Films and the Stage.

Dominion, Volume 20, Issue 82, 31 December 1926, Page 21

Films and the Stage.

Mysterious hands, strange ‘faces, unexpected events, and eerie incidents mark the progress of “The Mystery Club,” the Universal-Jewel. Splendid work is done by one of the best all-star casts ever assembled for a picture. The players are Matt Moore, Edith Roberts, Mildred Harris, Charles Lane, Warner Oland, Henry Hebert, Charles Puffy, Alphonse. Martell, Finch Smiles, Earl Metcalf, Nat Carr, ' Jed Prouty, Alfred Allen, Sidney Bracey, and Monte Montague.

Exciting sporting events, including an inter-university football match and an eight-oar towing contest; filmed with so much realism that they have al) the thrilling interest of actuality, are a novel attraction, of .“Brown of Harvard,” the new Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer picture, with William Haines, Jack Pickford, Mary Brian, and. Francis X. Bushman, jnr. These are 1 but a few of the varied fascinations of this production, which ,is coming to the Regent Theatre shortly. “Brown of Harvard” is a uniquely , appealing story of young, life and romance at a great modern university, and, under the direction of Jack Conway, .has developed into an exceptional picture.

Hearing that the cost of the dressing of the National Repertory Theatre Society’s. contemplated production “The Man With the Load of Mischief”- was likely to be a bar to its'- presentation, an anonymous admirer of the, society’s work has donated £2O towards the cost ot costumes, and so active rehearsals, are being continued with renewed vij? our under the direction of . Mr. Leo dii Chateau. “The Man With a Load Mischief,”'was quite a wonderful sue cess in London, where it was. immedi ately proclaimed by the connoisseur as the most brilliant, the most witty, Hie most literary comedy that London had seen for over twenty years. v .

“Trilby,” to be presented next week as the second production of thd J. C. Williamson Moscovitch dramatic, company, is a romance of thg Quartier Latin of Paris. Moscovitch as Svengali has become famous in four Continents. “Trilby” was originally played in London by Dorothea Baird (Mrs. H. B. Irving), who was chosen for her resemblance in type to George Du Manner’s romantic heroine of the Quartier Latin. Australia’s original “Trilby” was. Edith Crane. In a more recent revival, Nellie Stewart essayed the part. The “Trilby” to be seen here is Ellen Pollock. “Trilby” was probably the pioneer of smoking among women. ■ Thirty years ago Du Manner's story, of the artist’s model Trilbv' fascinated the world becaifse it was intensely human, because it treated an' unusual subject, and above all, because its chief personages were enveloped in; an atmosphere of mystery.'

"College Days” with Harold Lloyd will be the big attraction at the De Luxe Theatre this week. Without a doubt the star with the ■ horn-rimmed spectacles will win many more admirers through this- his latest offering. Lloyd essays the role of a college- freshman who endeavours to be over good-natured to his pals,’but learns that it is Only through his “treating” and spending capacity that his popularity is sustained. When he learns this he sets out in another direction and proves that he is a ®sport in other ways. The football match scene is one that will provoke untold merriment, and when the hero kicks the winning goal his true popularity among his fellows’ knows no bounds.

Lon Chaney effects a startling and uncannv transposition in changing from one character to the other in his dual role in “The Blackbird,” his new Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer picture. His parts in .this thrilling drama of London and the Limehouse underworld re those of a notorious gangster and rippled mission worker. Chaney's presentation of the dwarf Quasi- ■ >lo, in "The Hunchback of Notre ■ime” was a triumph of grotesque irtraiture; but his weird defiance of 'vsical laws m “The Blackbird” is amazing revelation of what this illiant actor can accomplish IPs ;w production, in which-Owen Moore md Renee Adoree also appear, will come to the Regent Theatre shortly.

Barrie Livesey, playing in “Is Zat So?” which at present is delighting Sydney audiences, is a member ot a family with a hereditary profession. The Liveseys have belonged to the theatre for so many generations that Barrie is not quite sure how long it is since the first Livesey appeared be hind the footlights. During his father’s'youth, eleven of them formed a company at Mexborough (Yorkshire), and built their own theatre out of the proceeds. He has four brothers and sisters, all of wljoni are on tlie stage.

