A PUBLIC NUISANCE.

Waikato Independent, Volume XXX, Issue 2306, 4 March 1930, Page 4

A PUBLIC NUISANCE.

Our attention has on several occasions been drawn to the nuisance caused at public functions at the Town Hall, and more particularly at picture entertainments, by people persisting in talking during the progress of the programme. It is quite a common thing to hear a buzz of conversation, with occasional laughter and giggling, during the progress of an entertainment. There are certain people who will persist in telling their friends what is coming next on the screen, passing audible comments on every phase of the picture, and even conversing freely on all sorts of subjects. This is bad enough during the showing of comedies or topical pictures, but when it occurs during intense dramatic situations, when one is keyed up to a high pitch, or is deeply impressed with what is being shown, such behaviour is most exasperating. We have in Cambridge a beautiful, up-to-date theatre, the management of the pictures and also other entertainments is most exemplary, and the general public are, as a whole, well behaved; which makes this complaint all the more regrettable. Doubtless the nuisance is caused thoughtlessly, and it is with the object of impressing upon the public the need for more thought for the comfort of others that we ventilate the matter. Those who frequent the theatre should remember • that everyone’s feelings should be considered. If they are not interested in ■what they sec and hear, they should bear in mind that others may be deeply impressed, and, their sense of propriety and good taste should prevent their indulging in talking, laughing, or in any other way marring the enjoyment of patrons. In a few isolated instances the nuisance complained of has been rather glaring; and if it continues rigorous steps will be taken to put a stop to the practice. We feel sure, however, that these remarks will have the desired effect. \