AMUSEMENTS.

Auckland Star, Volume LX, Issue 52, 2 March 1929, Page 13

AMUSEMENTS.

ST. JAMES' THEATRE. George Wallace always lias come new charm, for his patrons, and, although hi« season hae been well extended in Auckland, he still draws large houses. Last night was no and a crowded audience -.revelled in two and a-half hours of fun and laughter. The comedian ha»a way of his own, and can draw loud laughter when acting any part. He is the heart and soul of the company. His first number was a song, "Mother, Speak to Ethel/' into which a world of mock pathos was infused. By special request the company staged the extremely funny sketch, "Mystery Manor," and Mr. Wallace's portrayal of the idiotic butter was screamingly funny. The story concerns a young man and his bride who are staying at a house alter their honeymoon. Report has it that the house is haunted, when in reality all the haunting is done by a gang of diamond thieves who desire to acquire the hoard of diamonds hidden there by an eccentric old man. George Wallace is troubled with ghosts, and all the paraphernalia necessary for mystery, and continually requests the afternoon off. The second sketch, "Village Lade," in which the comedian impersonates a multi-millionaire at the instigation of a notoriously bad ffellow, is perhaps the better of the two. The millionaire visits a village and the fun begins. When, however, he took over the local 6tore, the mirth was uproarious, paying a wonderful tribute to the master comedian. George Wallace and his Flaming Youths, rendered a very pleasing band entertainment, a feature being, by way of a novelty, a fox trot arrangement of Faust gems. The Rascals ballet and the singing of Marshall Crosby, Maida Jones and Marie Nyman, appearing more in the first part of the programme, contributed greatly to the success of the show. At the conclusion of the presentation George Walace intimated to the audience that next Friday he was departing from vaudeville to produce a play, "When Knights Were Bold," on a lavish scale. This finished a very pleasing and entertaining performance, which should be well appreciated by patrons during the coming week.

NATIONAL THEATRE. Emil Jannings is wonderful in "The Patriot" .which opened a season at the National Theatre yesterday. As "Crazy Paul," Emperor of all the Russias, -Jannings has wonderful scope to demonstrate his ability as a character actor. Great figures of "Russian history before the revolution emerge from the shadows and live upon the screen. The picture follows the play by Alfred Neumann, celebrated European playright. Jannings has paid great attention to detail. One reason advanced for his great ability of impersonation is because 'he studies his characters, and when facing the camera actually believes he is the original. Paul I. is hated and feared by all his subjects whose resentment and bitterness are inward and without visible protest. Creating fear in others he lives in constant fear himself. He is harassed by suspicion and doubt, afraid even to eat, drink or sleep. He fancies he will meet the end that has been the fate of many of his ancestors. At intervals he places 'his trust in Count Pahlen, the Prime Minister, who has become powerful in the Empire. The Count is in love with the Countess Ostermann, wife of an army officer. They are surprised by the husband. He picks up a boot belonging to the Prime Minister to throw out of a window, and is the victim of a Cossack bullet. Pahlen pitied the Czar, yet pitied his countrymen more. He is the patriot. He resolved to put the Czar off the throne and set Crown Prince Alexander up on it in his father's place. How he accomplished this and the many interesting incidents leading up to the climax serve to make '"The Patriot" an outstanding production. It baa been called the "■wonder picture," and no wonder. A remarkable cast surrounds Jannings. It includes Florence Vidor as Countess Ostermann. Lewis Stone as Count Pahlen, and Neil Hamilton as Crown Prince Alexander. The way in which the picture was received last night gives every indication that this historical drama of Russia will have a very successful season. Apart from the wonderful acting, the settings are magnificent and the photography exceptional, there is a fine supporting programme. The orchestra carries out a special programme of music which adds considerably to the pleasure of the evening.

