THE PAYNE FAMILY.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XI, Issue 51, 23 December 1893, Page 531

THE PAYNE FAMILY.

ONCE more that attractive and talented family of musicians and bell ringers—the Payne family—are touring this colony, It speaks volumes for the excellence of their entertainments that this is their third visit to New Zealand. That they are as much appreciated now as formerly, is proved by the crowded audiences which

nightly applaud their performance. Their bell-ringing is now acknowledged by the press and public to be the finest in the colonies, the music for the bells beiug spec.ally ar an »»d from the most popular airs of the day by Miss Lizzie Payne. Their season in the City Hall, Auckland, commences on Christmas night with a grand sacred concert. As sacred music is one of their special features, the programme should prove unusually attractive. The secular entertainments of this clever family will be held for a short season in the same hall, beginning on Boxing night. The Company at present consists of the following artistes: Miss Lizzie Payne (Mrs Steele), Miss Maude Payne, Mr W. G. Payne, Mr R Steele, Miss Bella Handricks, and Miss Elfie Morelia. There is, if

possible, an improvement in the repertoire of the family, and though many people cling to old songs, there are many more who thoroughlyappreciate pretty new tunes. Judging by the success hitherto achieved, there is no reason to doubt that the Payne Company will be equally successful throughout the colony.