Alexandra South

New Zealand Tablet, 6 November 1913, Page 45

Alexandra South

(From an occasional correspondent.) The second annual entertainment of the pupils of -St. Gerard's Convent took place in the Town Hall on Friday, October 24, before a large and; enthusiastic audience. The pupils jmesented a long and varied programme, and to say that the high standard of last year was maintained is to pay the highest compliment to those concerned. ' The public of Alexandra have learnt to expect great things from the convent pupils, and the display of 1913 fully realised their expectations. To the parents and those more closely interested in the work of the convent, this latest success must be particularly gratifying. The Sisters of Mercy, who are to be heartily congratulated on their arduous work of preparing the programme, and at the- same time attending to the work of the school, must find compensation in the wh6le-hearted appreciation of their efforts by the public. The instrumental work of the pupils was extremely fine, and very clearly demonstrated the excellent tuition they are receiving. In the items of the youngest as well as the oldest pupils, the same characteristics— accuracy, and attention to the minutest detailswere apparent. The pianoforte work of Miss Vera Harrington attracted special attention ; and, for a child of such tender years, was worthy of the highest praise. The choruses were rendered harmoniously and with good volume. The solo work of Miss Ada Wills is worthy of note. Her items were' principally of a humorous character, and one almost regretted not hearing her in songs perhaps more worthy of her voice. The singing of Miss Noel O’Kane was one of the special treats of the evening. Her enunciation was particularly good. The dialogue work of girls and boys alike showed excellent promise, and, from the point of view of elocution, left nothing to be desired. Master William Toiiill, in particular, seemed quite at home on the stage, speaking his lines without the least restraint or self consciousness. The stage arrangements were admirable, and reflected the greatest credit on the gentlemen responsible, the whole programme being got through without the slightest hitch. The excellent work of Mrs. O’Kane, the accompanist, was to a considerable degree responsible for the success of the entertainment, and the pupils are to be congratulated on having the assistance of so accomplished a pianist.