MR J. H. KIRBY'S LECTURE.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 7403, 6 March 1903, Page 2

MR J. H. KIRBY'S LECTURE.

There was only a moderate attendance at the lecture-recital, given by Mr J. H. Kirby, in St. Mnttliew's Schoolroom, last evening. The lecturer gave a brief, but highly interesting and instructive history of the drama, the lecture being couched in language that not only delighted the audience, but betokened exhaustive study and high culture, as well as intellectual ability. In showing the difference between graphic and dramatic writings, Mr Kirby recited "The Battle of Ivry," and a piece from " The Merchant of Venice " as illustrative of tho two respectively. Elocutionary ability and training were here very noticeable. After dealing with the development of the drama up to the present day, its morality, and the utility of the stage, the lecturer proceeded to give an outline of the tragedy of Hamlet, reciting many parts with splendid effect.

At the conclusion, Mr W. H. Jackson, who acted as chairman, in moving a hearty vote of thanks to Mr Kirby, remarked that they had had an intellectual trei't, and heard a lecture that was delivered in a scholarly manner. Mr Kirby, in acknowledging _the vote of tlnnks, stated that he hoped, at some future date, to give another lecture on the same subject.