The Dorset County Express and Agricultural Gazette.
Dorchester, Dorset, England, 1866-05-01 00:00:00

STURILINSTER NEWTON.

AYSTSUR DIUMUTIC Socisrv.—The members of
this society, whose excellent performances during the
winter months have gained for them a large share of
public patronage and support, very kindly gave two
entertainmeota last week on behalf of the bereaved
family of the late Mr. Ciesewright. On both con-
sloes (Tuesday and Thureday evening) the Assembly•
room at the Grown Hotel, ass filled, especially on
the atter, slimn the crowded room on • warm night
was the only drawback esjperienoed. We are glad
to find that this talented hale company ie so well
supported by the gentry of the district, among whom
we may mention Sir K B. Baker, Bart., J. Hussey,
Esq., M. Williams, Esq., 11.8, Bower, Esq., H. S.
Yeatman, Esq' . Captain Littlehales, B. R. Harvey,
Esq. H. C. Daahwood, req., S. W. Long, Esq., W.
W. bonnop, Esq., to., hat it ought to be remem-
bered that no amoant of patronage, however distil).
gnished. would ensure success were talent wanting,
and it redounds greatly to the credit of this amateur
oompany that through • somewhat long season they
have maintained their prestige, and that the closing,
equally with the opening sotertaininents, travedrawn
crowded houses. The room was very comfortably
fitted up, a stage being erected at the farther sod
with all the usual paraphernalia or side and drop
ic.nes, the proscenium beings very good representa-
tion of Siurminster bridge and the surrounding
scenery, painted by Mr. Norman, who haa acted as
stage manager with eousiderable ability. The per-
formances commenced with an original domestic
drama, entitled "The Momentous Question." his,
MarehaUsay faithfully poortrayed the impetuous and
desperate character of Robert Shelly (a young
poacher in love with Rachel llymaad) whilst the
crafty smooth, tongued keepers, by whose artifice
Shelley is entrapped, was admirable taken by Mr.
J. C. Lea&. Mr. Robinson, as "Onion Jack," as
he styled himself, called forth roars of laughter, and
was loudly cheered The other characters in the
piece were taken by Messrs. Pate, Harrell, R. Rake,
sod K Short. The after-piece, a so-called
"Screaming" farce, entitled, "Family Jars," was
capitally placed on the boards. Mr. Chemsnan, as
"Porcelain," maker • Bret-clam old men, and acted
his part to perfection; whilst the self-opinionated
Delph, (an old servant in the (amily,) was so weU
taken by Ms. W. H. Clough sate almost induce •
wish that parts in plays, like songs, could be encored.
Nor moat we forget to mention the spirited acting of
Mr. J. B. Sherriog as "Liddy Larsen." and his no
lees pleasing imitation of the Irish brim.. Mews.
Horrell as "Benedict," Taylor as " Thyme'," and
E. Short as " Emily," also played their parts well
Between the two pietas Mr. Long of Stalbradge
&insured the company by singing • medley called
"The Gorilla," and wee loudly applauded, as was also
Mr. Trite, who sang "The happiest fellow out."
At the conclusion of the performances the manager
returned thanks on behalf of the company, and stated
, that the proceeds of the Tuesday's entertainment
were highly satisfactory, and he bad stogy reason to
hops that it would be the case that night. He
trusted, if all went on well, to have the pleasure of
meeting them again next seism which would com-
mence in October. Mr. King's band, assisted by
Messrs. Roes and Wearopp, were in attendance, and
gave every minim:Sim