Plays-Players-Pictures

Evening Post, Volume CVII, Issue 32, 9 February 1929, Page 23

Plays-Players-Pictures

THE SHOWS.

Town Uall— Organ Recital, erory Sunday, 8,30 p.m.

Oper.v'Hbuiio—' • '..-- 1.- , ' ■ Allan;-AYllfcie, Shakespearian Company, In .'.■■ season. " - Bouclcniilt-Vanbrugh season, IStb Feb- ..;.; • i;: riiary. Bis Majesty's— ! Kcvue Ilcgunt—Vaudeville and I'letures. De Lu.to Theatre—Pictures. Paramount Theatre—Pictures.. King's Theatre—Pictures. < ' Artcratt Theatre—Pictures. Our Theatro- Pictures i Shortt's Theatre—Pictures. I Strand Theatre—Pictures. Britannia Theatre—Pictures. ' Queen's Theatre —Pictures. Princess Theatre—Pictures. KUbirnie Kinema—Pictures. '

"The Dover Road, I,'.by A. A. Milne, the first play scheduled for production this year by the National Repertory Theatre Society, will be staged next month.

Mr. William . Burton, general manager for .Fullers for New Zealand, is spending his vacation (the first for many years) in the Oamaru district. . Miss -May. Bea'tty, was unfortunately out of tlie ; cast of "Tho GirlFriend" on the opening night, in Sydney.'owing to an acute attack' of tonsilitis. Miss Ivy Parkc made a good job of her role, according to the critics.

Wangnnui 's Mouth Organ 'Band has no fewer than 60 performers, who play delightful music in harmony, and at a ax'cent concert provided an agreeable surprise to listeners.

The National' Broadcasting Compauy of America is planning to offer grand opera in modern dress to the smaller. American cities by sending its grandopera singers on the road.

Thclma Burnesa and Byrl , Walkely^ last in New. Zealand with tho ."Tiptoes" company, are in pantomime in Britain. Miss Burness is principal girl in "Humpty Dumpty" in Glasgow, and Miss Walkely is principal boy in "Old King Cole" in Birmingham. Toti dal Monte and her husband De Muro Lomanto, are now in Rome for the Royal Opera House season. According to Press reports the farewell night of Frank O'Brien's "Bovcllers" was tho most enthusiastic ever oxporiouced in Christehurch. "There was a series of remarkable scenes of; enthusiasm," wrote one paper. "Scores of tributes, iloral and otherwise, were handed over the footlights and thousands of streamers wore thrown from tho auditorium on to tho stage. Tho principals of the company wero recalled again and. again and wero forced to make speeches. Pat Hanna's Diggers, a company of costume ■ comedy revue artists, opened in Christchurch after a very successful season in Duncdin. They are reported to bo doing remarkably woll there.

Frank O'Brien's "Revellers" are repeating their Christchurch success in Dunedin, where they are drawing big business to the Princess Theatre. This company is duo to open in Wellington shortly. . .

Af tor their present. Auckland season, the Geoi'go Wallace Bevuc Company ■will transfer' to ' Christchurch ,to take the i>laee of Pat HaiinaV Diggers, who move on to Auckland;

Miss Nora M'Manus played the leading rolo in "The GirJ friend" in' Sydney recently, in' tho absence of Miss Annie Croft, who had sprained an ankle at a matinetf-performance. .Misa M' Manns, who,' hails from:' Auckland, is reported to have done admirably in tho part. Tho talented Nora was Miss Mario Burkes understudy in "JTrasq'uita," that tuneful Williamson production, and played the lead in'"Whirled into Happiness." - '.'•'■

Basil Radford, who first won his way into the hearts 'of Wellington theatrogoers with his silly-ass role in "The Ghost Train," at tho .Grand Opera. House, and subsequently crowned that achievement with his acting in tho new English Comedy Company's series of Ben Travcrs comedies, has gone to Ame-: lieu. Miss Harriett Bennett, who is producing "The Wishing Well" in San Francisco, sent calls to Australia to Mr. liadford as well as Keginald Dandy; so that the dainty little lady of "Koso Marie" fanro will have, in her cast two old friends. Mr. Radford has played with Miss Bennett in London, and Mr. Dandy was the manly and likeable hero of "Rose Marie." .

In connection with the farewell tour of Miss Ircno Vahbi'ugh and Mr. Dion Boucicault and their presentation of plays; there appears to bo some differ-, enco of opinion as to tho particular comedy in which theso talented artists may bo said to appear,at thoir very best. In "Belinda,"'which was specially written f or; Miss Vanbrugh and Mr. Boucicault, it is generally admitted that they have achieved one of their greatest triumphs, whilo the saihe remarks aro applied to the . Frederick Lonsdale comedy, "On Approval," "AH the King's Horses," and "Miss Nell o' New Orleans." This only serves to show the general high, standard of the comedies produced and the realistic acting of this specially chosen ebmpany. Another critic speaks loudly for "The Highroad" and "Aren't We' All," both .brilliant Lonsdale comedies, whilo a third says that in "Mr. Pirn Passes By" Dion Boucicault is seen at his absolute best. What better +flstimony could be wanted for tho alllonnd excellence of the productions.

