KEARSNEY COLLEGE CHRONICLE July 1966
Kearsney College Chronicle Vol.6 No.3 July, 1966 EDITORIAL It was saddening to read in a recent Magazine Editorial of one of England's majorPublic Schools that they had decided to discon tinue the Magazine after 100 years oflife. Reason given — apathy. Apathy of contributors, apathy of readers, and indeed, as the Editors were feeling livery, apathy throughout the School about everything, we hope the threat was not carried out. A school needs a Magazine. In the case of another Public School it was stated that only one per cent ofits Old Boys took its Magazine. It leaves one wondering. Apathy is a lethal affair, and in the modern world tempo there isn't much place for it. One needs to be actively for a thing or actively against it. Within a school nothing can destroy the quality ofits contribution to living quite as effectively as an overdose of pupils whojust can't be bothered about anything. Fortunately we seem to be fairly free from this malaise. No-one will deny that when things are done at Kearsney they are done well, or as well as material and enthusiasm permit. On the whole,looking over the years, there has not been much shoddiness here, even though shortage of talent may have prevented our winning all our matches! Nor are we worried about the Magazine. Granted that getting blood out of a stone is child's play compared with getting copy out of contributors in time — but it seems to arrive in the end, and if the Magazine is late only the Editor and the Printer are blamed. Then when the finished product is distributed it appears to be well read and approved. Readers sometimes wonder why we do not include literary gems. The fact is — there is no room. The Magazine is costly enough already and has to be heavily subsidised. Those wishing to taste our literary talent must read one or other of the various publications produced internally, well worth reading. The Chronicle, we fear, must remain a chronicle of events, and in truth there's no shortage ofthem I 131
SCHOOL NOTES The year opened with 470 boys, of whom 430 were boarders. We congratulate: Mr.J. M.Harper,on returning from England with his F.R.C.O., one of the only three in South Africa. Rev. A. R. Jennings, on obtaining his B.A.(Hons. Div.), at Natal University. Messrs. D. Bovey and G. Currin on obtaining their Education Diplomas. Rev. A.R.Jennings,our Chaplain, has been awarded a Scholar ship by the World Council of Churches, and will be proceeding in August, with wife and family, to Chicago Theological Seminary. We shall sorely miss him, both as Chaplain and Athlete, but we wish him a happy year in the States. In the absenceof Rev. Jennings, we are looking forward to having Rev. Howard Young with us for a while. We welcome on to the staff this year: Mr. K. Balcomb and Mr. L. Zaayman. The former is really no stranger, having been Head Prefect and Cricket Captain back in 1931. He comes from Zambia where he has been a Director of Education for many years. He brings the Old Boy representation on to the Staffto five(Messrs. Hopkins,Crawford,Metcalf,Reece and Balcomb). We also welcome Mrs. Jeffreys as the new Matron of Gillingham, and Mrs. Boswell as assistant Art teacher. We regret to report the illness of Mr.G.de la Rey Nel,who was struck down with a coronary thrombosis during the Easter holidays and had to be rushed to the Entabeni Nursing Home. Recovery from this is a long process and he was out of action for all the second term. No more sport and a quiet life henceforth. We are glad to say that he has recovered satisfactorily. Mr. R. Quarmby(past music master) has found a ready sale for his book Our Southern Sky. This book, costing R4, is the first 'popular' book on the astronomy of the Southern Hemisphere, is very well illustrated, and written in such a style that any layman can understand and enjoy it. NAPAC presented an evening of ballet in the Henderson Hall on February 12th. This took the form of a lecture-demonstration, meant to break down the natural antipathy towards this sort of thing to be expected in a boys' school. In this, the company was entirely successful, and a most enjoyable evening was experienced, with items both serious and light. We hope they will come again. 132
Old Boys of the School spent Sunday, March 6th(a school free week-end)at the School, with wives and families, enjoying a picnic. Although not a great number turned up,the swimming bath,tennis court and good fellowship helped towards a very successful experi ment. Mr. Harper has embarked on his musical programme with enthusiasm, not the least achievement being the formation ofa Staff Choir (with wives) totalling nearly 25. A large number of items have been prepared, including Beethoven's Hallelujah Chorus, and the Easter Hymn from Cavalleria Rusticana. We enjoyed a visit by Major-General F. Graham, c.b., c.b.e., D.S.O., former Commander of the 51st Highland Division and member of the Queen's Personal Bodyguard, Scotland. He gave the school a diverting account of experiences while serving away out in the East. Mr.J. W.Storm has been appointed Secretary to the Organising Committee which is making arrangements for the South African Swimming Championships in Durban next year. Hotel bookings, train bookings, administrative details beyond number — all are left in his hands. Mr. K. Fish spent the first term of this year at Bedford School, England,teaching geography; but he was also able to travel a good deal throughout England and later on the Continent. An article by him appears elsewhere. We offer our congratulations to: P. Allen,Head Prefect,on being one ofthe only 76 in the country to achieve 70 per cent in the nation-wide Maths Olympiad. He thus moved into Round Two. T.Allen,for his splendid performance in the title role ofMacbeth. S.Campbell,on being selected as full-back for the Natal Schools' Rugby XV. W.T.Rake,in coming second in the Natal Shooting Champion ships. Messrs. African Consolidated Films lent us, free, the operators' equipment for three weeks, with which to conduct intensive reading tests for Forms I, II and III. At last, after 26 years at Botha's Hill, we are now connected up with the Regional Water Supply. We are assured ofan ample supply, in the worst of droughts, of water which no longer needs heavy chlorinating and does not deposit a film of sand in one's bath. We may even drink it for pleasure! 133
