ENTERTAINMENTS.

Dominion, Volume 2, Issue 318, 3 October 1908, Page 6

ENTERTAINMENTS.

THEATRE ROYAL. The Wide "World Pictures at the Theatre Royal were well patronised last night. Varied and interesting, the programme was quite up to the high standard which 'Messrs. Fuller and Son aim to maiutain. Of the films, the following were worthy of special mention:—"The Brigand's Daughter," in which, by drugging the guards, a girl is shown releasing a wealthy gentleman, who is being held for ransom by brigands; "Paper Tearing," in which male and femalo oharacters/constructed of paper create other figures from shreds, rolls, sheets, and strips of paper; "The Prodigal Son." a magnificently coloured picture; and Piracy in the Days of Nelson," which abounds in sensational incidents. This afternoon a matineo will be held at- 2.30 o'clock; and in tho evening an entirely new series will be presented. THE ROYAL PICTURES. There is no doubt as to the .drawing power of the new programme, of moving pictures at His Majesty's Theatre. The building has been crowded since they were put on, and last night was no exception. The list is an attractive one, in which well-acted dramatic episodes preponderate,, but there is a fine leavening of comic pictures, which create .much _ merriment. This ; afternoon a matinee will "be given, and the- programme will be repeated!this evening. - WEST'S PICTURES. Details of the pictures to be displayed at the opening of West Pictures aiid De Groen's Vice-Regal Orchestra season at the Town Hall next Monday are published elsewhere. The management have made ,an excellent selection of subjects, including, scenes of travel, _ attractive pageants, dramatic sensations, industry studies, trick creations, and funny devices. Chief' interest will be attached to another of Mr. West's "Our Navy" series. This very lengthy film, which is not to bo'confounded with other pictures of a similar character, depicts a recent roview of the fleet by H.M. the King and Queen/in the Solent,, and, in addition-to showing -the ■fleet as it mil appear in time of war, also includes splendid animated photos of both tho King and Queen. The whole series shows the course of training .which tho "handy man" has to undergo' in time of peace, and in view of the great interest now being displayed in the' Dominion and Australian Commonwealth in things naval in view of the suggestions for an Australian navy should prove of interest. Some fine scenic studies of coastal towns, in tho South of France-, the Astrackan fishing industry, customs of the people of the Tyrol, .views of unknown Brazil are also announced to be shown. The more educational pictures will be interspersed with othe'rs of a lighter nature,- amongst." the comic creations being some really genuine langhter-provokers. ' As'far* as possible all tastes aro catered for, and-the pictures will be displayed in Mr. West's best style; and with the powerful electric appliances at his command with, it is anticipated, an entire absence of flicker. Tho orchestra, besides supplying suitable incidental'-music, will provide other attractive items. The box plans aro now on view at the Dresden.

BLAND HOLT COMPANY. At, the Opera House to-night, Mr. Bland Holt will present the Drury Lauo melodrama "The Great Millionaire." : The production has been received with considerable enthusiasm throughout.. Australia, .-and lately in Auckland was responsible for crowded houses. 'Iho story,, it is- said,' appeals strongly to lovers of melodrama, and is of considerable literary merit. As is -usual :with: all Mr. Holt's efforts, the stage effects are gorgeous, the rcajism: being particularly fine. , One scene is a sensational motor-car chase, which is said to bo a splendid example of stage craft. A rich vein of humour is stated'to run through piece. A .play devoid of unreasonable''Sohtimeh't, "Bouplefl m'tli"'beautiful stage pictureß{''will'Blwajis ! find' fyxprttl and Mr.' - ; it' ? is ri 6aid-;'-has'.'cpri-. sidered these 1 and r many other 'important items in "The Great ■ Millionaire." The booking for the opening performance is stated to be exceptionally large, and the management re'que'sts patrons to book their seats to prevent disappointment.---.

PHYSICAL TRAINING SCHOOL. . The gymnasium carnival under the auspices of the Physical ■ Training School camo to a conclusion last night. It is pleasing to note that the exhibition,.which took place at the Opera House, was,the most, successful yet hold by the institution/ The programme was the same as on the previous evening,' and the 'manner in which the various displays were carried, out again. reflected the highest credit on the instructor, • Mr. B. Dovey. Two of the best items were the bout of sword play : between Major Hume, R.N.Z.A., and Mr. Dovey, and one with quarter. staves .'between Captain . Symon, IiN.Z.E.j and Mr. Dovey. Uf especial interest 'also were- the displays of electric club swinging by groups of ladies and girls. A grand fina.le,'in which ,425 pupils took, part, concluded a.very meritorious entertainment. THE SCARLET TROUBADOURS. The repetition of their programme by the Scarlet Troubadours last evening confirms the impression that this company consists of artists of unusual ability, alike as singers and comedians. Both serious and humourous items were delightfully given last evening, and encores were insistent all through the entertainment. Thero was a crowded audience, many persons cheerfully standing: The Troubadours, who should certainly not be missed, will appear again this evening, and a matinee performance will be given this afternoon. . SAILORS' REST. An enjoyable impromptu concert was held yesterday afternoon at the- Rest by sailors in port. Owing to the scarcity of labour, the hall was completely filled. Songs, choruses, etc., were given most heartily by those present. The accompaniments ./were played by various sailors. The superintendent states that he is only too glad to'do all in'his power to afford sailors and thereby break the tedium .of the long wait to which they were subjected. Each afternoon during the dull season the hall is opon for musical enjoyment, in addition' to the Monday concert. - '