Films and the Stage.

Dominion, Volume 20, Issue 54, 27 November 1926, Page 23

Films and the Stage.

Oscar Asche showed wisdom in choosing his stage name. His full name, as stated by him recently in London, is John Stanger Heiss Oscar Asche. “John. Asche” might have been fairly effective, and “Stanger Asche” (recalling “Spranger Barry” of the eighteenth century) would have been noticeable; but tl.e name .vhich he decided to use was better for the purpose than either. On the stage there is a good dal in a sounding name.

A cast of unusual box office significance has been gathered for the First National production “Paradise.” Milton Sills heads the cast in a part that is admirably cut out for his forceful personality. Betty Bronson plays 'Opposite him. The supporting cast is one of the finest all round groups that have been seen for many years, and includes Noah Berey, Charlie Murray, Kate Price, Lloyd- Whitlock, Claud King, Ashly ’ Cooper, and Charlie Brooks. The story is from the Cosmo Hamilton novel of the same name. Its locale is London and the South Seas. It has a wonderful angle, and-a distinctively colourful and romantic plot. Sills is'seen in the role of a desolate English officer who falls in love with a music hall dancer. Finding himself the possessor of a South Sea Island called Paradise, he outwits his enemies and establishes himself and his wife on the island, thereby finding real happiness.

Rex, the King of Wild Horses, has added a great number to his already large number of admirers by his wonderful work in “Black Cyclone.” He really is almost human. In fact the intelligence displayed by him in his work is at times wonderful.

It is announced that Olive Borden will replace Madge Bellamy for the feminine lead in “The Monkey Talks.” Jacques Lerner, famous French animal impersonator, is to play the part of Faho, the monkey, in this.picturisation of the sensational stage success. Lerner is well known .for his simian characterisations, having been in the “monkey business” for twelve years. He has a farm near Rheims, where he is able to study the tree-folk at close quarters and to make the acquaintance of all their little tricks and buffoonery, and he was tlie only person possible for the part, which, requires such clever impersonation.

“The Sea Beast,” which has its New Zealand premiere at the Empress Theatre this week, is said to be the outtsanding effort of Jorn Barrymore’s career. His interpretation of .Ahab, the whaler, is most realistic, particularly in the scene where, after lie lias lost his own leg, lie makes his first attempt to secure a wooden one.

How little the average New Zealanders knows about his own country is fullv illustrated in the wonderful little picture “Fighting Fins,” now being released bv Master Pictures throughout New Zealand It shows that we stand pn our own throughout the world for fishing. The picture shoWs the whole ■of Zane Grey’s fishing expedition, and 'is wonderfully entertaining.

Mr. Ronald Riley, an English actor, well known to New Zealand theatre-goers, is at present in Auckland, having recently been on tour .with the Denis Kehoe Company. Mr. Riley has played many parts during his lengthy stay in Australia under engagement to different companies, and can adapt himself with ease to a wide variety of good deal in a sounding name.

A varied and interesting assortment of theatrical personalities are included in the cast supporting Laura La Plante in her latest Universal Jewel picture, “Her Big Night.” Nat Carr was a vaudeville and burlesque comedian of note; Cissy Fitzgerald was a famous musical comedy star; Lee Moran and Mack Swain are veteran screen comedians; Tolrn Roche and William Austin were both luminaries of the stage; Tully Marshall is an old-time stage and screen character actor; Einar Hansen,, before his importation, was one of Europe’s leading film stars.

Syd. Chaplin up to his tricks again in a shrieking comedy, dealing with his adventures as a nurse. In “Oh, What a Nurse” Chaplin is supported by Patsy Ruth Miller, this her first lead in a feature comedy, and with Chaplin she provides many amusing romantic scenes.

Judge E. H. Garry, of the U.S. Steel ■Corporation, who ought to know something about steel products, whether fiction or fact, comes forth with high praise for “Men of Steel,” the First National, starring Milton Sills, which will have its first release in Auckland in the near future, and will then be seen in Wellington. Judge Gary, in a letter addressed to the general manager of First National, says: “A few days age I had the pleasure of seeing vour recent production entitled ‘Men of Steel.’ It is splendid The photographic work is fine; in fact, vou have succeeded better than I thought possible.”

After one year’s successful run, “Mercenary Mary” concluded its London season on September 18. The musical comedy, which was staged tn the Hippodrome, reached a total of 4BU performances. It is still being played in Australia.

Only three more chapters remain of that highly interesting and thrilling serial “Hurricane Hutch,” episode 13 of which will be shpwn at the Artcraft matinee this afternoon, together with that wonderful old story of London coster life, “My Old Dutch.”

