ENTERTAINMENTS

Evening Post, Volume CXV, Issue 144, 21 June 1933, Page 4

ENTERTAINMENTS

REGENT THEATRE.

Success is achieved by Iticlmrd Taubcr in "The End of tho Rainbow," now showlug at the Urgent Theatre. A simple story serves as a vohicle for Tauher's artistry. Ho is seen as a genial innkeeper in a village on the snowrapped Bavarian Alps, and is "discovered" by an impresario.'and taken to .Berlin, thcro to achieve a triumph by his singing at the Berlin Opera House. But his home calls him, and, ignoring his laurels, he returns lo Ills native village, reaching Uicro just in time to see his sweetheart married to another. Tauber is heard in seven songs, and his performance, substantiates the claim that he Is the world's greatest living tenor." His personality radiates energy and cheerfulness, and though ho ia supported by a cast of international stars, the picture is liia alone. Incidental peeps behind Iho scenes at the Berliu Opera House, Alpine views, and quaint Bavarian folk dances leud colour to the picture, which should be seen by every niuslc-lovcr. There is a good supporting programme. "Where Is This Lady!" It Is becoming more and'more evident with every picture that Britain stands supreme In musical comedy entertainment. Today, throughout the length and breadth of the Empire British pictures demand prominence on the screens ci' the foremost theatres, and it is principally with comedy and musical comedy that Britain has won this supremacy. Thus It is wllli eager anticipation that one awaits the presentation of her latest musical romance, "Where Is This I.adyf" which, comes to the Regent Theatre on Friday next. Franz Lchar.- the world-renowned composer of "The Merry Widow," "The Count of Luxembourg," and other equally famous musical scores, specially wrote tho glorious melodies of "Where Is This Lady?" and this fact alone is a, guarantee of rare entertainment delights. The charm of the music is further enhanced by tho manner in which the songs are- sung by the leading lady, Marta Eggert. Mtss Eggert is a. newcomer to the screen, but in "Where Is This Lady?" she makes a remarkable debut. .She is beautiful, a clever actress, and has a glorious voice. Fritz Kreisler discovered her, and on his word she is a world celebrity.

DE LUXE THEATRE.

A comedy drama with tenso situations, sudden humour, and a variety of personalities 13 "Infernal Machine." which is showing at the Do Luxe Theatre. A great ocean liner bears thousands of souls between the Old and New Worlds. Suddenly the captain receives a message that a desperate band of criminals has been captured and that au Infernal machine, timed to explode at midnight has been hidden on board the ship. The passenecrs discover what is afoot, and the threatening danger brings out all thai is hidden iv everyone's character. Unprecedented spectacle, a dramatic plot which reflects world history, aud tho most notable theatrical family in the world, lend Clamour to "Rasputin and the Empress," Metro-Goldwyn-Maycr's film telling the story of the fall of the Romanoffs, and 'bringing together for the first time on the screen John, Ethel, and Lionel Barn-more, with Diana Wynyard.. Rasputin, the mad monk, is played by Lionel ' Bnrryinore, tho ill-fated Tsarina by Ethel, Prince Chegodieff by John, and Princess Natasha by Diana Wynyard in the new production, which will open od Friday at tho De Luxe Theatre. Tho Tsar Is played by Ralph Morgau, last seen in "Strange Interlude." Diana Wynyard, London stage star, makes her American talkie debut in her part of tho princess Natasha, whose romantic affair with John Barrymoro runs as an undercurrent throughout the entire picture. Tad Alexander is seen as the invalid Tsarevltch. and prominent roles are Oiled by C. JTcury Gordon and Edward Arnold. The story tells of the strange monk Rasputin, who by curing the little Russian Tsarevltch of ft doadly ailment, makes the superstitious Tsar and Tsarina lib slaves, rules Russia through them, precipitates a riot of orgy, meddles with politics, and finally plunges Russia into the World War.

PARAMOUNT THEATRE.

Carol Goodncr and Harold Huth are the starring partners in Edgar Wallace's arresting story, "Tho Flying Squad," which is full of vivid action and "go" without, a dull moment from start to finish. It reveals the utility and the effectiveness of Scotland Yard's flying radio-equipped patrol, and should make Londoners awake to what they owe to the untiring efforts of their metropolitan police. "Capttvatlon," which precedes "Tho Flying Squad,", completes a good programme, which will finish tomorrow sight. Bright, breezy, boisterous British humour is the outstanding characteristic of British Dominions' talking farce, "The Mayor's Nest," which comes along to supply cheerful entertainment at the Paramount Theatre on/ Friday next. Sydney Howard, who was such a favourite in "Tilly of Bloomsbury," and who is recognised as one of the finest comedians on the London stage, is the star who supplies a brand of humour that is all his own. Claude Hulbert makes an admirable foil for Howard. Popular Muriel Aked is 'said to be admirably placed ln.au excellent role, and Frank Harvey, Michael Hojan,. Miles Malltson,' and Al RowIcy, all from tfie Wyndham Theatre, London, complete tlyj cast. Four special short subjects wilt precede the main feature.

