AMUSEMENTS.

Auckland Star, Volume LX, Issue 75, 30 March 1929, Page 13

AMUSEMENTS.

STRAND THEATRE. A niizhty drama of the eecret service, •The Spy.' , to be screened to-day at the Theatre. It is a wonderful film, and tlv. ilie and suspense await the audiences t!i it witness the screening. In one of the world's greateet cities, according to the story, events were happening with great rapidity, throwing the Government and the secret service into chaos. Impomiu do'.umentr. entrusted to responsible Ministers were stolen or copied, and Government mysteriously disappeared. Crimes of all kinds were committed. cunning being shown. Culpr'.t* convicted of the crimes went to their deaths in silence rather than betray the maeter'e '.>ra:n at the head of the organisation for which they worked. Max Haghi. who wifi the head of a great banking inetiiuiioru was also the head of the band of skilful desperadoes who were Bpeettms thi , whole of the eocial fabric ef the nation. Beneath the bank were Haghi'e headquarter*, equipped with ecientifl: a-.-piratus designed to help him in his nefarious campaign. The chief feared the activities bt No. 326, and arrangements were made to trap him. Love wa* a factor that Haghi did not reckon '.v;tii. and complications arose ■when Sonia fell in love with 326. There M a great deal of thrilling episode worked ground the signing of a secret treaty with an Eastern Power, and one of Haghi'e dupe* tells tiie maeter criminal the date cf the signing. The committing of harikari by Matsumoto when he discovers that the treaty document had been etolen from him Ie one of the most thrilling ecenes in thi* picture. Who was Haghi and where » - as he? are question* that the audience will be asked to answer to-night. •There arc enough exciting ecenes in thia film to fulfil all possible demands for thrill*,"' stated the "London Daily Chronicle,-' when the picture wae ehown in London. A tine musical progT?.mme has been arranged. REGENT THEATRE.

In eecuiing a picture of the calibre of •The Mysterious Lady," the mangement «t the Regent Theatre gave their patrone ■n entertainment on Thursday night, during which there was not a dull minute. The supporting picture was a comedydrama, entitled ''Let 'Eγ Go, Gallagher," being the exploits of a youthful Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, his tru#ty dog, in bringing about the rapture of a notorious criminal. The leading roles in the main picture were portrayed by Greta Garbo and Conrad Nagel. The story of the picture was about espionage in Austria and Ruesia. Tania Fedorova. a Beautiful Russian, meets Karl von Heineredorff, a young Austrian captain. It is a twe of love at firet eight with them, but little did they think that their love would turn to hate. The Austrian is warned by fcis uncle that Tania i« a notorious Kuesian spy. When the pair again meet Karl denounce* Tania, who, hurt by hie (corn, «ecures State documents from him. Am a remit Karl ie deprived of hie com■and and imprisoned, the only one believing in him, being his uncle. The young Austrian contrives to escape, and, resolved to find out the truth irom Tania. about the leaking out of Austrian secrets to Russia, he Journeys to Russia as a musician. Rather than see him die there, jir-bere the head of the Rusian secret ser,Tice has discovered who he is, Tania reveals the identity of the Austrian traitor, kill* her chief and then races with Karl to the Austrian border and freedom. The picture is full or unusual dramatic situations, which the superb acting of the irhoFe cast makes intensely absorbing. Greta Garbo, as the Rusi&n spy, gives a ■arvellous interpretation of her part. She ii at her beet when the action of the story lead* to Russia, where she has to flirt with fcer chief while her loved one w looting •n with scorn tn his eyes. She eaves Karl from many difficult situations. and in the end effects the happy climax by killing Boris, 'her chief. The Austrian Captain wae played exceedingly well by Conrad Xagel, who was the typical hand* some and youthful cavalier. Hie acting, ■specially when he ie in Russia in the dis- • guise of a musician, where, consumed with the desire of choking the truth out o; Tania, he is forced to play for her while ■he signs to a crowd of nobles, chief •mong whom is t?ie head of the Hirasian •ecret service, who ie always jealous, is ■eperb. A topical budget showing scenes «f Continental and Australian interest •ompleted an enjoyable and entertaining i programme, to the success of which the-, fnperb playing or Sir. Mautlco Guttridge'e (Orchestra contributed not a little. PLAZA AND TiVOLI.