Mr.Jack Hulett,Old Boy,has given tJie School all the machinery from his personal workshop at Kearsney, Natal Coast. This is mainly for woodwork, and we are hoping soon to get it properly housed. {Mr.G.M.Oram submitted thefollowing item andinsistedon its being printed. — Editor.) Mr. J. F. Reece flew to England at the end of the second term to spend the July holiday there visiting his relations and friends. No doubt hewould find a mere four weeks all too short for the purpose, and we give him our best wishes for a very happy time and full enjoyment from every hard-pressed minute. It is seventeen years since he was last overseas so this visit will have meant much to him. Chapel Notes are unavoidably omitted from this Magazine owing to the Chaplain's heavy commitments and preparations for his visit to America. But we cannot let the opportunity pass without saying how much we appreciated the visit of the President of Conference, Rev. W.W.Hartley, who addressed the School at morning prayers on April 1st, and spoke reminiscently of the fact that he was one of the party of young men detailed to lay out the present school grounds and building sites back in 1938. He could hardly help constrasting the stark nakedness of the hill-top in those days with the beautiful and well-established grounds of today. We thank other Schools,both here and overseas,for their School Magazines, and wish that overseas schools especially would learn to spell 'Kearsney' correctly. The address is: Botha's Hill, Natal, South Africa. SCHOOL POPULATION DETAILS Domicile: Natal 339, Transvaal 82, Orange Free State 5, Cape 17, East Griqualand 4, Protectorates 7, Rhodesia 2, Zambia 11 and others 3. Denominations: Methodists 186, Anglicans 178, Presbyterians 36, Jews 32 and others 38. Sons ofMethodist Ministers: 9 Sons ofOld Boys: 28 134
PHILIP HIND MEMORIAL Further evidence of the high regard in which the late Philip Hind was held lies in the fact that Beachwood Boys' High School, Durban, have named their third House in his honour. At a morning ceremony on June 3rd, Mrs. Dilys Hind formally presented a photo of her late husband, to hang in the new Hind House.Our Headmaster was the special guest for the day,and gave the official Third Anniversary Address. We share in the honour done to ourselves and pray that the pupils of Beachwood will endeavour to live up to the high ideals displayed by Philip Hind himself. Our own School has also been presented, by an anonymous Old Boy, with a very lineportrait of Philip, and this now hangs challengingly in our Library. O si sic omnes! ERNEST ASHBY With the death early this year of Ernest Ashby, we have lost one ofthe most likeable youngsters in the school. Coming to us as a little boy in 1960 he was a natural choice for the little chimney sweep in the school operetta. Lets Make an Opera. As Sam he was delightful. Being well built and quick on his feet he took prominent parts in athletics and rugby. He won a Double in 1961, under 13 75 yards and 220 yards and featured in the Long Jumps and Sprints for the rest of his career. On the rugby field he was one ofthe most thrustful wings we have had. He loved his sport and gave it all he had. His cheerfulness in defeat was matched by his joy in victory and this we saw later at home when he was obviously in pain but unwilling to let it get him down. He was courteous in the House, conscientious in his work, and this determination not to give in endeared him to the staffand boys alike. We shall not have many of his calibre. To those at home we offer our sincere sympathies,but we rejoice with them in the memory ofa fine son and friend. 135
APPOINTMENTS SchoolPrefects: P. R. L. Allen (J)(Head), D. F. Clark (F), R. Johnston (G), J. Leveson(P). House Prefects; Finningley: S.Campbell,D.Cole,N.Hagemann,G.Jollands, G.Rice. Gillingham: O. Alberts, I. Robertson, J. Woodhouse. Pembroke: T. Clarence, D. Levin, D. Morgan, C. Sawyer, D.Sommerville. Junior: T. Allen, A. Batchelor, R. Dyer, R. Kluge, J. Salm. Cricket CaptainD: . Morgan. Rugby Captain: D.Clark. Swimming Captain: G.P. Jollands. Athletics Captain: W.D.Sommerville. Cross Country Captain: G. Rice. Hockey Captain: D. Morgan. Prime Minister: J. D.Silbermann. Drum Major: W.D.Sommerville. Day-Boy Monitor: D.F. Reece. Projectionists: P. R.L. Allen,D.F. Reece, with R.Benney,H.C. A.C. Best,D.P. Robinson. EXAMINATION RESULTS, 1965 SENIOR CERTIFICATE. MATRIC EXEMPTION (Distinctions,80%,in parenthesis) MeritPass: 'B' aggregate (70%+): W. A. A. Maguire (Afrikaans, Physical Science, Latin). 'C aggregate(60%+): I. L.Burt,A.R.Crewe(English), M. Farrer, J. K. Goulding, K. H. Mee, G. W. Milne, D. J. H. Muir, S. B. V. Stewart (Physical Science). Pass: R. M.Atherstone, G.R. Batchelor, M.H.Beveridge, H. M. Bloch,C. M.Clegg,K.D.Cradock,P.J. Keegan,C.G.Lee, L. A. McKee, M. G. Murphy, A. W. W.Paterson, G. G. Roach,R.G.Kent. SENIOR CERTIFICATE,(Advanced Level) B.T.Baird,P.J. Bath, M.F.Currie, T.H.W.Dowse,A. A. Hipkin,T. M.Holaway,R.G.Kent,P. A.Kirkwood, J. M. Leveson, N. W. Monks, R. L. Myburgh, J. H. Myerson, M. R. Nichols, J. F. Payn, G. A. Polovin, T. F. Rawlins, B.E.Rumble,G.C.Sink,W.D.Sommerville, M.E. Martin. 136
SENIOR CERTIFICATE (Ordinary Level) M.L. Burton, M.V. C. A. Cardiga, B. W.Challenor, A.R. Delport, M. J. Hipkin, J. P. Field, N.B.Leibbrandt, M. J. Rnott,R.J. Roberts,R.F.Tayler,G.E.Tomlinson,P.G.L. Scott, M.H.Summers,B.O. Goldman. There were four failures. JUNIOR CERTIFICATE (Number of distinctions,80%,in parenthesis) MeritPass andProvincial Bursary: I.B.Bickerton(4),C.T.Burt(3),D.C.Coleman(1),K.A.R. Harris (3), N. F. E. Leitch (5), I. O. Mackintosh (3), T. C. Makinson (4), H. M. McGibbon (3), N. B. Meyerowitz (2), D. W. Paterson (2), C. Phaff (2), T. N. Rivett-Carnac (1), T.B.Sommerville(3),D.W.Stevens(1),R.M.Wallace-Tarry W.J. Wills(1), The number ofProvincial Bursaries(16)and Distinctions(46) were both School records. MeritPass: P. D. Brett, S. J. Chappie, G. W. Collard, C. G. Holding, H. T. Howieson, P. G. M. Hugo, P. G. B. Irons, R. Kirkpatrick, B.S. Meth,B.D.R. Milstead,S.C.E. Murless, P.W.Roll,J. C.Smith,G.W.Theunissen,R.L.Hemphill(1), G. W. Hook (1), E. Loubser (2), M. G. W. McAlister (1), D. A. Peddie (2), The total number of First Classes(35)is a School record. Pass(Advanced level); D. M. Abelson, M. R. Airey, M. I. Allnatt, A. G. Ashe, S. M. Atlas, J. G. Baikie, J. V. Balcomb, B. C. Bannister, J. G. Bester, M. L. Bunt (Mclean), G. L. Campbell, C.A. Carr, C. J. Cawood, J. B. Clapham, J. S. Davidson, R. T. de Sa Pessoa, A.G.Dryburgh,P. J. W.Earl, R. J. Elderton, T.F.Feinauer,S.D.Ferguson,D.N.Fienberg,D.W.Foster, L.D.Fry,N.C.Gray-Maitland,J.R.Groom,D.J.Gudmanz, R. E. Henderson, N. E. Herholdt, E. I. Hughes, A. W. Johnson, A. A. Knox, C. L. Leibbrandt, M.H. Lister, L. J. Liversage, R. R. Manicom, A. D. Munro, M. Pampallis, S. L. Paul, B. A. Pentecost, B. C. Porter, R. L. Rimbault, D.P. Robinson, J. R. Russell, M.H.Sacks, G.B. Saunders, D. S. Scheepers, R.W.Schreuder, C. J. Smallwood,D.J. F. Tasker, O. Toombs, A. D. Turner, R. F. Whitfeld, B. G. Williams. Pass(Ordinary level); C. P. Ashby, H. M. FitzWilliam, R. J. Hardwick, B. C. G. Jackson, T. T. Lloys-Ellis, J. B. Lorge, D. C. Milbank, C.J. Mundell, K.C. Naylor, J. M.Nightingale, W.T.Rake, G. N. Reeves, D. A. C. Richards, D. S. Roberts, J. A. B, Rolt, B. M. Russell, F. E. Sheppard, K. Smeath-lTiomas, R. J. Tessel, J. N.Trefusis-Paynter, L. E. N. Wareing. There were altogether 8 failures. 137
