"The Pirates of Penzance."

Waikato Argus, Volume XXV, Issue 3849, 1 August 1908, Page 2

"The Pirates of Penzance."

"The Pirates of Penzance," whose headquarters at present are at Paeroa, made a descent upon Hamilton last night, and escaped by special train at 11.30 p.m. with booty totalling £54. It speaks well for the Hamilton public that they filled the Town Hall to overflowing point, as to a certain extent, they had to take the piratical gentlemen on chance. The performance was received in the warmest possible manner, and the reception could not have been more cordial. Encores were frequently insisted upon, and the achievement certainly surprised all expectations. The scenery was appropriate, the dressing was excellent, the singing was bright and pretty, and the choruses, unlike most amateur efforts, were full of life and vigour; in fact, the opera was staged in a manner which opened the eves of those who were privileged to see it. As Ruth, the pirate maid-of-all-work, Miss L. G. Medhurst was in capital form, and her heavy task was discharged in an eminently satisfactory manner. Her solos were thoroughly appreciated, and the trio between Ruth, the Pirate King, and Frederick, was delightful. Of the Major-general,;- Mr T. A. Moresby gave an excellent pourtrayal, and was responsible for his full share of merriment. As the Pirate King, Mr R. Quick sang and acted well, and was soon a favourite with the audience. Samuel (Mr Griffiths) had not much to do, but what he undertook he did really well. Mr Heape as Frederick had a very large share of the work allotted to him, and he got through a heavy part in a creditable manner. Mr E. V. Quick, as the Sergeant of Police, rendered his solos nicely, and his fine body of men were greatly admired. Miss G. Evans, as Mabel, was several times encored, and her charming voice won for her unstinted praise. Miss Coote, Miss Smith, and Miss C. Edwards all looked dainty, and their acting was easy and natural. Mr G. Warren was responsible for the make-up of the company, and the pirates are greatly indebted to him for his kind offices. We trust that when next the Paeroa amateurs undertake a comic opera they will again include Hamilton in their itinerary, a hope which we feel sure is re-echoed by the public.