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Salient. Victoria University of Wellington Students' Newspaper. Volume 31 Number 15, July 9, 1968

Concerts — Varied entertainment at International Concert

Concerts

Varied entertainment at International Concert

The second term concert of the VUW Folk Club, held on May 30 in the Memorial Theatre, proved to be a great success. The Club decided to feature talent solely from the Vic. Club, whereas previous concerts have relied on better-known and distinguished performers. However, the Club's decision did not appear to lower the usual high standards of its concerts—in fact, the standard was the highest yet.

Many people were surprised to see such talent within the Club. The show was compered by Steve Robinson, the President, who also opened the concert. The idea of one number by as many performers as possible (about 20) provided the appreciative and enthusiastic audience with a good variety of folk music.

The stage set—a white fishnet centred by a pillar, was simple but effective. Atmosphere was enhanced by creative spontaneous lighting directed by Bill Turner.

Highlights of the show included Steve Robinson and Mitch Park, a fine instrumental solo by Steve, items from Don Milne, Colleen Bain and Frank Sillay, Richard Doctors, who held the audience throughout a well-presented performance, the melodious duo, Tony Thurston and Ian Antony ami what was regarded by many as the hit of the show, the powerful combination of Graeme Nesbitt and Kris Klocek.

The Club will hold another concert on September 12, which will Feature more Vic talent and a special surprise celebrity. If this last concert was anything to judge by, September 12 should prove a highly entertaining evening.

Keith Todd and Brian Berry swing their version of "Abilene".

Keith Todd and Brian Berry swing their version of "Abilene".

The strong points of the International Concert this year were dancing and costuming. A spontaneous solo on a Laotian instrument of bamboo pipes, followed later in the programme by the performance of two Indian students on drums and sitah were outstanding features received with enthusiasm.

Of the round-the-world folk-singing, the duo who sang a French version of Peter, Paul and Mary's "If I Were Free" and "That's what you get for loving me" deserve special mention for their good singing, professional guitar-work and smooth French. Other groups and soloists varied widely in their confidence and standard of presentation.

Friday night's audience was good-sized and sympathetic, if a little too easily amused at the "forgetfulness" of one or two dancers in the group items. But these slips ware too slight to detract from the overall impression of the dancing, which was expressive, graceful and well-rehearsed.

The original compere Yee Seng Long was replaced at the last minute by Peter Beilby, president of the Club. Like other sudden replacements in this type of situation, Peter was more apologetic than necessary, for his compering was very competent although his reluctance was apparent.