ENTERTAINMENTS

Evening Post, Volume CX, Issue 6, 7 July 1930, Page 5

ENTERTAINMENTS

REGENT THEATRE.

"Chasing Rainbows," at the Regent Theatre, is something quite new in the prevailing fashion of back-stage stories on i the screen. This tale is so naturally' acted that the audience actually goes on tour with tho revue company, shares its fun and troubles, and is forced to take a keen interest in how long Carlic (Bessie Love) can retain her affection for the sloppy juvenile lead, Terry (Charles King), whose susceptible heart is grabbed by one unscrupulous lady after another. Every woman is a rainbow to Terry, until she vanishes,, and one after another they Jeuvo him lamenting. They are his rainbows, and ho Is Carllc's. On the stage she Is the rag-time comedienne, behind the curtain she mothers everyone with a merry worldly wisdom, but chiefly Terry, ami, thus helps the stage manager to hold the squabbling, "misunderstood," mid mediocre remainder of the company together, as it wrangles Its way from curtain to train and from'train to rehearsal. Daphne (Xita Martin) and Cordova (Eddie Phillips) arc the leading lady and sly deceiver who at length show Terry t'arlle as the pot of gold at tho rainbow's end. "Lucky You and Lovable Me" is the most pleasing of the musical numbers. Marie Dressier as the worn-out old stager whose art carries her; through Is inimitably funny in songs, any one; of which is worth the admission. She and'Polly'Moran, the dresaer, fight and fraternise equally ludicrously. Duel do Kerekjarto, violinist, excels in a delicate muted "Serenade," and a. frenzied "Witch's Dance," introducing novel technique. Yvett Rugel sings a bracket of songs, and there is a satire on the sport craze. The gazette includes a merry party togobbaning on ashcan lids. Following close on'his tremendous success of "Bulldog Drummond," Ronald Colman's latest starring picture, "Condemned I" comes to the Regent Theatre on 11th July. It was produced by Samuel Goldwyn. 'Set as it is in the famous French penal colony of Devil's Island, in South America, with a brilliant cast of stage and screen favourites, "Condemned!" is said to be Colman's greatest picture. Colman'a Sole Is that of a dashing French thief, sent to «*rve a term in the hideong prison which the French call "The Islajid of Living Death." Opposite him in the cast Is Ann Harding, noted Broadway stage star, whose stage performance in "The Trial of Mary Dugan" made her internationally famous, and who had " been 1 lately successful in her first picture, "Paris Bound." Louis Wolheim. favourite character actor, has another prominent role, as also has Dudley. Digges, star of the New York Theatre Guild. The fever-infested swamps which make escape from Devil's Island practically impossible, the sordid horrors of prison ships and squalid, cells,; combined with the growth of a pure love between a convict and a beautiful girl, giTe "Condemned" unique and picturesque qualities. Its settings, designed by William Cameron Menzles, are said to be. the most striking work ever clone by Ibis world-famous artist 1n picture settings. ST JAMES THEATRE. The seating capacity of the St. James Theatre was taxed to the utmost on Saturday afternoon and evening, Marilyn Miller and the beautiful picture "Sally" being the attractions. Nothing ftner than this combination of play and player could be wished for. Marilyn Miller, who created the role of "Sally" in tho original ZlegfleW production in New York, is an artist to her linger tips. She acts and sings in alluring ' fashion, and when it comes to dancing, *6e seems to be inspired. Such dancing, so well reproduced on film, has not previously been seen, here, either in a talking picture or on the stage. The art of Miss Miller is allied to physical advantages of form and face, which make up a charming personality of true magnetic appeal. ' To see . and hear her is to appreciate her. The pictured version of "Sally" is mounted on a much larger scale than any stage presentation could hope to be. Jt has been filmed in radiant technicoiour of a much improved quality that does not trouble vision in the least degree. Ensembles of greater magnitude than one has been accustomed to are not only, part of the show—they fit in. perfectly as necessary episodes. The scenes aro gorgeous and the' settings magriiQ-. cent. Outstanding amongst the captivating Tocal numbers are "Look for the Silver Lining," "Sally," and "The Wild, Wild Rose." The singing and presentation of the last-named Item by Miss Miller and a male chorus of 30 male singers ia something that once seen is never likely to be forgotten. Ford Stirling deserves special mention, his characterisation of the inntteeper being excellent. Alexander Gray, Joe E. Brown, T. Roy Pert Kelton, .lack Dufty, and a formidable cast all contribute to. the success of the entertainment, '^he added attractions arc unusually good. Conspicuous among them Is "Hot Dogs," a diverting comedy-drama played by 50 super-Intelligent flogs with screamingly funny results: Box plans are at the Bristol. 