The Otago University Council made a somewhat daring departure in allowing the annual graduation ceremony to be held this year in His Majesty’s Theatre. There has always been a demand for much more accommodation than was available on these happy and interesting occasions, and in past years such buildings as the Choral Hall, Knox Church Sunday School hall, Burns Hall and the Allen Hall have been able to hold only a tithe of those anxious to witness the conferring of degrees. Whether it has been expressly stated or not the use of a larger hall has always been barred by the problem of discipline and the fear that crowds of undergraduates might turn the proceedings into pandemonium let loose. However, the students themselves undertook to maintain discipline on this occasion, and the council decided to try the experiment. After yesterday’s experience it is safe to say the experiment is one that will be repeated. The proceedings were seemly, orderly, and prompt. The conduct of the students was exemplary. His Majesty’s Theatre was crowded in every part. The graduates of the year were accommodated in the front seats of the orchestral stalls. The Chancellor (Mr T.K. Sidey MP) presided, and on the platform were seated the whole body of the teaching staff clad in their academic robes and also the members of the University Council. The irrepressible undergraduates early indicated their presence in the theatre and greeted friends and foes in customary unceremonious fashion before the formal proceedings began. The capping orchestra contributed welcome popular music. All joined in the singing of “Gaudeamus."
Entertaining, not offensive
His Majesty’s Theatre was well crowded last night for the second capping carnival. It is a period of hectic gaiety for all undergraduates, and they make the most of it, for time soon passes, and more examinations loom ahead. Thus, in their entertainment, that spirit that can be described by the words "eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die," enters them, and they present an entertainment that is bright, lively, and original — most certainly original. The farces were clever, and had a decided “sting" in them, but there was nothing that could be taken exception to. The chorus was a wonderfully colourful display, and some weird disguises were to be seen. Taken all round, this year’s carnival can hold its own with any that has been held in Dunedin, and it is well worth seeing. The entertainment will be presented to-night and again on Saturday night. — ODT, 24.7.1925
Compiled by Peter Dowden