The dream of Louis XI. of France; is tlie mainspring of tho play, "Tho Vagabond King," which is coming to Kcw Zealand this mouth, and will be interpreted by ono of ' the strongest musical "companies; over sent to theseshores. Louis frequented, tho .lower haunts of Paris, where- vice and treachery abounded, so that ho might surreptitiously obtain information about himself and his court. It was in the vilo Fir Gone-Tavern where ho met the dissolute poet, Francois Villon (so ably interpreted by James Liddy) and Guy Tabcrio (played by Arthur Stigant); exciting incidents follow, v tlic •whole forming ono of tho most attractive musical plays ever seen in Now Zealand.

Mr. J. B. Howe, actor of experience, is ono of the most popular members of the Vanbrugh-Boucicault Company now in Now Zealand. lib talks most interestingly of the United States and South Africa, in which countries up has spent many years. Ho knows every city and town in South Africa, has travelled tho United States from East to West, and is as well-known in Oklahoma as ho is in New York and San Francisco. Strange to say he lias never played in England, though he is an Englishman by birth. 'Of Mr. William Watters, the wellkno' vn baritone and singing teacher of Palmerston North, who. is opening a studio in Wellington, the Dunedin "Star," commenting on a recent performance of "Elijah" by the Dunedin Choral Society, had tho following:— "Mr. Wattors's singing reached the lieights of vocal and dramatic expression, and brought to the minds of many of those present that Elijah of Elijahs, Charles Santley, one of tho most famous singers that the world of English s<mg lias ever known. Mr. Walters's performance was one of sincerity and conviction. lie sang with beauty of voice and stirring' resonance, find preserved an even quality through the entiro wide compass of his voice, which was equal to the most exacting of rcsi,+atives of arias. Ho employed a fine 'declamatory-effect, and sang with artistic feeling and evidence oil thoughtful

study." Mr. Wattcrs has had great success as a teacher, some of his pupils being in the front rank of the Dominion's singers. . : , .The success of "The Patsy," which has reached its eighteenth week in Sydney, is responsible for the bringing to Australia of "Pigs," an American comedy, which isthe successor to "The Patsy" in the United States. "Pigs" has rim for over 18 months in New York, and eleven companies are playing it throughout tho States. Tho royalities are stated to be tho heaviest ever paid on any comedy produced in Australia.

"Lido Lady," -which was recently staged in London will follow "Rioßita" in Melbourne. Elsie Prince will bo seen in this musical .comedy, and for it the well-known English comedian, Billy Leonard, and Yvette Aiming, have been engaged. The other comedian in the show-will be Jimmy Godden, who is with the company headed by Elsie Prince. ". Jennie Benson, the London revue artist, is on her -jvay out for this production. Others in the cast will include William Kent, New York comedian; Mary Leigh, English revue artist; and Myrtle Pearce, dancer, from Now York. '-.

Mr. Allan Wilkie concludes his seasou at the Grand Opera House next Saturday, the 16th, with a performance of the popular historical drama, "Henry VIII." When produced here on the occasion of his last visit, Mr. Wilkie wore the Cardinal's robes used by the late Sir Herbert Tree in the character of Cardinal Wolsey. These have now been replaced, owing to wear and tear, by the identical costume -worn by Sir Henry Irving when he produced

"Henry VIII." at tho Lyceum Thetttre, London. ••;' Another revival Mr. Wilkie has on the stocks is "Much Ado About Nothing, "and he also wishes on his next visit to New Zealand to bring new productions of '' Honry the Fourth," parts one and two, and of "Richard the Second," Thus he will approach the fruition of his ambition ,to>stug.e tlie,i37 playsof Shakespeare, in the Antipodes. Tho Allan Wilkie Com.pany proceeds northwards after completion 6f the Opera House season on Saturday next, visiting Palmerston North, Wanganui, New Plymouth, Hawera, and Stratford, prior to opening in Auckland on 2nd March.

Anna May Wong has commenced work on the new picture, "The Pavement Butterfly."; This is the first picture to be made by U.F.A. with sound effects. \ ' '

■One. whole'year in the making,-thou-sands of peoplo engaged, hundreds of horses and camels, two hundred dancing girls, tremendous sets, beautiful decorations, gorgeous costumes, superb photography, romantic drama, quaint humour, and wonderful performances by a cast running up to thousands, in. short describes the latest super spectacle, "The Secrets of'the Orient," directed by Alexander Wolkoff, arid which will be released in the near future in New Zealand. '' . ' : ..

