ENTERTAINMENTS

Dominion, Volume 19, Issue 297, 11 September 1926, Page 6

ENTERTAINMENTS

CHALIAPIN. The coming of lire treat Chaliapin (says a writer in an exchange), is unlike the visit of any ordinary singer. This great Russian basso has by the force of his genius, hewn ut a special niche for himself in the ealm of elevated song, and wherever there is culture aud knowledge his name is hon uured among men. Like most Russian male singers he has Mother Church to thank for his earlv 'raining. The Greek church depends almost entirely on unaccompanied male voice singing ol the kind the Russian choir recently introduced. aud composers cf the highest talent have composed a rich and treasur able store of music for the four-part male voice singing that beautified the services of the Church before its humiliation at the hands of the revolutionists. It was in the quaint little church in the eitv of Kazan, on the Volga that Chaliapin first learnt to love singing, and as boyhood merged into earlv manhood, he developed a rich bass voice, which one dav caught the ear of an < peratic manager attending the service. So struck was he by the richness of its quality, that he sought out the ;ad u.nd advised him to study music earnestly for with a voice like his he might do anything So at the age of seventeen ycun- Chaliapin left the church to join the chorus of a travelling opera company, making his first appearance at the town ol Oufa. in the Ural Mountains. The director soon realised mat he had in his company a voice in a nilllon. and within a few months the young giant found himself playing the eadine roles in provincial towns. with his name spreading a carpet of glory before him Then in 1892 he made his appearance in St. Petersburg (now Leningrad), and again his voice, and forceful majestic acting cleared all rivals from his path His call to Milan eight ears later to create the role of Mefistofele in Boito's opera, was almost the t atural sequel to his success, and there, at La Scala, he triumphed among the greatest singers of the day. From then till now his fame has remained unsmirched, and ne is singing as well now as he did a Quarter of a centurv ago "lie ordinary plans for the two Wellington concerts, on Thursday and Saturday of next week, are now open at the Bristol.

, DE LUXE THEATRE. A smart comedy-drama from the-Univer-sal-Jewel studios, “Watch Your Wife,” formed the outstanding feature in the new programme presented at the De Luxe Theatre last night. The plot describes how a highly-strung young married couple quarrel and become divorced, only to discover that they are more in love with each other than ever. Beautiful Virginia Valli gives a splendid characterisation of the wife who demands everything of her husband. Pat O'Malley does some line acting as the husband-author, engrossed in his work to such an extent that he sets his wife’s nerves on edge. Helen Lee Worthing, as the "rented wife,” gives a new version of the “vamp," and Nat Carr is responsible for some clever comedy work as the interfering attorney. Aggie Herring nnd Nora Hayden are also happily suited in the strong . ast. The play is enacted for the most part in a luxurious roof-garden. A dazzling scene is the cabaret set. The costumes of the principals and the hundreds of extras find a brilliant setting in the hotel lobby scene. -There is an excellent supporting programme, and the orchestra renders a choice arrangement of music.

“THE FLAMING FRONTIER.” Romance and colourful -urroundines. political intrigue and comedy, culminating in a thrilling and spectacular reproduction of the Custer massacre, are among the outstanding big leatures that make “The Flaming Frontier" one of the most intensely gripping pictures that has ever been screened. “The Flaming Frontier." a Universal super-production which telle the story of the winning of the West, with interesting nictures of life at West Point, the famous American military academy, and at Washington, is presented by an all-star cast. Hoot Gib son. Universal’s hard-riding and capable Western star, appears in the greatest portrayal he has vet done ns a pony express rider, a.rmv scout. and g.rea: friend of General Ouster. Dustin Farnum comes back to the screen in the tragic role of General Custer. Anne Cornwall, whose admirers 'ire legion, is the dainty heroine of the picture, and brings new fame to herself Another sterling actor in the cast is Ward Crane, than whom there is no better picture villain. Kathleen Key comes to the front again in still another v.yn" role, while the fun-maker Eddie Grjbbon and Harry Todd take care of the splendid comedy feature's of 'The Flaming Frontier.” Harold Goodwin plays the juvenile to perfection. “The Flaming Frontier" is due to celebrate its first* New Zealand release at the De Luxe Theatre at an early date. EMPRESS THEATRE. The programme which commenced yesterday at the Empress Theatre is one of exceptional merit. Adolphe Mcnjou and Florence Vidor play the leading roll’s in “The Grand Duchess and the Waiter.” a Paramount production, a sparkling, farcical, tale with superlative acting smooth directing, and magnificent mounting. Adapted from the sensational French stage success, the story gives beautiful Florence Vidor every opportunity to display her great histrionic abilities. She is gloriously frowned in a variety of Paris irocks. and the latest French bob. sets her olf to advantage in her portrayal of the hauteur of the Duchess. Adolphe Menjou is perfectly natural as the man aqout town, who eventually falls deeply in love. The second feature, “Baree. Won of Kazan," is a Master picture adaptation of James Oliver Uurwood s famous story of the Far North. Itecommenued more especially for adult audiences, it stars Anita Stewart. Donald Belin, aud “M olf." the War Dog. winner of the Croix de Guerre. It is the story of the terrifying experi ences of a girl in the land where they know no laws, and of a dog who protected her from harm. The scenery, as is only to be expected where Curiyood s novels are concerned, is beautiful in its ruggedness. The story teems with thrilling incident. The latest Rathe Gazette shows Hobbs and Sutcliffe rating dul-ing the second Test at Lords some of the action being taken in slow motion. It includes also Hie athletic championships where German athletes made history. The Empress distinctive rrchestra, under Mr. M. T. Dixon, plays a well-selected arrangement of music. PARAMOUNT THEATRE.

