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SMAD. An Organ of Student Opinion. 1935. Volume 6. Number 9.

Bright Procession Opens Capping Celebrations. — Faults Yet to be Remedied

Bright Procession Opens Capping Celebrations.

Faults Yet to be Remedied.

Thousands lined the streets at noon on Thursday of Capping week, when the Procession made its way through the city; and to the great majority, judging from the comments heard on all sides, the Procession was not only up to standard, but well above it.

Headed by a band, of which at least three musicians could play in tune (easily a record) and featuring a very benign "King" and a most hearty "Queen," followed by some very beefy "Beefeaters," the twenty lorry loads of stunts and gags were well introduced. There is nothing like a good start to any show, and the 1935 Procession had one.

Especially amusing amongst the many topical burlesques were "The Wives of a Bungle Lancer" and "Evangeline Polling Booth" and her merry helpers, not, of course, forgetting the worthy "King's Representative." So many stunts tickled our sense of humour that it would only be boring and perhaps injudicious repetition to mention them here.

Two Faults.

Two major faults alone we noticed. The signs on the lorries would be far more effective if painted on thick cardboard by a qualified signwriter; and also the procession should move more slowly through the streets. Many stunts lost their effectiveness owing to the speed at which the procession moved along Lambton Quay. It is realised, however, that this second trouble may not be able to be rectified, owing to traffic problems in the city.

The Speeches.

The scene in the Post Office Square rivalled those halcyon days just following the war. Thousands were packed into that open space to hear the remarks of the speakers, who were introduced to the crowd by a very earnest "Mayor." Again this year the speeches were good, and for the most part audible. It would be really hard to single out any one of them as the most entertaining.

Suffice it to say that "Her Majesty's intimate stories on varied topics, the "Governor-General's" impressions of New Zealand, "Miss Booth's" stirring cry to steer straight, and "His Majesty's reflections on our politicians were equally amusing. And what is more, the public apparently thought so, too, judging by the laughter which greeted each sally.

Troubles of Organisation.

As usual, the Procession this year was produced under the greatest difficulties. In the first place, the motor-lorries which were used had to be hired for the show, and did not arrive at 'Varsity until one hour before the procession was due to start.

That such a good display could have been prepared in one hour speaks volumes for those willing workers, several of whom could not even go into the Procession owing to the worry and trouble of organisation. It is a pity that more outside support cannot be gained.

One thing, however, is certain. The 1935 Capping Procession will certainly enhance the interest that will be taken when the next motley cavalcade burlesques its way along the streets once again next May.

Thank You!

The Committee of the Haeremai Club has asked us to mention specially the Rifle Club, Dramatic Club, Anti-war Club, and Law Faculty Club for the stunts they arranged, and to thank them and all others who gave up their time to assist in the preparations. The idea of each club taking on a stunt was good, and it is hoped that more clubs will follow suit next year.