TRIBUTE The favourite text of the truly humble man should be "I am an unprofitable servant;I have only done that which I ought". And this probably is,subconsciously,the attitude ofso many who labour to make a 'go' of things in the life of the School, from the Headmaster to the humblest scholar. Nor do they seek publicity for what they do: in fact the publicity is usually gained by the products oftheir labours, while they themselves blush unseen in the background. Yet it is as well to remind ourselves that success can be achieved only the hard way. There may be those who think that one has merely to snap the fingers, and behold, Macbeth and Ruddigore are on the stage, with self-made stage props; that sporting and shooting teams just appear from nowhere, with no-one tirelessly coaching them; that the Band is born fully trained; that Speech work comesjust naturally;even that examination success is a matter of genius rather than hard work. If there are any who think along these lines, let us disabuse them. Only those who live close to the heart of things can really appreciate just how much sweat and tears is devoted to the search for perfection. Macbeth began last September; Ruddigore,not yet staged, began in February; sports coaching goes on ceaselessly. The School is a real hive of activity, and those who work hardest so often receive the least acclamation. That is why tribute is paid here. Tribute to those of the Stalf who never cease to give of their best for the boys and the School, and seek no reward save the success of their efforts. MACBETH Ask any producer of a schoolboy production of Macbeth (or any major play) whether he would tackle the play again and he is sure to say "Never! once is enough." His reaction, one assumes, would be because ofthe play's difficulties:the problem ofportraying adult passions and evil through youthful bodies and voices; the difficulty of getting young actors to project themselves into mature situations, situations which tax the best adult actors; and the problem of producing the play in such a way that it is meaningful to a wide audience. These, however, are not the difficulties which really test his patience,for they are the challenges which he welcomes, otherwise he would not attempt to produce Shakespeare. No, it is not the difficulty of producing schoolboys, because they usually manage their exacting tasks very well,and often with more enthusiasm than 138
adults; it is the problem oftime — the fitting in ofrehearsals when there are so many other activities taking place in a school. For a production to succeed with schoolboys there must be continuity of action, a unity of purpose. One is not surprised to learn that the producer saw his whole cast together for the first time on the first night! (Imagine the feelings of a rugby coach if his side became complete only when it took the field for its first match.)A producer must have time for polishing the weak spots in his production. Unfortunately, our school system (I mean the system generally throughout the country) doesn't make enou^ room for dramatics and so a most valuable educating influence is not exploited to the full; nor can producers completely meet the challenges set by the plays. In considering the recent Kearsney production of Macbeth, against the problems outlined above, one must congratulate the producer and his cast on a successful production. — One might quibble with the interpretation, but few could be critical of the general impact of the play. Movement, grouping, gesture, diction, lifting, costume, set, were allvery well managed. What a mag nificent stage the School has and how well it was used. The banquet scene was extremely well done, and here T. Allen was at his best showing the inward terror and weakness of a man struggling to face the inevitable consequences of his evil, caught in a trap ofhis own making and seeking the coward's way out,severing himselffrom human nature. Here Allen,although this appears to be a contradiction,seems to gain in stature, a stature that was lacking at the start of the play when he did not appear 'big' enough to carry off his evil. Mrs.Harper,as Lady Macbeth,gave a powerful performance in the scene where she reads Macbeth's letter about his meeting with the witches, a performance that was frighteningly convincing as she forced herselfinto evil. Her sleep-walking scene was also well acted and was beautifully contrasted with her earlier character. J. Salm as Banquo played his part a little too impassively to be altogether convincing,especially as heis,to a greatextent,Macbeth's foil; a little more li^t and shade would have made his role a more vital one. The news of Macduff's murder was taken too calmly, and this did not help a scene that was a trifle wooden.The drunken Porter was not drunk enough nor coarse enough to suit the ground lings, although he was porter to the world of reality adequately enough to usherin reliefafter the tense horrors ofthe previousscene. But these are trifling criticisms, when the whole play is considered, which are balanced by the pleasure given by some of the smaller parts — Fleance and the first murderer,for example. Finally, one was impressed by the atmosphere of confidence of the whole production, including the stage management. I. B.G. 139