PLAZA AND TIVOLI. "Home James" said die gill, and soon she found 'herself in a millionaire's mansion instead of in her own email apartment. Laura La Plante takes full advantage of the part of Laura Elliott who imbued the son or a wealthy father with the ambition to work. Laura ie a popular comedienne, and ha« no desire to become a tragedienne. In this com-edy-drama she gets into numerous mix-ups, and the fun is fast and furious. The comedy, with a definite plot works out right in the end. Laura is funnier- than in "Finders Keepers," and that should go a long way to attract to these two theatres, people who have the blues and wish to get rid of them. "Home James" has been called a picture without a "gag." The lively ccmedy presented is achieved through the clever situations and smart acting of Laura La Plante. This is one of this popular star's best pictures, and judged by the enthusiasm of the audiences, her efforts are greatly appreciated. "The Haunted House" is the second attraction. It i 6 weird enough to give the ordinary person the creeps. It offers the limit in thrills. The public like mystery stories and the ghost room in "The Haunted House" is startling enough for anybody. A mad doctor, a sleep-walking girl, and a lovable couple caught in the dutches of a galloping ghost, should provide sufficient thrills for most lovers of the weird in drama. Chester Conklin and Thelma Todd have the principal roles, and there is a strong supporting cast. LYRIC THEATRE. When the professor eventually swal- f lowed his drink he died of poison. Who is the murderer? This query can only be answered by the audieuce ajfc the Lyric Theatre, where the amazing mystery drama "The Pasing of Mr. Quinn," is being screened. It is a thrilling story, and the audience is kept in the dark up to the last moment. Professor Appleby had a brilliant mind, but a sinister side to his character that could scarcely be called normal. His wife was the object of his cruelty, and was reduced to such a state of nervous exhaustion that she was obliged to call in a doctor. There are dozens of thrilling episodes, and numerous theories as to who did the deed. Three people had equal opportunities and equal motives fen- poisoning the professor. Suspicion fell upon the murdered man's wife, arid she was tried and acquitted, for lack of evidence. Her innocence was never established, and the finger of suspicion was always pointed at her. "The Passing of Mr. Quinn" solved the mystery. He. turned out to be Derek Gapel Vho murdered the profe«ior to steal his wife. It is a fascinating and intriguing story. The cast is strong. Stewart Rome and Trilby Clark are the stars, while supporting players are Mary Brough, Ursula Jeans, Clifford Heatherley and Vivian Baron. The second attraction, "The Wife's Relations," is a hilarious comedy featuring Shirley Mason, Gaston Glass and Ben Turpin. The supports are all good, and the music excellent, MUNICIPAL BAND AT THE ZOO. The Municipal Band plays at the Zoological Park to-morrow (Sunday) afternoon, at 3 o'clock. The programme includes the bright marches "Kopriva," "British Steel" ?nd "Wait for the Waggon," overture "Ital'iana in Algieri, ' suite, "Three Woodland Dances." selections'. "Reminiscences of Wales," and "Classical Memories," and a musical impression "Treasure Ifiland*-

MAJESTIC THEATRE. Th-eatres, in their endeavour# to provide their patrons with as much variety as possible, have exploited almost every field which offers entertainment, but seldom, in Auckland at least, has Dickens been presented to a motion picture audience. Such a presentation would be welcomed anywhere, as indeed it was when Mr. Tom Harris appeared last night at the Majestic Theatre, lie gave four splendid characterisations in costume, and although his Major Bagstock, from "Dombey and Son," was probably better received than the others, there was obvioue artistry in his portrayals of Uriah Heep from "David Copperfield." Daniel Quilp from "The Old Curiosity Shop," and Fagin from "Oliver Twist." Surrounding this delightful innovation there is on the Majestic's new programme some splendid pickings from available film supply. In the principal feature, "The Drums of Love," there is a picture which should satisfy completely those who are fond of costume pictures. '"The Drums of Love" is the story of two proud Portuguese families that have settled in South America. • For generations they have been at war, and at last the de Alvias have proved their superiority over the Granada*, through the leadership oE a hunchback. To save his followers from the merciless de Alvia, the Duke of Granada betrothes his beautiful daughter to him. From here the story deals with the girl's feigned devotion to her husband, and her real love for his brother, whose happiness with her is brought about only by the other's death. Into this absorbing story, which is based on a wellknown historical incident, that master producer D. W. Griffith has given the best of his artistry, and "The Drums of Love" fully lives up to its reputation being Griffith's best since hi* never-to-be-forgot-

