“THE BIRTH OF THE EMPIRE.”

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2428, 17 February 1909, Page 5

“THE BIRTH OF THE EMPIRE.”

BENEFIT TO SIGNOR BORZONI

After the medium attendance for two or three nights past- at “The Birth or the Empire, ’’ it was gratifying to see the Garrison Hal] well filled last evening, more especially as the performance was a benefit one to Signor Borzoni, the composer and director o» the display. The performance- was quite up to the high artistic standard set oil previous evenings, and each item earned the well-merited appreciation of the spectators, several of the turns having to be 'repeated. A great deal of amusement was caused by the appearance of •‘The Blushing Maidens, ’ seven handsomely-attired “ladies,” whom Signor Borzoni introduced as his favorite pupils brought specially from Sydney lor the performance. They danced a species of cake-walk in boisterous fashion, and the audience was so delighted with the turn that it was emphatically redemauded. During the evening Captain Beere, on behalf of the Entertainment Conn mitteo of the Garrison Hall, took the opportunity of thanking the performers for the splendid manner in which they had given their valuable assistance in aid of a 'worthy cause. He also especially thanked Signor Borzoni, who ihad done wonderful work in the . short space of time at his disposal. The committee were highly pleased with the display, and Signor Borzoni had earned their gratitude. He called for three cheers for the director, which were lustily given. On advancing to reply, Signor Borzoni met with an enthusiastic reception. He had, he said, to thank all present for their patronage, which he accepted as a high compliment- to himself. He had been extremely pleased with the work of the preformers, which, for the short- time they were under tuition, was highly satisfactory. He expressed his appreciation of their services in flattering terms, and said he hoped to meet them in Gisborne at some future date. He particularly thanked the City Band, which, under the able conduetorsliip of Mr. Lawrence, had supplied a high class of pleasing music. He also spoke of his indebtedness to the Press, and he eoneluded with expressions of goodwill and thanks to all concerned. This evening'a final performance will be given, in aid of the funds- of the Gisborne Hospital. This will be the last opportunity of 'witnessing the display, and all who have'hot so far seen the brilliant marches, the charming and piquant dances, the gorgeous scenes, and beautiful tableaux should make a point of being present tonight. The City Band, which should be practising for the Hastings, contest, lias, at- great inconvenience, promised to again provide the brass music, and Mr. Harold Piper will again give bis services as pianist. Popular prices will be charged, and the Garrison Hall should be crowded out.