1962 The Teahouse Of The

THE TEAHOUSE OF THE AUGUST MOON

"Teahouse of the August Moon", presented in March as our second Dramam Festival engry proved to be on of the most appealing productions yet presented by Gladstone School. "Everything about this play was completely charming" said the adjudicator. Audiences agreed.

Visually the play was beautiful. Applause greeted every new stage-set from Col. Purdy's clothesline to the bundle-laden jeep, the ruined Tobiki village and the exquisite Teahouse - which with its tinkling bells, panels of pink blossoms, delicate arrangements of chrysanthemums, white paper lanterns and stately moss-covered stone garden lamps, was an artistic masterpiece. Subtle and colorful lighting added the final touches of glamor and the stage was set. Mr. Ross and the Art 31 class can be justly proud.

Within the framework of these sets the actors worked hard and well. The results were extremely rewarding.

Particular note should be made of the authenticity of music, dance and speech. Much of this can be attributed to the good work of Molly Hattori who drilled the cast in all Japanese lines so effectively that people who knew the language could understand every work spoken. Molly also trained the Geisha dancers and leaned the full Japanese tea ceremony for her own role as "Lotus Blossom". Her work was completely charming.

Again, Mr. Smaltz arranged special music and again the contribution made by him and the orchestra was outstanding.

Little more need be said. All who saw "Teahouse" or who worked with it in any capacity will long remember its humors and delights.

CAST MEMBERS

Miss Higa Jiga - Merelyn Milsted
Mr. Oshira - Pat Brown
Captain Fisley - Tom Mullan
Col. Purdy - Bruce McLean
Mr. Omura - Dennis Collins
Lotus Blossom - Molly Hattori: BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS
Sakini - Earl Scott: BEST ACTOR