EMPRESS THEATRE.

Evening Post, Volume CVI, Issue 149, 21 December 1923, Page 3

EMPRESS THEATRE.

The new programme'at; the Empress Theatre, commencing to-day, is headed by a' remarkable photo-play, "The Sheik's Wife," which was filmed in Arabia by Henry-Roussell. Picturesque ruins of an ancient temple are used for scenes which are described as pictorially magnificent. Added to this appeal of beauty and quaintness is the deep appeal of a weird and passionate love story, dramatic and at times primitive. It is said that "The Sheik's Wife" rings true down to the tiniest detail. Most of the roles are assumed by natives. Some of these players ride almost priceless Arabian steeds. The correctness in the detail of Eastern life and custom will be welcomed. The highest artistry of France wae injected into "The Sheik's Wife." Henry-lioussell, who lias long been recognised as one of the greatest directors on the Continent both, for stage and screen, and whose directorial star is in the ascendant, served for several years aB an officer of the Algerian Spahis in Africa, and he was able to bolster his technical skill and dramatic art with complete familiarity with the habits and customs of the nomads of the desert. The difficult role of the Sheik Hadjid Ben Khedin is assumed by Marcel Vibert, of the Comedie Francaise. The leading female role is played by a youthful actress whose art is mellowed beyond comparison with her youth. This is Emmy Lynn, whose bright blonde beauty is intensified on the screen by .contrast with tho swarthy and handsome Arab chief. •■■ -