“Jupiter Laughs” was performed on Thursday 26, Friday 27, and Saturday 28 Aug, 1954, at the Theatre Royal.
| Preliminary announcement in the newspaper: Townsville Daily Bulletin Wednesday 25 Aug 1954 GOSSIP The Townsville Theatrical Society is staging 'Jupiter Laughs' — a three-act play by A. J. Cronin— for a three night season which opens on Thursday at the Theatre Royal with Ted Smythe producing and Rita B. Jell directing. The theme of the play centres round a private hospital which is owned by Dr. Bragg (Ross Smith). Among his assistants are Dr. Drewett (Carl Schuchard), Dr. Venner (Bob Mahaffy) and Dr. Thorogood (Brian Wanchap). Matron Leemlng is played by a newcomer to the society— Miss Ann McNamara. Another staff member is Dr. Mary Murray and this role is taken by Mary Summerfield. Thelma Bourke appears as the wife of Dr. Bragg and Mattie Mercer takes the part of a patient's husband. Jennie, the maid, is played by Auriol Raddon. Mr. Bob Kippin, who is new to the society will participate as 'Albert Chivers.' As the cast comprises some of the society's most popular players the stage presentation should be worth seeing, and rank as one of the most successful entertainments of Amateur Week. |
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| Townsville Theatrical Society ‘Jupiter Laughs, Theatre Royal Thurs 26, Fri 27, Sat 28 June 1954 Cast Dr Bragg…………………………………………………Ross Smith Dr Drewett…………………………………………….Carl Schuchard Dr Venner………………………………………………Bob Mahaffey Dr Thorogood…………………………………………Brian Wanchap Matron Leeming…………………………………….Ann McNamara Dr Mary Murray……………………………………..Mary Summerfield Dr Bragg’s wife……………………………………….Thelma Bourke Patient’s Husband………………………………….Mattie Mercer Jenny (the Maid)……………………………………Auriol Raddon Albert Chivers…………………………………………Bob Kippin Producer…………………………………………………..Ted Smyth Director…………………………….........................Rita Jell Stage Manager………………………………………….E. J. Jell Assistant Stage Manager…………………………..K. Armit Stage Assistants…………………………………………Phillipa Wilson, Beryl Stabler, Thelma Bourke Electrical and Radio Effects………………………..Alan Stephenson, Russell Kefford Scenery………………………………………………………David Glendenning Wardrobe Mistress…………………………………….Pat Snell Orchestra……………………………………………………(Mrs Summerfield’s) |
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 Jupiter Laughs review Townsville Daily Bulletin Fri 27 Aug 1954 |
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| The article above reads: 'Jupiter Laughs' Success Mary Summerfield's polished artistry, a fine, well balanced performance by Bob Mahafley, excellent characterisation by Cart Schuchard, able production by Ted Smythe, and capable direction by Rita B. Jell, were the highlights of the successful opening performance of A. J. Cronin’s 'Jupiter Laughs,' at the Theatre Royal, Townsville, before a large crowd, on Thursday night. The Townsville Theatrical Society is to be commended on its wise choice of a play, for it would rank among the finest seen in Townsville during the past 12 months. In order of appearance, the cast of characters were: Carl Schuchard, who showed admirable maturity of insight, and made good use of his stance and gestures in his character portrayal, although he must watch that early-in-the-play tendency to speak down. Brian Wanchap, who, after a slightly nervous start, soon settled down to finish with a good performance. BoB Mahaffey, the male star of the play, varied the pace of his voice admirably, and showed commendable sensitivity towards the character he had to portray. A slight tendency to overact was the only fault needing correction in a grand performance. Ross Smith, in a difficult part, used his voice excellently and made effective use of gestures and mannerisms. Mary Summerfield, the feminine lead, gave a restrained and poised interpretation of her part, infused light and shade into her speech, and displayed fine artistry. Anne McNamara showed commendable insight into a difficult role, and showed admirable control in emotional scenes. Auriel Raddon handled the small part she had to play, in a competent manner. Bob Kippen livened up the play when he was on the stage but must watch tendencies of over-acting and exaggerated laughter. Thelma Bourke was vivid, complete and interesting. At times, she made the utmost value of significant phrases, while she used her gestures to good effect. Mattie Mercer's characterisation was excellent, and she vividly imagined herself in the character she was chosen to portray. Ted Smythe was an able producer, while Rita B. Jell added to her deserved reputation as a skilled director. Mrs. J. Summerfield's orchestra added to the enjoyment of the evening's entertainment. The man behind-the-scenes credit for this successful play go to E. J. Jell, for his stage management and stage direction; Mrs. Orme Snell, for properties; David Glendenning, for scenery, and the wardrobe mistress, Pat Snell. This interesting play can be recommended on its next two Performances, to-night and to-morrow night. |
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