"The City” has now' been completed at the ..Fox studios, and the shipment of same is expected to arrive in NewZealand shortly. The story concerns the. effect which the city has upon the lives and characters of a family from a small town. The father’s maxim is “It is better to be a large frog in a small puddle than a small frog in a big puddle,” but the family did not agree with him, and decided that they would trv their luck and talents in the metropolis, 'fhe picture is something, more than entertainment, it is an interesting and entertaining psychological studv, and the cast of players, headed bv May Allison and Richard Walling was chosen with ,much deliberation for their character acting.

’Lilt)was-a graceful act on -.the part of the' National' Repertory Theatre Society to select for its final production of'the firstyear.of. its existence Ashley Duke’s brilliant period . cpmeily ’“The* 'Mail With the I,dad of Mischief.”' which will afford Miss Mollie Plimmer, the clever young Wellington amateur, a splendid opportunity to give ns a final taste. .of hen quality.pbefore. heir departure for London On February- 16, where she will go to further her studies in dramatic art. Miss Plimmer’s performances in “A Bill of Divorcement,” will be long remembered and it is claimed by the director, Mr. Leo du Chateau, that, her performance of the lady, plaved in London bv three well-known actresses, including Miss Fay Compton, will bn no less brilliant. Associated with Miss Plimmer in this comedy which will be produced in the’ Concert Chamber on January 29, 31, and February 1, will be Miss Louise Hall, Miss Rosalind Atkinson, Mr. W. S. Waucliop, Mr. P. B. Broad and Mr. Robert Charlton.

■’ The title of Raymond Griffith’s latest picture for Paramount is “Wet Paint,” and it is claimed that people will react to this sign, in the same way that steel is drawn to a magnet. Raymond Griffith stands to-day on the top ■ rung of the farce-comedy ladder. Paramount having caught wind of his growing popularity, have given Griffith a complete comedy unit of his own,’and the result of months of concentrated labour is “Wet Paint.” Helen Costello, daughter of the screen’s first star and sister to Dolores, is featured along with Bryant Washburn in the supporting cast. “Wet Paint” is the starring attraction at the King’s Theatre this week, and the other- feature on the programme is “Speed.”

Phil Smith spent the greater part of last New Year’s Day in an Auckland prison. “It is not. everyone who can get in and out of gaol ill a day,’’ be says, “but I was lucky. ; I happened to be the guest of the prison authorities, and in companv with mv own revue company had tin- pleasure of endeavouring to entertain a party of prisoners. Later I enjoyed being shown over th,, ’pen,' and Hie consolation of knowillg I could go home to tea.” This vear, M - Smith will amuse a different audience. He is to play the Dame in “Puss in Boots,” the pantomime at the Princess Theatre. Melbourne. It is five years since Mr Smith was last seen in Melbourne. He lias a legion of admirers who remember him as Tonio in "Maid of the Mountains.”

Hoot Gibson, the popular star of many Western productions of the highest calibre, has turned out another outstanding picture in the Universal attraction, “The Texas Streak.” The picture is composed largely of light comedy, in which Gibson has distinguished himself so many times in the past. Blanche Mehaffey plays the feminine lead, while Alan Roscoe, “Slim”. Summerville, James Marcus, Jack Curtis, William H. Turner, and Jack Murphy are in the cast.

Law ford Davidson, who appeared with Pauline Starke and Charles Ray in “Bright Lights,’* is the latest addition to the cast of “The Little Journey,” now being produced for Metro - Goldwyn - Mayer . from the novel by Rachel Crothers. Others in the cast are William Haines, Claire Windsor, Harry Carey, and Claire McDowell.

Owen Moore will be the featured male player with Joan I Crawford in the new" Metro - Goldwyn - Mayer picture. “The Taxi Dancer,” which is the screen version of a popular newspaper serial story by Robert Perry Shannon.

Twenty-five years ago Little Tick, the English comedian, played to tremendous houses lor the late Harry Rickards With elongated shoes he rocked the house with laughter. Today lie is one of the three biggest comedians in London, and his name ■is still a household word in Australia. Latest advice from the London booking office announces that the Tivoli Theatres have booked the star for a return season in Australia.

Lois Moran has been selected for the greatly desired role of the daughter in “The Music Master,” which xVllan Dwan is now directing for Fox.

“The Return of Peter Grimm,” a Fox photo-play, Jias been selected by the National Board of Review for its guide, and given an asterisk awarded only .to pictures of exceptional merit.

