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Salient. An Organ of Student Opinion at Victoria College, Wellington, N.Z. Vol. 7, No. 3. May 3, 1944

Turmoil and Terror

Turmoil and Terror

How often have I envied those reporters who were able to write eyewitness news of great events and happenings. Now I no longer envy them, as I too have been an eye-witness to a great event—The Extravaganza.

The day is Sunday, the time 1 p.m., the forces are massed and Generalissimo Meek is haranguing the troops preparatory to action. Principals, Zombies, Blondies, Gremlins and Bolsheviks all listen with rapt and intent countenances. Well may the show be entitled the "Zealous Zombies." Judging by the performances today the title should be "over-zealous."

The Generalissimo starts by saying "quiet please"—he ends the day by yelling "quiet dam' it." He is hoarse of throat, bleary of eye, and damp with exertion. The Principals no longer have any principles; the Zombies no longer zoom: the Blondies look like a blot; the Gremlins are grave; and the Bolsheviks are completely blown. Why? Because they have been rehearsing for the past eight hours.

What a hive of activity; something for everyone to do. If you are not in this scene you are practising your ballet. If you are not in the ballet, you're practising your song. If you have no song you are practising your lines. If you have no lines, you're helping the property man. No rest; no peace; what a life!

"Anyone got any smelling salts?" this cry goes up. The Ballet Mistress has gone into hysterics. The men are hopeless. No rhythm—no balance—no poise. It all looks so hopeless. The six men (wives of King Henry VIII) look sad, sheepish and sweaty. The Ballet Mistress recovers and the show goes on. Always "the show goes on."

Lieutenant General McCaskill confers with the Generalissimo. Both wear the scars of battle. A halt is called. The battle for today is over. Lights out is sounded, and the troops troop off to bed. Heigh-ho, what a day. Down the hill we go. The only one still alive is "Scuttler." We still hear his voice ringing in our ears. "Heil Scuttler"—"Sig Heil". Yes, the show must go on. It will go on. And What a Show!!!!

D.S.C.