THE OPERATIC AMATEURS.

Taranaki Daily News, 29 October 1915, Page 4

THE OPERATIC AMATEURS.

CLOSE OF "THE MIKADO" SEASON. The highly successful season experienced bv the. New I'lyinoiith Amateur Operatic Society with "The Mikado" was brought to a conclusion ;it tin: Theatre Royal last night, There was a good audience and the performance wits quite the most successful of the season, everyone acting and singing in a particularly satisfactory maimer. The audience showed its appreciation of the work by frequent encores and the lady principals received a large number of beautiful bouquets. Mr, J, H. Haslant eclipsed all his previous performances and it was pleasant to see him mark liis last appearance in New Plymouth with Midi striking effort. So popular were several of Mr. Ilaslum's items that lie had to respond to a double encore. Miss Maud Peart, was in excellent voice »nil the Misses Gilbert (2), and Bennett, and Messrs E. Clarke, A. dray, and A. M. MeDiarmkl all combined to make the performance a very enjoyable, one. The ihorns was splendid and the ballet was enhanced by an improved arrangement for the lighting effects. Much of the mim-osi of the season has been due to l.ln- orchestra, which lia.s been well trained by Mr. R. X. Remind. Vor the overlures, Misses Beryl Hirst and A. 11. Smith played the piano, and Miss Hirst.' presided at the piano throughout. At the conclusion of last night's perfontutnee the audience joiued the company in singing the National Anthem, and cheers'were given for the performers.

Afterwards the members ,of the Soeiet.v were entertained at supper by Mrs. Kirkbv at tlie lvia Oi'n Tea Rooms. an interval, Mr. Biroh-Johnslon ivienvd to the departure of Mr. ITaslam, who had been audi a power in the Xoeiel.v. and said everyone, expressed regrot at losing such a genial frlend.j and enthusiastic worker. On behalf of the Society, lie presented Mr. Haslam with a case of pipes. The company sang "For Tie's n Jolly Hood Fellow," after which Mr. llaslam suitably replied. Mr. Piirfh-.lolmston also made preswtatimM to .M.wsw, Mdsaae and Lambert, members of the iSoelety, who are jjoing to tlie front. An enjoyable pUherinj; broke up with the singing of "Auld Lane Svne."