Reg. P. Davison, manager of Parkmount’s department of publicity and exploitation, is at ■ present on holiday. Early in the new year Mr. Davison will return to Wellington, and will attend to preliminary arrangements in regard to the arrival of Paramount’s Red Indians, who will be Here in connection with “The Vanishing Race.” 'Mr. DifVison says that there is every possibility of an interesting meeting being arranged with the Indians. Mr. Zane Grey will arrive almost simultaneously with the Indians, and it is anticipated that the famous author will be pleased to meet the red men in this country.

Several important productions are on the wav to completion at the Fox studios. “Mother Machree” is nearly finished, and John Ford is working night and dav to make this fine Irish romance one of his best pictures. _ “One Increasing Purpose," is receiving its final work, and the picturisation of A. S. M. Hutchinson’s latest “best seller” is expected to be as successful as was the film of “If Winter Comes,” made bv this companv several vears ago “’Desert Valley” is now being filmed from Jackson Gregory’s novel, with Buck Jones in the lead. Olive Borden and Jacques Lerner are busily engaged upon “The Monkey Talks,” while Madge Bellamy and a big cast have commenced filming "Bertha, the Sewing Machine Gill.” "The Auctioneer” and "The Mnsic Master,” famous BelaSco successes arc also being produced.

The phrase “all-star” cast is especially applicable to the players in the Metro-Goldwyti Mayer picture "The Barrier,” adapted from Rex Beach’s famous novel of the same name. The principals are Lionel Barrymore, Norman Kerry, H. B. Walthall, Marceline Day, George Cooper, Pat Harmon, and Bert Woodruff. The most realistic fist fight ever screened was staged byNorman Kerry and Lionel Barrymore, two magnificent physical specimens, in “The Barrier,” now screening at the Regent Theatre.

George Gee, appearing in “A Night Out” at Melbourne His Majesty’s, was trained by his father to be a conjuror. Sometimes, in a state of absent-minded-ness, says Mr. Gee, he often feels inclined to step into the middle of the stage, roll up his sleeves, and commence to do tricks. He actually did it one night in “Kid Boots,” but the audience thought it a humorous little bit of burlesque, and rewarded him with laughter and applause.

Wilhelm Backhaul, the famous pianist who recently completed his Aus-tralian-New Zealand tour, returned to England by the Cathay recently. Mr. E- J. Gravestock, who was responsible for the visit of this great artist to Australia and New Zealand, reports that Mr. Backhaus’ tour was one of the most successful ever undertaken by a visiting piapist. Nearly sixty concerts were given, which included thirteen in Sydney and twelve in Melbourne. Back-, haus’ repertoire is an astounding one, and he played 175 different pieces on his tour, and he could have played more if it had been necessary. He gives a concert in the Queen's Hall, •London, in January, after which he will visit Germany and Italy. Mr. Gravestock has arranged for Backhaus to make a return tour in '1929.

Now on .the way from America (says a Melbourne paper) is the wonderful young Australian star, Miss Judith Anderson, the young Adelaide girl who, aftei playing small parts under the management of J. C. Williamson, Ltd., and J. and N. Tait, went to New York and became a star in a night, rising to world .fame as Belasco’s leading lady, with her name blazoned in electric lights on Broadway. Judith Anderson will make her first appearance' in “Cobra,” in which she made her first big success in New York. Her role is that of a vamp. /

"Australia,” says Marie Burke, who is appearing in “Wildflower” at the Theatre Royal, Melbourne, “is a land of milk and honev for the actor and actress. You can get a contract here, and you know you are safe for that tour„ no matter what the business might be. In England, you merely sign for as long as the play lasts Sometimes a London run will total a few nights. Touring conditions, too, are infinitely better in this country. Altogether, life is more comfortable and peaceful out here, and conditions generally make Australia regarded bv theatrical people in England and America as the Mecca of tiie profession.” Miss Burke lias been in Australia for two years.

Renee Kelly laughed when someone suggested that the life of an actress should be delightfully easy, as there was nothing to do except when the theatre was open at night. "Actresses are the busiest people imaginable,” she said. “So far as I am concerned, I rarely have a minute to myself. Even if we are not rehearsing, there is always plentv to do. To answer the letters I receive is alone a pretty solid task. At the present time I am writing a play—no, not an Australian play—and this takes up a good portion of my day.”

Maude Fane is now making positively her farewell appearances in Australia at Melbourne His Majesty’s} during the season which has opened with “A Night Out.” This will be followed by “Primrose,” “You’re in Love,” and- “Kissing Time,” each of which will be staged for a few nights only. Miss Fane will then return to London. An engagement at one of the leading theatres awaits her.