ten "The Birth of a Nation." There is some splendid work by Lionel Barrymore as the hunchback, while Mary Philbin and Don Alvarado fill their parts admirably. A clever performance is that of Tuijv Marshall as de Alvia's jester. To complete the programme three enjoyable supports have been chosen. "Jewels of VeTus," a U.F.A. gem. is unusually good; it is ofle of those very acceptable short features showing the growth of submarine life. The Majestic Magazine contains interesting scenes oi' recent avents from overseas, and the comedy, which features Charley Chase, ie very effective in showing the trouble which plastic surgery may bring about. Mr. John WhitefordWaugh's archestra plays enjoyable music throughout the entertainment, the score of "The Vagabond King'' being a feature of the selections.

STRAND TKEATRE. Large crowds continue to patronise the Strand Theatre where '"The Battle of the Sexes" is being screened. The etory begins when the head of the house of Judson falls a victim to the wiles of an unscrupulous flapper who is out for gold. The Judson family were extremely happy until Marie Skinner caused the head of the house to fall by the way. Father was a successful businessman, a_nd had gone along the road of life in a contented manner. Suddenly, by what appeared to him to be accident, he falls to the intrigue of Marie, and disaster to the happy home seemed eminent. Flattery was the bait that Marie used, and father causes much merriment in his endeavours to "reduce," and make himself look young. He is "discovered" at a night club with the object of his affections by Mrs. Judson and her children, and the result was a family row, and father's decision to cut adrift from home. This nearly sent Mrs. Judson out of her mind, and she is saved in fhe nick of time from committing suicide. Father ultimately discovers the error of hi 6 ways and the family are reunited. Jean Hersholt, as the erring father, is splendid. He is a great character actor, and perhaps this is his best effort so far. The flapper part is excellently done by Phyllis Haver_. while Belle Bennett is admirable as Mrs. Judson. There is a fine supporting programme. "Sleeping Sickness" is well worth seeing. It is a short subject that takes the audience through the wilds of Africa on a scientific expedition to locate the tsetse fly responsible for sleeping sickness. The "Strand Magazine" shows the latest world happenings, while the orchestra, under Eve Bentley, supplies a delightful programme. Mr. Walter Brough and Miss Gwen McNaughton also contribute to the enjoyment of the evening.

REGENT THEATRE. The Regent Theatre continues to attract large audiences, the current week's piogr&mme being unique in every way. The main attraction is a riim entitled. "Excess Baggage."' which deals with stage life. Tinsel and glitter under the footlights, that hide drab existences. heartbreaking work, bitt-er disappointment and the one great ideal to which every member of the strange profession looks as the Mohammedan looks toward Mecca —this is the life of the small-time vaudeville performer, who, in a world apart, as far as the unknowing public is concerned, works out his strange destiny or fails in the attempt. A graphic picture of the life every minor vaudeville player knows so well is contained in John ilcGowan s famous play. It is a story of smalltime vaudeville with its brief joys, its bitter disappointments.' and its odd customs; its comedy is tempered with heart throbs in an intensely human document. William Haines is in the main role, and there is a strong cust. The second attraction is "Honour Above All. ' starring Leatrice Joy. On the stage Alec Regan gives another budget of songs and sketches. He has become very popular, and his "turn"' is full of merit. Maurice Guttridge and his orchestra are in particularly good form, and add considerably to the enjoyment. Patrons of the Regent will have the opportunity next week of seeing Dale Austin on the screen in the Australian drama, filmed in Hollywood, "The Bushranger.