The fine programme submitted by the ■lanagement of the Plaza and Tiroli Theatres attracted large audience* on Thursday night -when the woekly took place. Bcbe Daniels is the featured flayer in "What a Night," which is one ef the beet pictures ehe has yet appeared ia. There ie mystery in the etory— ■iyeterioue shadows, strange sounds, eerie l&hte in a dark warehouse at midnight. JtewmpapeT hound* are on the trail, and •here are thrills gilorc. Thie film ie loaded jrith fun as well as romance. An enterprising reporter, a flighty male editor, a dangerou* gang leader, a crooked political boss and the blundering daughter •f * big advertiser are characters of the play. Neil Hamilton ie the reporter, William Auetin" the society editor, Wheeler Oakman, the gang leader, and Charles Hill Mailee, the politician. The •econd attraction is "Outcaet," starring Corrane Griffith, thie picture giving the featured player the most dramatic role of k«r career. "Outcaet" ie a complete change from Mine Griffith'* "Garden of Eden" recently released. Delightful ae that comedy wae, the role of the little loydenish cafe girl who gets fired and then poees as the daughter of a baroneee, thereby getting herself into all kinds of •mueing complication*, did not °" €r *" e •cope tor emotional "acting that fall to Hies Griffith in "Outcaet," where the central figure ia a girl of the San Fran«*co etreeU—an outcaet whoee «P« n ' encea and development form a compelling »nd highly dramatic vehicle. "O, , ******; » afeo * distinct wmtraet to Wm Griffith s •The Divine Lady," pictumed from the lamou* E. Barrington novel and portraying the etar ae the beautiful Lady Hamilton, who "influenced the te»tory of three Rations. ' -

EVERYBODY'S THEATRE. One of the ecreen'e most dramatic Pictures of underworld life Jβ being •creened at Everybody'e Theatre. The Picture ie "Man, Woman and Wife, a Universal production, starring J"**™* o Kerry and featuring Pauline Starite. U«in? the battle front and the underworld of New York as backgrounds, the

film narrates a tremendous romance centring around fire pereone. The nappir ■eee of «ach ie eo wound up in the fate of $he othere that great dramatic interest and euepenee Teeulta. The ending ehowe fearlossnee* of movie cuetom on the part ef Director Edward Laemmle, when the Picture cloeee in a realistic climax that m ene of the most nnueual ever ecreened. A eecond feature ie "Beggare of JjUe, wherein Wallace Beery comes backto legitimate drama. Thi« pictnre has been at tbe Plaza, within the last few days and received considerable commendation. ST. 4AMES' THEATRE.

A special Eaeter programme will be pot SB at St. Jame*' Theatre cpmm«ncmg tnie •venins?, when the popular George Wallace •ad hie merry band will continue to amuee *, patrone. Alwaye a big attraction, George Wallace, one of the clevereet comediane on the Fuller circuit, has made even a bigger Same for himself during the Pf 88 **" Auckland eeaeon with hm **J en *~ •ompany. For music, mirth and i"™ l ™ the new St. Jamea' programme should fcake a wopderfnl appeal to Auckland •odiencee. To-nigbt'e prog/amme will 6e •.complete change, and tfce fare will be Isqnal to the hi?h-claee programmes given Jrevimwh- by the company.