KING'S

That "a thing of beauty is a joy for ever" on the screen is reaffirmed at the King's Theatre, where Norma Shearer- In "Smilia" Through," is tho current featured attraction. This beautiful story, which has stirred the hearts of countless theatre-goers siuce it was presented on the stage, takes on a new glow under the witchery of Norma Shearer's actIng. "Smilin' Through" is the. story of a man who, unable to forget a tragedy, seeks to gain vengeance by thwarting, the son lif tho man who destroyed his happiness. In each instance Norma Shearer is the girl involved. Coming to this theatre on Friday is "Silver Dollar," starring Edward 0. Robinson. Vox plans are at The Bristol and -theatre.

SEASIDE PICTURES.

"Pack Up Your Troubles," starring Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy, the inimitable comedians, will be tho maiu attraction at tho Seasido Pictures, Lyall Bay, this evening. The popular comedians portray entirely new characterisations. As a couple of vagrants they are kidded into .joining the army, and find themselves involvod ii; numerous predicaments. They tako everything seriously, and when the kitchen chef in a jocular mood tells them to tako tho gaYbago to the general's office, they pro-ceed-to do so, and land in the guard house. The picture is reported to bo crammed with laughs.

OUR THEATRE, NEWTOWN.

"The Fires of Fate," the film version of tho late Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's famous book, which is being shown at Our Theatre tonight, tells tho dramatic story of a wan, who has been given but six months to live. Lester Matthews and Dorothy Bartlam liavo the principal roles. The second feature is an hilarious British comedy, "Strip, Strip, Hooray."

QUEEN'S THEATRE.

A powerful story of regeneration is told In "Destination Unknown," the Universal sea drama which is now showing at the Queen's Theatre. Not since "The Miracle Man" has the screen presented such a story in quite so compelling a manner as is evident In "Destination Unknown." The action takes place entirely aboard the derelict rum-runner "Prince Rupert," adrift In tho Pacific following a storm. In addition, there Is screened a dramatic play, "Afraid to Talk." "Harmony Row," commencing at.the Queen's Theatre on Friday, is tho second George Wallace feature-, from the Increasingly famous Efftee Studio. Jt introduces George Wallace as a police constable, whoso name, "Dreadnought," is iv direct contrast both to his appearance and actions. The fun waxes fast and furious, whether "Dreadnought's" duties take him into slum areas, or to exclusive suburban homes, and the picture works up to a crescendo of laughter when Dreadnought and Slogger Leo (John Dobbio) meet in tho boxing ring at tho police gymnasium.

SHORTT'S THEATRE.

The main attraction In the new programme is "Men of Stoel," in whtcli tho featured artists are John Stuart,. Benita Hume, Heather Angel, and Franklin Dyall. The jiicture ,i 3 a powerful romance, set in ona of the greatest steel works of the country, and there are many dramatic scenes as the thrilling story is unfolded. A second feature on the programme is a unique sporting feature, in which the popular wrestler, George Walker, i 3 seen in'aption. . .

PRINCESS THEATRE.

Tho programme at tha '. Princess Theatre is headed by another English production, "The Faithful Heart,' featuring Herbert Marshall and Edna Best. The story concerns the love affair of a sailor and a barmaid. Suddenly the sailor is called back to his ship, and the girl realises that her man has gone for ever. Twenty years later the sailor has become a famous V.C. Ho Is about to make what is known as a brilliant match, and then a little nursemaid reveals herself as his daugljter. There are eood supports.

BRITANNIA THEATRE.

The main. attraction in tho programme at the Britannia Theatre Is "Diggers in Blighty," described as a tornado of merriment, featuring . Pat Hanna, who is well and favourably known to New, Zealand audiences. A very strong cast has been brought together for this picture, which concerns tho lmusing adventures of three Diggers on leave in London. As is usual at the Britannia Theatre, there is an excellent programme of supporting films, well in keeping with tho high standard set by the main attraction.

KILBIRNIE KINEMA. "His Wife's Mother," the exhilarating farce now showing- at tho Kllbimie Kinenia, deals with tho efforts of a happily married young man to deceive his mother-in-law. Giis McNaughton, well known on the legitimate and variety stage, is the star. A strong supporting cast includes Molly Lamont. Jimmy Goddea, Jack Hobbs,. and Kcneo Gadd.

ARTCRAFT THEATRE. International diplomacy, with Its Intricacy of plot and counter-plot, and with a strong romantic Interest for good measure, supplies the tliemo for "Six Hours to jLive," the latest Fox Him production, which will be shown tonight at the Artcraft Theatre. A strong' cast, headed by Warner Baxter, Miriam Jordan, John Boles, George Marion, and Beryl Mercer, enact this romantic drama, which was directed hy William Dleterlo. There is a strong romauttc; strain rumjlnß. .through, the. >fctory, centring about the strugglo oE'Baxter and. John Boles ,ior llics lo.to iif. Jtio beautiful Miriam Jordan,

