ELOCUTIONARY CONTESTS

Gisborne Times, Volume XXV, Issue 2093, 30 May 1907, Page 2

ELOCUTIONARY CONTESTS

HINT - TO THE DEBATING SOCIETY.

. A correspondent, “W.,” writes as follows:

I was pleased to see, through the instrumentality of our local Debating Society, an enthusiastic, though small, elocutionary contest last Monday evening. Probably the rough night and counter attractions accounted for tho small attendance.

I am simply referring to this contest as an excuse to write on the subject of elocutionary contests in general. The value of such competitions cannot be over-estimated. Many- of our politicians who have made themselves famous through tlicir oratorical powers, owe their success to Debating Societies and Elocution Competitions.

Competitions for debating, reciting, singing, and music have been successfully tried in other parts—why not hero? I would suggest the possibility of holding such a series of competitions here, to take place during tho winter months. It could bo worked on similar lines to the competitions held at the recent Exhibition. Elocution was divided : Dramatic and humorous, each competitor being . allowed an ‘‘own choice” selection in addition to tho test- piece selected by the committee. I think such a competition, if it could bo held here, would arouse a great deal of interest and enthusiasm, and I respectfully suggest, through your columns, the idea to the Gisborne Debating Society. Sho.dd they see their way clear to do so, I am sure they will meet with hearty support from all lovers of elocution.