SUCCESS IN SYDNEY

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21200, 24 August 1940, Page 13 (Supplement)

SUCCESS IN SYDNEY

HAMILTONIANS DO WELL WINNERS OF CHAMPIONSHIPS The success of Hamiltonians in Sydney of recent years has been very gratifying. A few years ago Ruth Scott won the aria contest, thus starting a professional career in Australia that proved very successful. Then she married and returned to Auckland, while her husband, Lieutenant Blacklaws is “doing his bit” with the Navy. Last year Betty Welch won the elocution championship and radio test, and since has done a lot of broadcasting and stage work. She is now appearing in “ Charley’s Aunt ” at the Minerva Theatre. Jessie Shaw won the contralto championship at the same time, and secured good professional engagements In consequence. Won Baritone Championship Now word comes that Keith Priscott has won the baritone championship at the present Eisteddfod. He is also securing engagements, and is taking a course of study at the Conservator ium. A letter received from Mr Priscott this week mentions that he and Jessie Shaw sang at the Lyceum Theatre and got a good leception. He also sang at a recital at the Conservatorium and another at the Sydney Training College. Mr Roland Foster, of the Conservatorium staff, is very encouraging regarding his voice, and said it should develop into a baritone similar to that of Harold Williams, who has been giving concerts in Australia lately. Mr Priscott enthuses over the delights of the Russian Ballet, having just seen “ Francesco di Rimini,” “ Coppelia,” and “ Pavane.” He also mentions having seen Betty Welch, the Hamilton girl, in “ Charley’s Aunt,” at the Minerva Theatre. “She was very good, and looked magnifloent,” he says.