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THE BEGGAR'S OPERA |
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The critics acclaimed this production as courageously ambitious for such a small and inexperienced company, and congratulated them on the success it undoubtedly achieved. For the first time mention was made of "Reginald Curtis and his Chamber Orchestra of twelve" and with the addition of a few more accomplished members, this greatly enhanced the status of the Society. |
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Mac was originally cast as "Mr Peachum" but shortly before the show he had to drop out, and it was here that Herbert Robinson (Robby) made his debut, as did also Robert Halls (Bob), both of whom have since proved to be of great asset to the Society not only for the character parts they played but also for the arduous work they have put in on many occasions on the administrative side. Time was short, and within a fortnight Robby had word-perfected his part, but already the costumes had been ordered and it was now too late to change them. Mac's vital statistics being a little higher than those of Robby, something had to be done about it; either he did a rapid course of expanding his torso or the costumes would have to be pleated round him. But on the night of the first performance the wardrobe mistress (Violet Davies) presented him with what at first appeared to be a gaily coloured life-jacket, but which proved to be several cushions joined together with lengths of tape which, when suitably draped about his form, added the necessary bulk to fill out the costumes. As the show took place early in January it also served as a wonderful body-protector which was greatly missed when changing into ordinary clothes for the chilly journey home. |
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It was in this show too, that Robby swallowed the drink intended to revive his fainting wife (Elizabeth Moate) and found it so nauseating that he still suspects it was some foul medicine. Of the few dancers who took part in these three shows, Geraldine Hearson (Gerry) is the only one remaining, and many people will agree that for her indeed time has hastened slowly, for she still possesses outstanding charm and grace in the ballet. |
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In the difficult and unglamorous role of the Beggar, Dennis Parker gave a very clever performance, imaginative and moving in every gesture of his mis-shapen body. This Opera contains several good musical numbers which were so well rendered that they left the audience wishing for more. |
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DORIS SEAMAN |
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