the PRODUCER'S VIEWPOINT It is to be expected that the producer of a Shakespearian play will be criticised for his interpretation; the plays are such complex creations that it is unlikely that any two people will agree on all points. The producer is, unfortunately, not present at the post mortems and is so unable to defend his interpretation. Iam therefore taking this opportunity to discuss some ofthe matters which were raised after the recent production of Macbeth. I shall begin by discussing two comparatively minor points and then deal with a more important issue.It has been said that the initial stages ofthe banquet scene lacked conviviality. This was the intention of the producer and not a result oflethargic actors.Somereaders take the banquetto bea scene ofroistering joviality; this, it is argued, provides a suitably strong contrast to the description which follows the appearance of the ghost. This view is a misjudgement of the scene. By the time of the banquet the Scots lordaslready know that Macbeth murdered Duncan: Banquo has left us in no doubt that he believes Macbeth play dst most foully" for the crown,and Macdulf,as Macbeth later tells Lady Macbeth, has indicated that he will not attend the feast. Immediately after the discove^ of his father's murder Donalbain says,"the near in blood,the nearer bloody." I do not suggest that the atmosphere be funeral, but the somewhat dampened spirits of the guests are in contrast to Macbeth's efforts to liven up the party. The tension created by such a situation is a better preparation for the appearance of Banquo's ghost than noisy revelling. The second point that I shall deal with is what one member of the audience called (approvingly!) the melancholy porter. Audiences have come to expect that the porter in Macbeth be a belly-slapping, hilarious clown who supplies comic relief after the tension of the murder sequence. This is a view that I rejwt most emphatically and so I tried to avoid any laughter at all in the scene, omitting the usual sniffs and belches. In the actual words spoken by the porter there is very little that is 'funny'; the modern actor has to rely upon his antics to STCure the laughs that ruin the scene. The porter ironically announces himself as the Porter of Hell Gate. The Elizabethan audiences would not miss this allusmn to the Mystery plays and would know that what is to follow is, if at all, not for mirth only. Lady Macbeth's prayer that the castle be palled in the dunn^t smoke of Hell has been answered. But the scene serves to show not (^y that Hell is the state now present in Inverness and Macbeth's heart but,also that fhe play has universal significances. This is not merely the tragedy of but the clash of good and evil, the souls of the protagonist and his wife being the immediate battlefield. A detailed examination ofthe scene would show the si^ificance of all the porter's remarks (significances difficult for a modem audience to follow),and that there is a gathering together ofthe strands of imagery which are woven through the play. The lines that come the nearest to overt humour (the ones frequently cut) do, in fact, deal with an important theme,the contrast between desire and action. It is therefore essential that we see the scene as a withdrawalfrom the action to timeless comment rather than insensitive comic relief; and throu^out, the reality ofthe outside world knocks,seeking to be admitted. At no stage must the audience forget that, a few yards away,a king lies "lac'd with his golden blood". It was to this end that the red-curtained exit to Duncan's room remained lit. The porter s ignorance of the "deed that's done" serves to emphasise the horror not dissipate it in hilarity. Tfie &al ppint with which I shall deal is most important, though a full examination of it lies beyond the scope ofa short note such as this. It concerns the character of Macbeth at the beginning of the play. Academic theory of the nature oftragedy has led audiences to expect a towering Macbeth who later topples. This expectation is further strengthened by the reports of Macbeth's 140
military prowess brought by the bleeding sergeant and Ross, and Duncan s approval of the 'valiant cousin'.I suspect, however, that those speeches are not to be taken on their face value, but serve to emphasise the theme of deceptive appearances. At what stage, in the opening scenes, does Macteth exhibit anything like the stature that he is reported to have? His first line is an echo of the witch's confusion of good and evil; he is still, however, able to distinguish between them;"So foul and fair a day I have not seen." But he is in imminent danger of losing sight of this distinction. A few minutes later, after he has been told that he is to succeed the traitorous Thane of Cawdor, he confesses that his seated heart knocks at his ribs against the use of nature and his "single state of men" isshaken when he recalls the old desire to murder Duncan and gain control of the kingdom.The view that sees the play as a study in fear has more than a grain of truth. In the next scene in which Macbeth appews, Malcolm is proclaimed heir to the throne.Immediately after Duncan has said,"My worthy Cawdor1", Macbeth calls for darkness to hide his "black and deep desires." At the end ofthis scene we are in a better position to see why Macbeth does not measure up to the man we have been led to expect. On his return to Inverness he tests his wife("To-morrow as he purposes."), but recoils("We will speak further".) when he sees her determination. At no time do we actually see the'noble Macbeth'; the soldiers were deceived by his swashbuckling exploits and Duncan by his smooth tongue. Some critics have pointed out that it is not necessary that the protagonist be a pre-eminently good and just man at the beginning ofthe play.It is an over simplification to claim that Macbeth is a'good man'who falls, or,forthat matter, is a 'bad man'who struggles to be good. He is a man with potential for good and evil. Macbeth does not realise his potential for good, although we see traces of it throughout the play, perhaps, ironically, most clearly at the time of his greatest sin. It was Macbeth, not his wife, as is commonly supposed, who first thought of murdering Duncan.She taunts him with the fact that it was he whofirst broke this enterprise to her — presumably before the play began, because "nor time nor place did then adhere." It is perhaps a valid supposition that Macbeth would not have killed Duncan had his wife not chastised him with the valour of her tongue,but it was he who conceived the idea. Wecannot hold her entirely responsible for Macbeth's corruption; she is merely the spur that pricks the side of his evil intent. Once he has gained that which he esteemed the ornament of life, he is seen to be too small for the position — his evil deeds apart. "Now does hefeel his title Hang loose about him, like a gaint's robe Upon a dwarfish thief," Hamlet "was likely, had he been put on. To have prov'd most royally," but Macbeth never. The Macbeth,into whose heartthe soliloquies give usa glimpse,is so different from the patriot, "valour's minion" and "worthy gentleman" of the second scene that we must conclude that the playwright intended us to notice the diff erence between the Macbeth of hearsay and the Macbeth we actually see on the stage. The end of the play recalls the "brave Macbeth" of the second scene. "But here again he fights irrationally, not with the fortitude of the man con trolling his passion by reason, but rather with the courage of the animal that fights without reason when there is no choice but to fight for its life. Shakespeare could not say more clearly that this apparent courage is that of the beast and not of the man." 141
