ENTERTAINMENTS

Dominion, Volume 20, Issue 78, 27 December 1926, Page 3

ENTERTAINMENTS

HIS MAJESTY’S THEATRE. Frolics, with all the dictionary definitions of the word added, hardly does justice, it is said, to the sparkling, gaily vigorous, and magnificent show to be presented at His Majesty’s Theatre by the Midnight Frolics, .who, after a phenomenally successful run of some weeks and a rousing send-off in Auckland last Thursday night, will commence their Wellington season at a matinee this afternoon. Not only did this brilliant company create something in the nature of a . theatrical sensation in Auckland, in spite of tho handicap under which they worked during the latter part of their season caused through the destruction of the Opera House and a large quantity of the company’s wonderful wardrobe, scenery, etc., but their records throughout Australia have been nothing short of remarkable and deservedly so, judging by the gratifying eulogies directed by the Press in commendation of tho praiseworthiness of their efforts. Those famous comedians, Eric Edgley and Clem Dawe, head this, their own company, and are supported by a company of exceptional strength, each and every artist being a star performer. Clem Dawe has been called “the uncrowned king of comedians," and those who have seen this inimitable funmaker in pantomime roles and in vaudeville, will agree that it ia no misnomer. Not only is the comedy element sustained in large proportions throughout the performance, but the musical side is of eminent quality also. The company consists of such famous artists as Gregory Ivanoff, M.A., the great Russian violinist, who has performed with such distinction in London, Petrograd, Odessa and Sevastopol, and claims the honour of having played before the late Czar’s family and Duke Nicholas; Ronald Stafford, the brilliant English pianist, with Alex Regan and Clem Dawe from the Midnight Frolics Musical Trio; Oscar Beck, the famous Norwegian tenor,' is a vocalist of more than ordinary calibre. Then there is tho well-known Dick and Dorothy Trio (Les. White, Louis Cottam and Dorothy White), who have made a big name for themselves with their clever dancin’. Apart from her dancing ability, Dorothy White is an excellent musical and dramatic performer, and Louis Cottam and Les. White are also comedians of some note. Dainty Phyllis Amery is premiere dansouse of the company. Violet Lester, Nell McGuire and Cathie Stevens are all versatile singers, dancers, and character artists with decidedly pleasing personalties. Complete changes of programme are given weekly by the Mid. night Frolics, who occupy the entire evening. The house is heavily booked tor the opening performances, and intending patrons would be well advised io make their reservations to-day.

rni DE LUXE THEATRE. Ihe main reason for the tremendous pleasure which Douglas Fairbanks’s pictures have given in the past i s that the star appeals strongly to that part or a nians mind that never grows up. In. each, of his stories he has been just what every small boys dreams of being, and these dreams never quite fade away as the small boys reach manhood His iatest picture, -‘The Black Pirate," which is now showing at the De Luxe Llieatre, catches this spirit to a degree never reached by him before. Pirates I—here’s a word that takes one back to boyhood days. Who wouldn’t like to give up all the petty things of life’s daily grind to go in search of buried treasure? Small wonder, then, that the new picture acts as a magnet for all the small boys from 7 to 70, that it thrills them and sends them awav with a feeling that for two hours thev have been living the kind of life they’ve always wanted to live. There is much tlla t is .beautiful, much that is brave and thrilling and spectacular in “The Black Pirate.” Tbe excitement is boundless. A gazette and comedy are on the programme. There is a matinee daily at 2.30 p.m