“Red Hot Tires,” the Warner Bros.’ picture at the Empress Theatre, is said to have been piling up “smileage” records wherever shown this season. Monte Blue is the star, and in this picture he returns to comedy, fresh from his melodramatic triumph in “The Limited .Mail.” Featured with him is Patsy Ruth .Miller, who is reported to have achieved such a hit as a comedienne that her past successes in more sombre forms of entertainment have been eclipsed. They appear as a young man, who, as a result of an automobile accident, has developed a fear of motors that turns him into a nervous wreck, and as a girl who runs crazy on speed. At the wheel of her car she is a flash on the highway; she burns up the road. She also sets fire to the young man’s heart, and it is through this flame that he has to conquer his timidity. The cast includes Fred Esmelton, Lincoln Stedman, Charles Conklin, Tom McGuire, William Lowery, Jimmie Quinn, and Malcolm Waite.

Mr. Shayle Gardner, the New Zealander, is touring Canada with the Matheson Lang Company.. Of his performance in the opening, production, “The Tyrant,” the. “Ottawa Journal” says:'“Mr. Shayle Gardner, as the wily Venetian ambassador, deserves special mention. Mr. Gardner would be an acquisition to the cast of anv great play, and his presentation added much to the general force of the story.”

Letters from Christchurch, Dunedin. • , Feilding, New Plymouth, Waipawa and other towns by Mr. Leo du Chateau, the director of the National ■ Repertory , Theatre Society, asking for information , regarding the founding of the society. ; etc., is evidence that the success of the 1 local society lias caused keen interest in the movement throughout New Zealand. In fact interest appears to even more widespread, as “The Bulletin” recently devoted a paragraph in its praise and a local Pressman last week received a letter from « New York .friend congratulating the citv on the fine work of the society as judged r by Press criticisms and. letters, froni I friends. j

After the season of "Wildflower” at the Theatre Royal, Melbourne,, the J. C. Williamson Comic Opera Company will leave for New Zealand, opening, their tour of the Dominion with “Katja” at Auckland. “Wildflower” will also be an attraction. While in New Zealand, the company will appear in the first production of Lehar’s comic opera, “Frasquita,” from the Princess Theatre, London. Mr. Charles A. Wenman will leave for New Zealand to produce the opera, a feature of which will be the sceiierv and costumes.

King Vidor, the brilliant young director of “The Big Parade,” has been with the direction of "The Glory Diggers,” Irvin Cobb’s story of the building of the Panama Canal, which will be produced in screen form by Metro - Goldwyn - Mayer.

Peter B. Kyne, the noted author, has now completed a second original story as a further starring vehicle for Colonel Tim McCoy, the romanfic new star of Metro - Goldwyn •• Mayer’s thrilling outdoor pictures. Colonel McCoy’s first production was “War Paint;” an adventurous narrative of the Red Indian uprising of the 70’s.

In the scrap book of Joseph Cunningham’s New English Comedy Com-, pany is a letter from the Countess of Stradbroke to the manager asking him to thank the whole of the company for the pleasure they gave her during the performance of “The Sport of Kings” at the Atheneum, Melbourne. The State Government House party were great followers and admirers of the Joseph Cunningham Company when in Melbourne.

Bessie Love and Leslie Fenton head the cast of “Going Crooked,” just finished at the Fox studios. This picture is described as being a humorous drama, and the action and laughter which has beeh injected into this splendid mystery makes it one of the novelties of the season.

It is safe to say no other play in the history of the stage has caused such widespread interest, comment and controversy as has Mr. Sutton Vane’s “Outward ’Bound.” After its premiere in London, w.here it caused something in the nature of a sensation end immediately entered the lists of outstanding successes, a stampede set in for Everyman's Theatre, where it was originally produced, and soon the script was in the hands of New York producers and translators of Continental languages. The theme, of course, life after death, appealed to a multitude who never go to theatres at all, and

soon the Bishop of London, Sir Conan Dovle and other eminent ecclesiastics, public men, and disciples of different creeds and religions were expressing their views on the play through the columns of the different newspapers. The “Weekly Dispatch” opened and devoted a full page Io the controversy on “Outward Bound,” and all the letters were copyrighted bv the proprietors. "Outward Bound” has been a Ion” time in reaching New Zealand and it is due to the enterprise of Messrs. Dick White and Eric Edglcv, who have arranged with Mr. Joseph ' Cunningham for its production, that we are enabled to see this unique play by a cast chosen with meticulous care.

