MAJESTIC THEATRE.

Evening Post, Volume CVIII, Issue 24, 27 July 1929, Page 7

MAJESTIC THEATRE.

Gilda Gray, Anna May Wong, and Jameson Thomas are starred in "Piccadilly," the film adaptation of Arnold Bennett's novel, which is now showing at the Majestic Theatre. There aro several factors which, combine to lift the picture out of tho ruck of more or less standardised productions. Piccadilly, the centro of London's night life, is shown In sharp contrast with scenes in Ltmehouse, and the action moves swiftly from one place to tho other, giving a graphic idea of tho different conditions lv which Londoners live and Und their entertanment. Anna May Wong, tho talented young Chneso actress, has tho part of a scullery band in a popular night club, who rises through her ability as a dancer to the position of principal danseusc' The promotion is not unaccompanied by heart-burnings on the Dart of the girl whom sho lias displaced, and tho situation gives rise to some splendid [dramatic 'acting. Valentine Wllmot, tho proprietor of the club, becomes infatuated with I tho new danseuse, and in an effort to regain his love, Mabel visits tho rooms of the Chinese girl just after Wilmot's departure. Tho next morning London is horrified to learn that the popular Chinese girl has been murdered. Suspicion poittts nrst to one pcrsou and then to another, but the responsibility for tho crime is found to rest on the shoulders of someoue who it was thought could not possibly be involved. Cyril Richards, who toured New Zealand several times with J. C. Williamson musical comedy companies, plays an Important part in the picture. The stage presentation is entitled "Tho Lotus Shrine," and is provided by pupils of Mr. J. Knowsley, headed by Miss Miriama Heketa. Tho supports comprise a delightful techni-colour film, "The Lady of Victories," telling the story of Napoleon and Josephine, a news reel, and an excellent.cartoon. Attractive music is played by tho Majestic Orchestra, under the leadership of Mr. George Ellwood.