HAROLD LLOYD. Laugh and the world laughs with you, kick and you kick alone, for the cheery grin will get you in where the kicker is never known. Harold Lloyd, in his greatest and funniest production, “College Days,” .will commence on Friday at the De Luxe Theatre with a matinee at 2.30, and tlieu bo screened nightly at 8 o clock and daily at 2.30; This comedy was made to make the audience laugh, and has, it is said, more genuine comedy, speed and thrills than anv comedy yet screened. It is Harold Lloyds supreme achievement, and is guaranteed to give old and young tbe utmost pleasure and entertainment, in fact there are guaranteed seven reels of hysterical happiness. The trials and tribulations the comedian goes through tq attain fame bring about scores of hilarious incidents with a large measure of sympathy throughout the picture. This marks Lloyd’s first screen attempt in a story of college life, but the part he plays in the picture seems to fit him to measure. The scenes in the last act when Harold Lloyd plays football are said to be the most laughterprovoking y.et seen on any screen Patrons are advised to take children io matinees. In addition, a big supporting programme will be screened, together with a delightful musical programme. The, box plans are at the Bristol, Aitken’s Book Arcade, or seats may be reserved at the theatre, telephone 23— 080. REGENT THEATRE. ■ Ihe programme at the Regent Theatre was brightened on Friday night bv the appearance of “The’ Big Four,’’ vocal melodists par excellence, who realise what the public want and give it to them. These merry singers have vocal quality, originality in phrasing and harmony, and an abundance of comedy, exercised with artistic discretion. The four are Messrs. Frank Wignall, Harry Grimdell, Charles Pcrryn, and Cliffe O’Keefe, and in an attractive setting theii* cheerful harmonic effusions registered an immediate and decided effect. Their numbers consisted of “That Certain Party,” “O Rose of All the World,” “Sarah A lice,” and “Way Down Yonder,” all sung with delightful tone and true balance. "Fig Leaves,” a Fox picture, is, as the title suggests, an ingenious union of sex and sex vanity. Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden probably had quarrels over such trifles as. the forest yields, but they were all in all to one another. So were Eve and Adam Smith until the serpent intervened with mischief-making ideas and false ideals. Eve is tbe wife of a hard-working plumber,- who cannot afford to dress, his wife like a duchess, yet Alice Atkins, from over the passage, instils the idea into Eve’s mind that she is not being fairly treated in the matter of dress. Then Eve is knocked over by Josef Andre, a wealthy "director of fashions for women,” who to avoid trouble takes Eve into his emporium to fit her out again. Then, laving discovered her to bo desirable, he offers her a position as a model. She endeavours to persuade Adam to allow her to work, but on bis refusal, she accepts the position unknown to him. AH goes well until the serpentine Alice Atkins discovers the change, and in her jealousy she intrigues to bring about trouble, and does so with sueh success that Adam repairs to Andre’s to find his wife parading in pretty clothes. There is a scene there and then, and another furious battle between Eve and Alice, when the former discovers the latter’s perfidy. Eventually Eve finds that pretty clothes do not ~ compensate for the lost Adam, and happier relations ensue. In this picture handsome George O’Brien impersonates Adam most attractively, and Evo is captivatingly presented by Olive Borden. This prderninme of vaudeville, films and music will be repeated again to-day.

MOSCOVITCH TO-NIGHT. To-night at the Grand Opera House and for a season of sixteen nights, J. C. Williamson. Ltd., will present the popular dramatic actor, Maurice Moscovitch, supported by a .company of international dramatic artists. Since his last appearance here Moscovitch has had an exceptionally successful world tour, including seasons in London. South Africa, and return visits to Sydney and Melbourne. In Australia be was nightly greeted by crowded and delighted audiences, who" acclaimed his new piny, "The Fake,” as of outstanding merit. Frederick Longdale, the noted playwright. who wrote "Spring Cleaning.” and “Aren’t Wc All?” is responsible for "The Fake,” but in this play one sees a different Lousdale. The author has presented a story of a father who allows his daughter, for the sake of so-

cial advantage, to become the wife of a drunkard and drug fiend, because ho is a scion of nobility. The case of thio ; young man is pronounced incurable by his medical adviser. So father ignores , the misery which his daughter is suffering, and finally a friend of the family ! deliberately gives the hapless dipsomaniac an overdose of the drug. The climax is one of the most remarkable ! and unusual yet seen on the stage. One Sydney critic says: ‘Maurice Mosco- ; vitch’s greatest role, and ‘The Fake’ is hailed everywhere by Press and public ; as a masterpiece of playwriting and acting. It is a virile, well-constructed, and. intensely absorbing play, with strong dramatic situations and just the subtle touch of comedy which Lonsdale knows how to introduce at unexpected moments." Included in the company sup- I porting the star are Nat Madison -and Eileen Sparks, who- were last here with ■ the previous {pur; Ellen Pollock, George Zucco, Margaret Murray, and Alex. Ear- : ner were specially brought from London successes. Other prominent people in George Blunt, J.‘ B. Atholwood, Reginald Henson, Kerrie Kelly, Kiore King, ! Les Donaghy, and John Harper. The box plan for to-night is at the Grand Opera ' House- Confectionery, where day ■ sale tickets are also obtainable.

