Transcript of Aberdare Leader Report (April 17th, 1915)
Dramatic Performances at Aberdare
At the Aberdare County School on Thursday and Friday last dramatic performances, representing Shakespere’s Henry V, in peace and war, were given by the pupils. Their efforts were greatly appreciated by crowded houses, and it may truly be said that the school has more than maintained its traditional histrionic reputation.
The entertainment was in two parts. The first part, consisting of three scenes, represented Henry as Prince of Wales, in his careless youth, consorting with the dissolute old rake, Falstaff, and his wild companions, Bardolph, Peto and Gads. The characters in this part of the play were:—Prince Henry, Ben Davies; Pons, his attendant, B.G. Runge; Falstaff, A.T. Rees; Bardolph, G. Thomas; Gads, J.H. Jordan; Peto, John M. Davies; First Traveller, C. Jenkins; Second Traveller, D. Phillips; Carrier, H. Cox; Sheriff, D.A. Phillips; Hostess, W.E. Watkins.
The second part of the play showed Henry as King, when he had put away the follies of his youth and become a brave and energetic monarch. This part also consisted of three scenes, and the characters were:—King Henry V, Ben Davies; Gloucester, H. Cox; Bedford, J.M. Davies; Exeter, B.G. Runge; Westmorland, A.T. Rees; Salisbury, C.A. Jenkins; Captain Gower, W.E. Watkins; Captain Fluellan, J.H. Jordan; Sir Thomas Erpingham, D. Phillips; Ancient Pistol, G. Thomas.
The scenes were: Part I., Scenes 1 and 3, The King’s Tavern, Eastcheap; Scene 2, The Road near Gadshill. Part II., scene 1, The Night before Agincourt; scene 2, The Morning before the Battle; scene 3, After the Battle.
Incidental music was provided by Master Harold G. Howells. Vocal solos were given by Miss Myfanwy Pritchard, accompanied by Mr. Ben Roderick. The company had been trained by Mr. W.C. Cox, M.A., the head master assisted by Messrs. W.R. Williams, B.Sc., and L.M. Thomas, B.A. The scenery was painted by Mr. E. Ogwen Williams, F.R.G.S.