Hugh J. Ward, whose retirement from the 'Fuller-Ward combination has been announced, first went to Australia in 1899 as a principal in Henry Hoyt’s American comedy troupe, whose chief comedian was Harrv Conor. The company played two over-rated American musical comedies, "A Trip to Chinatown" and .“A Stranger in New York ” Mr. Ward later gained fame in Australia and New Zealand in “The Man from Mexico” and “The Music Master.”

“Red” riots such as recently occurred in Vienna are pictured in stark realism in “The Greater Glory,” June Mathis’s super feature for First National, which will be shown at the Paramount Theatre this week. “The Greater Glory” is the story of post-war Vienna, once the gay city of Austria. It is the adaption of the “Viennese Medley,” the celebrated novel by Edith O’Shaughnessy. More than a year of intense production was spent on “The Greater Glory” by Miss Mathis and a huge company. Miss Mathis is famed as a screen writer—one of her pictures being “The Four Horsemen.” The story follows the fortunes of a typical well-to-do Viennese family, and depicts their downfall and ultimate rehabilitation. The theme is stupendous, and the picture is designed along colossal lines. The large company is headed by Anna Q. Nilsson, Conway Tearle, May Allison, lan Keith, and other well-known players. Lucy Beaumont, who has one of the most remarkable parts of the picture, was selected for the part only after more than 300 character women had been subjected to the test.

Two “Wampas baby stars” appear in the cast of “The Man in the Saddle,” Universal’s latest Western attraction, starring the popular Hoot Gibson. They are Fay Wray, who plays the feminine lead, and Sally Long. Both were chosen as among the thirteen most promising young actresses of the screen by the “Wampas,” an organisation of Hollywood writers and publicists, which selects its thirteen “baby stars,” for whom is predicted kinema brilliance in the future, as an annual event.'

Although a young man Emil Jannings, the star of the German-made film “The Last Laugh,” a Master Picture due for early release, is acquainted with the seamy side of life, with the result that his experiences invest his character work with a certain qual itv that is inimitable. In this remarkable photoplay Jannings plays the role of a pompous porter of an opulent Berlin hotel and the story of his fall and rise again is intimately revealed under the treatment of this great actor

When the “For the Term of His Natural Life” company was on location in Tasmania the daily roll call of extras was generally a source of mirth for the listeners. On. the rolls there was a Gabbet and Dawes, whilst the stars were- well represented bv a i Murphy and Linton, the curious part of the coincidence being that the extra named Murphv bore a remarkable resemblav ►o Stephen Murphv, the villain of th s great picture, upon which the entin future of Australasian productions H e pends

Elsie Prince (of “No, No, Nanette' tame) will be Prince Charming in “Cinderella” in Me'bourne for the Fullers this Christmas and Madge White (at present lead .J the musical comedy “Ladv, Be Good”) will be the redoubtable Jack in "Jack and the Beanstalk” for them in Svdnev Bruce Gren, who wase an unconventional dame in the “Aladdin” pantomime this vear, is to be the frivolous Widow Twankev when the pantomime is produced th Svdnev at the festive season Melbourne has already passed an opinion on it.

Important rearrangements in the theatre world are to follow upon l the retirement of Hugh J Ward from the Fullers’ Fullers will be putting on a pantomime at St. James (Svdnev) at Christmas-time, and another in Melbourne, but apart from pantomimes, in which thev have alwavs specialised, they will again concentrate on vaudeville. When there are no pantomimes the Fuller theatres not needed for vaudeville may be used for pictures, or they may be available for outside companies.

One of the most famous stars in the world arid one of the most famous novels are combined in Marion Davies latest Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer feature, “Beverley of Graustark.” she is a big favourite, and the book after some years is still a favourite romance. The new production, now playing at the De Luxe Theatre, is a colourful story of a court intrigue and romance in modem Europe, filmed on a gorgeous scale. Antonio Moreno plays the leading male role opposite Miss Davies, and tlie others in the cast include Roy D’Arcy, Paulette Duval, Creighton Hale, Max Barwvn, Albert Gran, and Charles Clary. Sidney Franklin, director of manv of the Talmadge successes, directed it Elaborate settings and spectacular ensembles form the background, against which a tensely dramatic and human story is revealed.

