CURRENT ENTERTAINMENTS

Evening Post, Volume CXX, Issue 111, 6 November 1935, Page 5

CURRENT ENTERTAINMENTS

CITY AND SUBURBAN THEATRES

REGENT THEATRE,

Sparkling with gaiety and tuneful melodies, "The Students' Romance," which is the main feature at the Regent Theatre, captures to perfection 'the lightheartedness and romance of life in Heidelberg one hundred years ago. Patrick Knowles and Grete Natzler are the stars. There is an excellent supporting programme. "The Legion of Valour." The complex and fascinating ritual of scientific crime detection and its laboratory experiments form the background for the story of "The Legion of Valour," the new Reliance production which is coming to the ±tegent Theatre on Friday. Under the expert supervision of Captain Don Wil kie, former ace of the United States Secret Service, the step-by-step methodo employed by Department of Justico operatives in tracking down public enemies are dramatically unfolded in this gripping story featuring Richard Arlen, Virginia Bruce, Alice brady, ana Bruce Cabot. There is a cartridge sniffer who can tell by his keen sense of smell when a bullet was fired, its calibre, and whether it was fresh or stale. Following a bank hold-up and the get-away of the bandits, he sniffs the ground like a bloodhound for the scent of petrol and informs his superiors regarding the direction in which the robbers have fled. The mere footprint of a person will reveal to an expert the exact length of his stride, and from the size of the foot, . plus ths length of the stride, a person's height can be accurately obtained. A cross-1 section of a single human hair co:i- ] veys a pretty fair description of tho | owner, and from the bite in an apple a man's face and jaw are reconstructed. Bruce Cabot plays the public I enemy hunted down by the detectiv=s in ''The Legion of Valour." |

DE LUXE THEATRE.

"No More Ladies" is now in its final nights at the ; De Luxe Theatre. Robert Montgomery, Joan Crawford, Edna May Oliver, Franchot Tone, and Charlie Ruggles head a notable cast. The monster of "Frankenstein" and the vampire of "Dracula" vie with each other for horror honours in "The Raven," coming to the De Luxe Theature Friday next. Suggested by Edgar Allan Poe's immortal classic, this film boasts the combined master mystery talents of Karloff (Frankenstein) "and Bela Lugosi (Dracula). These two chill-chasers are co-starred in a story adapted to the screen by David Boehm \ and featuring in the supporting cast ' vlrene Ware, Lester Matthews, Samuel Hinds, Inez Courtney, and many others. The plot concerns the mental " fights of a famous surgeon who, like the great poet, is of a morbid, brooding turn of mind. "The Raven" always fascinated him, to the extent of having a stuffed replica of this bird standing . beside him on his desk. The shadow of this bird of ill-omen predominates ' in'the theme of the story. Fraught with danger and mysticism, "The Raven" abounds with intense suspense ' from beginning to end. It is a worthy successor to "Frankenstein" and "Dracula."

PARAMOUNT THEATRE;

"Mr: What's His Name," one of the features at. the Paramount Theatre, deals with the complications that follow when Alfred Henfield (Sir Seymour Hicks), a sauce king, loses his memory in a train wreck. Aline MacMahon and Guy Kibbee have two fine roles in the second attraction, "While the Patient Slept," a murder mystery .drama. ■ . , .

Cast in the leading role of "Stolen ; Harmony," his new Paramount picture, coming on Friday ;to the .Para- : mount Theatre, George Raft "again returns i,to. the,,type of characterisation that took Him to stardom in "Scarf ace." Starred with Ben Bernie and his lads, Raft plays. an ex-convict who turns straight for a chance to join Bernie and his lads on a transcontinental amusement tour, falls in love with Grace Bradley, the little dancer in Bernie's troupe, and saves the band from desperate outlaws at the risk of , his .own life. The second feature will be "Mama Loves Papa." starring . Charles Ruggles and Mary Boland. and showing the adventures and misadventures Of a middle-aged couple;

KING'S THEATRE.

"Love Me Forever," starring Grace Moore, is now showing at the King's Theatre. . Combining drama, music, and romance, the picture is a gift for the whole world, a thrilling evening of heart-warming entertainment. Telling the story of Margaret Howard, a debutante who suddenly finds herself penniless, "Love Me Forever" takes her from the moment she meets Stephano Corelli (Leo Carillo) until she sings her astoundingly beautiful debut at the Metropolitan in lovely "La Boheme." "Love Me Forever"- reaches a heartrending dramativ- climax.

