AMUSEMENTS.

Auckland Star, Volume LXI, Issue 229, 27 September 1930, Page 14

AMUSEMENTS.

ORGAN RECITAL.

ST. JAMES' THEATRE. John MeCormaek, in "Song of My Heart," is still entrancing audiences at the St. James' Theatre with his wonder-j ful voice. Altogether he sings eleven songs, ranging .from. love ditties to Italian opera. The setting of the story. is simple, and fully in keeping with the quiet Irish village where the scenes were filmed. The best known of the songs which .John MeCormaek sings are "Rose of'Tfalee" and'"lreland, Mother Ireland." The supporting programme contains some excellent items. j MAJESTIC THEATRE. A vivid drama of a. trapped crew on a sunken submarine, is. unfolded in i "Adventures of Submarine 513," which] is the main attraction at the Majestic. Theatre this evening. Facing the prospect of almost certain death, the 16 men on the stricken vessel are thrown into what is almost a panic, and under the stress of circumstances their true characters are brought to light. STRAND THEATRE. , Returning. to Auckland after its triumph here earlier in the year, "The Gold Diggers of Broadway" is getting a good reception at the Strand Theatre. The east is one of the best and most fariious seen for a long tirio. . Nancy Welford and Conway Tearle have the leading roles, CIVIC THEATRE. With El Brendcl and- Marjorie White making the fun, the "Fox Follies of 1930," which opened a season at the Civic Theatre last evening, is one of the brightest films shown in Auckland for some time. The picture is not, as the name would signify, a revue, for there is a well-defined story running through it. There is, however, a revue atmosphere about it. and a number of bright songs and brilliant dancing ensembles are included. The tale of the young man about town who gets into a number of escapades on his uncle's wealth is told with a touch of romance and a broad streak of comedy. LYRIC THEATRE. An appealing story is unfolded in "Sarah and Son," starring Ruth Chatterton, which will be shown at the Lyric Theatre this evening. Ruth Chatterton is probably the greatest actress on the talking screen, and has a long list of successes to her credit. In her latest success she has the role of a mother who is separated from her son. Miss Chatterton is ably supported by Phillipe dc Lacy, a Fre'nch Avar orphan, who plays the part of the child. Frederic March is the lawyer who aids her in the recovery of her child.- A.Mickey the Mouse cartoon heads the supporting programme. , > TUDOR THEATRE. Richard Arlen takes the part of a swaggering cowboy in the leading role in Zane Grey's novel "The Light of the Western Stars" presented this evening at the Tudor Theatre, Remuera. Mary Brian is the heroine, and the picture includes a wild horse stampede on a gigantic scale. _ There is a good programme of supports. The picture will be repeated on Monday. On Tuesday and Wednesday Nancy Carroll will appear in "Honey." ' ' ALEXANDRA. THEATRE. Ann Pennington, star of the "Gold Diggers of Broadway," is assisted by a bevy of bathing beauties in "Tanned Legs," an entertaining film of modern society which will have pride of place at the Alexandra Theatre this evening. Lowell Sherman gives a good performance in "He Knew Women," the other film to be shown. NEW REGENT THEATRE. Comedy and" drama are well combined in "Tanned Legs," which will be presented ..at the New Regent Theatre, Epsom, this evening. .Ann Pennington, vivacious actress, is assisted by a bevy of bathing beauties. A special programme of six interesting featurettes will also be i shown. CAPITOL THEATRE. Two thrilling dramas will be screened at the Capitol Theatre to-night. "Double Cross Roads" is a drama of the American underworld, and "The Wrecker" is an exciting story of the railways. PLAZA THEATRE. Warner Oland appears once more on the screen as the sinister Chinese doctor in "The Return of Dr. Fu Manchu," a sequel to "The Mystedious Dr. Fu I Manchu." The former picture is now being screened at the Plaza Theatre and is thrilling large audiences. A programme of featurettes has been specially selected. CRYSTAL- PALACE. A three-feature programme lias been secured for the Crystal Palace and will there this evening. The whole programme lias been devoted to comedy, and each of. the three pictures to be shown contains a broad streak of humour. Blister Keaton makes the fun in "Free and Easy," while Ann Pennington, of the "Gold Diggers of Broadway," is at her best in "Tanned Legs," a story of modern society life. The other pic- ' ture is "The Shrimp," in which Harry Langdon has the lead. EMPRESS THEATRE. "Montana Moon," starring Joan Crawford and John Mack Brown, will be the main attraction at the Empress Theatre, Newton, this evening. Laurel and Hardy will appear in a hilarious comedy entitled "The Perfect Day," and the other picture will be "Copy," the chicf actor in. which is Walter Houston. WEST END AND NEW DE LUXE . :■ THEATRES. A- British programme will be screened at the West End and New De Luxe Theatres this evening. "The Hate Ship" and "Harmony Heaven" are the two attractions. The latter is Britain's first attempt to film pictures in technicolour and is as good as, if not better than, any American production. COMMUNITY SINGING. The final community singing gathering will be held in the Town Hall on Wednesday evening. A children's choir of 400 ■will take part and "Uncle Tom," of IYA, and Mr. Verno'n Drew , will 'be the song leaders. A rehearsal of the choir will be held earlier in the week in order to ensure the success of the gathering. It has been arranged. to make the final night a "family night." So successful have the gatherings bee'n this season that it is hoped to distribute over £100 to charities. The committee pays a tribute to the untiring efforts of Mrs. IBarrington Snow, who has given her time to act as accompanist at the gatherings.

