"OUR REGIMENT."

West Coast Times, Issue 12144, 15 February 1902, Page 3

"OUR REGIMENT."

The above comedy, as produced by the Hokitika Dramatic Club last night must in spite of the wretched weather experienced, be pronounced an unqualified succei3, a crowded house greeting the performers, which in itself speaks well for the regard in which the club is held by the public.

The play itself moved along very smoothly, each character being well fitted to their respective parts, and the prompter being very little in evidence. Coming to the characters, Mr A. Bock, who took the part of the gruff old retired merchant with a hatred for the military, was very successful and soon established himself in favour with the audience. Mr F. Harrop as Ellaby was very successful, his realistic acting being a feature of the evening. As Captain Fetherstoa, Mr Ralfe was a success, acting the part with a studied reserve well suited to the character. Mr Selby as Guy Werrener was capital, and although hid part was somewhat exacting, he succeeded in giving a very fine rendering, As the Rev John Talbot, Mr D rreen wai particularly in his element, this sterling amateur actor giving constant pleasure hy his inter pretat : on of the part. Batters, the aged butler, was in the hands of Mr Greaney and although a minor character was made the most of. Mrs Webster as Mrs Dobbinson was more than successful and Miss Allen as* Olive # her daughter, waa also so, her acting being very pleasing. Miss L. Ward as Enii Thurston deserves a special word of praise, especially as tbe role was of quite a different nature to those usually allotted to tbis young lady, and we must congratulate her upon the snecess she made of her part. Miss Holmes as Maud Elliby was cast in a much lighter character than hitherto and added fre>h laurels to her crown by her excellent acting.

The orchesta consisted of Messrs Bremond violin, Gibbous flute, and Heppel piano. These gentlemen added very materially to the success of 'the evening besides giving great pleasure to appreciative listeners.

During ths interval His Worship the Mayor thanked the audience for their attendance and also the Hokitika Dramatic Club, for the invaluable aid given which would result in a substantial addition to the funds for which they all so heartily laboured.

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