PRINCESS THEATRE.

Shirley Temple, the sensational child star, returns in another Paramount picture which affords even more scope for her ample talents. It is "Now and Forever," the leading feature now showing at the Princess Theatre, in which the five-year-old is starred with Gary Cooper and Carole Lombard. One of the most thrilling murder mystery stories of the year is offered as the supporting attraction, with the showing of Universal's "Mr. Dynamite," starring Edmund Lowe. A musical revue; an Oswald cartoon; a sportlight and Graham McNamee Newsreels are included among the additional short subjects.

REX THEATRE.

The two features at the Rex Theatre are Joe. E. Brown, the wide-mouthed comedian, in "6-Day Bike Rider," and Charles Laughton. Carole Lombard. Charles Bickford. and Kent Taylor in Paramount's "White Woman," an exotic, yet convincing story, combined with flawless acting. The principal attraction at the Rex Theatre on Friday will be "Wonder Bar," a lavishly produced musical drama, played by a large cast, including .Kay Francis, Dick.Powell, Dolores Del Rio, and Ricardo Cortez. "The Blue Squadron" will also be shown.

CAPITOL THEATRE, MBSAMAR.

"The Lives of a Bengal Lancer," featuring Gary Cooper, Franchot Tone, Richard Cromwell, and Sir Guy Standing in the principal roles, is screening at the Capitol Theatre tonight and at at the Capital Theatre tonight. It is a stirring outdoor spectacle based on the exploits of India's famous fighting regiment and a story of the extraordinary bravery, discipline, and skill that enabled a mere handful of English officers to hold sway over the teeming millions of India.

SEASIDE PICTURES, LYALL BAY

"Car 09," which will be shown at the Seaside Pictures tonight at. & o'clock, is a stirring drama of the police radio patrol in a big city. It teems with action and desperate encounters wit'i a band of bank robbers. Sir Guy Standing, Fred McMurray, and Ann Sheridan are the featured players. There will be attractive short subjects.

EMPIRE THEATRE, ISLAND BAY

The main attraction at the Empire Theatre is "It's a Boy," a delightful farce starring Leslie Henson and Edward Everett Horton, with Robertson Hare and Albert Burdon in the principal supporting roles. "The Night of the Party," a murder mystery story, stars Leslie Banks and lan Hunter. A newsreel will also be screened.

DE LUXE THEATRE, LOWER HUTT

"Naughty Marietta" concludes at the De Luxe Theatre, Lower Hutt, t,onigh:. Tomorrow night the main feature will be 'The Dragon Murder Case " a Van Dine mystery drama in which V/arren "William portrays the famous fiction detective. Philo Vance. Eugene Pallette. Robert McWarte, Margaret Lindsay, and Lyle Talbot are others prominent in a Croat cast. ''Big-hearted Herbert." a comedy romance starring Aline McMahon and Guy Kibbee, will be the second attraction.

EMPIRE THEATRE, PETOXE.

Co-starred for the first time since their appearance in thn epic picture. "Cimarron." Irene Dunne and Richard Dix comes to the screen of the Empire Theatre. Petone tonight, in

"Stingaree." a romantic tale of the seventies in. Australia, with Mary Boland. Una O'Connor, Conway Tearle. Andy Devino, and Henry Steph.en.son are also in the cast.

MAJESTIC THEATRE

Leo Carrillo snd Louise Fazenda are presented i*« a new comedy team in "The Winning Ticket," which is now screening at ths Majestic Theatre. The fun commences when Joe Tomasello (Leo Carrillo), an impecunious barber, is induced by his still more impover-j ished brother-in-law Eddie (.Ted j Healy) to buy a ticket in the Irish sweepstake. , "The Keeper cf the Bees" is the no^ct attraction at the Majestic Theatre, with Neil Hamilton and Betty Furness ia the featured roles. Laid against the colourful background of a sea-coast California community, the new Monogram film is a faithful transcription of the Gene Stratton Porter novel, whicn is estimated to have been read by nearly 20,000,000 people. The current presentation marks the second time that .this gripping novel has been brought to the screen. All of the flavour of the Porter original has been preserved and the Monogram productoin officials had the assistance, throughout the making of the picture, of Mrs. Jeanetto Porter Meehan. only daughter of th 3 famous novelist.

