ENTERTAINMENTS

Dominion, Volume 23, Issue 83, 2 January 1930, Page 6

ENTERTAINMENTS

DE LUXE THEATRE. That most amusing and entertaining ‘‘talkie,’’ “Why Leave Home,” which will be screened for the last time at the De Luxe Theatre to-night, is taken from the great stage success, "Cradle Snatchers.” The story deals with the mix-up that occurs when three pretty chorus girls og to a mountain roadhouse with three erring husbands for a good time. As a result of a little scheming and underhand work, the three college sweethearts of the girls, and the three wives of the philanderers, also decide to "step out,” and eventually find stemselves at the same roadhouse as the three husbands. From this point on the story moves rapidly, and the many complications which arise when the nine people meet gives rise to endless fun. Sue Carroll, in the role of Mary, prettiest of the three chorus girls, gives a sterling performance, and her singing of "Look What You’ve Done to Me” is splendid. The voices all register excellently. On the same programme there are some excellent, sound and silent featurettes, which include a Patlie Review, a Fox .Movietone News, and a splendid technicolour picture, "The Czarina’s Secret,” with Olga Baclanova in the leading role. Also there is an allmusic supplied by Mr. L. D. Austin and talking comedy, “Medicine Men.” The his Orchestra de Luxe adds greatly to the entertainment. As an overture the orchestra plays “Zampa” (Herold), while the march from "Tannhauser” (Wagner) is given as an entr-acte. Mr. Paul T. Cullen is at the Wurlitzer organ which is as popular as ever. "BIG TIME.” "Big Time.” a backstage romance made bv Fox Movietone, which is the attraction at the De Luxe Theatre, commencing tomorrow (two presentations daily), features Lee Tracy, Mae Clark and Josephine Dunn. Daphne Pollard, celebrated comedienne of the screen, and Stepin Fetchit, inimitable, negro comedian, provide the laughs, and there arc many from this rollicking pair. The story, directed by Kenneth Hawks, concerns a small time "hoofer” who has an exaggerated idea of his ability, and a talented chorus girl who is in love with him. They marrv, and a naturally interesting event follows. After this event he terms up with another girl, and'this arrogant song and dance man flops and cant get another, stage job, finally drifting down into despair. How the egotistical hoofer is finally made to realise his. shortcomings and is converted to a more humble outlook on life, provides a most interesting and dramatic story which is punctuated by manv backstage sidelights and some unusual comedy. “Big Time" is described as one of the best all-dialouge dancing and sinffintr productions yet to be presented m Wellington. The Orchestra de Luxe, under the direction of Mr. L. D. Austin, is a further attraction. HIS MAJESTY’S THEATRE. To-dav at His Majesty’s Theatie Sir Benjamin nad Mr. John Juliets Musical Comedy Company, headed by 1 red die Forbes, will be seen m another big musical comedy success, Lally be Goodwhich will open Willi a matinee performance at 2.15 p.m. It is not easy to strike a new note in musical comedy, but Lady He Good” manages to strike it. it sparkies all the way through, there being no dull note. The many dancing features are high and buoyant, and the comedy business, that, often dubious thing in musical comedy, is clever from the start. Freddie Forbes will be seen in some excellent comedy scenes, particularly when he has Hie masquerading senorita in charge and the bull- fight is Ins theme. There is a thrilling plot, no mere string if items, but a genuine story. There is the young and likeable, hero; there is the rumour of his disappearance and presumed death jthore is the ringing-in of the imaginary widow—the dashing lady from Mexico, whom Catherine btewart impersonates: there is he drollness of the society dude, with a remarkably nice-looking girl as his set-off; and there is the robust and laughable funmaking of the stout hotelkeeper. The Big lour will be prominent in the musical numbers. which is one of the big features in the show-. Outstanding features aro Oh, Ltldv Be Good.” "A Cup of Coffee, it Sandwich and You.” "What Love Docs to Girls Like Me,” "Swiss Miss,” and ‘ I d Rather Charleston.” “Lady Be Good is acclaimed by the famous critics of the theatrical world as the brightest of Amarican musical comedy' productions. Box jilans for to-night, and to-night arc at Palmer’s, neoxt Theatre.