"THE PATSY." This evening at His Majesty's Theatre the J. (J. Williamson management will present, for the first time here, the fascinating comedy-drama "The Patey," which haebeen described ae the world'seuccessor to "Peg o' My Heart," and which has been the reigning attraction in London, >ew York and Australia during the past two years. The fact that it broke all known records durinz-ite run of 30 weeks in Sydney indicates that "The Patsy" is an attraction much above the ordinary, and it ie not surprising that the booking tor it* Auckland season ie very heavy. 'The Patsy" m not an Irish olay. It is an American synonym for a girl who goes unnoticed through her nome circle and in her home town. She is a tvpe similar to t inderella. Teare, tenderness and laughter intermingle entertainingly during the unof the intense story of "The Patsy," which is refreshing and original. Interest centre* in the tirst appearance here of Miss Irene Homer, who ie said to be one of the best of the younger New * ork aetressee who hae ever visited Australia and_Xew^ Zealand. Mr. A. S. Byron, a noted New York actor, ie said to be fine ae the bluff, humorous and vigorous father of the Patsy, and Mr. Brandon Peters, another leading actor from America. make* a manly hero. The play will be produced by Mr. George D. Parker, and the stage manager ie Mr, Warde Morgan. There will be a special "matinee of "The Patsy" on Monday. The plans to-day are on view at His Majesty's Theatre office.

THE MAJESTIC. '"Romance of the Underworld." which will commence a season at the Majestic Theatre to-day, is a stirring story in which is featured Mary Astor, Ben Hard. Robert Elliott, John Boles. Oecar Aofel and Helen Lynch. The etory opeue in a florist's shop, just off Broadway, in New York. Judith Andrews, played by Mary Aetor, with eyes, is seated at a writing desk penning a card to accompany a floral offering for her mother's funeral. It take* practically her last penny. Opposite the girl is Ed. Burke (Robert Elliott), a detective who is also buying flowers, but for hie wedding anniversary. He notes the girl's grief and sympathises with her. On a side etreet "Champagne Joe" conducts a notorious place with which is connected a fake cabaret, its main purpose being to lure ■Vape" that the entertainers can take their bank rolls. The etory races through many phases to a aeneational finale, in which the tangle is straightened out. It eotnee with .1 suddenness which brings those watching the picture up to the highest pitch. The film is from the Fox studios, and it is claimed that no better hall mark could be given. Mary Aator, who has been called "The Orchid of the screen," is said to give a brilliant interpretation of her role. Previously she has alwaye played sweet parts, but now 6he hae fully revealed her dramatic geniue. Robert Elliott is credited with the most natural portrayal of a detective that the screen ha* yet revealed. The Majeetic's usual fine selection of supporting films will be screened, and holiday-maker* can be certain of a delightful entertaiiu»«at.

LYRIC AND GRAND. "The Constant Nymph"' and "Tommy Atkins" will be at tha head of the programme at the Lyric and Grand Theatres to-day, both being notable British productions. The former is from the popular novel by Margaret Kennedy, and Ivor Novelio. who, playe the role of Lewie Dodd. has ample scope for hie wide talent*. In the picture "Tommy Atkins" a typical incident of the establishment of British rule in Africa at the expense of many lives is depicted. There are many stirring scenes with the Sudan for a setting, with phases of romance and mystery when the scene shifts to England. There is a love triangle with two young men competing for the hand of a maid. The etory is packed with exciting incident*.

SIR HARRY LAUDER. Ever β-ince his memorable tour of the Dominion in 1914, Sir Harry Lauder has remained in the memory and hearts of the public. His present visit, which began with a holiday and fishing excursion, is concluding with a limited number of professional engagements. Long before 1914 Sir Harry was intimately known to thousands in thie country through the medium r>f the gramophone. Who has not heard the Refrain of "She's Ma Daisy," "Stop Your Tickling, Jock." or "Tobermory," and '"I Love a Lassie?" Hie singing of that grand old ballad in the Cradle of the Deep," will also be remembered, even the fascinating burring of the "V in rocked. Sir Harry comes to us this time with a budget of new songe and character sketches, all of them his own composition and creation. He is a great delineator of quaint character; a keen observer, he moulds his characters from real life. He takes his audiences into hk confidence and becomes one of them, and he enjoys every minute ha is with them. This tour is under the direction of Mr. E. J. Carroll, who has been at great pains and expense in the selection of a. company to support Sir Harry. Each artist is of internation-al reputation. The Auckland season ie limited to nine nights, at His Majesty's Theatre.