Merkel's fine "Sonata in G Minor" and two movements from Bach's third concerto will be the principal works of the programme for the recital in the Town Hall on Sunday afternoon. Mr. Maughan Bar'nett will also play Couperin's charming "Hondo, Soerar Monigua" and Bendel'a "M* Stose" 7 — "

ROXY THEATRE.

An all British programme will be presented at the Roxy Theatre this evening in the screening of "Raise the Roof" and. "Sisters." The vivacious English comedienne, Betty Balfour, is the principal in the former picture, which heads the programme. Although the picture abounds in humorous situations it does i not rely solely on comedy for its appeal as it also contains an interesting story of strong human interest. The action of tlio picture is greatly aided, by the dialogue which is bright and witty in cross-talk and repartee. The cast of English characters speak in faultless voices and this fact adds considerably to , the charm of the picture. The story is extremely entertaining, but is particularly notable for the splendid acting of Miss Balfour, who takes the part of an impetuous young girl with ultra modern ideas. The second picture, I "Sisters," is another comedy which has for its leading stars the two Irish actresses Sally O'Xeil and Molly O'Day. This picture also depends a great deal on its comedy appeal, but there is an ■ interesting romance running through it. The two principals are well known for their ability in comedy roles and give a first-class performance in "Sisters." NATIONAL THEATRE. The domestic drama, "A Lady r Io Love." will be presented at the National Theatre this evening. The picture is adapted from the stage play, "They Knew What They Wanted." The. leading roles are played by A ilma. Banky and- Robert Antes, and they arc supported by a specially selected cast. I.lie story tells of how an Italian vineyard owner proposes marriage to a girl through the post. He encloses his protege's photo, however, because, he, himself, is old and ugly. The girl is shocked when she finds out who she has to marry, but is persuaded to go through the ceremony by the protege. The story is dynamic throughout, and presents its facts in an outspoken manner The supporting featurettes are '"Doctors Orders" an Aesop Fable, and a news reel. _ LONDON THEATRE. Mabel Poulton. the famous British actress, is seen as a shop girl in "Taxi for Two," which is having a successful season at the London Theatre. Moll}' Hughes, assistant in a London store, finds_ a pearl necklace belonging to Lady De\enisli, and on returning it meets her son. The young man immediately falls in love with the shopgirl, and in order that his social position might have 110 effect pos'cs as a chauffeur. She, however, discovers lus real identity and thinks that lie has been deceiving her. He is able to effect a reconciliation, however. Miss Poulton is o-ood in her part and is assisted by an excellent cast. The supporting programme contains a number of interesting items. "TUTANKHAMEN." / The locally-written ( musical play "Tutankhamen," which has been revived for a short season at His Majesty s Theatre', is being played by the Auckland Amateur Operatic Society. The enthralling story of an American tourist who runs riot in the court of Tutankhamen and his extraordinary escapades there is unfolded, in the plot. Mr. Eric Waters has revised the musical score, and the plot of the story has. been brought up-to-date. The play is set to beautiful music, and is staged in o manner which faithfully represents ancient Egypt. Special scenery was painted for the production by Mr. A. Lindvell.' MUSICIANS' UNION CONCERT.