- and foi- the remainder of the season at the Bristol. MAJESTIC THEATRE. Picture-lovers who have not yet had the opportunity of seeing “Barnum Was Right.” the screamingly funny “talkie” at the Majestic Theatre, would be wise to go along to-day, because the film will be screened there for the last time tonight. In “Barniim Was Right” tlie irrepressible Glenn Tryon tries his hand at running a summer hotel, Merna Kennedy being starred with him. Parted from his girl on what was to be his wedding day. Tryon sets out to retrieve both his sweetheart and his shattered fortunes. To do this he baits his hotel with rumours of pirate treasure —and those that nibble include crooks, detectives, and frenzied treasure-hunters. The excellent supporting cast includes Otis Harlan in a featured role, Basil Radford. Clarence Burton. Lew Kelly, Isabelle Keith, and Gertrude Sutton. "Barnum Was Right” is one of the most amusing comedies that has fallen to Tryon in Ills career. It contains some of the funniest sequences that have been brought to the screen —and it works up to a hilarious climax that is entirely unexpected. Excellent supports arc provided. ' "BULLDOG DRUMMOND.” Backed with an impressive cast and a reputation as one of the greatest melodramas of all time in both book and drama form, “Bulldog Drummond” comes to the Majestic Theatre to-morrow as Ronald Colman’s first opportunity' to play a genuine comedy role since he entered American pictures. Supporting Ronald Colman in UTs role of the young demobilised British Army' officer hungry for adventure and finding it are Joan Bennett and Claude Allister, of “Three Live Ghosts” fame, .Montague Love, Lilyan Tashman, Lawrence. Grant and other names of tlie first rank in nioviedom. The story of "Bulldog Drummond,” written by "Sapper,” is already’ familiar to thousands. It puts its hero into a fierce struggle with a gang of criminals whose methods of procedi • are based on the fiendish torturing ability of Dr. Lakington, a physician who delights in inflicting pain. Tlie combination of these sinister elements .with the love story of Drumthond’s romance with Phyllis, whose uncle has fallen into the criminal's hands, makes a thrilling story. Many usual effects have been achieved through the use of futuristic settings and “modernistic lighting arrangements. The mood of entire sequences has been accentuated by means of the- backgrounds. Ronald Colman’s appearing in this film as a fine humorous actor in addition to his well-known dashing seriousness will show a new Colman to the public. A prominent comedy juvenile on the English stage before coming to the United States, Mr. Colman’s film destiny has hitherto kept him in serious romantic roles, such as made him famous in "Beau Gcste,”- “The White Sister,” “The .Dark Angel,” "The Night ot Love,” and “The Rescue.” The picture will be screened at the usual throe sessions daily, viz., II a.m., 2.15 p.m., and 8 p.m. (without flic usual Friday late shoppers’ session this week). Box lilans (to-day) are at tlie theatre main foyer from 10 a.m. until 8.30 p.m., and there is no extra charge for reservations, so that intending patrons are advised to book their seats early to avoid disappointment. KING'S THEATRE. After a most successful fortnight's run, Syncopation,” a lively "talkie” tilm, will conclude at the King’s Theatre to-night. "Syncopation” is a 100 per cent, talkie, the main feature of which is Fred. Waring's band, the Pennsylvanians, which is described as tlie world’s foremost band. The story concerns tlie lite of a comedy due, who experience such a run of illluck that one decides to leave the other. The girl is engaged to perform at a night cabaret, but she enjoys very little success, and it is not till they dance again ns partners that their vaudeville life is a happy one.' The Pennsylvanians are heard to advantage in many numbers, chief among which are “I’ll Always Be In Love With You,” "Jericho,’ ’arid six other melody hits. There is a strong cast, which Includes'Morton Downey, who sings; Barbara Bennett, a dancer of note; Bobby Watson a renowned comedian; Osgood Perkins, and others. The supporting programme ineludes a Paramount News, a comedy, and two singing pictures. “Syncopation” can be recommended to all those in search of good entertainment. "THE LONG, LONG TRAIL.” 'There's never a dull moment along "The Long. Long Trail,” Hoot Gibson's latest Universal thriller, which comes to the screen of the King's Theatre to-morrow. Riding, fighting', romance and humour feature every minute of "The Long, Long, Trail.’ ' It is Hoot Gibson at his most exciting best. It is a talking picture. Hoot plays the part of a bashful cowboy who falls in love with a beautiful girl from tlie East. Everything depends on his winning the rodeo sweepstakes—and then villainy makes it hot for Hoot. Especially interesting are scenes made at the Salinas, California, rodeo. Hoot and his outfit, stayed a week on location at tiie rodeo! and most colourful and exciting scenes were obtained. Hout knows all there is to know about exciting rodeo scenes. He once carried off the all-around championship at the famous Pendelton round-up. Action and humour abound in tlie picture. The romantic clement is supplied by beautiful Sally Eilers, one of the most charming and successful of the younger actresses of the screen. The notable cast includes Kathrvn .McGuire. James Mason. Archie Ricks, Walter Brenuan and How- , ard Truesdell.