Although born in Sweden, Warner Oland. celebrated character-actor has the reputation of being one of America's foremost authorities on spoken English. He has made many phonograph records, and has appeared in little theatre plays all over America. Oland plays an important part in the forthcoming Universal-Jewel attraction, “The Marriage Clause,” starring- Billie Dove and Francis X. Bushman.

Miss Eileen Castles, who is singing the role of the Fairy Queen in Fullers’ production of “Puss ill Boots” at the Princess Theatre, Melbourne, at Christmas, will make her first appearance in pantomime, and add this experience to a career which now includes serious and light opera and concert work abroad as well as in Australia. It was with the first Melba Company in this country that Miss Castles first appeared ,in opera in such roles as Micaela in “Carmen” and Siebel in “Faust.” She was in America for seven years, where she gained further valuable experience as a principal in the companies organised bv Mr. Milton Aborn, of New York, who has done much to foster the production of opera in the eastern States of America. Miss Castles sang the role of the Doll in “Tales of Hoffmann” in this 'engagement, as well as Micaela, Musetta in “Boheme,” and leading parts in "Martha” and “Faust.” She took part in the concerts of the Society of American Singers at Park Theatre in Columbus Circle, New York, where she was one of the soloists in a company which included Miss Maggie Teyte. Mr. David Bispham, Mr. Herbert Witherspoon, and other wellknown artists. Miss Castles was a pupil of,Madame Minna Fischer in London and of. M. Bouliy in Paris, and when her sister,/ Miss Amy Castles, was engaged for the Imperial Opera in Vienna she accompanied her to that city, and there took the opportunity to secure further singing lessons from one of the established teacher's.

Supporting the English contralto', Miss Phyllis Lett, on her forthcoming tour of New Zealand will be the young English musician, Maurice Besly, who, in the ranks of the younger musicians of the day, holds a somewhat unique position, in that his already wide fame rests equally upon his acknowledged position as a conductor and his success as a composer. In addition, he is a first-rate accompanist, in which position he will act during the forthcoming tour. He has conducted the London Svmphony Orchestra, the Royal Albert Hall Orchestra, the. Vienna Philharmonic, and Scottish Orchestra, and he has many times conducted the Bri-

tish Broadcasting Symphony Orchestra. In addition he lias also a chamber orchestra of his own Among Mr. Besly’s several orchestral works is “Chelsea China,” of which the London “Morning Post” says: “ . . a very charming work with plenty of foroe that makes for permanence, namely, melody- Some of Air. Besly’s themes are described as positively haunting. “Mist in the Valiev,” a tone poem, described bv the “Daily Telegraph” as a work of great depth and loveliness of expression ; “A Portrait of a Dancer in Red,” founded on a poem of the neo-Georgian impressionist, Harold Acton. and a very short but lovely "Lullaby for a Modern Infant,” a work which shows a sense of humour as well ns musicianship. Mr. B.csly has written extensively for the piano, all in the impressionist mood As a song writer, Mr. Beslv has already a good share *of success with the public well as the blessing of the critic Ihe English critic, Ernest Newman, last month described “Epitaph” as a work of outstanding merit, and it was chosen bv Dame Clara Butt as an encoie to Elcar’s “Sea Picture” at a return concert in the London Albert Hall 'The Second z Minuet” is probably the best known of In’s songs It ik being featured bv Galli-Curci on her American tour this* year.

The purple ray of light which furnishes the motif for “The Unknown Purple,” a Universal release, has always been looked upon even in scientific circles, as something of a mystery. It is more than a coincidence that the X-ray gives forth a purple light. In Roland West's adaptation of his play, the purple ray used gives the possessor the power of making himself invisible.

Renee Kelly is another of. the many visiting actresses who declare that .Australians are the most critical audiences in the world. “They' are so well catered for in the matter of both plays and players,” said Miss Kelly, “that they expect too much. Only the successes from England and America are staged out here, but names don’t count for anything with Australian audiences. They judge for themselves. And, believe me, their judgment is pretty sound, too, though at times one wonders what they really do want when plays or artists who have been wonderfully successful abroad arc given the cold eye here. However, an artist who is a success in Australia Can go back to England or America preceded by a brass band to trumpet his or het triumph. 1 can honestll say that a successful season in Australia is a very big recommendation for an artist to the managers n England and America.”

