“CHAMPION NORTH”
SPLENDID AMATEUR PRODUCTION PARISH PLAY-ACTORS’ EFFORT. Clever dialogue, realistic work and a pleasing revelation of dramatic ability by a talented cast, some of whom are newcomers to stage work, were features of a splendid amateur presentation produced by Mrs S. T. Ilristow and staged at All Saints hall last evening on behalf of St. Peter’s Church organ fund. The play was “Champion North,” and the splendid manner of its presentation emphasised the painstaking nature of the preparations which, happily, were rewarded with wellmerited and outstanding success. There was a good attendance, all of whom hope to see more of those who took part in the play. The scene of all the dialogue was a picturesque parlour behind the shop in Joshua North's comfortable home in a Westmorelaiid village. The sparkling comedy by Theodore W. Wilson is essentially a story of county life, with the introduction of outside elements, interests of “dog-fellows,” the fulfilment of ambitions, and the happy culmination of a light love theme running through the play. Special interest attached to the appearance on the stage of a canine “actor” in Mrs Ivan Wilson’s terrier, Fruchan. Playing the part of the homely Joshua North, whoso life’s munition was for his terrier to win a championship, and who was cited as the representative of hereditary centenariaiusm, Mr Ralph Holmes scored a great success. His work was remarkably convincing, the more so through his splendid interpretation of the county mannerism and accent. Joshua hailed everything with which' he was not conversant as tlie advent of a new era. Mr Holmes showed excellent ability. Mrs D. J. Davies had a heavier but equally assertive part as Harriet North, his “second,” and played her part with real dramatic skill. She was most impressive as tlie conscientious housewife, “a youngish body” whose duty it was to help her husband to attain his century. Miss N'orali (Jowlishaw, as the weilmeaning but rather dull-witted servant girl Sara-r-ann, leavened the dramatic side- by introducing many diverting situations which never failed to raise a laugh. Miss Ruth Skerman was charming and delightfully refreshing as Nancy hester, who was concerned very greatly witli her social status, but mixed up her love sentiments with her rocK-gurdening. Each appearance of Miss Skerman was marked with a natural candour and directness which was appealing. Described as a “racehorse in a carthorse’s sk.n” and “Providence,” Patrick, the lodger from London, provided adequate scope for the ability of Mr C. It. Mcßae, whose work created a most favourable impression. Playing opposite Miss Skerman he interpreted splendidly the whims of youthful Jove, but domed the clouded atmosphere successfully for a happy termination. Mr E. G. Spraggon took the part of Robert North, Joshua’s son, over-seized with importance at his elevation to the dignity of Mayor. Mr H. Palmer had a small comedy role as George North, a real county lad whose rustic personality served to emphasise liis brother’s pompous air of culture. Mr N. J. Ellison filled a minor role well as Jack Foster, a cricketer, and Mr G. Bagnall was effective as Dr Crabbe, the family physician. Bright incidental music was provided by Misses M. Muirhead (piano), G. McKenzie (’cello) and F. Howley (violin). Smart attire was .worn by Miss Skerman, who made her first appearance in a fawn tweed ensemble with hat to match. ' Later she wore a black and mustard cardigan suit with a black Bankok hat and then a pretty frock with cape sleeves and a well chosen liat of pink pique. „ The production reflects the greatest credit upon Mrs Bristow, who is responsible for its elaborate and faithful presentation. Nothing has been overlooked, and the whole performance is in itself a testimony to her producing ability. The play will be repeated in the parish hall this evening when a large audience is anticipated for the worthy cause for which the production is being staged.
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Manawatu Standard, Volume LIII, Issue 263, 4 October 1933, Page 3
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646“CHAMPION NORTH” Manawatu Standard, Volume LIII, Issue 263, 4 October 1933, Page 3
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