"They have tiedme to a stake; I cannot fly, But, bear-like, I must fight the course." The above discussion is clearly a brief outline and not an exhaustive investi gation of this complex problem. As there is more than one valid reading of a great symphony, so there is more than one valid interpretation of a Shakes pearian play. It is hoped that these remarks will serve to present some of the reasons behind the production recently seen on the Kearsney stage. D.LEWIS-WILLIAMS (fVe have broken tradition by including this lengthy Producer's Viewpoint—partly in the hope that it will give some inspiration to those who are studying theplay as a set workl Editor.) CAST Duncan,King of Scotland M.Hittler Malcolm,Duncan's Elder Son P. Allen Donalbain,Duncan's Younger Son D.Stevens Macbeth,a General of the King's army T. Allen Banquo,a General of the King's army J. Salm Macduff M.Booth Lennox M.Venables Ross N.Leitch MENTEtTH R.Williams Angus M.Sanger Caithness . . D.Kinloch Fleance,Son to Banquo D.Osbome SiwARD, General ofthe English forces . . , . . . M.Hittler Yoeing Siward, his Son D.Stevens Seyton,an Officer attending Macbeth J. Stamp Boy,Son to Macduff P. Scully A Doctor P.Hugo A Captain P.Hugo A Porter D.Levin An Old Man P.Hugo Three Murderers H.Hugo,J. Bloch,N.Hagemann Messenger D.Tomlinson Lady Macbeth . . . Irene Harper Lady Macduff Fay Balcomb Gentlewoman,attending on Lady Macbeth J. Barrow Three Witches T.Sommerville,P. Scully, K.Ashe Lords,Soldiers and Attendants . . A.Batchelor, J. Bloch, M.Bratt, P.Brett,T.Davies,N.Hagemann,H.Hugo,J.Jackson,A.Mason, G.Pearson,H.Schmidt,B. Walsh oOo Producer: Mr.D.Lewis-Williams Stage Director: Mr.P. Metcalf Stage Manager: Mr.P. Reece Lifting: Mr.R.Whiteford Stage Assistants: R. Tessel, C. Holding, A. Johnson, G. Hook, S. Murless ■ and R. Hemphill Lighting Assistants; D.Reece and R.Benney Properties: Mr.R.C.Best,assisted by Miss J.Reece,Mr.J. de Beer,R.Hearder and R.Wade Make-up: Mr. and Mrs, R. Rutherford-Smith, assisted by Mr. S. Ridge, K.Clark, T. Martin, A.Salm,I. Duncum,R. Hearder and R. Lloyd. 142
r ¥ 3iU ■H!*. m m 1 i a scene from Macbeth. (Photo taken, unfortunately, at a rehearsal, without make-up.) photos b\ j. hewson
r* S'-'T-ip* m I M, z» •> m A scenefrom Macbeth {Photo taken, unfortunately, make-up.) at a rehearsal 'Without PHOTOS BY J. HEWSON
Sound Effects: H. Best, J. Martindale and I. Gilbertson Drumming; Directed by Mr. J. Harper, T. Lloys-Ellis, J. Silbermann and A.Grant Wardrobe: Mesdames P. Metcalf and G.Burger Prompters: M.Griffiths and A. Walker Front ofHouse: Mr.and Mrs.P. Metcalf oOo The Dramatic Society wishes to record its gratitude to all who have assisted with thisproduction. In particular, thanks are due to the NatalSchools'Theatre Organ isation which supplied most ofthe costumes. PARLIAMENT It IS rather disheartening, when so many are keen to participate in and benefitfrom this Society, to find the meetings — only once a fortnight, in any case — havintgo be cancelled, through the exigencies of the School Calendar. In the second term only two meetings could be held;the rest were squeezed out by thefree week end,^ Macbeth, and the Republic Day Celebrations. In the forth coming term two Fridays will be taken over by Ruddigore and a visiting lecturer. We hardly seem to have got going. Speeches have been many in number, but, until the last debate, on Bantustans, indifferent in quality, and there are still too many speakers who imagine that a speech can be prepared as they walk across to the Hall. When will budding politicians get to grips with the fact that a decent speech may take hours of preparation and practice? For the most part we are treated to little more than a political essay,read verbatim. However,there has been no lack ofenthusiasm,rather too much heckling (to heckle is so much easier than to prepare a speech), a pleasing willingness on the part ofthe Cross Benchers to add their quota, and sorne sensible arguments here and there, delivered in some casestooimpassively and in some cases too incoherently. It all adds up to a picture of Parliament as it functions in Cape Town. Perhaps we could run the country just as well! A very plesant evening was spent at St. Mary's School on June Ilth. D. Levin, N. Leitch and J. Stamp proposed the Motion that "One glorious crowded hour oflife is worth an age withouta name", and this wasopposed by Fenella Robbins,Marjorie Selley and Susan Anderson, wearing terrifying spectacles and graduate gowns. The ultimate voting reflected a tie, which pleased everybody! At a lighthearted 'balloon' debate afterwards, P. Hugo(as the Head Girl of 143
St. Mary's), D. Stevens (as Juliet Jones), and J. Silbermann (as Annette van Zyl), and three St. Mary's girls (as the Head Boy of Kearsney, Ringo Starr, and Piet van der Merwe) presented urgent claims on their own behalfs but, alas, all were thrown out except for Juliet Jones, when D. Stevens put up a most persuasive and hilarious case. Kearsney Head Boy gained one vote (he happened to be present,and voted enthusiastically for himself),and St. Mary's Head Girl none(she was in the kitchen seeing to the tea). J. F. R. MUSIC NOTES CHAPEL CHOIR The choir this year contains some sixty members, and work began early in the first term when the choir were privileged to be asked to provide musicfor the installation ofthe new vice-chancellor and principalofthe UniversityofNatal.Time wasshortand practice went at a rapid pace for the occasion and the choir acquitted them selves well under awkward circumstances. It was indeed an honour for them, and an event they will long remember. Anthems have been performed regularly, and the singing has been of a good standard. The third quarter will sec the start made on music for the carol service. OPERATIC SOCIETY Work is progressing well on this year's production, which, as most people will know is to be Gilbert and Sullivan's little known Ruddigore. It will take place in the School Hall on August 18th to 20th, and we are pleased to have the co-operation of Kloof High School for providing the members ofthe girls' chorus. STAFF CHOIR The existence of a Staff Choir will no doubt come as a surprise to many,including, no doubt, a fair proportion of the School! But it numbers about 25 members of Staff and Staff wives, and rehearses enthusiastically every week. At the time of writing we are intending to perform Beethoven's Hallelujah Chorus at the end of the second term in partnership with the Chapel Choir — the first of many such partnerships it is to be hoped. With this in mind, many plans are being made for later this year and forthcoming years. 144
