heard to advantage in the duet “Life’s Dream; is O’er,” the voices blending perfectly,while Miss E. Sangster gave a good rendering of “Scotland Yet.” Mr F. H. Wilkie was in very good form, and had his audience in' fits of laughter in a humourous recitation, “Not too Bad,” followed by another equally good, “Maloney’s Cat.” Mr T. Wilson and Mr Walter Wilson also contributed items. The whole of-the second part was given to the “Trial by Jury,” performed by the Stratford Operatic Society. As at the first rendering of this little comedy the acting and singing were both good, the “trial” being followed with great interest and not a little applause. Mrs Ileiiaell, as the plaintiff, made a charming bride, while Mr Wilkie was a “good judge,” as the chorus truly stated. Mr Dunlop’s interpretation of the “heartless” bridegroom was remarkably fine, and ho held, his own in a hostile court with dignity and decorum. The legal profession was ably; represented by Mr E. W. Lewis, the case for the plaintiff losing nothing in Ids capable hands, and if the usher (Mr T. Wilson) failed to keep order in the court, lie certainly managed to bring himself into favour with the • audience." The bridesmaids, the jurymen, and others present in the court, played their parts with no small skill, and the piece went well from start to finish. The Stratford Orchestral Society was fully represented, their ' if-eirts being pleasingly rendered, contributing much to make the entertainment the decided success it undoubtedly was.

During the evening Mr C. D. Sole announced the election results, and the progress of the parties was eagerly followed,by those present.