THE PROGRAMME,

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXVI, Issue 25, 27 October 1898, Page 15

THE PROGRAMME,

which is attractive to the last degree, is made up chiefly of terpsi?£r Or , ea ; n f xerci f s of a v ery pleasing nature. It opens with a Melody from the waves,' the effect of which is greatly enhanced by Miss R. Blaney, whose rich voice lent a charm to the rhythmical movements of the performers and made this feature of the programme really, as described, the ' poetry of motion. 1 A very enfovable dance brillante followed, exeouted by 24 gentlemen and 24 lads Next came a 'Pyramid of fans,' by 100 ladies. This was a particularly fine spectacular display. The minuet, 'I/Alliance' which followed, was, as described in the programme, a 'study of grace,' and was greeted with rounds of applause. The "-rand Triumphal March which concluded the first part of the bill was a masterpiece of spectacular display. The bewildering gyrations of the performers, combined with the rich blending of the colours of their costumes made a delightful spectacle. A vessel, .'rawn by a pair of very fine gray horses and containing three ladies in allegorical attitude and drapery, which brought up the rear of the procession, made a splendid picture. The second part opened with a waltz movement by .50 little girls. The final grouping of the little performers in this was very taking. _ After that the two little Misses Bland danced a gavotte with quite a professional verve and ' go.' This was followed by a polka executed in a playful and engaging manner by a number of little girls. Then the Misses Bland again appeared, this time in a skipping-rope dance, which was received by the audience with long and well-merited applause. A «alop brought the second part of the programme to a close.

Signor Borzoni, who has designed all these marches and dances and who has coached the performers, is to be congratulated on the highly creditable manner in which the various items were gone through. The energetic secretary, Mr. Marlow, is also deserving of a word of special praise for the manner in which he carries out his most arduous duties. As far as indications go the Nautical Festival ought to be a big success. The committee have certainly left nothing undone to deserve it.