ORGAN RECITALS Organ recitals are being given every fortnight in the School Chapel before the Saturday evening films — and visitors are as welcome to attend as are the boys. This term the central piece of each recital has been a Handel Organ Concerto, with many modern organ works included. Next term the emphasis is to be on popular, large scale organ works. J. M.H. PIANO AND SONG RECITAL Mr. and MRS. J. Harper, with Mrs. E. Whiteford, gave an inter esting evening of music on March I2th. Mr.Harper preceeded each item with a brief commentary,so adding to the understanding and appreciation. The duet work by Mr.Harperand Mrs.Whiteford was welldrilled and provided strong contrastin style, while Mrs.Harper had lost none of her voice in the colder climate of England. As usual, Mr. Lewis-Williams' little spot of prestitidigitation brought delighted response from young and old alike. A little too long, perhaps,for boys who had spent all the day in the cricket field against Hilton. PROGRAMME PIANO DUETS Slavonic Dance No.8 .A. Dvorak Norwegian Dance No.2 E. Grieg Hungarian Dance No.2 J. Brahms SONGS Heffle Cuckoo Fair Martin Shaw Loveliest of Trees George Butterworth Weathers Michael Head DOLLY Suite for Piano Duet Gabriel Faur6 Lullaby Mi-A-Ou The Garden Spanish Dance Interlude of Magic Mr.D.Lewis-Williams SONGS . with Clarinet and Piano English Folk Song D'Ye Ken John Peel (Arr.: J. M.Harper) Wiengen lied Louis Spohr Afrikaans Volksliedjie Die Afrikaans Pop (Arr.: J. M.Harper) MA MERE L'OYE(Suite for Piano Duet) . . . . Maurice Ravel The Enchanted Forest Hop O'My Thumb The Empress of The Pagodas Beauty And The Beast The Fairy Garden Accompanist: Mrs.T. Reece 145
NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY This year has been seen the successful publication of the first Journal of the Society. Articles and notes were prepared by boys on a variety of their own observations and experiences. Two visiting speakers addressed the Society. Dr.E. P.Saggerson of the University of Natal Geology Department spoke on African hominid fossils to a fascinated audience.The Archaeological Society joined us for the evening. More recently, the Hon. Mr. Justice Fannin addressed the Society on the Natal Game Reserves,alecture so interesting and well-presented thatfew will forget the evening for a long time to come. Diccon Robinson gave a talk on his participation in the Wilder ness Leadership Course held during the Easter holidays in Zululand Game Reserves.Manyboyshave becomeinterested in the Wilderness School and two more will be attending a course during July.Instruc tion in ecology, water and soil conservation, plant and animal identification and their relations with one another,is given them by game wardens and conservationists. This guidance is then supple mented by practical training while on Wilderness Trials through the Umfolozi and St. Lucia Game Reserves. Although the concept of Wilderness Training is certainly not a new one, we support wholeheartedly the opportunity given to schoolboys ofattending these courses here in Natal. P. J. R. ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY The major project undertaken in the first term by members of the Society was the mapping of the site at Tongaat. A number of expeditions were made to the site and the work was done with a simple theodolite. The final drawing ofthe map is now being done. During one ofthe visits to the site C. Holdingfound a mostunusual point made from clear quartz. Because it is unique it is difficult to assign it to a culture, but it is probably from the Later Stone Age. Members have been privileged to hear the following well-known speakers; Mr. Gordon Cramb, Dr. E. Saggerson, Professor I. Gordon and Dr. C. H. Schoute-Vanneck. Mr. Cramb spoke on South African Prehistory in general and made special reference to a cave which he has spent some years excavating. A series of most interesting casts of the skulls of early Man were used by Dr. Saggerson to illustrate his address on the part South Africa has 146
played in the unravelling ofthe problems surrounding the evolution ofMan.Prof.^Gordon outlined the history ofMasada and described the Roman siege and final suicide of the defenders. Dr. SchouteVanneck spoke on the archaeology ofthe Natal Coast and described some ofthe research he has done. The second number ofthe ArchaeologicalJournal was published. We were privileged to include a foreward by Mr. B. D. Malan, Secretary of the Historical Monuments' Commission. The Journal also included a preliminary report of the Society's work at Umhlanga. l W. Vlth FORM LITERARY SOCIETY The Literary Society was formed with the object of stimu lating discussion.Its two meetings so far have succeeded in achieving that end. In the first term, Mr. J. A.Berthoud ofthe University of Natal addressed us on "Aspects of Tragedy". He is still being quoted. However, this does not mean that all he said has been accepted uncritically: members have made a real attempt to assess his ideas in terms oftheir own reading,and have not been afraid to state their own opinions quite uncompromisingly. Mr.E.R.Jenkins, now a Temporary Lecturer in the University, has done some interesting reading in the poetry of war. He gave the Society an excellent introduction to the subject, showing how traditions ofpoetry have changed with man's attitude to war.It was particularly valuable in that we were introduced to the work of so many poets in a really meaningful context, and so were provoked to further discussion. An interesting programme is being prepared for the second half: we hope to have talks by prominent authors on their craft, and by specialists in other fields of study on the significance of their dis ciplines to literature. S. G.M.R. MOTOR CLUB Club membership received a welcome boost at the beginning ofthe year. Work was soon proceeding apace on the major project for the year — the complete restoration of Mr. Mossom's elderly M.G. to original condition with the emphasis, as usual, on work manship ofa high standard. With this end in view a powerful electric drill and associated accessories were purchased, all of which have proved to be most useful additions to the Club's ever-growing range of equipment. Pressure of numerous conflicting activities during the second quarter has resulted in slower progress having been made than was 147
