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Cappicade, 1940

In spite of all predictions to the contrary, Extrav. 1940 Will be held. The casting meeting was held last Thursday, and rehearsals are now in full swing, There will be two shows, a Prologue by John Carrad, and a big two-hour show by Ronald L.Meek. Extrav. will be as unpolitical and impartial as ever.

The big show is entitled "Centennial Scandals" or, "1840 and All That". It is a departure from the usual run of Meek's shows in that it deals with domestic rather than international politics. It also relies more on burlesque and farce than any very deep plot. It describes the Past, Present, and Future of Aotoheroa, the Land of the Long White Shroud.

The Past tells of the discovery and colonization of Aotoheroa, the crowning point of which was the signing of the Maoris' sheet-anchor, the great and wise Treaty of Maitangi. In addition to the usual beauteous bevies and magnificent spectacles, it is understood that there will be a pair of Moas in attendance.

The Present is a political skit tracing down to their economic causes the trials and tribulations of one Cinderella, who is threatened with destruction by two former soap-box orators, Messrs. Razor and Bobadolf. Another interesting character is Mr. Free, who has a disconcerting and vulgar habit of blowing kisses as he waves you good-bye.

The Future is a far-off, mystical, and dialectical romance concerning the great and wise Wizard that Woz. The identity of this wonderful man is very secret, and also, rather surprising.

The characters of "Centennial Scandals", whose resemblance to any person living is purely coincidental, include Dr. J.C. Weovilbole, Herr Hitlop (the "Democratic" Fascist) 3-in-one Cakefield, Captain Rook, Messrs. Barnyard and Lost, Fred and Maggie Somebody, and other sturdy Empire Builders.

The producer will be Ralph Hogg, who made such an excellent job of the "Vikings" last year.

Not many statistics are available concerning John Carrad's piece, but his work is so well known that a snappy, tuneful skit is assured. The lyrics are worthy successors to such hits as "Treasure Trove" and "South Pacific Seas".

The Opera House has been booked for the nights of Saturday, 27th April, Monday 29th April, Tuesday 30th April, and Wednesday 1st May. It will be easily seen that time is terribly short, and a successful and profitable Extrav. will be assured only by the co-operation of all students. If you don't want a part, help is required by the Wardrobe Mistress Kate Ross and the Props. Michael Mitchell. So if you can thread a needle or drive a nail - be in and shut up!

Here's to a Successful Extravaganza, 1940!

P.A.M.