INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 80, Issue 279, 24 November 1937, Page 2

INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL

ANNUAL ENTERTAINMENT OPERA HOUSE DEC. 1 AND 2 “A Christmas Carol,” though the simplest tale of human joys and sorrows, is, perhaps, the world’s mostloved Christmas story. Dickens enthusiasts need not fear that the beauty of the original has been lost in dramatising. Sir Edward Parrott has done his work most skilfully, and, by the addition of carols, has made the texture even more English, if that were possible. In presenting this work, the Intermediate School hopes that the audience will experience, in spirit, the joys of a real old English Christmas. Carol singers against a snowy background, pealing bells, the Fezziwigs’ Christmas party, the Cratchits’ Christmas dinner, the strange appearance of Scrooge’s ghostly visitants, form a colourful canvas on which is woven, with unerring skill, the story that never grows old—the regeneration of the most notorious old miser in London. The Victorian costumes should cause great amusement; every type of headgear is there—bonnet, cap, bowler, and, of course, the fashionable topper. Charming maidens in muslins and bustles, youths with the latest in chokers and cravats, small boys promoted to the dignity of tails, all bring before you the Victorian age with its dignities and also (may we add) its absurdities.

The street scenes will delight you —London in winter, snow huddled on roof and doorstep, and lighted windows framing the rosy faces of those listening with delight to the everwelcome strains of the carols —you will appreciate the jovial atmosphere after being introduced to Scrooge, who was squeezing the life out of his clerk, Bob Cratchit; truly, a “squeezing old sinner.”

As the moving tale unfolds, you will realise afresh the genius of Dickens, and you will realise also that the performing of such a work will leave a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to take part. The young actors have become so imbued with the spirit of this masterpiece that latent talent has been surprisingly revealed; and they have shown also an appreciation of the work that would have delighted the author, who wrote so movingly of the joys and sorrows of humanity. The play is presented in four staves, which form a lively contrast, and hold the interest to the end. 130 children take part in the performance, and they will be assisted by an orchestra arranged by Mr. H. J. Trussell.

Recent entertainments given by the pupils of the Intermediate School have been crowded out, so that you are strongly advised to reserve your seat. Booking will be at the D.1.C., where the plan opens this morning.