"Kiki," taken from the great stage suecess of that famous author, David Belasco, delighted a very large audience indeed for the first time at the I’aramount Theatre last evening, when the beautiful and celebrated Norma Tahnadge appeared in the role of a real comedienne. Hitherto tills star has always .been regarded ns a great emotional actress, but after seeing "Kiki,” little doubt remained as to her unlimited capabilities in either part. The story circles around the life of a Paris street gamin, with the soult of “a groat lady” who desires to get on. Always it seems that the stage has lured her, but although she is very enthusiastic the chance never seems to occur for her to

get a trial. Then suddenly an opportunity to win real footlight fame arrives, but the girl, who all her life has longed to be an actress, finds herself faced with the problem of purchasing a frock In order to try and appear presentable at rehearsal. The only .possible means of getting the garment is to spend the rent monev aud this after hesitation she does. To sa'y whether she becomes really famous or not, however, would only spoil one of the greatest films. “Klkl" is full ot pathos and drama with a good splash of comedy, in which the lovely and Incomparable Norma consistently shines. In support of the star, such celebrities as Ronald Colman and Marc McDermott appear, the former iu the role of a theatrical manager, and the latter as a town roue. Also on the same programme ia a splendid “Gaumont Graphic,” scenic, and a "Felix, the Cat," carto.m. The Paramount solo orchestra, under the capable direction of Mr. R. R. Caulton, adds further interest to the popular entertainment.

HIS MAJESTY’S THEATRE. The Veterans of Variety continue to charm at His Majesty's Theatre with tho songs that were popular fifty years ago Amongst these are such old favourites as "The Man Who Broke the Bank nt Monte Carlo.” "Two Little Girls in Blue” and "Good-bye. Mignonette." and Mr. G. Campbell, Miss Florence Hinton, and Miss I ily Burnand know how to sing them. Mr. Arthur Slater makes a great hit with “Whistling Bowery Boy." and equally popular is Mr. Jake Friedman, a clever comedian, who burlesques au opera inimitably. The Russian contralto. Miss Rayna. has firmly established herself in the “ood graces of her audiences, aud Miss Rebe Kesslova the gipsy violinist. is another artist well worth hearing Signor Palmetto. the Danish tenor, is in strong demand, and Drew and Romaine add to the general merriment with song and patter. The musical turn provided by Lorna. Lance and Company is bright and dainty. There will be a matinee performance at 2.30 this afternoon, and this highly-entertaining programme will be presented for the last dme to-night. Something specially attractive is promieed for Monday’s nißrht e new bill. * ARTCRAFT THEATRE. D. W. Griffith's wonderful 12-reel production. "Way Down East." with Lillian Gish and Richard Barthelmess in tho leading roles, will be ,hown again to night and for the very last time on Monday at the Artcraft Theatre. In "Wav Down East." Griffith las taken ; simple story of a phase of New England life that is all but too swiftly passim from view, and employed its plain people with their quaint characters and their rugged sense ol the honest and the human and unfolded a t cries of adventures and restraints which illumine the ever troubled path of love. "Way Down East” is a tale of love and lovers in : frame of exquisite charm and pastoral beauty. Rising un from its charm and its humours in colourful contrast it rushes to a climax in the powerful ice iamb and the breaking up of the floe ou the river, which combines every element of stirring drama and becomes at once one of the most astounding and remarkable scenes ever seen within a playhouse. Owiiis to *ts length, the picture commences at 7.45 p.m. precisely, and patrons are advised to be present prior to that time, so as not to miss the start. A specially arranged thematic score contains appropriate and delightful compositions perfectly played by James Havdock.

STRAND THEATRE. One of the most popular film combinations is that of Fred Thomson nnd his wonderful horse, Silver King. The pair are at present drawing good attendances at the Strand Theatre, where they are starred in "The Bandit's Baby," a thrilling Western American picture. The plot deals with an amnesty granted to a notorious outlaw in order to ride in a rodeo for the honour of his old home town. On the day of the contest it turns out that a good deal of difficulty is experienced iu obtaining a judge for the baby show, one reason for this being the tact thal there is a prospect of disappointed fathers showing their disapproval of the decision by the usual method in the district, the six-shooter. “The Bandit.’’ acts as the judge, aud he wins the race, too, after foiling many desperate plots against him Rough virile drama of the outdoors is shown in “Combat,” the other big attraction. House Veters has the starring role of a rowdy lumberjack. Opposite him is Wanda Hawley, while there is a strong supporting cast. A comedy and gazette complete an excellent programme.