TUDOR THEATRE. The leading picture showing at the Tudor Theatre, Remuera, to-night and on Monday is "Forgotten Races," a story that abounds in strong contrasts. Jt is portrayed by an all-star cast including Clive Brook. Mary Brian, William Powell, Fred Kohler," Baclanova and Jack Luden. The scene starts with a night hold-up in a fashionable gambling house perpetrated by two crooks in evening dress. There is an attempted prison escape and intimate glimjsees of social life in a home of wealth and culture. The second picture is a real western, ieaturing Rex Bell and Lola Todd in "Taking a Chance," from the story of "The Saint of Calamity Gulch." A rollicking comedy, "The Stock Exchange," gazettes, cartoon and scenics, complete a very" fine programme. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday Ronald Col man and Vilma Banky will be screened in Fred Niblo's production. "Two Lovers." also George -Jeesel in "Sailor Izzy Murphy." Next Friday a. Paramount drama. "The First Kiss. ' and a Fox Special, "Blindfold," will be shown with the usual supports.

RIALTO AND REGENT. A fine double feature programme has been arranged for the Rialto and Regent Theatres to-night. Frank L. Packard's sensational railway story will be screened with Milton Sills in the leading role. He is a fine actor, and the part of a breakdown boss which he takes, is an exceptionally strong presentation. There are many thrills in this picture, and not the least is a head-on smash betn een two railway trains. The second feature is "Phyllis of the Follies," with Lilyan Tashman and Edmund Burns. Another episode of "The Collegians" will be screened entitled, "Winning Point." This series has proved a popular attraction, every episode being well done. There is fast action and a vein of humour that is intriguing. The other supports are well selected, and special attention had been paid to the mufiical pan ite pfofcrAinipg. .

CRYSTAL PALACE. j four attractions are announced for the Crystal Pa'laco Theatre, Mt. Eden, this evening. There will be a special band presentation by Clyde Hawley and hie famous Internationale. These clever syncopatoTs are always popular. The main film is "The Foreign Legion." This is a thrilling etory of Algiers. It has all the colour of the desert and the East, with a romance interwoven that gripe the interest from start to finish." "Beyond the Sierras," with Tim McCoy in the saddle, is a story of the gold days of Old California, and is full of interest. Its action is fast and the photography splendid. There will be a Stan Laurel comedy "Excuse Me, Go Home,." This bill of fare should satisfy all tastes. ALLAN WILKIE SEASON. The Allan Wilkie Shakespearean season will commence at His Majesty's Theatre to-night; with "The Merry Wives of Windsor." There is a full company of thirty artists. "The Merchant of Venice" will be staged on Monday, and "Hamlet" on Tuesday. On Wednesday there will be a matinee, when "As You Like It," will be played, "Twelfth Night" being reserved for the evening's performance. On Thursday "Coriolanus" will be produced, and on Friday, the second performanceof "The Merry Wives of Windsor." Lovers of Shakespeare wi'll have an opportunity of seeing many of the great play right's best works performed bv a talented company during the present season. THE WOMAN DISPUTED. "The Woman Disputed," the love and hate drama of an outcast woman's redemption, brings Norma Talmadge to the screen of the Strand Theatre, on Friday next, March 8, in what is said to be the greatest role of her career. This United Artists picture is based on the sensational stage play of the same name by Dennison Clift. The story, as translated to the screen by C. Gardner Sullivan, has in its film manifestation, all the drama, virility and charm of the play, authorities who have seen both versions state. A character of unusual strength and fascination, perhaps one of the strongest in fiction, is the way critics have described Mary Ann Wagner, the heroine, the part played by Miss Talmadge. Mary Ann's life is the drama of regeneration, the romance of boundless love, and conflict between eeit and sacrifice. The players appearing iu support of Miss Talmadge are well known to picture-goers. Gilbert Roland is the hero; Arnold Kent the rival suitor, and other members of the company totalling several thousand actors ire Gustav Von Seyffertitz, Michael Vavitch, Boris de Fas and Gladys B dock well.