The Stanley McKay . Pantomime Company will return to New Zealand in Deceinber. The company includes Misses Ruth Bucknail, _ Maudie Stewart. Laurie McLeod, Yvonne Marella, May Brooke, Zetta and Marjorie Abrahams, Messrs. Walter George, Frank f’errvn Arthur Meredith, Ernest Barnclougb, and Arthur Harrison, ami the Eleven Rascals. Mr. Walter George's little revues, which he gave on the Fuller circuit-“Tbe King of Dunnowhereski,” “The Orange Girl,” •'Mv Geisha Girl”-—will be produced, as well as several pantomimes.

It is not improbable that Mr. Dion Boucicault will return to Australia again next year, under the J. C. Williamson Ltd. direction. Mr. Boucicault, who, with his company, will sail from Melbourne on the conclusion of the run of “Marv Rose” at the King s Theatre, shortly, will be accompanied bv his wife, Miss Irene Vanbrugh, and a special company, should negotiations be definitely concluded before his departure. Australians would like to see Miss Vanbrugh in "Caroline,” in which she has achieved one of her greatest successes in England.

Dorothy Fane, of Renee Kelly’s company, playing in “Brown Sugar” at tlie Theatre 'Royal, Melbourne, is another artist who lias figured prominently in the films. She was born in Yorkshire, end was educated at London and Paris. She was associated with Laskv’s London studios until they disbanded owing to the depression in the film industry ”1 don’t think the film business will ever succeed in England like it has in America,” said Miss Fane “The Americans have gone into it so thoroughly, and the English producers don’t take it seriously enough. Moreover, they are unwilling to spend an adequate amount of money on the productions.”

Word has been received that the coveted roles of Diane and Chico, the central figures round which the. plot o “Seventh Heaven" revolves, have been allotted to Janet Gaynor and Charles Farrell. This celebrated sta?c success, which is running " Sydney at the present time, is enm picturised by Fix Films, and is o Ibe most important of their long hst o stage dramas being converted to scree use. These roles have been coveted h' nearlv everv important star male and female, but the parts rconircd great m - trionic talent and distinct tvpes, and mere names counted for nothing ■ Gavtior made her box debut in , Johnstown Flood." and then appeared in the lead in “The Shamrock Handicap.” Farrell had his first chance m "Sandv,” and was later signed to a contract with Fox Finis for others.

Memories of “The Blue Bird,” which was staged in Australia some years ago bv J. C. Williamson Ltd., w’ill be awakened by the fact that the special incidental music which was a feature of the Dion Boucicault production of “Mary Rose” at the King’s Theatre, Melbourne, on Saturday night, November 6, was composed by Norman O’Neill, whose beautiful music to Maeterlinck’s play was such a delight. There will be other musical features of “Mary Rose, including an unseen chorus and an organ. ■

Altred Hill (savs the Sydney “Bulletin”) was offered some tempting baits to call America his home, one of them being a post at the McPhail School at Minneapolis, where there are 12,009 students, together with the conductorship of the Apollo Club; but m spite of all temptations he has returned to Ins work at Sydney Conservatonum with a renewed desire to make that city an operatic centre and provide it with a permanent orchestra. Hie trip was not unprofitable on the financial side The traveller contributed to some performances, placed several musical works, and supervised the making ot gramophone records of bis work, including several of Ins '•(impositions.

A country of snow wastes, high up in the Canadian Rockies, is the locale for “Thirty Below Zero,” a Buck Jones starring vehicle recently completed. The story concerns a wealthy young man, who flees from designing young, ladies of the chorus and becomes the central figure in a bootleg feud in >' wilderness. Buck’s next picture for release here is “The Gentle Cyclone

Bessie Love, petite little screen artist, who has been in retirement for a long time, is once more before the camera She lias been sinned by lox Films to appeal in "Gomg Crooked, which is about to co into production at the West Coast studios. .I he last pro duction Bessie made for Fox was about four years ago, when she appeared tn “Gentle Julia.”

As if uproarious comedy and burlesque were not enough, “The Bandit s Baby,” to be shown at the Artcraft Theatre on Tuesday next, for a three nights’ season only, is a smashing action Western which brings Mr. Thomson back into his familiar cowboy regalia in which he has won so many laurels for popularity. A corking,horse lace, a rodeo, the rescue of a youngster from the tracks in a rate between a horse and a train, and a dozen other features make this a remarkable picture.

A world famous author, who is a familiar figure to New Zealanders, considers Metro-Goldwyn-Maver’s wonderful wat epic, “The Big Parade,” to be the greatest motion picture he has seen. The fact that the production is now in its second year on Broadway, and going as strong as when it was first screened, suggests that there aie thousands of others who share Ins opinion.

