ENTERTAINMENTS.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 3656, 17 October 1912, Page 7

ENTERTAINMENTS.

“THE GEISHA.”

The local .Operatic Society, which was started this winter, has for its object the keeping alive and active in our district the taste for music in operatic form; and for the last throe months and more the members have been enthusiastically giving their time, labor, and money in their, endeavor to provide the Gisborne music lovers and play-goers with a first-class production of some modern comic opera. 'File performing members have cheerfully sacrificed their time apd assiduously devoted themselves to studying tlie music, dancing, and stage work which is necessary for a finished performance. Thanks to the able tuition of Mr Tom Pollard and Mr M. L. Foster, a degree of excellence has been attained in the “Geisha” production which is rarely seen among amateurs; and the phenomenally., heavy booking by the public is gratefully recognised by the members, who are now straining every effort to get the most out of their parts and make the piece a huge success. The work of the peiforming members is being ably assisted by the strong orchestra, and the introductory overture is being played in a groat style. The society has spared no expense in the setting of the piece. New scenery was specially designed by Mr Pollard for the local stage, and has been built and painted by Mr T. G. Johns. The costuming is being carried out on a gorgeous scale, the Japanese costumes, flowers and decorations being specially -wooured for the production by Messrs Common, Shelton and Co. With <—c new scenery, rich costumes of the Geishas and tea-girls, the scarlet of the Japanese guards, the naval officers’ uniforms, and the smart dresses of the English ladies, the whole stage will be one blaze of color and beauty. Everything seems to point to a most successful production, and if the result justifies it the society hopes to continue as a permanent institution and revive many more favorite operas. The box-plan is now open at Millers, and to avoid disappointment intending patrons should hook without delay. The dress-circle is almost filled, "hut with the alterations on the floor the stalls will be equally as good. The floor is being sloped, and very comfortable arm seats are being installed for the production.

OPERA HOUSE, LIMITED. It has now been finally decided that the new Opera House will be opened to the public on Wednesday next, October 23' (Show Night). A mooting of directors was held yesterday, and the contractor reported that everything would be ready by the above date. It is the intention of the management to open with a picture programme, and one of the finest series yet seen in Gisborne has been procured from Australia, comprising both dramatic and scenic pictures, as well as a number of fine comics. His Worship the Mayor (Mr. William Pettie) has consented to be present and declare the building open to the public. The box plan for the first week will be open at the Opera House from Saturday next, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 1 p-m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 pan.

PATHE PICTURES. j i Entertainment of a particularly bright and pleasing character was provided at His Majesty’s 'theatre last night, when a large audience were well satisfied with the change of programme submitted. The early cove lit ores of that dashing knight of the road, Dick Turpin, furnished splendid material for the star drama. From his first mild crime, the stealing of a cow, to his more desperate escapades in company with those other worthies, Beestles. Peters, O’PheIvn, Blueskin, and Tom King, Turpin’s career was unfolded in a manner that rivetted the attention of the audience. “Counsel for the Defence is a strong emanation from the Vitagraph studios, which treats of a mysterious murder, and shows how a young wife was acquitted of the crime through the eloquent pleading of a lawyer who loved her. ‘The Love or an Island Maid” was another tally-acted drama,' with a beautiful seascape setting, in which love, hate, jealousy, and noble revenge are strongly portrayed. The comedies, “Getting the Money’’ and Alkali Ike Bests Broncho Bill,” were a good wayahead. of the average, and both called up much enthusiasm last night. A beautifully-colored trick film, “Fairy Iris,” was greatly admired, as were the fine scenic subjects, “From Sbandan to Schendan” and Rivers and Canals of Siam.” A part change of programme will be made to-night, when several new attractions will he added. Chief of these is a powerful Vitagraph drama entitled “Nemesis, which tolls how a doctor is jilted by a girl, but later in life finds her wandering, sick and homeless on the streets. He leads her to liis home, but medical skill proves unavailing to mend a broken heart. Two attractive films will be the new Pathe and Australian Gazettes, both of which are full of rare tit-bits.- All m search of an evening’s excellent amusement should make a point of seeing the programme to-night. No pictures mil he shown to-morrow evening.