The Fox attraction, “The Family Upstairs,” showing at the Empress Theatre during this week, features Virginia Valli, who is supported by a cast including J. Farrell MacDonald, Jacqueline Wells, and Allen Simpson. The storv deals' with the elder' daughter, who'has reached the advanced age of 21 v'ears without having a regular “bov friend” in sight. The mother frequently chides her daughter on this fact, but, unknown to her, Louise has fallen in love with a teller at the bank at which she daily makes deposits for her firm. To the astonishment of the family, this young man calls round for Louise one evening, and Ma Heller spends the time in entertaining the young man with a long tale of her ambitions for her daughter. Louise has no idea that her mother is retailing such- extravagant schemes to the young man, who, feeling quite overcome with the impression of wealth which she has given him, feels despairing, and decides to leave. It seems that Louise is forever above him, and that he will have no hope of gaining her. . But, after all, Louise is a modern girl, and refuses to allow her lover to go so easily. The remaining scenes form the climax of the story, which is one of any average family of to-day.

Douglas Fairbanks has long been noted for his lavish and ambitious picture productions, but in “The Black Pirate,” now at the Queen’s Theatre, he has fairly outdone his own previous efforts. It is a faithful, thrilling epic of the golden days of buccaneering near the end of the eighteenth century, and depicts vividly and colourfully the hectic life of the dare-devil roamers of the Spanish Main during that era. In every way it is the most stupendous production that Fairbanks has ever attempted, and from end to end it is filled with the unique athletic feats that place a Fairbanks picture in a class by itself. The entire picture has been filmed in a remarkable new colour process known as Technicolor, that reproduces with exactitude every tint, shade and hue of Nature itself. Unlike many other colour attempts, Technicolour is entirely natural, minus all exaggeration, and restful to the eyes. The cast supporting Fairbanks as usual is a notable one. The leading ladv is lovely Billie Dove. Hundreds of blood-thirsty pirates ap- 1 pear during the action, and the leaders are supported bv such actors as Donald Crisp, Sam de Grasse, Anders Ran dolf, Charles Stevens, E. J. Ratcliffe, Charles Belcher. Rov Coulson, and E-lm Wallace.

Another Australian artist is shortly to go abroad to seek fame and fortune on the London stage. This is Miss Floie Allan, who will make her farewell appearance in the forthcoming production of “The Cousin from Nowhere,” which is to be a Christmas attraction presented in Melbourne by J. C. Williamson, Ltd. Floie Allan is a versatile young actress who has played in a diverse series of productions under the management of the firm. She commenced her stage career as Puck in Oscar Asche’s production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” in which she achieved remarkable success. Her career proceeded by rapid stages after this, her roles in comedy, drama,musical comedy, and pantomime indicating her ability and versatility. In “The Cousin from Nowhere” Miss Allan will be seen in her most important part to date in which she will have full scope for' her ability as a comedienne. On the conclusion of the run of this play she will sail for London'.

On board the Ventura, which arrived in Sydney on December 18, was Miss Judith Anderson, the brilliant voting Australian leading lady, who will make her appearance in the first production of “Cobra,” in which she became' a star over-night in New An interesting cast will be associated with her in “Cobra,” including Michael Hogan, a well-known American actor ; Henry Daniel, who will play' the role in which he appeared in the London production; Olga Lee, a wellknown actress from the New York tne-

atres and Doris Johnston, who played the lead in the recent Australian - production of “The Farmer’s Wife.” An immense amount of interest is being taken in the appearance of Judith Anderson in “Cobra,” in which she will play the “vampire." 1

New Zealand is to have a first production. It ■ has been arranged by J. C Williamson Ltd. that the premiere of “Frasquita” will be given in New Zealand, probably at Christchurch, during the forthcoming tour of the Dominion bv the “Katja” Company. Marie Burke will have a very picturesque character to portrav in the title role of this romantic comic opera, the music of which is bv Fraiiz Lebar, of “Merry Widow” fame. Associated with Marie Burke will be a specially selected cast, including R. Barrett-Lennard, Herbert Browne, Cecil Kellaway, Thelma Burness Noel Dainton, Marie Eaton, and Otll’ers The dancers will be Robert Helpman and Sylvia Miller. r ’ Charles A. Wenman will go to New Zealand to produce “Frasquita, ’ wnicli will be staged on a lavish scale, to which the Spanish “dolor” and atmosphere of the play lends itself; and Sliss Minnie Everett will also go across to “create” the ballets, dances, and arrange the ensembles.

