ENTERTAINMENTS.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 55, Issue 126, 9 March 1935, Page 2

ENTERTAINMENTS.

MAJESTIC THEATRE "The Count' of Monte Cristo," the million dollar Reliance production of the Alexandre Dumas novel which has thrilled millions of readers in every civilised country in the world, opens its Ashburton season at the' Majestic Theatre to-day. Produced on a lavish scale, with a score of principals and hundreds of supporting players, and released through United Artists, it offers Robert Douat, handsome young English screen and stage actor, whose film fans will recall as the King's love rival in "The Private Life of Henry VIII.", in his first American-made film. Elissa Landi appears opposite him in the role of Mercedes. "Mickey's Steam Roller" is the title of the Walt Disney cartoon included in the associate programme.

FAIRFIELD PICNIC COMMITTEE. PRESENTATION TO SECRETARY. At a social: function held by the Fairfield Freezing Workers' Picnic Committee in the Tancred Street Hall last evening, appreciative reference was made to the services given by Mr R. Houston as secretary over a period 01 20 years. The chairman (Mr J. McKay), in presenting him with a gold watch on behalf of the committee, said that Mr Houston had carried out his duties in an able manner. He had rendered good and faithful service, and it was mainly through his efforts that the. picnic fund was in its present healthy position. On behalf of the committee, Mr McKay also presented Mr R. Rooke, who had been'trustee of the fund for many years, with a cheque as a token of appreciation of his services, and conveyed to the recipients members' best wishes. Several of the members eulogised the good work carried out by Mr Houston and Mr Rooke in the interests of the committee.

Mr Houston said he greatly appreciated the tangible way in which the committee recognised his services, and thanked members for their gift. He treasured many nteasant recollections of his association with the committee, and the work had been a pleasure to him, but he felt that in view of his advancing years he would have to relinquish his position. Mr Rooke, in returning thanks, said that he had always been willing to do his best for the committee.

Several toasts were honoured and musical items rendered.