The Dramatic Society broke much new ground this year. To begin with, it chose a piece both modern and musical. Secondly, it presented the play on an indoor stage, and finally, there were two performances given, instead of the one of previous years. The popularity of the production - and especially of the numerous catchy songs - was obvious to any person visiting the school with an ear to hear with. The success of the production depended mainly on three people, Mr R. Rowland, the producer; N. Lamb, who played The Common Man; and B. Bass, the Narrator. The enormous problem of casting and dressing this play, abbreviated though it was, was very well solved by the producer and his helpers. In addition, the handling of these large numbers on a very small stage was admirable, whilst the off-stage discipline was very good - no whisperings, shufflings or disconcerting bangs. To the two main players - N. Lamb and B. Bass - only praise can be offered. Lamb, especially on the first night, was excellent, combining humour with a touch of pathos which was unexpected from so young a boy. Bass, although a little inclined to rush some of his narration, caught well the sophisticated air essential to his part. A few scenes and characters stand out from the rest of the production - Ashdown, Moughton and Simmonds as St. Patrick, St. Pancras and St. Ives; Bauer as the Judge in the Columbus scene; and D. Stevens as the Sergeant in the Henry V scene. But the general level of acting was quite good, and the prompter can rarely have had an easier job. In conclusion - how is this production likely to affect then future of the Dramatic Society? In the first place it has been proved that a play can be produced in the Gymnasium, although flies and proper curtains are essential for complete smoothness of production. Secondly, we obviously have n the school a comic actor of considerable potential ability - it would be a pity if his talents were wasted. Finally, a large number of boys, especially in the Junior and Middle school, have had the smell of greasepaint in their nostrils. The competition for parts in future productions should be most keen. R.T.C.
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