Napier

New Zealand Tablet, 4 July 1918, Page 31

Napier

Writing under dale June 24 a correspondent states: Some weeks ago the'members of J. C. Williamson's Royal Comic Opera Company, at the request of the Napier Orphans' Club, gave a sacred concert in aid of the Red Jersey Fund, which was a great success. The club, through its enterprising secretary (Mr. R. A. Keenan) got in touch with the firm's Dick Whittington Pantomime Company last week,, and the members of the company gladly volunteered to assist the club again for any meritorious purpose. On this occaison, on the motion of two non-Catholic gentlemen of the club committee, it was unanimously resolved to organise the conceit in aid of the Catholic Chaplains' Field Service Fund. The City Council granted the use of the Municipal Theatre for the occasion, and at once a deputation from the Ministers' Association called upon the Mayor (Mr. H. Hill) and asked him to withdraw the permission for the use of the theatre. His Worship firmly declined to do so. He said that he himself always attended church on Sunday night, and he must say that when he attended a sacred concert subsequently he felt better after the concert than he did when he went in. The concert was held last night, and a packed audience was in attendance, notwithstanding that denunciatory sermons were preached at. local churches night and morning. A splendid programme was provided. At the conclusion of the concert Mr. B." J. Dolan (Chief Orphan) said: Ladies and gentlemen, fellow-sinners (laughter), I have" been asked by the Orphans' Club to thank the performers for this splendid concert. After a strenuous week's work they have gladly consecrated their Sunday evening to the service of the boys at the front (applause). His Worship the Mayor and members of the City Council have also to bo thanked for the firm stand they have taken about letting the treatre. This great audience forms the most emphatic protest against the criticism that has been levelled against the function. It is also proof of the broadminded and undiscriminating patriotism of the citizens of Napier, (applause).