1 PARAMOUNT THEATRE. Comedy, lovo, and bright theatrical life, with sonirs and dances, are conspicuous features of the "First National Vltaphono play. "The I'niiited Angel," now being shown, at the Paramount Theatre. The leading part is taken by Blllle ,Dove, one of the foremost screen artists of the day. As a dancer and singer Miss Dove .has' already, achieved distinction, and in. this new .production her power to portray a more xerious character is amply demonstrated. In the story the actress gains many admirers, and, on noticing tho unwanted attention of one of these, the manager of the play himself realises that he, too, has fallen in love with her, and this Introduces a serious element. In the theatrical scenes there aro bright songs and choruses, including "A Bride Without a Groom," and the accompanying dance, in which Billio Dove wins public favour. The scenes the night club give tho producer an opportunity to introduce some, amusing incidents, »nd also a meeting which nearly ends ■in a tragedy. Edmond Lowe is the theatrical manager, and he devotes himself to winning for the one ha admires a fortune- in a few years; to achieve this he has to take care, that nothing shall occur In the theatre which is likely to thwart his.'ambition. As usual at the Paramount Theatre, the featurettes are well chosen, and Include an instrumental selection, an i all-talk-ing gazette of prominent world happenings, and other items. The box plans are at the BristoFand the theatre. : .. _ . CUEE-N'S THEATRE. Ah exciting story of the wild west is told in "Mountain Justice" at flic Queen's Theatre. •In this Universal all-talking Western production, Ken Maynard takes the leailins part and gives a realistic interpretation of his role. Maynard goes into the hill country of Kentucky to avenge the murder of his father and becomes embroiled in the flare-up of an old feud. Single-handed he fights tuVway through, gets his man and wins the girl of his heart. "Mountain Justice" Is a picture of the Kentucky feud district realistic to the last detail. In support is the comedian Otis Harlan. KING'S THEATRE. "A Most Unworthy Lady," in which Leatrice Joy plays the leading role, is the main attraction at the King's Theatre. The story deals with a sequence of love affairs of Laura Sergeant, a popular and fascinating -wife ot an Impecunious broker. While, appearing to be deceiving her husband in the matter of encouraging the affections of two eligible men, she actually is in league with him. and plays with them merely for the money that the husband can extort. However events move rapidly after the second ruse is exposed, and a happy climax takes place »way\in a Parisian cafe. Walter Pldgeon plays opposite Miss Joy, and a very strong cast is headed by a famous player who is a newcomer to the screen. ARTCRAFT THEATRE. "The Last Waltz" is the star picture at the Artcraft Theatre. This is a love story of the Crown Prince of a Balkan kingdom, as interesting and romantic as that of Prince Carol of Rumania, and in the end an aide-de-camp and a blonde are seen dancing their way through a dark and empty, ballroom to the strain of their waltz, played for them by an old violinist. "A Woman in Pawn" Is tho supporting picture. This shows how an lmscrupulous financier ruins a young stockbroker and attempts to abduct his wife. Tho manner of her redemption is ' dramatically shown. There are good supports. KILBIRNIE KINEMA. Overseas thtre were two disengagements, the fcont line trenches and "Thy Battle of I' 11'}?;" or the mad fight for fun in Pans. It is tills fight for amusement, the lighter side of the war, that supplied the title for the Paramount picture, starring Gertrude Lawrence, at the Tvilblrnie Theatre to-night. The frivolity, the fun, the music that was war-time Paris have all been wound into one engrossing story of a young street girl who meets an artist, and falls in love with him. only to have him taken away by the w.ir. Sound frat.nretU's will also i* screened. Reserve at Thf-Hrr. Confectionery, telephone 11-202, and Bristol Piano <'o. CAPITOL THEATRE, MIRAMAR. Residents of Miramar had (heir flrsl. opportunity of listening to a complete programme over the new sound system at the Capitol Theatre on Saturday night. Despite one or two technical details that have yet to be overcome, the reproduction was very good, and after these few points have been adjusted, perfect reproduction will be guaranteed. A large audience enthusiastically applauded J. 11. Squire's Ccksle Octet after their excellent rendering of "Ciiv.illorla Rusticiina." The featured picture. "Hulldog Drummond." a thrlllins: and exciting story of the romantic and fearless, ndventurer who enga"ss In a deadly combat with a desperate gang of crooks, was also fully appreciated. REGAL THEATRE, KARORI. "Innocents of Paris," starring Maurice Chevalier, will be shown at tho Regal Theatre to-night. He gives a charming Interpretation of his role. Other stars of the cast are Sylvia Beecher, a former well-known Broadway stage actress, and George Fawcett. There will be good supports. OUR THEATRE, NEWTOWN. Charles Morton and Leila Hyams are starred in "Tho Far Call," the chief attraction to ho shown lit Our Theatre to-night. It is a vivid portrayal or an outlaw gang and its raid on the valuable fur-seal rookeries of the I'ribllof Islands. The second feature, "Bare Knees." starring Virginia Lee Corbin, Is a comedy drama. BRITANNIA THEATRE. j The all-Ulking picture. "It's » Great Life," Mpirjng the Duncan Sistfrs, is being shown .it tae Britannia Theatre. This is a tnchnicoloiir eojaedy »n»rMiug with cntcli.v snnu' hits mid dance ni/uiiiers. There arc good supports.