originally hoped. However,when the long and laborious process of replacing the woodwork in the structure of the car's body is corncomplete, more tangible and rapid progress should prove possible. With an eye to the future when the Club hopes to possess its own vintage car, several leads regarding the acquisition of a thorough bred pre-war vehicle have been followed up but, as yet, with limited success. R. W. EXPLORATION SOCIETY There have been two expeditions this half: both Wilderness Trails in the Zululand Reserves. Mr. Ridge's party took the soft option of the two and spent three days boating on Lake St. Lucia and exploring the uncharted hinterland in true South African style. Ranger Jerry Stavros was the ideal guide, and made even the failure ofthe launch's engine in mid-lake, and its refusal to run for the rest of the trip, extremely exciting. Albeit the party returned somewhat sceptical of Mr. Ridge's culinary abilities, it was convinced of the value of game preservation measures, and excited by what it had seen. Mr. P. Reece may not like the coolness of mountain streams (see last issue) but he has re-established himselfin the esteem ofthe Society by the fortitude which he displayed in leading a party offive boys into the 100,000 acres ofthe Umfolozi Wilderness.The veterans now speak nostalgically of cantankerous rhinos, voracious jackals, and of having to wade through the Umfolozi several times a day. Their feat of endurance will be lauded at greater length in the Journal which will be published later this year. It is difficult to assess the effects ofseveral days in the wilderness on one, but it goes without question that one returns from a Trail with a revised conception of one's significance, and a lively aware ness of one's environment. In this, the Parks' Board has sufficient justification for its efforts. S. G.M.R. SHOOTING This is only the second year of shooting at the School since 1958 and yet its progress is very pleasing. There has been concentration on selection and training of teams to participate against other schools in friendly competition and also to compete against them in the Natal Command Cadet Bisleys in Durban. 148
The senior andjunior teams have been competently led by Peter Allen. He and R.Knowles,W.Rake,J. Groom and A. Martin have been the most consistent scorers. TheJuniors have not been quite so successful but much is promised for future years. Shooting on alarger scale is being organised for the cadet detach ment, but there is a very pressing need for extensions to our small shooting range. RESULTS 6th May vj. Hilton(home) Seniors: Kearsney Hilton Juniors: Kearsney Hilton 530 564 510 545 Match Lost (Martin 1(X)/100) Match Lost 7th May vj. Queensburoh(home) Seniors: Kearsney Queensburgh. Juniors: Kearsney Queensburgh. 1098 1040 1008 1097 Match Won Match Lost 16th May v5. Maritzburg College(away) Seniors: Kearsney . . . . 1710 College 1707 Juniors: Kearsney . . . . 1590 College 1674 23rd May vj. Hilton(away) Seniors: Kearsney . . . . 564 Hilton 563 Juniors: Kearsney . . . . 503 Hilton 550 25th May vs. Glenwood(away) Seniors: Kearsney . . . . 773 Glenwood 771 Juniors: Kearsney . . . . 737 Glenwood 768 (Knowles 291 /300) Match Won Match Lost Match Won Match Lost (Knowles 198/200/ Match Won Match Lost 11th June Natal Command Cadet Bisley (Athlone Range) The Senior team shot well to win the N.M.R. Shield for senior rapid fire(Rake 50, Martin 49, Allen 48, Groom 47, Knowles 47, Ashby 44) in competition against 13 other teams. The first five seniors above and Sievers and T. Smith (juniors) were selected to compete in the Natal Championships. In this contest, W.Rake was runner-up by two points to the Senior Champion with a score of2931300.(Allen 287, Martin 286). The results of the Durban and District Cadet Bisley on the 25th June will be too late for publication in this issue of the Chronicle. P. J. R. 149
BAND The band commenced hard training early in the first term. Fifteen new members had to be knocked into shape and the rust taken off the old ones in time for the parades in the second term. Unfortunately no start has been made with a junior band owing to a lack ofinstruments. Boys are still entering the competition band with too little experience, which is an unfortunate handicap. Our old rope drums have been converted to the rod tension type with a noticeable improvement in timbre. Drum-Major D. Sommerville has again shown commendable enthusiasm in the training of the band. The assistance of S/Sgt. Silbermann and the musical knowledge of Sgt. Reece have been most valuable. The band is indebted to Messrs. Inglis and Edwards for their patient tuition and to Mr. Harper who has also helped to speed up the learning ofthe new tune. In January this year the band received from Mr.R.Sommerville a silver and malacca mace bearing the Kearsney crest. There can be few maces of this quality in the country and the band is justly proud ofit. The Republic celebrations in Pietermaritzburg went off welland the band was chosen as one ofthree in Natal to play past the march ing troops. Silbermann was chosen as the leading drummer. In Durban the band took partin the march past on the occasion ofthe State President's visit. Kearsney was the only band playing the new tune,'The President'. Much favourable comment was received and our new trumpet banners are a source of envy to other schools. M.A. H.S. CRICKET: BOTHA'S HILL A fine morning. Humid,close,sticky, with high clouds and a little sun. Hot enough to make the bowlers sweat and to send the spectators under the trees. We know that in Durban there will be a clear sky and a humid 85 in the shade. But we know the symptoms. Fortunately our opponents make only 114 and are out by lunch. We know what can happen on a day like this, and it will be touch and go. Well, it happens. Hardly has our innings started than the temperature drops rapidly, and the special Saturday afternoon mist begins to float across the ground. Firstly, the far sight screen quietly disappears. Then gradually the fielders are enveloped one by one and are seen no more. As it thickens up'the batsmen and bowlers are gone from human gaze. At this stage the official scorers leave their box and take up their post somewhere near the umpires(we presume): then all is gone in a blanket of white cotton wool. Sometimes the nearest out fielder emerges wraith-like, but he has no more idea of what is going on than the 'spectators', or rather the 'audience', for we can only hear the sound of bat on ball, and judge the quality of the stroke by the firmness of the sound. We hear 150
