All those who attended the annual party of the Rushden Branch of the Y.H.L. in the Co-operative Hall, Rushden, last month remember with pleasure the performance of the fairy operetta “Cinderella,” by Mr. J. E. Smith’s concert party. On Saturday last, the operetta was given in a capital manner in the Public Hall by about 27 performers—in the afternoon for children and at night for adults.

“Cinderella” is a good foundation for youthful acting, and in the tone of the whole of Saturday’s performance one could perceive careful training and well-picked talent. The entertainment was, in fact, one of Mr. Smith’s greatest successes, if not the greatest.

Excellent Acting

From first to last the operetta went with a swing, and the audience both afternoon and evening showed keen appreciation of the efforts of the performers. The part of “Cinderella” was taken by Miss Evelyn Sayers, whose singing and acting were greatly admired. Miss Sayers throughout sustained her part with considerable historic ability. Miss Maud Roberts and Miss Florence Whitworth depicted Cinderella’s elder sisters in a really artistic manner. Mr. William Ginns, one of our best known humorists, represented the Baron, and he acted his role with plenty of welcome fun. As the Baroness, Miss Kate Maddock did exceedingly well. Miss Lily Ette was the Herald, and, in a sudden emergency, she also sustained the character of the Fairy, carrying out very ably the two parts which fell to her.

To Master Bert Bailey was allotted the part of the Prince, Miss Marjory Howe was the Page, and the Bellman and Trumpeter were Masters Edward and C. Wills, each of them contributing their full share to the success of the piece.

After the operetta a programme of

Miscellaneous Items

was rendered. Miss Inga Miller gave a pianoforte sole, “Songs of Autumn,” Misses Winnie Cooper and Olive Lord contributed a duet, “Going to the Fair.” Mr. William Ginns sang a comic song. A pianoforte duet was played by Miss Muriel Barker and Mr. J. E. Smith. A vocal duet by Miss Frances Sayers and Master Willie Longland was admired. “The Highland Fling” was danced by Misses Frances Sayers and Lily Ette, and several choruses were presented by the following:- Dolly Walker, Nellie Pearson, Eva Payne, Amy Britten, Elsie Elsdon, Winnie Cooper, Dorothy Wedgebridge, Gladys Smith, Olive Lord, May Seckington, Lily Hustwaite, Beatrice Willmott, and Frances Sayers. As was the case with the operetta, the miscellaneous programme was greatly enjoyed, and Mr. J. E. Smith is to be congratulated as well as his artistes.