07-003: Rolla, the Seat of Early Cultural Activities

By Dorthea H. CalverleyAs early as January 31, 1931 the people of Rolla were fostering the arts that contributed to a festival in a way that surprised visitors to a far frontier community. A clipping from the Peace River Block News of that date must be read in the context of the time. The Great Depression was already upon the land. Money was short. Most of the families had recently made the expensive move to a land where everything was starting from scratch. Their priorities for their children are suggested here:

January 31, 1931

The Rolla Boys Band is progressing very favourably, considering the fact that they are trying to finance themselves. Buying instruments and the music necessary for a band is no small undertaking. Some of the lads have already purchased their own instruments, others are naturally finding it hard to make the grade, but are staying with the tuition part and occasionally getting a try on another fellows horn.

At the same time a Debating Society was active. It expanded into a Public Affairs Study Group as well.

Another clipping shows the beginnings of training for the Drama Festival

February 7, 1931

The play entitled “A Poor Married Man” will be performed Friday evening in the Star Theatre at Rolla, followed by a dance. Entire proceeds is to be given to the Anglican Church for building fund.

The cast of the play is as follows: Carmen Coons, G. Atkinson, Jack Webb, William Wray, Mrs. H. G. Atkinson, Luella Motzer, Mrs. Fern Forbes, Anne Waugh. Director: Capt. J. E. Lean. Stage manager: Bert Newcombe.

It was not a “classical” play, but the cast records the names of those who made the Festival a success.