EMPRESS THEATRE.

Evening Post, Volume CVII, Issue 131, 4 June 1924, Page 10

EMPRESS THEATRE.

_ Eugene O'Neill's play, "Anna Christie," which won the Pulitzer prize as the greatest American drama for 1922, is showing this week at the Empress Theatre. The story concerns the life of a girl deserted in childhood by her father. The part of Anna is taken by Blanche Sweet, who gives a realistic portrayal. She is supported by a strong cast. Included on the programme is a Larry Semon comedy, ."The Gown Shop,", and a .gazette. Special orchestral selections add to the entertainment.

"VENUS OF THE SOUTH SEAS. ' -. After all the talk and speculation about the Annette Kellerman picture made in the Nelson district, the Empress Theatre management is proud to announce next Friday as its screening date. Now the people of the 'Dominion can see just exactly what did happen in Nelson, and why its naturally placid inhabitants became so' excited. The majority pi the scenes were taken outside Nelson, at Pohata beach, Takaka, Pelorus Sound, while others included Island Bay, Wellington, and Ohristchurch. After the actual photographing was completed the picture 1 Nvas taken to Los Angeles to receive the finishing touches by film experts. "Venus of the South Seas" is a remarkable motion picture. Tha story is. stirring and romantic,'with plenty of thrilling incidents," and Miss Kellerman does the finest work of her career. _ Her display of diving and swimming is unsurpassed, while her underwater work is marvellous. Miss Kellerman is supported by a speciallvsplected cast, and no expense or trouble was spared for this production. It is the first big drama to be produced in New Zealand, and it is hoped that its success will pavp the way for the foundation of a' nourishing motion picture industry, in this Dominion. The box plan is open at The Bristol till 5 p.m., then at the theatre;