ST. JAMES THEATRE,

Iv "Tho Secret of Madam Blanche," ' ;it St. James Theatre, there is a moment wheu tho inUldle-aged woman, hardened 10 scenes of drunkenness, is giving summary treatment to one more drunk, a young British uoldlcr, when something Is suid that tells her ho Is her snn, stolen from her in babyhood. A moment like this is treated differently by different actresses, but seldom has tho situation been handled more effectively than by Irene Dunne, who makes of tho name part a great success. Next to Irene Dunn's One performaneo comes Lionel AtwiU's characterisation of her suiciding husband's father, who carries tho blame of bringing up tho stolen son without a mother's influence, titling him for tho disgrace that is to follow. "Tho Kiss Before tho Mirror," from Ihe famous Continental stago play, will be screened at the St. James Theatre on Friday. The story opens In a delightful setting In the palatial home of a man of many.. loves, played by Walter Pldgcon, who is dressed immaculately in evening clothes. Tho strain of a glorious melody can be heard. Walter knows who Is playing, his heart flutters, and he ■ hums the tune, which Is being played by the alluring and glamorous Gloria Stuurt In an adjoining room. He passes through a series of marvellous rooms and kisses the girl. Amidst impassioned kisses he asks "Docs your husband suspect?" Then the husband, played by I'aul Lukas. comes through the • garden gate, and through a window sees his wife go to her lover's arms. Ho kills her, calls the police, and surrenders. There is a dramatic Court trial, aud the question that all will ask is, "how did the attorney convince the jury to free a man, who stood up in the dock and admitted, "I am a murderer, and want to pay the supreme penalty"? The part of the attorney's faithless wife is played by the beautiful Kahcy Carroll.

MAJESTIC THEATRE.

The story of a man who was born m the gutter, roae to be a great power, and died iv the gutter Is "The Match King," a Warner Bros.' production, showing at the Majestic Theatre. Warren Williams plays tho role of tho man who thinks ho may rule tho world through the force of money. Like his counterpart in real life, Kreugcr, his fertile brain and ruthlessness soon make him a colossal llgure In tho commercial aud financial world. Opposlto Williams plays Lili Damlta as the woman for whom he la prepared to give up his wealth and power. A brand new characterisation for Richard Dix is the gay, irresponsible, and utterly Irresistible lover who becomes known as "The Great Jasper" in the R.K.O-Radio picture of that title. The picture will commence its season at the Majestic Theatre on Friday.

"LET'S SE GAY" NIGHT.

The third "Let's Be Gay community sing has been planned for tomorrow night in the Blue Triangle Hall, Boulcott Street. This time a small charge is being made for admission in order that the Y.W.C.A. girls' appeal fund may reach £500. net. Mr. Will Mason will lead the singing, being assisted by a number of well-known artists, and supper may be had in the cafeteria.

WELLINGTON REPERTORY THEATRE.

The theatrical event of the year will take place at tho Grand Opera House on Monday, July 3, when the Wellington Repertory Theatre will present Victor S. Lloyd's comedy, "A Quiet Weekend." It is seldom that Wellington has tho honour of a real premiere performance,, and this one has already aroused keen Interest in theatrical circles. The play Is a light comedy of the Aldwych Theatre type, full of amusing quips and humorous situations, and with some excellent characterisations. The' cast, selected is a strong one, and includes Misses Louise Hall, Beryl Earle, Marjorie Murray, Mrs. Webb, Messrs. F. G. Hayos r Towns, R. S. Pope, George Cooper, A. D. Priestley, Vryn Evans, Hannah, H. A. Painter, and Hector Burns. Tho whole production .is under the. direction of Mr. W. S. Wauchop, whose work is so favourably known to all. Tho season will be limited to three nights.

ROYAL ROLLER RINK.

The 'evening session at tho Royal Roller Rink tonight lasts until 11 o'clock. A bright and varied programme will be presented, as well as the final game in the third, round of the Wellington hockey championship, the teams meeting tonight being Petone and Rovers. Special heating has been installed in the lounge, which will greatly add to the comfort of spectators. Tho "Strollers" Dance Band will bo in attendance to render bright hits. College students are reminded that Thursday afternoon's session extends until 5 o'clock.

EMPIRE THEATRE, ISLAND BAY.

"When London Sleeps" is tho attraction at the Empire Theatre this evening. Thrilling incidents la the production include a police raid on a gambling den. and a spectacular ' fire . scene: Reno Ray, Diana Beaumont, and Harold French head the all-British cast. An excellent supporting programme of. well varied subjects has been arranged. On Friday and .Saturday... Norma Shearer will be seen in ''Smilin' Through." .

GLIDE SKATING RINK.

Tonight's programme at tho Glide Skating Rink in Wakefleld Street ■ will be from 7.30 to 11 p.m. A popular programme of novelty items -will include twilight couples, mohawk waltz, reverse partners. Tho Vagabonds Band will supply snappy music. Instructresses are in attendance at each session to assist novices. ' On Thursday, July 6, a great "Movie" Skating . Carnival is to be held at the Glide.- This novel carnival promises to be a gigantic night of gaiety that will bo as interesting for spectators as for skaters. Prizes will be awarded for best impersonations of famous screen stars and the grand parade of pseudo screen stars will boa sight to be remembered. ' ;