From twenty to eighty—that is the gamut of years bridged by Pat O’Mai-, ley, noted screen actor, in “My Old Dutch,” Universal’s spectacle of London life now plaving at the Artcraft Theatre. O’Malley passes through five separate ages, ending as a tottering old man, through the clever and artistic application 'of grease-paint on a clean-shaven face. Another startling series of make-ups is that of May McAvoy, who finally reaches the age of sixty bv means of make-up. The huge coster festival, with its sensational race, and other striking bits depicting life in London over a period of forty years are shown in connection with the stirring story.

It is very • gratifying to be able -to record a financial success for Mr. Joseph Cunningham’s New English Comedy Company, which is completing a two weeks’ season at the Grand Opera House to-night ' During the, season we have had two comedies in “The Unfair Sex” and “Eliza Comes to Stay,” in which the company has established itself as the equal of any company that has preceded it in this type of plav, and Wellington theatregoers will look forward with the very happiest anticipation for another taste of its mettle in lan Hay’s comedy “The Sport of Kings” and Sutton A’ane’s allegorical drama "Outward Bound ”

Cecil Kellawav, who is appearing with Marie Burke in “Katja” at His Majesty’s Theatre. Melbourne.' was in his voiith apprenticed to an’engineering fiym, and one dav had the chance to join a travelling theatrical company So he went to the foreman, and asked his advice. The foreman was a keen lud-’n of character and a natural wit. “Cecil,” he' said, “vou’ll make a far better red-nosed comic than a blackfaced greaser.” And that is how Mr Kellawav commenced his theatrical caleer The actor has a gift for composition. He has written several successful c ongs which have been published, and is hopeful of one dav having an Australian musical cotnedv produced, with lyrics and music set to a libretto by Steel Rudd

“Marv Rose,” J. M. Barrie's mvstic play which Dion Boucicault was to have produced for J. C. Williamson Ltd. at the King’s Theatre, Melbourne, on Saturday night, November 6, has an arrestinc story. Opening in 1919, tlie plciv revenls Matv’s son, who. ran <iua' to sea in boyhood, settled in Australia, docs not return until he joins the \.I ]•’., and does not revisit his old home'until after the Armistice. He find" the bouse dismantled, and m a ■spite of decay, long since deserted bv his grandfather and grandmother, and nilr-t ' liis father (one of the most ,i,,( P officers of the British Fleet), because it is haunted bv the ghost of his .....ihcr While seated in the old homestead, all the events of th? previous (wentv-eic'ht years are presented to i.; IT) in a vision. Mr. Boucicault is convinced that Melbourne audiences will '•■■l “Marv Ro«r>." a singularly vivid and holding interest.

Most of 1 tire principals of the disbanded Williamson Royal Comics are scattered amongst “Rose Marie” “Katja,” the Gilbert and Sullivan troup and “Tell Me More,” with Maude Fane, the greatest of all musical comedy actresses, as star. Arthur Stigant and Leslie Holland—the former only is still effective—are “resting.” Two old favourites we never hear of nowadays are Jack Cannot and Marie Eaton.

Every day brings a big batch of letters to the J.C. Williamson Ltd. man-agement'in-Melbourne asking whether “Wildflower” can be revived by the company which is now appearing in “Katja” at His Majesty’s, prior to its departure from Melbourne. Nothing has been decided by the firm in this connection, as “Katja” is such a success that, under present conditions, it can run till the end of the season. Needless to add, Marie Burke says she would welcome the opportunity to appear in her old part for a few nights prior to her departure;

Who says that animal performers do not possess brains? Rin-Tin-Tin, the wonderful star on Master Pictures’ programme, at times would make you think he is a human being on four legs. His work in “The Night Cry,” at times is incredible. He seems to enjoy his work, and in many instances anticipates the wishes of his master.

The Barrie Company are farewelling in Melbourne, which is also a farewell to .Australia. Renee Kelly, also we may see at Christmas, also “Katja, who is the likeable Marie Burke, are nightly delighting the people of the Victorian capital.

Attempts have been made lately to induce Miss Lily Elsie, famous London actress, to return to the stage She has been offered a salary of £BO9 a week. Mr. Martin Henry, who has taken the Garrick Theatre for a year, planned to revive Anthony Hope s romantic comedy, “The Adventure o Lady Ursula,” and to give Miss Elsie the part that Miss Evelyn milliard created at the Duke of fork’s m 1898 The plav has been twice revived-in 1901 and in 1909. The salary offered to Miss Elsie is larger than that now being drawn by any actress on the London stage.