REGENT THEATRE. That popular Jletro-Goldwyn-Mayer "talkie," "The Last ot’ -Mrs. Cheyney,” will be screened for tlie last time to-night at the Regent Theatre. Airs. Cheyney is a fashionable society beauty, but so reserved and modest that she piques the curiosity of many, including Lord Dilling, who conceives a passion for the beautiful woman He resolves to learn something more intimate about the woman, and becomes amazed at the disclosure. This is not less than that Mrs. Cheyney is a female Raffles, working society tor what it is worth. Dilling exposes his knowledge, and states that, he will make a comp ete revelation of her position if she raises an outcry. Her reply is to ring the alarm. A scene of intense dramatic moment ensues, for. though it is Mrs. Cheyney herself who proclaims tlie thief, she still has the whip hand of them all in the possession of a letter which silly old Lord Elton had written her on the night of the detected crime. As this letter tells Mrs. Chevnew his private opinion of all the guests its well as tlie hostess, none of them wishes to see the affair made public. Lord Elton seeks to liny the letter back, and offers £lO,OOO for it. Mrs. Cheyney ac- ' cents tlie cheque, and then empties the torn-up letter on to the table, and follows it up bv destroying the cheque. Her acceptance of an offer of marriage rom Lo rd Dilling is the natural core "THE UNHOLY NIGHT.” , Based on “The Doomed Regiment, by Ben Techt, the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer alltalking picture, "The commences screening at the Bcfetnt Xlieatre pomHve°tact''' ee The gripping record of an' effort to wipe out the fourteen surviving Officers of a famous British regiment ong nf ter the war had finished, "The Unholy Night” is the finest example ot mjstery drama that the screen has offered >ta ’“'Be annv of devotees-for many seats. Every scene is vitally related to the story as a whole, and every movement every gesture, plays a poignant part in the untoll Ills, of the problem as to who is responsible foi the gradual and uncanny death by strangulation of the officers mentioned. A London fog which gives effective cover for petty and major crimes—authentic glimpses of Scotland Yard at work elucidating a baftling crime in an English manor houso—"green ghosts”—a body of British officers in their uniforms making merry with bowls of wine and war-time songs—uncanny spirtiualistic seances—a mysterious Turkish woman —an outcast British nobleman who leaves a million of money with a curse on the beneficiaries who accept it—and, last but not least, a series of - terrifying murders —these are the ingredients of this magnilieent picture. In the leading role is Roland Young, famous British stage star, who plays the role of Lord Montague, at whose manor house most of the action is unfolded. Ernest Torrence, known to movie-goers as a rough, unshaven character usually, is cast as Dr. Ballou, fiance of the stately Lady Vi, this role in turn being played by Natalie Moorhead. Dorothy .Sebastian, looking more strikingly beautiful than she has ever done before, plays the Important role of the mysterious Turkish woman, Lady Efra. GRAND OPERA HOUSE. That famous star Betty Compson, who has been delighting audieuees for the past week at the Grand Opera House in “The Street Girl,” is undoubtedly one of tlie best actresses yet to appear in the "talkies.” The picture is a talking and Singing production, which for good allround entertainment would be very hard to beat indeed. In “The Street Girl, Miss' Compson Is seen in the part of a Viennese girl who is practically starving on the streets of New York until she is taken under the care of a struggling quartet of musicians. The band is more than repaid for its kindness, for the girl proves to be an accomplished violinist, and this gift, together with, her rare charm, brings to the company a success beyond the dreams of the original members. An affection springs up between tlie girl and Mike, one of tlie band, and it appears liknly that complications will follow when a prince from her native country extends to her his royal-favour; but matters work out perfccl.lv happily. -Miss Compson is well supported by Johnny Harron, Jack Oakje, Ned Sparkes, and Joseph Cawthoru, as. the musicians, and Ivan Lcbedefl us the handsome prince. Tlie talking supports include numbers from tliq Baltimore Trio, singing Instrumentalists; "The Sky Bov,” a comedy featuring Harry Langdon; vocal pieces by Craig Campbell, the well-known operatic tenor; and a Metro Movietone News. LEU CARRILLO IN "LOMBARDI, LTD.’’ .tne announcement maim Uy Hie J. C. Wiiliiiiiisuu management imu the famous, actor Leo Carrillo win open a New Zealand season at the Grauu Opera House, commencing January s, mis anurded general satlsiuctiou. warcly indeed has such a famous play and noted artist appeared tn the Dominion belore lhe/Loudoii production, and New Zealanders are inueed fortunate in being afforded the opportunity ot witnessing a play which captivated New York audiences lor a whole season, and an actor of such world-wide fume as Leo Carrillo. “Lombardi Ltd.” was specially written for Carrillo by Frederick and Fanny Hatton, and the role of Tito Lombardi Is his favourite one. Here, it. is said, is a truly delightful comedy simply packed with fresh, lively entertainment, which banishes all seriousness—or nearly all, for there are some’ dramatic and pathetic passages—a splendid play u hich will be presented by one of the best compauies ever assembled by the enterprising-: firm of J. C. Williamson. Carrillo's is simply ebullient joyousness which iufects the audience almost immediately. He prattles happily on in his broken English, revealing a humour of subtle form, that cannot fail to appeal, while' his changing moods enable him to give full play to his versatility. And the famous star has splendid support to carry the production to the highest Hight of success. There are Barbara Luddy us the little wisecracking mannequin bent upon going straight to the devil,” but fiiiliug sigiuilly in the attempt; Margaret Cullen-Landis, the beautiful-proportioned model .who hulls many embarrassments in possessing a perfect shape; Brandon Peters, as the love-smitten “Vermicelli King;” Rowena Ronald as Lombardi’s designing sweetheart; Natalie Moya, as his level-beaded and charming first assistant; Leslie Victor, as the lugubrious book-keeper, wll ° 18 "never happy unless he’s sad; Henrietta Cavendish as the impressionable lorewonian; and Maidic Hope, Daphne Bairn, Cecil Manuering, Pop Cory, Elma Gibbs, Beatrice Kendrick, and others in congenial roles. The box plans will open at The Bristol to-morrow. PARAMOUNT THEATRIC. “The Time, the Place, and.the Girl, the star attraction which has been drawing big houses to the Paramount. Theatre all the week, will bo shown there for the last time to-night. A champion half-back footballer, Jim Crane (portrayed by Grant Withers) and Mrs. Ward (Betty Compson), are the stars in this excellent comedy drama. The story is good, wholesome, and bright, the acting is of a high class, and provides a most enjoyable evening s entertainment. The college football, hero, although he neglects his studies, in made much of, and tlie climax is reached when he wins a last-minute victory for his co - lc"-e in the great inter-college football match of the year. A wealthy stock exchange investor offers Jim a position m his office. Jim accepts, but is so unsuccessful that Ward decides to discharge him, when, at the last moment, Jim makes a big sale, and Ward sets him up in business, but giving him some worthless shares to sell. He sells these shares to several wealthy lady admirers. On discovering what he has done, Jim decides to buy back the shares. This he accomplishes with the help of Mrs. Ward, and tlie shares arc paid for out ot Ward’s money. A dramatic scene occurs when a pretty secretary (Gertrude Olmsted) saves Jim and the reputation of Mrs. Ward. The enjoyment of the entertainment is enhanced by the, presentation of an excerpt from “Carmen by two opera stars; also by the varied and interesting Paramount Sound News of the world. "CONQUEST." Honoured as the hero ot one of tlie greatest exploits of his time, lauded by two continents, and showered witli citations and meda's attesting to his consummate courage and daring—yet knowing in his heart that lie lias committed an act so cowardly tfiilt he Ilves in constant fear ot exposure! Such is the predicament of one of the key characters in “Conquest,” the aviation production special in which Warner Bros, star Monte Blue with 11. B. Warner featured, Lois Wilson in tlie leading feminine role aud Edmund Breese mid Tully Marshall in prominent parts. “Conquest” is a remarkable depletion of the explorations of tlie Antarctic with tlie South Pole as its objective. Blue and Warner appear as aviators who, in a giant ’plane, essay Hie feat on which Bvrd and Wilkins are set. Forced (o the icefields by the raging blizzard, their ’plane is wrecked. One of them is painfully injured. In a panic- of fear the other leaves him to die and makes his way back to civilisation, where he is showered witli tlie praises of the world. Lionised, he carries in his heart the haunting memory of his cowardly act. Then comes word that, the other hiis survived the icy polar wilderness and is returning. “Conquest,” Warner Bros.’ latest special production starring Monte Blue comes to the Paramount Theatre to-morrow for the season of one week. KILBIRNIE KINEMA. The curtain is lifted on backstage life in three-a-day vaudeville in "Melody Lane,” a heart-touching picture starring Eddie Leonard, witli Josephine Dunn, which is showing at the Kilbirnie Theatre. Leonard and Miss Dunn comprise

a song and dance team and their concern over tlie future of their little daughter forms the pivot around which tlie story revolves. The second feature is “Girlshy Cowboy.” starring Rex Beil. Reserve at theatre, telephone 14—202.