THE OPERA HOUSE.

WEST'S PICTURES

There was another large audience at the Opera House last night, when the second series of the West Pictures was produced to the accompaniment of the brilliant music -of Do Groen's ViceRegal Orchestra. There is no doubt as to tho general excellence of the films shown by Mr West. Whether comic or in pathetic vein, descriptive or depicting those clover illusions which theatre-goers of the Old World are privileged to see, they are all of a standard that has not been excelled in the colony, and needless to state, account for the very wide interest and support that is accorded Mr West. It is almost invidious to make a comparison between the films shown last night. They were all so exceptionally good that one did not show out beyond the other. Scenes on the Avon, however," appealed particularly to the audience, many of whom were familiar with the windings and reaches of the picturesque river of the City of tho Plains. Other pictures of decided interest were scones of Naples and its customs, including a view of Vesuvius, Fingal's caves, shipping on the Clyde, including the launch of an Atlantic liner. There were, of course, many others, and they were all regarded with the most intense interest and appreciation.

To-night the pictures shown will be, as stated previously, all new. Included among them will bo a comic film, "Jim's Apprenticeship," a view of the Zambesi Falls, and further Scottish views. A matinee will be held on Saturday afternoon. A MUSICAL COMBINATION. DE GROEN'S VICE-REGAL ORCHESTRA. L. De Groen's Vice-Regal Orchestra of twelve members, now present in Palmerston, was organised expressly by Messrs West and Do Groen for the New Zealand tour of the West Pictures. It is under the baton of Mr Horace Watts, and forms only one part of Mr De Groen's . well-known orchestra and military band. This is a talented Sydney organisation, which has earned a colonial reputation. Twenty-eight of the players are now at Wonderland City, Bondi. playing under engagement to Mr W. Anderson. Twenty-five of the same band are at the Glaciarium, Sydney, with West's Pictures, and twelve are at the Criterion Theatre with Mr Frank Thornton. Mr De Groen conducts at the three different places on the same nights. All members of the organisation are picked players, specialists with their own particular instrument, and the combined effect is very fine.

It is Mr De Groen's intention to tour New Zealand with the combination known as the Vice-Regal Concert Band (military) of 60 performers, early next year, giving concerts of the same artistic class of music which has packed the Sydney Town Hall during the past few years on every occasion on which the band has played, and the event will be eagerly anticipated by music lovers.