Gilbert (Pee-Wee) Holmes docs some splendid c.omedv relief work in the Universal Western'attraction, “The Border Sheriff,” starring Jack Hoxie. Holmes, who is reputed to be the smallest Western plaver, and comedian for that matter, in the film world, makes an excellent partner for Jack Hoxie, in hts latest picture. Supporting players include Oliver Hasbrouck, S. E. Jennings, Frank Rice, and manv other well-known Western character players. One of the screen's most successful comedy teams has been found by. Universal in the combination of Reginald Dennv, star, ami William A Seiter, his director. Their latest production is “Rolling Home,” a Jewel production, which will be seen shortly. Mr. Seiter has already directed Denny in “Where Was I ? ' “What Happened to Jones,” and "Skinner’s Best Suit.”

The coming year will be altogether notable as regards the number and quality of the musical attractions to be presented by J. and N. Tait. The first of these will probably be Paderewski, the great pianist being followed by the young violinist, Jascha Heifetz, after whom will come Mischa Levitski, the pianist; Tito Schipa, the famous Italian operatic tenor; Joseph Hislop, the noted English lyric tenor; and others.

PERSONNEL Mr. Henrv Hayward, of the FullerHayward Theatre’ paid a brief visit to Wellington this week. Mr. John W. Hicks, governing director for Famous Players-Lasky (Paramount) returned to Sydney by the Tahiti on Tuesday. Mr. Crick, managing director for Fox Film Corporation, will probably be in New Zealand at the New Year. Mr. G. L.’ Johnston, Dunedin, left by the Tahiti for Sydney and will be in Australia for about a month. Mr. John Kennebeck, Paramount Pictures, arrived from Sydney by the Marama on Tuesday. He is over here on exploitation and publicity in connection with “Beau Geste” and the opening of the Regent theatre. Mr. Kennebeck will also make arrange-

meats for “The Vanishing Race,” the big Indian picture and the staging of the band of Indians who axe in Sydney, at present. Mr. Kennebeck is accompanied by his wife.

Mr. Errol Fuller. Auckland manager of First National Pictures, attended a conference of his firm in Wellington early this week. He left for Gisborne on Tuesday last.

Mr. Davis, director for Exhibitors Alliance Pictures, returned to Wellington by the Tahiti after a brief visit to Rarotonga.

It is understood that Mr. Keast, who was a through passenger by the Tahiti, has secured the rights of the U.F.A. films for Australasia. Mr. Cecil Mason, assistant manager in Australasia for First National Pictures, returned to Sydney by the Tahiti on Tuesday. He will probably return to Wellington in about a fortnights time.

Mr W. A. Malone, director of publicity for First National Pictures, went south on Tuesday night.

Mr Bernard F. Freeman, managing director for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer is due to . arrive in New Zealand about December 4.

Richard Barthehness, more than any other star in -filmdom, has constantly lived his artistic life in a world of chivalry and romance. He has never played an ignoble part throughout his film career, but has temained steadfastly in pursuit of his ideal. “Tol’able David,” of immemorial fame, planted him firmly in the public mind as the dreamer of high dreams, who was ready to give his life to make them come true. His pictures typify devotion to duty in its highest and widest application, and now comes his latest offering, “Ranson’s Folly.” from the celebrated storv of Archer Harding Davis. It follows the Barthehness tradition. As Lieutenant Graveston lie is a rollicking daredevil voung cavalry officer in the U.S. Army on the western frontier during the Indian wars. His only fault is an irrepressible spirit of adventure. lu the storv this leads him into difficulties to provide the. drama .for the story and picturesque scenes in which be exhibits his customary spirit of willing sacrifice. This picture is released by First National, and will shortly be seen in Wellington.

The romantic adventures of. a modern flapper, who rebelled against the conventions of society in a small, oldfashioned country town, are the substance of “Don’t,” the Metro-Goldwyn-Maver picturisation of the Rupert Hughes story. It is screening' at the King’s Theatre this week. Sally O’Neil, the latest screen discovery, who appeared so successfully in the recent pictures, "Mike,” “The Auction Block,” and "Sallv, Irene, and Mary," has the leading feminine role. Acting with the ease and assura ice of a veteran, she will again captivate every audience. She is supported by John Patrick, Bert Roach, Karl Dane, and De Witt Jennings. Alf. Goulding directed.

