The Rushden Argus, Friday 5^th May 1893, transcribed by Kay Collins

MAY FESTIVAL AT RUSHDEN

This concert, which took place on Tuesday and Wednesday last in the Public Hall, has now become recognised as one of the many treats which the Rushdenites have but once a year, and as the month of May came in people began to look forward to the celebration of its birth by Mr. J. E. Smith's pupils. It was therefore no surprise to observe that a good audience had assembled to witness the efforts of the young artistes, who went through their performance in a manner characteristic alike for its freshness and brightness, so that it corresponded in a striking manner with the joyous season of which they sang. The platform was prettily decorated throughout, the front being ornamented with baskets of flowers, and at either side were magnificent palms lent by Mrs. Currie, while Mr. Seckington also sent several plants. Round the galleries huge bunches of ivy were placed, the dark green foliage being relieved with red and white paper flowers, and here and there the effect was considerably enlivened with pieces of bright coloured bunting. In the left hand corner of the platform a garden seat, placed in a bower of evergreens, for the accommodation of the May Queen, formed a beautiful rustic scene. The may-pole, with its many coloured ribbons, was thoroughly in keeping with all the memories of its ancient namesake, while the paper chains hanging pendant from many parts of the platform stood out from the darker background in bold relief. During the evening the youthful performers appeared in various character songs, greatly delighting the audience by the way in which they each sustained their parts.