ST. JAMES THEATRE.

One of the most exciting films screened in Wellington for some time is "Men Without Names." at the St. James Theatre, a powerful and exciting drama dealing with the perils that beset members of the American' secret service in their ceaseless warfare against the criminal organisations of that vast country. The theme centres round the efforts of Fred Mac Murray to track down a notorious Rang I'esoonsible for a darine rob'^ry of an armoured truck. Fred Mac Murray is cast as Richard Grant, the young agent, and the leading feminine player is Madge Evans, as Helen, a newspaper woman staying at the same lodgings as Grant. On the supporting bill * are several excellent short subjects, including scenes showing the Abyssinian army mobilising at Addis Ababa, and Abyssinian women warriors leaving for the front.

PLAZA THEATRE.

Excellent acting, direction, and photography have made a film triumph of John Buchan's .well-known novel "The Thirty-nine Steps," showing at the P.'aza Theatre. Commencing with panic in a- London music-hall and the accidental meeting of a beautiful, mysterious woman, and Hannay, a young Canadian, on holiday in England, the story grows more intriguing ac the plot progresses. In answer to ths stranger's request for temporary protection, Hannay takes her to his home, but her adversaries are too clever, and the young man is horrified to find her dying after being stabbed in the back. However, before her death Hannay himself is in possession of her secret, and the importance of this knowledge involves him in a series of adventures. Robert. Donat and Madeleine Carroll are the stars. Godfrey Tearle and John Laurie also have important roles. An interesting supporting programme is shown.

STATE T^iiSATRE

"Curly Top," which is entertainment for all the family, is now in its second week at the State Theatre. The brilliant young star Shirley Temple has the support of John Boles and Rochelle Hudson in this story of a youthful millionaire who adopts an orphan and finds that he must take her sister too—not difficult, perhaps, when it is realised that the sister. is Miss Hudson —and who finally falls in love with the girl. Shirley gives no less than three new aongs including "When I Grow Up" and "Animal Crackers in My Soup." The story contains the elements of comedy and surprise which show'Shirley's talents tc greatest advantage. The^ supporting programme includes an interesting range of films, a Mickey Mouse number showing pranks in the garden, the Pickens Sisters, ■ famous radio stars, in a novel and entertaining comedy, the latest newsreels, with scenes from Abyssinia, and a Terry Toon | about what happens when a radio station holds an amateur night.

SHORTT'S THEATRE.

"The Cat's Paw," in which Harold Lloyd makes a welcome reappearance, and "Princess Charming," starring Evelyn Laye, are the main features at Shortt's Theatre.

Two big attractions will be presented at Shortt's Theatre on Friday. The late Marie Dressier and Wallace Beery, stars of "Mm and Bill," head the cast in "Tugboat Annie." There are hilarious, quarrels between the redoubtable feminine tugboat captain and her shiftless, good-natured husband: motherTove furnishes a poignant heart interest, and there is a tremendous dramatic climax in the amazing episode in the engine-room. "Fra Diavolo," the second feature, is an ideal vehicle for the famous comedians Laurel and Hardy, who are supported by Dennis King and Thclma Todd. Commencing this week a serial will be shown'at the Saturday afternoon sessions.

BOXY THEATRE.

Nancy Carroll and George Murphy are the featured players in "After the Dance," the new Columbia musical picture, now screening at the Roxy Theatre. The film tells the story of a dogged manhunt, the innocent victim's dash for liberty, and the sensational consequences of his attempt to' hide from his past. A sparkling comedyromance, "Champagne for Breakfast," featuring such well-known players as Mary Carlisle. Hardie Albright, Joan Marsh, and Lila Lee, is the second feature. The film possesses plenty of thrills, love interest, and real drama.

KILBIRNIE KINEMA.

An excellent double-feature bill will be presented at the Kilbirnie Kinema tonight. The first attraction is the famous all-technicolour production "Viennese Nights," a glorious romance of old Vienna. The cast includes Vivienno Segal. Walter Pidgeon, Alexander Grey, Jean Hersholt, Bert Roach, and Louise Fazenda. The second' attraction is "The Camels are Coming," starring Britain's ace comedian,. Jack Hulbert. "Naughty Marietta" commences a four-day season on Friday, and the box plans are now open for the whole season.

