COWARD’S “HAY FEVER.”

Waikato Times, Volume 114, Issue 19124, 8 December 1933, Page 3

COWARD’S “HAY FEVER.”

HAMILTON PLAY-READING. PLUNKET SOCIETY BENEFIT. An accomplished reading of Noel Coward's light comedy in three acts, "Hay Fever,” was given by the Hamilton Little Play Club in the Winter Show Hall before a good house last evening. Proceeds were devoted to the Hamilton branch of the Plunket Society.

In "Hay Fever” the author portrays a clash of personalities in a modern English home in which the occupants possess decidedly Bohemian tendencies- Some varied characters are introduced into the eccentric Bliss household at a week-end party, and their contact with the members of this unconventional family provides material for comedy which is exploited in flic true Coward style. Though brief, the stay of the guests Is brimful of incident, the witty dialogue running through the play raising gales of laughter from the appreciative audience.

As the retired actress Judith Bliss, Miss N. Sergei had a happy role and spoke her lines well. Mr H. G. M. Norris played Hie part of David Bliss, the author, with understanding; while Miss E. Ward and the Rev. P. G. S. Sergei were, well cast, as the happy-go-lucky. unconventional Bliss children. Miss K. Mears was charming as Jackie Cory ton, the little ingenue, and the young Englishman, Sandy

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Tyrell, was convincingly brought home by Mr G. G. Ivissling. An appropriate diplomatic miasma was introduced by Mr R. B. Parker as Richard Greatham, and Clara, the maid, was done admirably by Miss E. Sinclair. Another role, that of Myra Arundel, was successfully taken by Miss 'B. Sinclair. One of the features of the play was the excellent mounting, the general stage effects proving thorough and adequate. To the producer, Miss E. Sinclair, great credit is due for a reading of particular merit. All connected with the production deserve high praise for providing a most enjoyable evening. At the conclusion of the reading Mrs A. iM. Rlsley expressed thanks to the readers on behalf of the Plunket Society. She pointed out that the executive were often apprehensive about their financial position hut they were confident that the loyalty of their many friends would continue to sec the valuable work performed by the society extended. A vote of thanks was carried by acclamation.