The L C. Williamson, Ltd., attractions for New Zealand at Christmas will be Maurice Moscovitch the international actor, and a strong company at Wellington, and "Katja,” the popular comic opera, with Marie Burke at Auckland Mr. Moscovitch will be seen in ."The Fake,” “Trilby,” "The Outsider” (played here by the same actor last year), and “They Knew What They Wanted. ”

"1 want to play Peter Pan.” Ever since she came to Australia—which was nearly a vear ago—Renee Kelly, who is now at the Theatre Royal, Melbourne. with “Brown Sugar,” has been longing to play the hero of Barrie s plav. Evervone agrees that temperamentally and phvsically, Renee Kellv would be ideallv suited to the role and it is hoped that before she departs from Australia she will have the opportunity to achieve her desire and thereby give playgoers the jov and delight of seeing her as Peter Pan.

Victor Roberts, producer of the Hector St Clair Revue Company, winch is making such an outstanding success at Pullers’ theatre, is a new importation of Sir Benjamin Fuller front London. Mr Roberts has served Ins apprenticeship to theatrical bustness in cverv branch, from helping to erect a circus tent in a fair field to writing and producing revues in the West f.nu of London. As an author and producer he has the advantage of being able to realise the type of artists he is dealing with, and then writing shows that will show them to their be>t advantage. Tims he gives the public the best of productions and the artists the best of material to work with The Hector St. Clair Revue Companv is now in its fifth successful week at His Majesty’s Theatre.

Mary Hinton (Hon. Mrs. Pitt-Rivers) will make her farewell appearance on the Australian stage in Barrie s play, "Marv Rose,” at the King’s Theatre, Melbourne, next Saturday night, as she shortly returns to England. It falls to Marv Hinton to set the eerie atmosphere of "Marv Rose." She is Mrs. Ottens the caretaker who has had the courage to look after a haunted house, but whose nerves have worn thin in the process. As the bitter-tongued Mrs. Ottery, Miss Hinton was said by the Svdnev papers to give her best performance to date. The character is a mixture of sharpness, shrewdness, and unexpected tenderness—overlaid with hysterical fear of the ghost of poor Marv Rose.

When "Beau Geste” appeared on the bookstalls it became a big seller. Now it promises to be one of the biggest hits of the screen The story, by P. C Wren, is full of breathless adventure and romance, and is a tale of nivsterv in the French Foreign Legion. Major Percival Wren, who so vividly tells tales of the Foreign Legion, has been a member of that famous body himself. What he speaks about he knows from this first-hand knowledge. A true soldier of fortune, he. has been a trooper in British cavalrv, major tn the Indian Armv, a legionajre, and fought in East Africa in the war. What wonder that such a life should bear fruit in books that should hold the interest of all classes? And "Beau Geste” is greater on the screen.. All the vividitv of Wren’s imagery could not paint the picture as graphically as has Herbert Brenon in this Paramount picture. A storv of brother love, with a cast of stars which looks like a who’s who of screendom, “Beau Geste,” a Paramount picture, will delight audiences at the Regent Theatre on December 3, when the beautiful new theatre will be opened.

Clem Dawe is proclaimed "the uncrowned king of comedians” by the Auckland “Herald.” That is praise indeed, but not saying too much, judging by the unprecedented success of the Midnight Frolics in Auckland, where for the last three weeks this “greatest of all shows” has been playing lo packed houses nightly “When 8 o'clock struck every in the Opera House was filled, and people were being turned away from the doors—a striking tribute to the enormous popularity of two inimitable comedians —Clem Dawe and Eric Edgley.” The paper goes on to say: “It is a musical revue which is clever, healthy, ami good, standing head and shoulders above its contemporaries:” The Wellington season commences at a matinee on Boxing Day.

Reg. Thornton, the genius of topicalities, will be with us again shortly for a week only. Although this is Mr. Thornton’s third visit to Wellington within the last few months, he is undoubtedly assured of a warm welcome. The “Kangaroosta’s” slogan is, “Let the audience judge,” and Wellington audiences are not slow in showing their appreciation when a first-class artist is in theif midst. Mr. Reg Thornton is, indeed, a: go-getter after topicalities, and almost before the ink of the Press is dry he is dealing out the latest from the stage in his own inimitable way. His partner, too, Miss lM>ris O’Shea, is also a great favourite, and the two of them present what is, perhaps, one of the best vaudeville acts on the stage to-day.

• Alice Terry and Antonio Moreno have the leading parts in Rex Ingram's Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer production of “Mare Nostrum” (“Our Sea”), which will be released in New Zealand shortly. Miss Terry Iras the role of a clever spy. while Moreno enacts the part of a Spanish sea captain “Mare Nostrum” was produced in Europe on the original locations in Spain, France, and Italy, described by the author in his famous book.