KING’S THEATRE. “Wild Justice.” screened last night at tlie King's Theatre, is a etor.v of the great white north. The star performer is the wonder-dog Peter the Great. Dr. Wright finds a doe guarding a murdered man. and he also quarrels . with Bob Blake, who is getting awav with the old man's property to pav au alleged debt.. A week Inter Polly Hadlcv has a sled accident, and falls into the clutches of Blake, but the doctor, with the ready aid of the Arno, the dog. - Blake shoots the dog but the doctor nurses it buck to life again. From the clog he extracts a bullet tho counterpart of the one which killed tlio old man (Polly s uncle). The doctor overcomes Blake (who confesses to the murder), in a hand-to-hand fight, and hands him over to the sheriff. Blake escapes, aud Arno trails him to the edge of a precipice, and forces him over. All nds happily with Dr. Wright and Polly. There is an excellent supporting programme. There will be a matinee at 2.30 p.m, to-day.

QUEEN’S THEATRE. An unusual story, unique in plot and different in development, is "Hell’s lour Hundred," the powerful William Fox version of Vaughan Kester’s popular novel, which opened to a crowded house at the Queen’s Theatre last night. Heading its distinguished cast are Margaret Livingpton. Harrison Ford. Wallace McDonald, and Henry Kaltner, with Marcelini Day. Kodnev Hildebrand, and Amber Norman in the supporting roles. Hells hour Hundred” is the name which the producers have given to that picturesque set of entertainers, the chorus girls of Broadway. The Quest of one of these girls tor a millionaire husband is the central theme of the story. Her experiences in pursuing a matrimonial alliance with wealth are amusing and laugh-promoting, although the element of strong drama is present throughout. There are excellent supports.

Y.M.C.A. CAKNIVAL. Some idea of the magnitude of the Y.M.O.A. Gymnastic Carnival to be staged to-night, aud wliicli will be attended by His Excellency the Governor-General, also Monday, when His Worship tlie Mayoi and Lady Mayoress will be present, ma.v be formed when it is stated that the large stage at the Grand Opera House will be taxed to its limit to accommodate the people taking part. The opening number iu a long and attractive programme is the grand march, which represents the grand ensemble of the 350 pupils—boys, girls, ladies and men—taking nart. Ibis spectacular opening is said to be but a prelude to a fascinating series of sectional numbers, staged without a break, and depicting all phases cf physical work The participation of so many pupils from be ladies aud girls' classes, all attractively dressed and trained to perfection in’ many noveltv items, gives a brightness and colour to chc performance that absolutely removes ;ny suggestion of monotony. The muss work of the boys and the men’s classes is always a popular feature of the carnival. Not the least important feature in the programme will be the humorous element sustained throughout by three clever clowns, under the leadership of Mr. Les. Warner, the clever local comedian. The box plan is at the Bristol. Early doors (ticket-hold-ers only). 7 p.m.: ordinary doors. 7.30 p.m. Tickets may be had at Bolt’s, orcliardists, opposite "Evening Post.

ORGAN RECITAL. Mr. Bernard F. Pago (city organist) will give his weekly organ lecital at the Town Hall to-morrow evenin'’ and the programme has been arranged as under: -Andante in F. bv Beethoven: Cortege (from Suite for Strings). by Debussy: Peer Gynt Suite 'On. 46>. for orchestra, bv Grieg: Largo in F (front Xerxes ). by Handel: Scherzo (Op.Jffi. ly Hoffmann: Summer Sketches, bv Lcntarc ((''Dnwn. ’ “Tim Bee." "Cuckoo,” "Twilight. ’ Evening”).

VIOLIN AND PIANO hECITAL. A violin and piano recital "'ill be e-iven in the Concert Chamber on Monday at 8 P.m. bv Mrs. Eric Meier (violipl. nnd Miss Elsa Walter (piano), assisted bv Mr Eric Meier (violin). The programme is as follows .—Sonata Cesar Franck). Trio Sonata (Bach). Pavilions (Schu inann) Barcarolle (Chonin). 'Jardms Sous Le Pule" (Debussy). Air and Varin. lions (Tartini-Krcisler). La Precieuse (Cminorin-Kriesler). Berceuse Cui) Chant Russe. Halo and Spanish Dance (Sarnsatc) The box plan is at rhe Bristol

SOCIETY OF MUSICIANS. The sixth orchestral remn-t by the Society nf Musicians Orchestra will be given in the Town Hall Concert Clmmbm on Saturday. Sentcmher 25. when n. firs'class nrogramme is promised. On tlm nrrvious occasion the nrehetrn. under the eondtictorshin of Mr. C. W. Kerry has performed admirably.