GRAND THEATRE.

Press, Volume LXII, Issue 18676, 27 April 1926, Page 12

GRAND THEATRE.

NEW PROGRAMME. BERT LYTELL IN "SPORTING LIFE." The Grand Theatre was well-filled last evening, when Seymour Hicks's great play, "Sporting Life," was screened. The story gives one an insight into the lives of luxury lived by wealthy people in England and on the Continent, and there is also a thrilling exposo of the inside life of the Turf. It is melodramatic, but the subject is treated with too much restraint to allow it to become over-melodramatic. The gay whirl of life behind the scenes, the glitter of society, those who saw the picture were able to participate in all this for themselves. There is, of course, a love story in the play, and the whole makes a photoplay that is absorbing in its interest. As Lord Woodstock, Bert Lytell plays one of the best roles lie has ever had, and' he plays it with consummate artistry. His personality pervades the whole picture, and it is safe to say that he handles the part as few other actors could. Playing opposite him is Marion Nixon, already well known to Christchurch audiences. In this play she adds fresh lustre to her already brilliant record. As is common with pic tures of this type, there is, in reality, more than one plot, or, rather, several phases of the major plot, and around these central ideas is woven such a brilliant and absorbing story that only a naturally dramatic author could write. The intriguing allure of the Turf, the fascinating enticement of beautiful ballet girls, and glittering revues, the rugged virility of the ring, deep mysteries, and missing women all add their quota to the general hectic- excitement which runs through this bewildering picture. The insido life of the English nobility, the tireless and exotio existence that is London at night, the grand parade ot men and things that is Ascot, are all included in "Sporting Life," which is a picture of breathless interest and glorious beauty from start to finish. The second feature is ''Daddy's Gone a-Hunting," a vehicle for the display of talents of Percy Marmont and Alice Joyce, and is one of those thoroughly good stories one usually associates with these clever artists. The theme is eminently convincing and original, and -receives intellectual treatment and artistic consideration' from the stars. A talented cast, a director who haß a profound insight into human nature, and sympathetic actors make this picture a truly momorable- one. The Grand Quality Orchestra played a special programme of music.