DE LUXE THEATRE. "The Vagabond Lover," Radio Pictures' all-talking, staging, and dancing comedydrama at the De Luxe Theatre Is one of the best of the spectacular pictures that I have had highly popular vogue since the advent of the talkies. The star is Jtudy Yallee. Throughout the piece he sings a number of popular songs. The story tells of tlio predicament of a small town hand of musicians get into when their leader, through force of circumstance, is mistaken for the leader of a famous New 'York jazz orchestra. A lady, whose social success is moro to her than good looks or a pleasing personality, engages the amateur orchestra to perform at a musical evening. The musicians, and the charming volco of their leader, capture the audience, resulting in them being a huge success. Meanwhile, the leader lias fallen in love with the social climber's charming niece. From then ou complications follow on top of one another. He does not enjoy his new-found success, however, and in a conscience stricken moment confesses all. When their masquerade is discovered the police are sent for, and they arc faced with exposure and prison. Things, however, turn out satisfactory for all in. the end. Playing opposite Kudy Viillee is Sally Blanc. The supporting pletures.,are well in keeping wilh the star attraction, and include an English comedy. "Old Bill's Christmas." and "The Setting Son." GRAND OPERA HOUSE. i In "Rookery Nook," a British . picture showing at the Grand Opera House, there is very little plot. The ejection of a pretty damsel In her pyjamas by an irate step-father is all that Is necessary to bring trouble to Gerald Popkiss and his cousin Clive, when the former is received by the latter at '"Rookery Nook," late one summer's evening. The absence of Gerald's wife and the presence of Mrs. Twine, a female relative, whose powers of evil deduction are second to none,' complicate Gerald's reception of the lightly clad P.hoda Marley- for the night, and It ts the events consequent on his chivalrous |actlon which provided endless amusement. The cast Is brilliant. One less able might have turned the headlong fun of the piece into mere vulgarity, but Ralph Lynn, Tom Wallls, Robertson Hiire (Mrs. Twine's wife-fearing husband), Kthel Coleridge (Mrs. Twine herself), Griffith Humphreys (Mr. Putz, the stepfather), Doreen' Bendlx, Margot Groahame, Winifred Shotter (the demure damsel In distress), not forgetting Mary Brough, the "daily woman" with a nose for scandal, are ideally associated and deftly humorous in every situation. Unlike many other (alkies, "Rookery Nook" can be "heard" with [treat pleasure, for every one of the all-star cast speaks "the King's English" most, attractively. There arc two good supports to the main film—Tittii ltufl'u. Metropolitan opera star in a scene from "L'Africane," and a Charlie Chase comedy. "Stepping Out." which proves that wives arc sometimes wise. MAJESTIC THEATRE. Laura-la Planto and John Boles are associated in the stirring drama of French Revolution times, "The Captain of the .Guard," at the 'Majestic Theatre. Roget de Lisle, who wrote "La Marseillaise," is the hero of the piece, and Mario Marnay,' or "The Torch," is the sweet little innkeeper's daughter he falls Iv love with when he is sent by her powerful admirer Bazin to teach her music. De Lisle joins the colours, becoming Captain of the Guard, and the thwarted Bazln uses him to capture Marie when her revolutionary exploits lead him to suspect her. Infuriated at so mean a trick de Lisle turns revolutionary himself, composes the Marseillaise, and more than that dares to sing it before Louis and his court. Maris is, of course, in custody in the Bastille, hut then the Revolution breaks, and the prison is stormed add'she'is set fre,e and finds long-postponed happiness with her lover. John Boles uses his voice effectively in "For You." although it is the Marseillaise which is moro