KING’S THEATRE. In “Rolling Home,” at the King’s Theatre to-night, Reginald Denny excels ; himself. Critics have justly acclaimed “Rolling Home” to be Denny’s runniest picture since he stepped into feature ' farces two years ago. Situation succeeds situation, and with the comedy growing at each new scene, the audience begins to wonder vaguely if the hero can ba extricated from the hopeless tangle .in I which he has become involved. Playing opposite the star is Marion Nixon, cne of the most charming of picture actresses. The second attraction is ths ' Universal drama, “The Runaway Express.” an outstanding and thrilling romance of the railroad, which is.reported to be one of the year’s most gripping ' stories.. The supporting programme in- | eludes an International News of great ; topical interest, and a short comedy. ■ The big programmers one that is specially recommended to children, as well aS to others. Matinees arc being held.

EMPRESS THEATRE. «-■ i “Souls for Sables” is the big attrae. tion. now offering at the Empress I Theatre, with beautiful Claire Windsor in the leading feminine role, and Eugene O’Brien taking the principal male role. ! The production is a lavish screen presen- ; tation of feminine finery that dazzles the eye. The plot of the story tells of how a young and beautiful girl, used to I the luxuries of life, loves and marries J a poor hut ambitious business man. While building up his business lie neglects his wife, who -turns to others for | her entertainment. Clothes are her obsession, and lead- to the parting of man ; and wife, although both are innocent. ■ The events leading up to the first reconciliation are dramatically portrayed. i During the clay sessions only is shown , “A Kiss for Cinderella,” a Paramount screen version of Sir, Janies Barries t whimsical romance, with tho London , slums for a background. Betty Bronson is the star, supported by Tom Moore and Esther Ralston. Also showing is the latest Palhe Gazette, giving glimpses of the Dominion Premiers at Home.

QUEEN’S THEATRE. ... I “The Great Love,” Marshall ;Neilan s production, for Metro-Gold wyn-Mayer, 1 has established his reputatiou as “The Mark Twain of the Screen.” The new picture at the Queen’s Theatre is tbe most hilarious vagary of fancy ever i concocted, and is one of the most bni- ■ liant comedies of tbe season. It is the story of an elephant who- falls in love j witli the doctor who cures her —falls with him untold woe when she follows all her six tons of affection—and brings , him through store walls and church bazaars, and wrecks a village in her wild i desire to be with him. Neilan himself wrote the story in which Viola Dana and Robert Agnew play the principal . roles with “Norina,” a six-ton actress, whose elephantine affection gives it tbe , title and the bulk of the comedy. A i feature comedy, gazette, «scenic, and screen' snapshots are shown in support, . .with a capital score ,of music by the orchestra. ' '

STRAND THEATRE. At the Strank Theatre to-night there will be two pictures in every way worthy of being shown during the holiday season. Alary Bickford is an old j favourite with picturc-goers, and her pictures seem always to meet with the i same reception that they received when that actress .was first introduced to the public. She is gifted with roguisn 1 ways, and a wistful charm, and these, when added to her excellent qualities as an actress of the first quality, are sufficient to guarantee the success! w qny picture in which she appears. “Little Annie Rooney” is the production in which Mary Fickford may now be seen at the Strand Theatre,' and in this picture the ever-popular actress gtv p s one of her greatest performances, one \ which cannot help but appeal to adults t and children alike. The other picture is • entitled, “The Limited Mail.” and as its i name suggests, it is a thrilling story ot the railroad. It is certainly very me o- I dramatic, but it is not spoiled by the . hopeless exaggerations which so creep into melodrama. Ono of its strik- i ing features is the. glorious scenes. As . • the driver of the “limited mail, alonte j Blue, who is not unknown to picture- , goers, plays his part to perfection, and i receives the able support ot Vera Reynolds. The supports include a gazette . ; and a most amusing comedy. |

NEW BRINCESS THEATRE. . Heading the current programme at the ‘ , New Brincess Theatre-is “The Goose • Hangs High,” starring beautiful Con- i stance Bennett. The story concerns the | doings of an. average family, and de- ; velops the dramatic,- pathetic and ciwnc . elements which go to make up-the aver- i age life of ordinary people. The plot hinges on the sacrifices of the Ingals 1 parents and the selfishness of their children, who desert them on Christmas Eve to celebrate the holiday with their own friends. The second feature is’ A Social Celebrity,” starring Adolphe Men- | iou and Chester Conklin. . This picture is full- of the usual Menjou type-of hu- , tnour from beginning to end. A comedy, serial and gazette are also shown, with , pleasant music. • ;