THE BULLS ENTERTAINERS.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXXVI, Issue 18430, 14 March 1922, Page 9

THE BULLS ENTERTAINERS.

SUCCESSFUL INITIAL PERFORMANCE. (From Our Marton Correspondent). With the object of raising funds for any deserving institution in Pulls the above company was recently formed and after several" months' enjoyable practice appeared before a large and enthusiastic audience in the Bulls Town Hall on Friday evening. The orchestra comprised the following: Messrs C. Edwards (conductor and pianist); L. Jones (violin); C. Thorley and L. Francis (cornets); and L. Goebel (bass violin). It opened with the overture “Chu Chin Chow.” followed with the opening chorus “Happy” by the company. The performers looked very smart in their costumes of green and gold (evidently a compliment to the well-known sportsman, Mr Jas. Bull). Mr B. McSkimming was recalled for his song “There’s a Song Down Every Broadway." “Bimini Bay,” was sung by Mr V. Edwards, being assisted by the company with the chorus and dame. This item was well staged. Mr Cornwall in musical monologue gave “Twenty Gallons of Sleep." ar “Lorraine" and for a recall “Envy,” receiving a good hearing. Mrs N. Scott scored a hit in her song “Ohio" showing much ability. Her fr«e and easy style pleasing the audience, who demanded a recall. The comic element was introduced by Mr H. A. Signal in character singing “Hot Water Bottle in Bed,” and he had to' respond to a recall. The vocal gem of the evening was undoubtedly Miss G. O’Brien who sung “Yonder" in excellent style, her recall number “The Minstrel Boy,” being sung with expression and full voice that appealed to the audience. Mrs N. Scott was especially good In tier dance “Rag of Mine." which was repeated for an encore. Miss M. Edwards sang very sweetly, “Sicily,” the company assisting in the chorus and dance. Mr Blennerhassett received a recall for “There’s a Land,” and in response sang “The Deathless Army." The first half was concluded with tne finale chorus and dance V'You’re in Style.” Mr V. Edwards taking the solo part, it was an excellent programme for a first appearance and every item was deservedly encored..

Prior to the overture "National Conclave” being rendered by the orchestra, Mr Cornwall (producer) thanked the audience for their liberal patronage and splendid hearing. It had he said, cost £5O to produce the entertainment but the company had ocen formed for the mutual benefit of the members and to provide entertainment for the Bulls district. It was hoped that the evening’s performance would pay the cost of the production, and 'they intended to appear again on a fortnight’s time with new items for the Bulls School Committee. They wanted the public to assist by their patronage. He referred to the neces sity of a Swimming Club in nulls (a voice: “1 second that") and hoped before long that sucn a cluo would be established. (Applause). Miss O’Brien opened with “I Hear You Calling Me," w”hicn was well rendered and “Annie Laurie" for a recall received a splendid reception. The entertainment concluded with “The Little Sentinel,” a comedy in one act. the characters being well sustained by Mr H. A. Signal (as Captain Courtington), his oral memory of tne “elude” being excellent; Mr J. J. Mansell (as Mr Wheedletou Coaxer), not a very courageous suitor; Mr J. R. Blake (Sim Oakapple) made an Ideal “hayseed" sweetheart, and caused much amusement by his actions; Miss Zoe King (as Letty Hawthorne, the widow with too many suitors) carried out her part on fine style and Miss H. King (as May, The Little Sentinel), had a busy time in helping the butterflies oil the widow, but she did it well.

The comedy was well staged, not overdone, ana sustained interest throughout. Mrs. N. Scott and Misses lr. O’Brien and M. Edwards were the recepients of beautiful floral bouquets. The Burls residents are Indebted to tne producer (Mr 11. Cornwall) and musical director (Mr c. Edwards), and Mrs N. Scott (who arrange the dances) tor the first rate entertainment provided and there is no doubt that when the company again appear before the footlights they will receive a bumper house. The lighting was arranged by Messrs Haines, Russell and Dunham; the srenery, etc., by Messrs. H. A. Signal and S. Goebel and Mr J. R. Blake made a capable business manager.