IZARD CONCERTS. The eieter artiete, Mieees Constance and Margaret Izard, will be heard in a eeries of concerts, commencing next Wednesday, in the Town Hall Concert Chamber. The "Montreal Gazette," eaye of their concerto: "Sound musicianship wae displayed; they have not only a fine technical equipment, but a goodly quality of imagination and feeling." Miee Constance Izard is a violinist who hae within the past few yeare made hereelf an honoured name in the records of fine playere, and Mies Margaret Izard ae a 'cellkt has been equally successful. "La Libre Belgique" eaye:—"Laet night'e two virtuosi proved their worth, the probity of their art and a perfect homogeneity, communion of thought and execution in their performancee. Included in each programme will be violin and 'cello eolos, eonatae; also unaccompanied duete for violin and 'cello. Most interesting programmes have been arranged, and for all thoee who may wieh to attend the whole eeriee epecial facilities are offered. Mr. Page, city organist, Wellington, will preside at the piano. "LAUGH, CLOWN LAUGH."

The big feature jjlm that wae eo well received on Queen Street recently ie to be ehown in three theatres on Eaeter Monday-*t the Crystal Palace, Mount Eden Road, the Hippodrome and Empress. Lon Chaney, the great character actor, ie the etar in thie film. He is the man of a thoueand facee, and thie romance of the circue holde the interest from the firet title to the final fade out. The etory concern* the tragic life of a clown whose great love and understanding impele the terrific eacrifice that marks the climax of thie wonder picture. TUDOR THEATRE.

"Hie Private Xrffe," a fascinating drama of Parisian society, ie the etar attraction at th« Tudor Theatre, Remuera. The oopular Adolphe Menjon ie the leading nlay«r and he hae been praised in this role for eome unueually clever acting. Aβ the lover of one woman, he ie involved an complications when a married woman tries to attract him. "Red Wine," a etory of modern youth, is the eecond big attraction The support* are of the usual attractive type. The theatre has recently been taken on lease by Mr. L. L. Speedy, and within a few daye, a policy announcement will be made. LITTLE THEATRE.

"Bird in Hand," one of the beet playe n ( th* famous playwright, John DrinkwatSf wTbTpiodnced by the Auckland Tittle Theatre Society in th« Concert Chamber of the Town Hall on April 10. 11 Bind 13. It will be the first time the play bae been produced in New ZeaH*d. At present the piece * haying good *eaeow in London, New York and Sydney.

NATIONAL THEATRE. A British Dominion film, "Wild Cat Hetty," starring Mabel Poulton, is the headline attraction one the programme which opened at the National Theatre to-day. There is a prominent oaet of English play ere, which includes Eric Braneby Williams, Pauline Johnson, Marie Ault, and Frank Stanmore. It ie the etory of a young scientist who became obsessed with the idea that environment and his scientific efforts will make a lady out of Hetty, a little untamed product of the slums whom ho ha* met. The experiment ie a failure at first, tint a transformation gradually take* p-iace. and the girl becomes refined. It is 6a id that the young ecientiet's experiences include some* very amusing situations, with which there is mingled a suggestion of pathos. When a young artist paints the girl's portrait, he makes advances and jeopardises her reputation, much to Vie delight of the supercilious young lady, and the disgust of the young scientist, who has grown to love her. The etory is from the play by Florence Kilpatrick. Another big attraction will be a demonstration on the stage of the "Tile Trot" by Mies Ruby Phillips and Mr. Hugh Champion. A comedy and Gazette, showing the latest world happenings ie included on the bill of fare. Excellent mueic will be played by Mr. F. Bartlett's Orchestra.

