STATE THEATRE

Dominion, Volume 32, Issue 72, 17 December 1938, Page 17

STATE THEATRE

* “Kicking The Moon Around” And “Convict 99”

Evelyn Dall, 19-year-vld platinum blonde American, who was mentioned in the cabled news recently, when she made history by being the first crooner to sing at a 'ball at Buckingham Palace, that stronghold of conservative tradition, is featured in the film, “Kicking the Moon Around,” which opened at the State Theatre yesterday. Lovely to look at, and with a charming personality which is reflected in her singing, it is easy to see why Miss Dall was chosen when the Queen requested that some crooning numbers should be included in the programme for the Royal Derby night ball. At Buckingham Palace Miss Dall sang ‘I Double Dare You” and “Nice Work if ion Can Get It”; in “Kicking the Moon Around,” she sings some new and delightful numbers, including “Hoboes Holiday,” “Mayfair Merry-Go-Round, “No Songs About Love,” ;and “You re What’s the Matter with Me.” Ambrose and his orchestra, who provided the dance music for the Derby night ball, appear with Miss Dall in the new film. World famed on stage, screen, and radio, this band is always sure of an enthusiastic reception from those who like modern syncopated music. Florence Desmond, probably the world’s most famous impersonator, who has also given a command performance before the King and Queen, makes a welcome appearance in "Kicking the Moon Around." In addition to playing a part ideally suited to her imitative talents, she gives delightful characterizations of Greta Garbo, Katharine Hepburn, and Gracie Fields. Although the appeal of the film lies chiefly in its music, there is plenty of comedy and an entertaining, though quite improbable, story. “Convict 99,” the other feature on a first-class programme, is humour of a characteristic British type. Will Hay. whose recorded sketches have caused laughter all over the world, is the star. He gives a splendid performance as Dr. Benjamin Twist, who, literally kicked out of St. Michael’s famous school for the “sons of gentlemen,? becomes by accident governor of Blackdown prison and introduces some startling and mirth-provoking reforms. In an excellent supporting cast are Moore Marriott, Graham Moffatt, and Googie Withers.