CAPITOL THEATRE. A splendid programme is announced for to-night at the Gapitol Theatre, when two big attractions will be screened. The first is "Tempest," a spectacular and powerful drama with John Barrymore in the leading role. "Me Gangster." is ihe second feature. This is a thrilling underworld drama, a story of life, lo >t and love. The supports will all be highclass, and special attention has been paid to the musical side of the programme. PIANOFORTE RECITAL. Miss Margaret St. Lawrence Toner, a talented young pianist, and an ex-Auck-lander, who comes from Sidney, where for i years she has undergone a course o£ musical' training will give a pianoforte recital in the Concert Chamber of the Town Hall, next Saturday. FLORAL FETE. The St. Patrick's Day Celebration Committee will hold a floral fete at the Auckland Domain, on Saturday, March 16. All classes of cars and motor-cycles with sideears, are catered for, including baby cars. Valuable prizes are offered. The proceeds of the fete are to be devoted towards orphanages at Takapuna and Howick. Besides an opportunity to wan a handsome prize, the fete will provide a beautiful scene and assist a most deserving cause. The last floral fete was held six years ago. and with the growth of motor vehicles in Auckland, in the meantime, the number of entries will be large. LUNA PARK.

Luna Park will carry on as usual to-day ana then will close down until Easter week. The reason is that complete renovation is to be carried out. and newnovelties installed. When this work is completed, there will be a grand reopening day.

DANCING. On Tuesday, March 12. the Click Clack Cabaret will reopen for the season with a Grand Ball, dancing to go ou till 1 a.m. The cabaret has been renovated, and all facilities for the comfort of patrons have been provided. New novelties will be introduced, and specialty dances will be given by Miss Lilliokalani. Clyde Howley's popular orchestra will supply the music. The Parisian Dancing Club will reopen next Saturday night, in the Kitchener Hall. This will be marked by the holding of a carnival in the Parisian style. Gorgeous hats will be d'stributed. This should cause much merriment. The Parisian dance orchestra of eight performers, will be conducted by Mr. Harry Bolton, violinist. Ye Olde Pirate Shippe will hold high festival to-night, a gala being announced. Buses tvill leave the Ferry Building at 8.10 p.m. direct for "ye shippe." Dixieland by the Sea will be in full session to-night. The famous Dixieland dance band will give the latest jazz and dance music. The Gaiety Hall. Surrey Crescent, announces another dance to-night, when the Seattle Snappy Six will be in attendance. The latest dance music will be supplied. The Felix Danc-e Club, with H. Tatton's popular orchestra, are in session every Saturday night at the Orange Hall. The eight performers in the orchestra j play the latest in dance music, and the I club is conducted on the most up-to-date lines. The Oakleigh Park Cabaret, at Henderson Valley, announces a dance for halfpast eight to-night. The Astonian baud will be in attendance. Lovers of old-time dancing will be amply catered for a'; the Municipal Hall, Newmarket, to-night. The floor is excellent and the music the best. At the O'Neill Street Hall, Ponson'oy, the Grey Lynn Labour Party will hold an old-time dance to-night. Paltridge's orchestra will play. There will be a spotwaltz, and chocolates and cigarettes will be given to lucky winners. The International Dance Club will hold a session on Monday night. An attraction will be Clyde Howley's famous Internationals, who will play all the lates* music. At the Manchester Unity Hall, the Ngaroma Social Club will hold a dance tonight. Mrs. Tylcoat'a Joyland orchestra will be in attendance. There will be spotwaltzs, chocolates, cigarettes, etc.

There will be two hours jazz after the picture programme at the Picturedrome to-night. This is a popular rendezvous. Thos. Thomson's orchestra will be there. The Coney Island Dance Club will open next Saturday at St. Benedict's Hall.