An orehestal concert and silent picture entertainment will be given at the St. James' Theatre to-morrow evening. The proceeds will be devoted to the unemployed musicians and Musicia'ns' Benevolent Fund. Mr. George Poore will conduct- the orchestra, and items will be presented by a number of artists. The picture is "The Sign of the Four," Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's masterpiece. SUNDAY CONCERTS. There will be a Sunda ysongs community sing at the Strand Theatre tomorrow eve'ning, in addition to an address by the Rev. Tom Olds on "Here's To Youth." The address will be illustrated with a remarkable film study. "Mother Knows Best." The Auckland City Mission will give an entertainment at the Civic Theatre on Sunday night. The City Mission Choir will sing and an orchestral concert will be rendered. Jlr. Howard. Moody will direct the orchestra. The Rev. Jasper Calder will deliver an address on "Saint and Sinner," and the motion picture "Hinemoa" will be screened. At the Lyric Theatre, Symonds Street, an orchestral entertainment will be given, in addition to the screening of "Uncle Tom's Cabin," A special attraction is announced. "Hondini" will give a wonderful exhibition of hand shadowettes. Under, the auspices of the Rationalists' Association, Mrs. Mary M. Dreaver will give an address at the Majestic Theatre, on "Women, Work a'nd the World; Children, Churches and Charity." A comedy drama, "Easy Come, Easy Go" will be screened.

PUPILS' RECITAL.The pupils of Dr. E. W. Hillsdon* Hutton's school of music gave an enteitaining performance in the Kingsford Hall, Otahuhu, -which was crowded, Mrs. Hillsdon-Hutton was the hostess, and Dr. Hillsdon-Hutton was the accompanist. Piano solos were played by Misses Nelda Clark, Winifred _ Crow, Eileen Pople and Messrs. Cedric and Trevor Sorensen. Miss Phyllis Webber played "Marche des Troubadours," while her sister. Miss Jessie Webber, played "Poet and Peasant." Piano duets were given by Misses Ona and Pearl Jury, Ruth and Jean Holloway, Eileen and Kenneth Pople, and Miss Jessie Webber and Dr. Hutton. Violin solos were contributed) by Misses Kathleen French and Albert Bsll, and Mr. Leonard Pople/ who gave "Cavatina." Miss Marie Warren gave a delightful rendering of "Ave Maria." Mandolin solos were played by Miss M. Thomas, Mr. Isaac Walker, sen., and Mr. Ernest Merriman. Miss Myra Thwaites, soprano, sang "Break o' Day. Mrs. A. Wrigley gave ft recitation entitled "An Old Soldier," while Miss Audrey Twidle recited'"Between Two Loves." Two selections were played by the senior orchestra, which comprised Misses Stella McSporran, Marie Warren, and Messrs. Leonard Pople, Harold' Green, George Graham, Alfred Littler (violins), Mrs. T. Hardman ('cello), Mr. T. Hardman (double bass), J. Steenson (saxophone), Dr. Hutton (flute), and Miss Jessie Webber (piano). Items were also given by the junior orchestra, which comprised Mr. Leonard Pople (leader), Misses Marie Warren, Kathleen French, Freda Miller, Maureen Searley, Phyllis Webber, Dorothy Killick, and Masters Albert Bell, Ernest Merriman, Trevor Sorensen and Kenneth Pople. The "Irish Washerwoman" was danced by Misses Pae Norris, Mary College, Gwen Mitchell and Shirley Phillips. Miss Mary College danced' the highland fling. An item was given by the guitar and mandolin band, which comprised Mrs. Hardman, Misses Gladys Moore, M. Thomas, Dr. Hillsdon-Hutton and Messrs. T. Mann, S. Walters, Gillies, T. Walker, Ernest .Merriman and Trevor Sorensen. After the concert a dance was' held, and a most successful evening was brought to a close I with. "Auld Lang Sgnae,"