That the drama is on the wane and comedy in the -boom is evidenced by the number of comedy companies now appearing in Australia ani l New Zealand. In Sydney and Melbourne recently there were no less than seven comeiiv companies appearing as against onlv two dramatic companies. Leople appear to prefer to laugh these days, and particularly, at this time. Llius, Eric Edglev and Dick .White were well advised when they negotiated > with Mr. Joseph Cunningham’s New English Comedy Company,to produce the latest London comedv successes, such as “Ihe Unfair Sex,” “Eliza Comes to Stay,” and “The Sport of Kings.” This company has now played the two former pieces in the principal centres of the North Island and already return seasons have been booked for “The Sport of Kings.” According to Press reports this is distinctly one of the finest combinations that has visited the Dominion, and its outstanding success is well merited.

Miss Zilla Bateman, _ the brilliant voting leading ladv with the Joseph Cunningham English Comedv Company, lias won her wav to the hearts of the New Zealand gallerv girls in no uncertain manner. She had a wonderful send-off at Auckland railway station, where she was literally smothered in flowers and presents . and fond farewells, and when she arrived at Wellington en route for Christchurch she was met at the station bv some of the gallerv girls of Wellington, who took the opportunity of personally wishing her a merrv Christmas and a happv New Year. Miss Bateman has quite a correspondence to keen up now and two of the voting ladies send her a telegram to each town >he visits. Miss Bateman is not long out of her teens and certainlv the vounpest leading ladv we have had from abroad for many years. She was a great “gallerv girl” favourite in Svdnev and Melbourne.

Richard Taber and James Gleason wrote their comedy, "Is Zat So?” when thev were “diseneaged.” They acted each scene with their wives, also “disengaged,” and satisfied themselves that thev had a winner. Marv Ellen Hanlev (Mrs. Taber) suggested so many of the love episodes to the authors that thev called the heroine Hanley, and let her nlav it in New York. She will also plnv it here. It was Mrs. Tahcr who charmed the spellinc of “Is That So’” to "Is Zat So?” Written at a trving time, financially, for her busband and herself, she admits that she was a little superstitious. "Is Zat So?” has seven letters «be savs. the same number as in "fortune.” As in the instance of “White Cargo,” “Is

Zat So?” was hawked from manager to manager, who turned it down cold. “White Cargo’.’ was saved by a young man named Earle Carroll, who invested his scant savings and put the play and himself on the theatrical map. “Is Zat So?” got its chance through Earle Booth, who has received astonishing dividends and the satisfaction of his name on programmes all over the world. 'the play is coming to the Grand Opera House on January 15. In no other part of the world are the fogs so clinging and impenetrable as in London In the narrow alleyways and side streets of its Limehouse district, beneath which is London’s nutorous underworld, the mist-wraiths hide everything behind a ghastly pallid cloak. To give an accurate screen representation of this fog-shroud in the new picture, “The Blackbird,’ the locale of which is in Limehouse, a special lens and light filter were invented The effect is startling and uncanny. “The Blackbird,” in winch Lon Chanev is starred, is a Mctro-Gbld-wvli-Mayer' production. In it the famous star portrays a dual role—a crippled mission worker and a mysterious outlaw of the London underworld. Featured roles are also played by Owen Moore and Renee Adoree.

William Haines, prominent among the younger screen stars, puts the same vim and vigour into his work as into his play.- -For his athletic role in his new picture, “Brown, of Harvard,” a breezy -and wholly delightful narrative

of college life and sport, he underwent an intensive course of training. Although, strictly speaking, this was work, he could not regard it m that light, and the physical erlort lie put into it was amazing. Consequently he was in perfect trim for the making ol the picture, and the football and sculling scenes are said to be a revelation of high-speed action. Apart from its exciting athletic interest, “Brown, of Harvard” is an enchanting romance 01 youth, and makes an instantaneous appeal. Its youthful east includes Jack Pickford, Mary Brian (the Wendy of “Peter Pah”), and Francis X< Bushman, jun.