Tho latest adyices ; received from the studios of Universal City, California, state that the New Zealand film production featuring the Maoris has created a wonderful/impression with the American Press and public alike. The film, which was made here under the title of '' Taranga,'' has been retitled for American presentation, "Under the Southern Cross," although the original title will possibly be kept for the picture presented to New Zealand ' audiences. The following is an' extract from the "Hollywood Filmograph" on the previous showing of the picture:' " 'Under the' Southern Cross,' a Universal production, pre-viewed at the Larchinont Theatre last Sunday night to a packed house, is undoubtedly the best picture of its kind that has.ever been filmed. . . .-

Tho picture fairly reeks with scenic grandeur, and should appeal strongly to those who are on the gui vive for something novel and bizarre in the celluloid line." Every indication points to "Under the Southern Cross," or "Taranga," being one of the most farreaching advertisements ever accorded New Zealand by another country, and will in all probability attract a huge number of tourists, particularly to the thermal regions, around -which most of the. picture was filmed.

Laura La Plante's next picture is "The Haunted Lady." lan Keith is her loading man,, and Wesley Buggies will direct this story by Adela Rogers St.- John. ' ■. ■

John ITord, the director, never satisfied with half-way measures, went to Europe for the background of "Eiley tho Cop/ starring Farrell Mac Donald. He visited Paris, Munich, Berlin, and other centres. He was accompanied by a camera-man and made innumerable shots for use in this invigorating comedy based on the life and ambitions of a droll New York patrolman. As a result, the German beer gardens, French cafes, and other sets used in this production not only bear the stamp of authenticity, but aro said to be the best settings of-the kind ever attemptod by a producer. A new mystery story titled "Seven Footprints to Satan," which boasts the largest cast of the year, has been completed. Featuring Creighton Hale and Thelma Todd, this'well-known story is presented as a mystery play full of eerie sequences and spooky thrills, with some splendid acting by the principals. Some very beautiful scenes in "Love and the Devil" were made on a Venetian set at the Burbank studios. Those are remarkable for their realism, and it would take an expert to detect that these were not actual scenes taken in the exquisite Venice. Maria Corda is tho feminino lead, and Milton Sills plays opposite her. "A Woman in Pawn," adapted from one of Captain Prank Stay ton's plays, "In Pawn," which was produced at the Criterion Theatre, London, is yet another stage drama to find its way to the screen becauso of its suitability for film presentation. "A Woman in Pawn" carries an irrosistiblo appeal for students of humanity, and those who are entertained by the interplay of circumstanco and plot.

Thrills form tho basis of modern comedr. according to Buster Keafcon,

whose latest picture, "The Cameraman," conies to the Regent Theatre shortly. Buster Keaton plays, in this new, uproarious comody, an apprentice news reel cameraman, shooting scenes in New York. Among the thrills are his drop from a four-story building into a Chinese tong war; a thrilling boat accident; a swimming pool scene, in which he narrowly escapes drowning; and other misadventures. Marcolino Day has the leading feminine, role. Although the atmosphere and locale of "Poppies of. Flanders," a picture now enjoying a tremendous run in New Zealand, is that of war, director Arthur Maude has treated this touching subject so delightfully that the many who are over-wearied of the continual war picture fare will find a freshness in this production that will not only delight by the strength of its drama and comedy relief, but will give an entnrely new aspect of a subject that has been grossly abused. A grudge fight which starts in New York City is continued clear across tho continent and ends in California, is one of the comedy high-lights of "Homesick." It features Sammy Cohen, popular screen comic, and has a supporting company which includes Ma'rjorie Beebe, screen star comedienne, and Harry Sweet. Reginald Denny has started production of "His Lucky Day" by John B. Clymer and Gladys Lehman. The cast includes Otis Harlan, Harvey Olark, Eddie Phillips, Cissy Fitzgerald and Tom O'Brien. Edward Cline is directing. A mother is naturally interested in her only son's selection of a wife, particularly when the wife has to play her part iv "county" life. Mrs. Whittaker was intensely annoyed when her son John introduces a stranger to the family circle as his wife. Matters were made much worse when tho wife would not reveal her past. And Larita, although innocent, had a "past" to hide. Eventually mother and sister stumbled upon the ugly past, and the fat was in the fire. This is the pivot of the plot upon which 'Easy Virtue" turns, and it affords charming entertainment. This release has a notable cast headed by Isabel Jeans and Eric Bransby Williams. "His Captive Woman," with Dorothy Mackaill and Milton Sills, is adapted from the story by Dorm Byrne entitled "Changeling," and will be released in New Zealand shortly.

Exquisite British countryside and village scenes, well balanced by many excellent interiors, plus a thquie containing popular' melodrama on , plain familiar lines describes '' Tho Silver Lining," soon to be released in New Zealand. Eve , Gray, the Australian beauty, Pat Aherne,and Marie Ault ara the principal artists.

Matt Taylor and Clarence Thompson are writing a circus ■ story as the second Arthur Lake starring production. It will be called "The Boy Wonder." Lake spent the early years of his life travelling with his parents in' a'•circus.. . .', ■ :

A picture that sets a very high standard in home production will shortly bo seen in New- Zealand, when the Gainsborough screen version of "Tho Constant Nymph" is presented. Ivor Novello plays the part'of "Lewis Todd," giving by far the best and most detailed characterisation of his career. Mabel Poulton, a.young actress, as "Tessa," takes a front-rank placo among tho international stars.