ROTORUA.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XXX, Issue III, 17 January 1903, Page 186

ROTORUA.

Dear Bee, One evening last week the sanatorium grounds presented a more than usually attractive appearance, to the eyes of visitors and residents alike. Not only were the gardens lighted by the strong arc lights, but innumerable Chinese lanterns glowed here, there and everywnere, and the band rotunda, wnich was, as usual, brilliantly lighted on this occasion, was used as a stage. A very good OPEN-AIR CONCERT had been arranged by members of the concert committee, to add to the memorial fund, in honour of Trooper Wylie, who, single-handed, so bravely captured a gun in the South African war, and afterwards lost his life in a skirmish with the Boers. The concert was held under the patronage of Sir Joseph Ward. The rotunda was encircled on one side by rows and rows of garden seats, and even then many people had to stand. Upon the arrival of Sir Joseph Ward and party the concert was proceeded with, Dr. Wohlmann (ehairman) first introducing Sir Joseph, who in a few well-chosen remarks explained the object of the concert. The vocalists who kindly contributed to the evening's entertainment, were: Mrs. Peace, Mrs. Geddes, Miss Gallagher, Miss Collier, Miss Malfroy, Sir Joseph Ward, Mr. John Prouse, Mr. Baxendell, Mr. Dennison, Mr. Morgan and Mr. Parker. Miss Empson kindly acted as accompanist. Needless to state, Mr. John Prouse’s splendidly rendered songs were greatly appreciated, he having to respond to encores after each song. Towards the conclusion of the programme Sir Joseph Ward gave a humorous “snake” story. “God Save the King” ended a most enjoyable concert, after which Dr. Wohlmann, in a short speech, thanked one and all who had helped with the programme, and called for cheers for Mrs. Crowther for the use of her piano. The takings at the gates resulted in the sum of £9 14/ —rather a small sum considering the size of the audience and the object of the concert; still a very welcome addition to the memorial fund. The Rotorua Band rendered very well several items before and after the concert. Sir Joseph Ward and family thor-

oughly enjoyed their visit to Rotorua, and <he community hopes to see them

here again next year.

HINEMOA.