EDITH HARRHY. Miss Edith Harrhy, the successful pianiet-compoeer, will make her only public appearance in New Zealand at a concert arranged by Messrs. Lewie Eady, Ltd., in their new concert hall on Tuesday next, April 2. Miee Harrhy ie recognieed in London in the front rank of musicians, and has appeared with many world-famous artists. Her songs have come into prominence in London, and are included in the repertoire of such artiste ae John Brown lee. Peter Daweon, Fraeer Gange, Walter Kirby. etc. It is a great pleasure for Mies Harrhy to has ae associate artiets Mise Ina Bosworth. with a reputation in her profession equal to any vieiting violinist, and Mr. Len Barnes, director of IYA, will give music lovere the opportunity of hearing his well trained baritone voice in the popular "Two Songe of*the Sea." and several new songe; also with Mies Harrhy will eing her own duet, "In a Gondola." Mies Harrhy hae already made a name for herself in her interpretation of A. A. Milne's delightful children'* poems from '"When We Were Very Young," and her singing of "The King's Breakfast" ie in itself a treat. The booking arrangements are advertised.

LUNA PARK. With its great multiplicity of attractions and thrills, Luna Park should make an irresistible appeal to the many Easter holiday visitors. Special sessions have been arranged for this'evening and Monday, and the amusement area will be open all through next week. Some special features have been arranged, ajd patrone will be assured of a wealth of attractions. A bus takes visitors from the wharf gates to the park for a penny.

MUNICIPAL BAND. The Municipal Band will play at the Zoological Park to-morrow afternoon at 3 o'clock. The programme includes the elections ''Bohemian Girl" and "Maritana"; overture, '"Crown Diamonds"; instrumental solos and other interesting numbere. The band will play again on Easter Monday, when a bright programmewill be presented. POSTER EXHIBITION. The British Poster Exhibition in old Society of Arts Hall. Kitchener Street, will be continued until Friday, April 12. DANCING. An old-time dance will be held in the Municipal Hall, Newmarket, to-night. The floor is excellent, and so will be the music.

There will be a gay time at the Orange Hall to-night when the Felix .Dance Club will be in full session. Balloons, cigarettes, streamers, etc., will be in evidence. Spot waltzes will result in the distribution of favours at the Manchester Unitey Hall to-nigh'., when the Xgaroma Social Club will hold a dance. On Monday there will be another session. Special Easter attrar tione are announced by Dixieland. To-night there will be dancing till midnight. '"T'ae Patsy" night will be on Monday, when Miss Irene Homer and her company are announced to be in attendance. The Midget Moselles, Juvenile cabaret dancfxe, are amongst the Easter attractions. The Click Clack Cabaret will hold a race-night carnival to-night, dancing going on till midnight. On Monday night there will be an Easter ball, concluding at 2 a.m. Clyde Hwley and his famous Internationale will provide all the latest music. A grand Easter carnival will be held on Ye Olde Pirate Shippe to-night. On Monday night a. variety ball is announced, when in addition, spectacular cabaret items will be given. Special bus arrangements are announced. The Musical Box, Karangahape Road, will hold a. dance on Tuesday night. Dixieland Band will be in attendance. The Gaiety Dance Club will commence their season at the Orpheum Hall, Onehunga, on Laeter Monday, with a grand carnival night. Jazz hate and novelties will be given away, and also good prizes. Stacey's Band will be in attendance. Dances are to be held on the Tuesday o» each week. The Picturedrome at Milford is running an Easter programme to-night, followed by two hours' jazz to the music of Thomson's Sparklets. The Parisian Dancing Club have a special Easter attraction to-night, when a gala will be held under the title "A Xight in Tunis." Special music appropriate to the occasion will be played by Harry Bolton's Parisian Dance Orchestra.