Mr. W. |. Douglas, general manager, Hugh J. Ward Theatres Pty., in an interview in Melbourne stated very einphatically that the Fuller management intends staging a comprehensive programme of plays, ranging from Shakespeare to pictures, in its chain of theatres throughout the Commonwealth, which would seem to suggest that there is' no foundation for the various rumours concerning the amalgamation of the Williamson and Fuller interests.

Buck Jones, the stalwart cowboy of Fox Films’ productions, has a new kind of role in “The Gentle Cyclone,” which came to’the Queen's Theatre last evening. He is a fighting pacifist and hi§ two-fisted attempts to restore peace bring about many highly amusing situations Rose Blossom plays opposite Mr Jones In the supporting cast are Marion Harlan, Kathleen Myers, Jay Hunt, Stanton Heck, Reed Howes, Will Walling, and a great horde of cowboys.

The J. C. Williamson production of ‘‘Rose Marie” is now in its twentyfifth week at His Majesty’s Theatre, Svdnev. The lengthy run of the piece and the hard work on the part of the chorus and principals have proved a heavy strain on the wardrobe as regards wear and tear Many of the costumes have already had to be renewed The Totem Pole dresses have been replaced three times, atid a fresh set is coming from England for the opening night in Melbourne. Apart from the enormous salary list of this big company, from the costume point of view “Rose Marie" has proved one of the most expensive musical productions the firm has ever staged. Ry the way, it is an interesting fact that 300 pairs of boots and shoes are used in the production.

Mary Hinton (the Hon. Mrs. PittRivers) is making her farewell appearance on the Australian stage in Barrie’s "Mary Rose,” in Melbourne. It falls to Mary Hinton to set the eerie atmosphere in this beautiful fantasy She is Mrs. Otery, who has had the courage to look after the house that is supposed to be haunted, and whose nerves have suffered in consequence. Angela Baddeley is Mary Rose and Mary Jerrold, Mrs. Moreland, the part she took in the original London production Brian Alterne doubles the roles of Harry and Simon Blake, and others in the cast are Hubert Harben, as Mr. Morland, Frederick Culley, as the Rev. George Amy, and Norman Mac Owen as the Highland gillie.

You are to have “The Midnight Frolics” after Sydney. Indeed, they will lie on their wav to you when this letter reaches you (writes the

Svdney correspondent of the Auckland "Star’’’). Clem Dawe, who leads them, has a nice, wholesome fund of humour, and an engaging way, and if he isn’t quite Jim Gerald, you are sure of a good, cheery show. They have had a prolonged season here, changing their stories every week. Not the least attractive of the company was Phyllis Amery, who is a splendid little dancer.

Phyllis Dare has returned to the London stage in a new musical play entitled “Lido Lady.” Her last great success, a year or two ago was in “The Street Singer,” which Australia saw, with Gladvs Moncrieff as lead. Miss Dare has been starring in musical plays in London since about 1907. She is now not so much of a boom as slip is an institution Site can always fill a West End theatre. Miss Dare was engaged in pre-war days to the late Paul Rubens, who scored melodies for “The Sunshine Girl ” “Miss Hook of Holland,” “A Balkan Princess,’ ami other bright, successful shows.

The brief farewell season of Dion Boucicault’s London Company was to have concluded at the King's 1 heatre, Melbourne, with the production of Barire's play, “Mary Rose,” commencing on Saturday night, November 6. This was the cast: Mary Hinton as Mrs Oterv, Brian Aherne as Harry, Hubert Harben as Mr. Morland. Marv Jerrold as Mrs. Morland, Frederick Culley as Rev • George Amy, Brian Ahcriie as Simon, Norman MacOwan as Cameron, Angela Baddeley as Ijlarv Rose. The play will be produced by Dion Boucicault. This will be the final appearance of the company in Australia, as on the conclusion of the season of “Mary Rose” thev will sail for England.

George Barraud, who will appear as Lord Sloane with Renee Kelly in “Brown Sugar” at the Theatre Royal, for the -first time in Melbourne, was a well-known motion picture actor in America for several years, but prefers the “legitimate” stage. “Picture making,” he says, “is a nerve-racking business. There is no response to your efforts, and your onlv audience is a few hard-lxiiled electricians. The studio is flooded with blinding light, and you have only a small space to act in, so that vou will be within rantre of the camera. They even chalk lines to mark where you must put your feet, and there is no sequence in what you do. You might start in the middle of a picture, or at the end, and each bit of ‘business’ has to be taken several times at different ranges, which is very confusing ” Mr Barraud declared that

he had never yet met anyone who preferred playing in pictures to the legitimate stage.