REGENT THEATRE,

So successful has "The Divorcee" been at'the Regent Theatre that it is being extended for a further week. Dealing with a problem of modern life, the picture presents its facts in an outspoken manner. The story tells of how a young woman finds on the third anniversary of h»er marriage that her husband has been ißifaithful. She secures a divorce and lives an exceedingly gay life, but canmot forget, and when she meets her exhtesband in Paris seeks a reconciliation. Miss Norma Shearer, star of many a successful talking picture, plays the part of the divorcee in a convincing manner. She gives a dramatic portrayal in which she is considerably aided by her cultured voice. A Grantland Rice Sportliglit film, "Big-Top Champions," and a Laurel and Hardy comedy are the main features of an excellent supporting programme. SUBURBAN THEATRES. At the Cinema Theatre, Sandringham, "The Woman Racket," will be the chief attraction this evening. Tom Moore and Blanche Sweet are the featured players. A special programme of featurettes is announced. The chief attraction at the Ambassador Theatre, Point Chevalier, will be "Seven Days' Leave," starring Gary Cooper and, Beryl Mercer. "Smiling Irish Eyes" will be screened at the Orpheus Theatre, Otahuhu. Colleen Moore is the jMrincipal. A double feature programme, including "Parade oi the West'' and "Vagabond Lover" will be shown at the Prince Edward Theatre, Karangahape Road. At the Grey Lynn Cinema will be shown "Under the Greenwood Tree" and "Men are Like . That," while at the Adelplii Theatre "On With The Show" has pride of place. "The laughing Lady" featuring Ruth Chatterton, will be screened at the Victoria Theatre Devonport. STELLA MURRAY CONCERT. A. rare treat is promised for Auckland music lovers, when, on October 8, Stella Mui-ray, the New Zealand born contralto, will give one recital here. Miss Murray has ;•!' ived from London to make a short .our of New Zealand and will give one concert in cach of the four centres before leaving the Dominion, on her return to England. Since her previous visit itcrc, some years ago, she has sung in all the principal cities of Grear, Britain and has been associated with leading English artists in oratorio and concert platform work. The annual recital, which for several years she lias given in London, has come to be regarded as one of the major events of the English season. LITTLE THEATRE SOCIETY. One of the best known of St. John Ervine's plays, "Jane Clegg," will be presented by the Little Theatre Society for a season of four nights, commencing on October 1. It will ho the first of Mr. Ervine's plays to be seen in New Zealand. Miss Mona Wallbank will play the lead and will be supported by a strong cast. DANCING. The Peter Pan is rapicDy becoming a popular cabaret, and this evening another dance will lie held. The Peter Pan Orchestra will play all the latest music. Attractive decorations and novelties are features of the cabaret. Dancing will bo indulged in at the Dixieland Cabaret, Point Chevalier, until midnight this evening. The music will be played by the Dixieland Baßnd. A "tangee night" is announced for the Apache Dance Club this evening. To-night will also mark the commencement of a competition for substantial prizes. Harry Bolton's ■■Orchestra will play "Rigoletto," a special orchestration by Jack Swinburne.

The Grey Lynn Labour party will hold their usual dance in the O'Neill Street Hall, Ponsonby, to-night. Paltridge's Orchestra will be in attendance. The Akarana Dancc Club will hold its usual danco at Mechanics' Bay this evening. Scots Hall will be the scene of the shop assistants' weekly dance on Monday evening. George Hunters Famous Revellers will dispense the music at the Druids' Old Time Cabaret this evening. There will be two hours' jazz after the pictures., at the Picturedromc, Milford, this evening. Epi Shalfoon's Melody Boys, Rotorua's popular band, will bo seen in action at a dance in (he Scots Hall on October 29. The Auckland Centre of the New Zealand Labour party will hold their annual danco and euchre tournament in the Trades Hall, Hobsoh Street, on Wednesday evening. Cunningham's Monte Carlo Orchestra will play the music. Bob Adams and his Ngaroma Dance Band will play the music at a dance to be held in the Manchester Unity Hall on Tuesday evening. Novelties are announced for a dance to be held by the Richmond cricket team in the Gaiety Hall, Surrey Crescent, this evening. The music will be played by Miss Edna Smith's jazz band. The Reform party will hold their annual ball in. the Peter Pan Cabaret on Thursday evening. An old-time dance will be held in the Municipal ITaJI, Newmarket, this evening. The music will be played by Parker's select revised orchestra. To-night the Parisian Dancing Studio will hold a social dance in. their ballroom, Upper Queen Street. The orchestra will feature popular numbers. The Ventura Dance Club will hold a dance in the St. Sepulchre's Hall this evening. Jazz will be played by Brown's Versatile Pirates. Bob Adams and his Ngaroma Band will play the music for the Ngaroma Dance Club- which will be ju session at the Manchester Unity Hall this evening. An , old time dance is announced for the Click Clack Cabaret this evening. Morrow's Orchestra will play the music!