CITY THEATRES

Press, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22186, 1 September 1937, Page 4

CITY THEATRES

AVON

"MOONLIGHT SONATA"

Probably one of the most interesting film subjects of the year is "Moonlight Sonata," in which Lothar Mendes was able to prevail upon Paderewski, the world's most famous living pianist, to make his film debut in company with Marie Tempest, the greatest comedy actress of the English stage. "Moonlight Sonata," which is coming to the Avon on Friday, not only reveals the genius of the world's foremost pianist, but proves his ability as an actor, and with him is a wonderful company of stars. Marie Tempest, most beloved of all English stage actresses, makes her talking picture debut. Charles Farrell has the romantic role of a steward in love with Barbara Greene, the 18-year-old English girl who has already leached stardom. Eric Portman, now under contract in Hollywood, Lawrence Hanray, W. Graham Browne, and Queenie Leonard are others. '•Romance in Paris" Paris is the traditional setting for a story of gaiety, and "Romance in Paris," at the Avon, a hilarious comedy with an unusual love story. Paris is also the happy hunting ground of near royalties and former royalties, and in Fernand Gravet "Romance in Paris" presents a young king—recently retired from active practice of his profession—who has every quality to fit him for the gay romance the story plunges him into. The film goes with a swing from the start, its unusual situations develop pleasant touches of comedy, its dialogue is witty, and there is excellent dancing thrown in for good measure.

CRYSTAL PALACE

"RAINBOW ON THE RIVER"

It is easy to understand why "Rainbow on the River" is so popular that in response to many requests it has been transferred to the Crystal Palace for a season. The main appeal is in the singing of Bobbie Breen, a nine-year-old prodigy, who is thoroughly at ease in a wide range of songs; but the story is of sound quality: