2-888-141 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Reform Banquet in the Theatre, Wellington, New Zealand, 1850. 'Nearly two hundred guests sat down to a sumptuous dinner...On the stage was the chairman's table, from which three tables extended...towards the footlights...The stage was embellished with flags, evergreens, &c. A new scene, painted by Mr. Marriott, expressly for the occasion, tapestried the wall behind the chair; representing a Roman arch, flanked by columns, and surmounted by figures of Justice and Victory. The whole of the theatre and the staircase leading to the stage were hung with chandeliers of lights, whose brilliance showed to great advantage the newly-decorated walls. The tables were supplied with the best wines to be found in the colony...several songs were sung by Mr. Pickett, Mr. Powell, and other gentlemen'. [Illustration after a sketch by Mr. Marriott]. From "Illustrated London News", 1850.