Drama Club and "Much Ado"

"Much Ado About Nothing," by William Shakespeare is the Drama Club's 1955 major production. The play was not chosen because of the absence of copyright obligations (as is rumoured) but because it was fell that the city should see a varsity group playing a worthwhile Elizabethan comedy. The club began planning its annual major production in June of last year, and after consultation with the English Department it was decided to approach Maria Dronke with a view to her producing "Much Ado."

She was enthusiastic, and with rehearsals now in full swing the club believes that they have indeed made a happy choice of producer.

Douglas Lilburn was asked to consider the music side of the production, and he has given much useful advice. A recorder group has been busy rehearsing.

Desmond Digby of the N.Z. Players was originally designer, but he was obliged to withdraw to take up a scholarship in London. John Fyson took over the task and has proved that, although young, he is a designer of outstanding promise.

Rehearsals have been under way for the last eight weeks. Gavin Yates is playing the lead as Beredix, and Dulcie Gillespie-Needham (an experienced actress from Palmerston North) is Beatrice. Claudlo is played by John Norton, and Hero by Patricia Adams, Rosemary Love-grove and John Treadwell are taking part, while the comics include Bill Sheat, Grahame Law and Ross Gilbertson.

The club is also fortunate in having the services of Roger Harris. There is to be a shoppers' session on Friday. March 18, which is a convenient time for most students at VUC. Special school parties have been arranged.

"Much Ado About Nothing" promises to be a worthy production. Over £250 is being spent on it; a strong cast has been assembled; Maria Dronke is producing. Need we say more?