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THE MAID OF THE MOUNTAINS (OCTOBER 1962) |
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This was essentially a show for principals, but it had nostalgic memories for some of our audience who may have seen the first production in London many years ago, or who knew some of the familiar songs. There was much less chorus work than in previous shows, and since they had been rehearsing their few numbers since “Aladdin” finished in January, keenness retarded with inevitable repetition. But on the whole it was declared to be another success, thanks to our principals who were all experienced in stage craft. |
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We had an untimely setback at the beginning of the summer when Ken had to relinquish his position as Producer; he was sadly missed and it took the Society a few weeks to recover from the blow. However, Reg offered to fill the breach, and a very busy time he had combining this with conducting the orchestra. |
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Norma Evans not only sang with artistic feeling, but her acting in the Farewell scene brought tears to many eyes, and a new partnership between Don Goodman as Crumpet and Robin Aldworth as General Malona, was especially noteworthy. It was a polished performance that testified to the many hours they spent in secret rehearsing. The Ballet Team had only one dance, intricate and made more difficult by the music which accompanied it, but they were well applauded for overcoming a tricky situation. |
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Once again Phyllis Probert played a star part with the ease and expertness we have come to associate with her, and the performance she gave with Geoff Brooker as her long-lost husband should be the fore-runner of dual roles with him. Harold Scott was again called upon to deputise (this time for John Evans) and had but a few weeks in which to learn his part. He always carries off with remarkable realism the role of stern militarism. As Lieut Rugini, the only time he betrayed a really cunning smile was when the Governor ordered him to “show the lady (Phyl) round the desert island”! |
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The men had nearly all the highlights of this show, but the four principal girls held their own and the chorus were able to reserve their energies for the next Pantomime, rehearsals for which commenced two days after the last night of “The Maid” |
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DORIS SEAMAN |