CHRISTCHURCH.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XXXIV, Issue 22, 3 June 1905, Page 49

CHRISTCHURCH.

Dear Bee,

May 24.

‘The event of the week was the concert given by the Musical Union on Tuesday night, when “Cavalleria Rusticana,” Mascagni’s fine opera, was produced with marked success. Canterbury Hall was taxed to its utmost extent. Every seat had been reserved. So great was the demand for tickets that the Society decided to repeat the concert on Thursday night, when they were again greeted by a crowded and enthusiastic house. The opening night was graced by the presence of Lord and Lady Blanket, the Hon. Kathleen Blanket, and Captain Braithwaite, who were received by Mr. and Mrs. Albert Kaye (Mr. Kaye being president of tlie Society). The soloists were Miss Amv Murphy (Dunedin), Mrs. Wilson, Miss Woodhouse, Mr. Frank Graham (formerly of 'the Carl Rosa Opera Company), and Mr. Hamilton Hodges. Dr. Bradshaw had chosen them wisely, and most admirably did they sing their respective parts. The success of this first concert in Christchurch under the leadership of Dr. Bradshaw must be most gratifying to him and to the Society, who have secured his services, for it undoubtedly was the finest and most even amateur concert that we have ever had here. The scene, too, was a brilliant one, the house being in full dress. Lady Blanket wore a lovely pale blue brocade, with Brussels taee, and diamond ornaments. The Hon. Kathleen Blanket, black chiffon over satin. Miss Murphy (soprano) looked charming in a graceful gown of cream crepe de chine. Her sweet and cultivated voice charmed all her hearers.

On Monday night a small dinner party was given at Government House to welcome the Bishop and Mrs. Julius home. Amongst the guests were Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Rhodes, Mr. and Mrs. Boyle, and Mr. and Mrs. George Gould.

Golf is in full swing at present. The monthly medal has been once more won at Shirley by Miss Noel Stead. Quite a large number* of players are competing at Hagley Park for Mrs. Stead’s prize.

A delightful afternoon tea party on a large scale was given on Thursday by Mi s. George G. Stead at Strowan. The amusements were “Pit ’ in the billiardroom. and an excellent musical performance in the drawing-room. Tea was served in the dining-room and hall.

Euchre parties still find favour, in spite of the popularity of bridge and pit. On Thursday a large party was given by Airs. AV alter Thomas as a u eleolite home to her eldest son. Or. John Thomas, who recently returned from England. On Friday night a large cuehre party was given bv Airs. J. Collins (Meritale).

DOLLY VALE.