Not the least of Normu Shearer's charms is her amazing versatility. This beautiful Canadian screen • star lias given numerous characterisations, all vitally different. They have ranged from the lightest comedy to the most emotional drama. The frothiness of •'Excuse Me” was a great contrast to the terrific strength of “The Tower of Lies.” The airy charm of “His Secretaiv” placed it at the opposite kinematic pole to “The Devil’s Circus.” Now comes' her culminating triumph—“Tlie Waning Sex.” Modern, sophisticated, brilliantly clever, and refined, this new Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer picture

tells of the younger generation of women, who think theirs is the dominant sex. The lesson "The Waning Sex” teaches so attractively is that women will never be emancipated from the tyranny of love and fate. Camouflaged and armed, the' “Mare Nostrum” nosed her way from port into the swell of the blue Mediterranean. bound for an unknown destination. A thousand miles awav, in a lonely' spot tai from land, a submarine slid to the surface and waited! Such as this are the thrills in “Mare Nostrum,” the novel bv the famous Spanish author. Vicente Blasco Ibanez. It is a story of men and ships and love and war. 11ns brilliant writer knows the sunny southern countries as no other novelist. Ab his works, included in which are “Blood and Sand,” “The Four Horsemen,” “The Enemies of Women,” aim “The Torrent,” pulse warmly > with emotion, and this story of a sailor and a beautiful spy is no exception, possessing a wealth of powerful dramatic and romantic appeal. Tn motion picture form, it has gained much in spectacular vividness. It was produced by Rex Ingram fot Metro-Goldwyli-M.avcr, and the cast is headed by Antonio Moreno and Alice T erry.

A notable feature of the big jymto mime “Puss in Boots” is Apdale’s great animal circus. This is the finest troupe of performing animals that litis . ever been seen in Melbourne. “Mutt,” a huge comedian monkey, who delights in creating chaes wherever he appears, is reputed to have the strength .of three men put together, but to his- master is as obedient as a well trained child, and his many feats of strength and. agility, his globe walking balancing, bicycle riding, etc., will prove an • attractive study for all lovers and students of animals In addition to “Mutt” there are a number of wonderfullv sagacious animals, including a big black bear from the Rocky Mountains, and several smaller members of the morikev tribes than “Patsy,” and numerous performing dogs, all astonishingly clever, who go through their allotted tasks most intelligently, and, what is more, with an air of thoroughly enjoying themselves.

The imaginative whimsy of James M. Barrie, the directorial artistry of Herbert Brenon, the piquant personality of Betty Bronson—the three factors that w'ere responsible for the success of “Peter Pan,” combine to make “A Kiss For Cinderella” one of the screen’s most notable achievements. Like “Peter Pan.” which Was Paramount’s special Christmas offering last vear. “A Kiss For Cinderella” will be this year’s special Yule-tide attraction. Hnlike “Peter Pan,” however, "A Kiss For Cinderella” is not entirely pure fancy. It is, as a matter of fact, a. vivid, modern day appealing romance laid against a background of the London slums with a lovable little heroine in the person of a lonely half-starved waif and a sympathetic policeman as the hero. The story of this little slavey, who dreams of the dav when she will be invited to a marvellous ball where a handsome prince will pick her out as bis. princess, is one that only Barrie could have written, altogether delightful and filled with laughs nnd tears, and enlivened by all those whimsical touches that are part nnd parcel of everv Barrie story. And ,onlv (Herbert Brenon. dreamer, realist and craftsman that he is. could . have translated it to the silver sheet in terms of poignant human drama and inimitable comedv without destroying its essentia] fantasy. Petty Bronson, who showed in “Peter Pan” that she possesses that wistful elusive rninlitv so necessary for the peaceful norfrnval of n Barrie heroine, gives as finished a performance .as any vet seen on the.screen.

Rex Beach’s “The Barrier” has been definitely booked as the New Year attraction at the Regent Theatre. This splendid ■ action picture is the first Metro-Goldwyn-Maver release foi - V. 127. It'will be followed at the same theatre by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer's othe: ■■ attraction “'file Blackbird,” which’ stars that great character actor Lon'Chanev, who adds anotliet extraordinary- impersonation to his list of successes. “Brown of Harvard" will take' up the running from “The Blackbird.” Tins is a film of college days, and it is safe to say that there has not been a film so clean and thoroughly entertaining as “Brown of Harvard” released for some time. Buster Keaton, in “Batttling Butler,” Norma Shearer, and Conrad Nagel in “The Waning Sex” and "Blarney,” are films to be released by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer at an early date. “Mare Nostrum” (Our Sea), from the novel by Blasco Ibanez, with Alice Terry and Antonio Moreno, directed by Rex Ingram (who had the Legion of Honour conferred on him by France for making the picture) a super attraction, fs to be presented to the Wellington public early in the New Year; and later “The Big Parade” and “The Merry Widow. ” These films have set- a newstandard in motion picture production, and are proof in themselves that tin’s great industry is advancing steadily.