naturally the theme-song of the picture. The voluptuousness of King Louis and Mario Antoinette is stressed in scenes of extravagant magnificence, and the incident of the Queen asking why the poor cannot eat cake when they have no bread has also been introduced. The supporting programme includes Harry GabcUl.'s "Undersea Review," which presents some wonderful dancing, and there are also im excellent: news gazette. SHORTT'S THEATRE. The programme at Shorlt's Theatre is full of good things. "Across to Singapore" is the big feature, and In it Ramon Navarre- is shown in a new rple as mate of a vessel on which life is not a: very happy affair: The other feature is "The Patsy," starring Marion Oavles. There are good supports. PORT NICHOLSON SILVER BAND. The seventh recital of the Port Nicholson Silver Band for its 101(0 season drew another full audience to the Grand Opera House last evening. Quite a galaxy of talent was represented in the programme, and the large audience was properly enthusiastic and generous with applause. Mr. J. J. Drew had his players in perfect control, consequently the band items were particularly enjoyable. They included the hymn, "Lord, My Pasturo Shall Prepare," which was bracketed with the march, "Lone Lady Flyer," composed by Mr. Jack O'Hacan in honour of Miss Amy Johnson. The composition was warmly received. The overture, "Lc Diadcme," a selection of "Vagabond King" melodies;'the.fantasia, "By the Swanee ltivcr," and the march, "Viscount Nelson," completed the band's offerings. In vocal relief were the solos of Miss Gladys Edwards, soprano, of Sydney; Mrs. Wilfrid Andrews, contralto: Mr. Wilbur Davles, baritone, and Mr. Dan Foley, tenor, so that all ranges of song were represented. Miss Edwards chose the "Kashmiri Song." from Indian Lovo Lyrics, which suited her sweetly-modulated voice; as a recall The Wood Pigeon" gave her further scope. Mrs. Wilfrid Andrews sang "The Carnival" and "Song of the Hebrides" with her .usual success. Mr Davies's choice was "The Bandolero," while "The Cobbler's Song," from "Chu Chin Chow," afforded a pleasing contrast as an encore number. ,Mr. Foley's light tenor was admirably suited to "I Feel You Near Me ; the recall number, "Little Irish Rose," was nut sufficient, and ■"Smiling Irish Eyes" had I to be also'sung.-' The guitar duets of Berthold and Bent were appreciated for their novelty; and when such popular airs as "Tip Toe Thru' the Tulips" and "Painting the Clouds with Sunshine" were rendered, the popularity of the duo was complete.- Miss Marion Mackie earned well deserved applause for her recitations --"At tho Photographers" and "Kitty O'Toole." Mr. Frank Crowther was once again the efficient accompanist. NEW PRINCESS THEATRE. "Blue Skies," featuring Helen Twclvetrces and Frank Albcrtso'n, is being screened at the New Princess Theatre. The other feature is "Why Sailors Go Wrong," a humorous film starring Sally Phipps and Nick Stuart. There are also a gazette, a serial, and a comedy. NEW QUALITY, ISLAND BAY. "Noah's Ark," which is to be presented at the Quality Theatre . to-night, has been built on' a stupendous scale. Beginning at the opening of the World War, the din and destruction of battle makes Itself felt by the audience. Then, after a most, impressive scene, all the characters are spirited back five thousand years to the time of Noah and the building of the Ark. ORGAN RECITAL. Mr. Bernard F. Page (CH.y Organist) gave his weekly organ recital at the Town Hall last evening. The programme was as follows: Minuet by Muffat, Concerto in E Flat, by William Felton— (a) Idylle Melancolique, Op. 31 (No. 8); (b) Canzona. Op. 31 (No. 12), by Vierne; Pastel (No. 3), Op. 92, by Karg-Elert; Second Movement "Esperance" from Symphony in B Minor, by Jacquemln: Fountain Music and Duet from Act. 11., Scene I. "Pelleas and Mclisande," by Debussy: Prelude. Cantilene, Scherzando de Concert (Op. 2!)), by Piernc.