Recently Leslie Henson, the famous comedian, stated that England’s best comedians came from Lancashire. Hie fact is that most of the best comedians come from London. The odds are about 5 to 1 in its favour. There is Mr. Henson himself, who was born in Notting Hill Gate, and theie arc also Daisie Gay, Gertrude Lawrence Henry A. Lytton (the Gilbert and Sullivan comedian), George Graves, Stanlev Lupino, Heather Thatcher, Ernest Thesiger, Gene Gerrard, Huntlev Wright, Clifford Mollison, Athene Seyler, Olga Lindo, George Grossmith, W. H. Berry, A. W. Baskcomb, Marie Tempest, Sonnie Hale, Cyril Maude, and Charles Chaplin.

As Renee Kelly, the English actress is anxious to appear as Peter Pan,’ the Williamson directors are thinking of reproducing the old piece, ft is a long time since it was first done in Australia, with Minnie Tittel Brune, though a short revival, with another American actress, Kathleen Macdonell, in the title role, has been given since, when she played in the Commonwealth in “Romance” and "Outcast.” Neither presentation made any great stir; but a new Peter may make all the difference. Lizette Parkes (she is now Mrs. (Dr.) Andrews, the wife of a Sydney dentist) was Peter during the 'New Zealand production, and she was excellent. The piece is being staged again in London at Christmas—its 22nd consecutive season.

According to Harold Wilkin’s “Marvels of Modern Mechanics,” it will not be long before stage scenery is a thing of the past. “Luminous scenery” is to-dav taking its place, thus reducing the costs of production almost to vanishing point. Behind the scenes, deep in the shadows of a Parisian theatre of to-<lay, is an apparatus of powerful electrical projectors, whose beams are focused on a translucent screen which stands on the edge of the proscenium. By means of this projector the whole scene in “The Ride of the Valkyries” is most graphically presented. The illusion of the headlong rush’ of the messengers of Odin, galloping across a wild landscape with lightning speed, is conveyed to the audience by a revolving disc, the projector simultaneously turning an arc of a circle in order to bring the riders to the centre of the screen. The idea of fantastic speed is again stressed by causing the background of the luminous screen and the image of the sky to move in opposite directions like the shadows of flying clouds moving across grass on a sunny day. The cost of the. installation is comparatively’ small, it eliminates much hand labour, and the cumbering of the stage with heavy objects. “The Ride of the Valkyries,” when staged at the Opera in Paris, used to require a tremendous assemblage of iron rails, towering mountains, and fantastic properties, costing more than £4000; whereas the up-to-date producer to-dav can achieve the same results more' vividly and realistically’ by the use of a simple screen.

The New York receipts of “Rose Marie” have exceeded even the colossal returns of Drury Lane, .London. The price of booked seats ip New York is supposed to be five dollars, but during the entire run it has been practically impossible to secure any place under seven or eight dollars. It lias made a liuee fortune for Mr. Hatnmerstein and the composers, Rudolph Friml and Herbert Stothart Mr. Kammerstein has the knack of getting successes, and Australians have already enioved many of bis creations, such as “High Jinks,” “Katinka,” and “ou’re in Love.”

One of the most interesting innovations in the new picture theatre being built for J C. Williamson, Ltd., in Queen Street, Auckland, is the huge Wurlitzer organ, which is now being installed at a cost’ of over £lO,OOO. It is of the same design as the organ now in use in Australia’s two finest picture theatres, the Capitol in Melbourne and the Prince Edward in Sydnev. The organ contains 107 distinct and separate characters, giving an accompaniment manual equivalent to 1G violins, four clarionets, four flutes, four trumpets, two orchestral oboes, two bassoons, bass viol, orchestral bells, xylophone, chimes, the human voice pipes (of which there are three sets, each consisting of 73 pipes), and also a piano, which is played from the manual. In addition, are the diapason woodwind and the real and percussion stops. It is not intended that the organ will supplant th? orchestra, but supplement it.

Marie Ney is doing splendidly in London. She has creamed up to the top again in “The Constant Nymph” w : tli Noel Coward in the lead. She has two parts of some importance— Kate Sanger of the circus, and Millicent, the model of the hero. She finds London kinder to her than it is to most Australians who wander that way in search of emragements, if they be not equipped with extra good singing voices and well-advertised legs