a'come on', although we are quite sure the batsman does not know if the ball is being fielded,and thefielder does notknow where to throw the ball. Weremember a well-known Test cricketer being caught in the outfield by a fielder who suddenly discovered a ball descending upon him from nowhere — and returning to the pavilion muttering "First time I've been caught by a fielder I haven't even seen." And Denis Compton standing in the pavilion and saying "So this is sunny South Africa." Then we hear a "Howzatt?" and we believe that someone is out: who he is or what he has done we don't know until the mist has delivered its secret. We discover that the score has been mounting,so we know that someone is managing to see the ball for at least the last few yards of its flight. Suddenly we have won. There is a deathly silence; a few minutes later ghostly figures — thirteen players, two umpires, two scorers — drift into sight, pretending to have enjoyed themselves,and we find that our captain is still there. But why, we ask, why is this particular idiosyncrasy of weather reserved solely for Saturdays? It is almost entirely a Saturday Special. PONDO CONCERT This is an old memory, revived by re-reading a letter written at the time. Date: January 20th, 1933. Venue: African Church, Ludeke Mission, near Bizana. I quote: "In the evening we were invited to a concert — admission 6d,to help towards forming a tennis club.Picture the local native church,dimly lit by four suspended candles, filled with Africans, and with an atmosphere that could be cut by a knife into small cubes for soup flavouring.In this sepulchral gloom did we attend the concert, which had begun at 9.30 p.m. We arrived at 10 p.m., by which time the fog was thickening. As we arrived,the choir, without words or music(which they could not have seen, in any case) struck up:"Gad .. .ees. . .a spee--rit", the choirmaster having first given them the note by striking the tuning fork on his own head. They didn't sing too badly, though the basses producedmore harmony than euphony. Then up rose a spectator and handed 3d to the chairman, for a previous troupe to sing again. This time the organ was brought into action, though the organist's music was quite independent of anything that was being sung. Here upon two youths, immaculately dressed in evening dress, tando'd out of the darkness and sang something about Solomon and his 1,000 wives, which grad ually developed into "Eat more Fruit". Then a team of visiting cricketers was called into action, and they struck up with great gusto:"Oh,a thousand miles ah've wandered", positively rocking as they sang the lines "On the Bam-BamBamy Shore". Heaven knows if any of the audience knew what or where the Bam-Bam-Bamy Shore was. This song was greatly appreciated, and someone gave 3d for an encore. Thus do Church Funds increase. The encore turned out to be "Nebraska", though the tune was hardly recognisable. The choir then obliged with another sacred song —Iforget what.In between items the Chairman made a noise like escaping steam, to ensure silence, while we feebly waved Eau-de-Cologne about. Sometimes the Chairman spoke the native lingo,sometimes English. Next a local squad of two youths and three maidens (maidens very coy, youths very smart; one, the Headmaster's son, had just passed his Matric.) danced and hula-hula'd, and then, while still shuffling, burst into song. We listened entranced to:"Ain't...sha...swit; see...ha...coming...down tha ... strit; now I ask ya very con -- fer - - den -- shally, ain'd sha swit?" I tried to imagine whom they were visualising in this ditty: was it a smart Flapper in Bond Street, or a buxom Pondo with a bag of mealies on her head? 151
When it was over,up got a worthy and offered 3d for a repeat, as usual; then — glory be! — up rose another and offered 4d for them not to repeat. Native can dour is nothing if not candid. So up rose another and offered 6d for a repeat. At this point the exchequer ran out and we had a repeat, this time "Ukelele Baby". Tlie choir then sang a song,something about their masters having taken away their wives and cattle, and now — crowning indignity — wanting to take away their calabashes as well. As an encore they sang something about Moses and Ptiaraoh, interspersed with the words: "Oh Mary, don't a-weep, Mary don't a-moan." Well, at this stage we retired to the fresher purer air. We ultimately retired at 1 a.m., with the concert still going strong. At 3 a.m.I awoke to hear the music still drifting across, and at 5.30 a.m. I awoke to hear the audience dispersing. They sure got their money's worth. I hope they got their tennis club." J. F. R. PRO VITA JULIET JONES Mr.Chairman, May I begin by enlightening any illiterate listeners who may be suffering from a misconception as to who I, Juliet Jones,am. Will you turn, please,to the appropriate page of the Natal Mercury, and there you will find displayed an artistic and highly stimulating Cartoon Strip. There you will fine me — a lovely brunette, sloe-eyed, romantic, with an irresponsible adolescent sister who falls in and out of love with every hero she meets, and with a rather senile father. How,I ask you, would these other two manage without their Juliet? Ever since I was introduced to the discerning readers of the Natal Mercury, the Sunday Times Supplement(where,if you please,1 have a full page to myself) and to a Cape Town newspaper whose name for the moment eludes me, the sales of these newspapers have rocketed. The eager housewife cannot wait to see the next gripping episode of my sister's romances; the goggle-eyed husband literally rips off the page in his excited anticipation; children snatch the page from the Sunday Times, not to read Prince Valiant or Donald Duck, not to read the Acne advertisements — but to swallow eagerly the glorious saga of that pulsating epitome of goodness: the Heart of Juliet Jones. How, listeners all, can you allow rae to perish, while casting your votes on behalf ofRingo StarrP,iet van der Merwe,or Annette van Zyl? My gleaming hair, my simple faith, my restraining hand — these enchant the thoughts and minds of my readers. How they leap from their beds every morning,rush down stairs to the door, seize the newspaper, tear it open, to look at — me. Were I to be allowed to die (and I am sure you will vote that I live) our newspapers would lose thousands of readers, for the character of the papers would be so transformed that they would become insolvent, and so put large numbers of honest employees out of work. The citizens of Durban would rise in revolt, carrying banners: WE WANT JULIET,WE WANT JULIET. My death would leave my creator penniless, too. In saving me, please think of these others. I have no fear of my rivals in this contest. They come and go. The world goes on withoutthem.But not me.I am essential to the economy ofthe Country, the morale of its people, and the stabilisation of the newspaper industry. D.STEVENS (We are glad to report that, in this 'balloon'' debate, Juliet Jones'" life was saved by an overwhelming majority. Your Editor now turns to Juliet Jones before the Leading Article. Editor.) 152
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