ST. JAMES THEATRE

Dominion, Volume 26, Issue 30, 29 October 1932, Page 5

ST. JAMES THEATRE

Second Week of “Emma” Marie Dressier, whose popularity increases with every film in which she appears, has been such a success at the St. James Theatre iu "Emma,” that the management have wisely decided to present the film for a further week. "Emma” is truly.a story of laughter aud tears, and no one but Marie Dressier could handle the leading role in so brilliant a manner as does this grand old actress, who appears actually to live every miuute of the role in which, she appears. The story is .full of’quick humour alongside subtle pathos, but the brusque manner of Emma never mixes the two, and the waves of laughter'she created at will were as easily stilled when, she chose to change to more serious .vein.’ The picture is a triumph for Marie; Dressier’s superb stage-craft, and emotional’ technique. The work of the supporting cast leaves nothing to be desired. Richard Cromwell gives an excellent performance. Jean Hersholt, as the millionaire is; as .usual, sympathetic and convincing.- Excellent work is also done by the 'attractive Myrna Loy, John Miljan. Purnell Pratt. Leila Bennett, Barbara Kent, and Kathryn Crawford. An excellent supporting programme includes a Hearst Metrotone News, a travelogue, a comedy, and a coloured novelty. "HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS.” George Wallace, who, back in the days when Fullers’ Vaudeville used to present breezy revues at their weekly changes, was one of the most popular of the inauy comedians who stepped upon the stage, will be seen at the St. James Theatre next Friday in a feature length talking film. "His Royal Highness” will be the title of tlie show, and it will be brimful of comedy, romance, pretty girls, aud . catchy melodics. George Wallace was seen recently in a short film which rivalled the star item in popularity. Good as that fiLni was it cannot be compared to the comedian's latest offering. Appearing with him is Marshall Crosby, the , popular tenor, who was such a hit in Wellington with all the George Wallace revues. lie jg better than ever in talkies. The music for the show was written by Alarie Howitt, a ,young Australian.,, Numbers likely to be popular are "Game of Love,” sung by Byrl Walkley;-"Ship of Dreams,” sung by Frank Tarrant; "Au Rev’oir,” sung by Nell'‘Taylor; aud "Conspiracy,” a duet by Byrl Walklcy and Lou Vernon. A chorus of over 100 voices from the operatic class of the University Conservatoriurn Melbourne, provides striking ensemble music of a standard rarely heard on the screen. The scenes in the Royal Palace have been lavishly staged. MAJESTIC LOUNGE A special attraction appearing each night for one week only is announced by the jjianagement of the Majestic Lounge in the form of an attractive mannequin parade. This parade will feature bathing costumes made by the Canterbury Pacific Company, bead) pyjamas by Beardsley and Co., sports frocks by Regent Gowns, evening gowns by Arctic Fur and Dress Co, and a special new creation by Margaret Rose. As the above parade covers all. classes of dresis it will serve as a reliable guide for intending purchasers of- new season’s outfits apart from being a very attractive entertainment, which reflects great credit bn Wellington’s leading restaurant. HALLOWE’EN FAIR Tlie Y.W.C.A. Hallowe’en, Fair continued its sale yesterday afternoon and evening. During the afternoon violin solos were given by Miss Olga Burton, while iu the evening a varied programme was enjoyed by those present. Mrs. Kenny's string . band gave several pleasing 'items. The artistic danees given by the pupils of Miss Kathleen O’Brien 'were -much appreciated, as were also the violin solo by Miss Prudence Lewis and a novelty number by Miss Lewis and Mr. Raymond Phillips. The sale will be continued this evening, when the chief attraction will be a Hallowe’en entertainment in charge of Mr. Albert Russell. In addition io special Hallowe'en features community singing will be led by Mr. Russell.