OUR THEATRE, NEWTOWN.

Katharine Hepburn and Charles Boyer are co-starred in "Break of Hearts,"' the main attraction at Our Theatre. The film tells a story of a young composer who marries a famous maestro but leaves him when she believes that her love is no longer necessary to him. His plunge to the depths of despair and his regeneration through her love make an enthralling romance. Edmund Lowe and Victor McLaglen, those two boisterous fighting pals, are at it again in "No More Women," the second attraction.

PALACE THEATRE, PETONE,

"Are You a Mason?" which will be screened at the Palace Theatre, Petone. tonight, is a film version of one of the most popular and successful farces ever presented on the stage. Gwynoth Lloyd and Joyce Kirby provide the beauly angle in this Julius Hagen production, and May Agate and Bertha Belmore do good work in character parts.

GRAND THEATRE, FETONE

Ralph Rainger, of the Robin and Rainger composing tram, originators of "Love in Bloom" and other recent hits, composed the music and score for Paramount^ "Rumba," which commences tonight at the Grand Theatre, Petone. George Raft is starred with Carole Lombard, his dancing partner of "Bolero."

TIVOLI THEATRE,

"Imitation of Life," which tells the story of one of the most appealing characters Fannie Hurst has as yet cieated is now showing at the Tivoli Theatre with Claudette Colbert in the stellar role. Bea Pullman is a young woman who after the death of her husband, whom she has never really loved, sets out to support her little daughter and herself by selling maple syrup from door to door. With the help of a coloured woman she opens a little pancake shop and later makes a fortune by boxing the pancake flour and selling it. Then real love enters her life, but her daughter is then grown and an unusual triangle situation develops. Bea. realises that success and fame do not constitute real living, that it has all been an imitation of life until love came. Warren William plays opposite Miss Colbert, Rochelle Hudson, Ned Sparks, Baby Jane, Alan Hale, Henry Armelta, and other very well-known players complete the cast. "The Trumpet Blows," starring George Raft, Frances Drake, and Adolphe Mcnjou, will be the second feature. "The Trumpet Blows" is a thrilling, action-packed romance of Mexico and the most dangerous sport in the world— bull fighting. Raft's supporting cast is headed by Adolphe Menjou, Frances Drake, and Sidney Toler.

RIVOLI THEATRE.

The long-awaited appearance of Charles Laughton, brilliant English actor, in a full-length comedy role finally occurs in Paramount's "Ruggles of Red Gap," which will be shown tonight at the Rivoli Theatre, and proves beyond any shadow of doubt the man's consummate artistry. Supported by Mary Boland, Charlie Ruggles, Roland Young, Zasu Pitts, and Leila Hyams in this bright and imaginative story of America in the 1900's, Laughton makes of this character of a sophisticated English butler in provincial Western society a role full of laughter, surprise twists, and delights. A gripping, melodramatic tale, set in the eerie confines of London's worldfamous Chinatown, Paramount's "Limehouse Blues," the second feature, brings George Raft back to the screen with two leading ladies, the beautiful Chinese Anna May Wong and demure Jean Parker.

REGAL THEATRE, KARORI,

"The First World War," showing the grim reality and horror of 1914-18, will be screened at the Regal Theatre this evening. Taken from the grim secrets of the nations' guarded archives, it serves to reveal the grim meaning of war to every man, woman, and child who sees it. A splendid drama, "The Perfect Flaw," and a newsreel complete the programme.

OUR MISS GIBBS."

Comedy, dance, and song are skilfully blended in that most delightful production. "Our Miss Gibbs." whicn is to be presented finally by the J. C. Williamson musical comedy company at the Grand Opera House tonight. Madge Elliott is a charming personality as the Yorkshire lass, a shopgirl in London, and her dancing with Cyril Ritchard is a feature of the entertainment. "High Jinks." Tomorrow night and the following two nights, with a matinee on Saturday, the tuneful musical play "Hign Jinks" will be presented. Features of "High Jinks" are sparkling musi;. clever dancing, effective settings, and delightful frocking of principals and ensembles, combined with wholesome humour. Madge Elliott as Sylvia Dale makes a charming figui'e. Cyril Ritchard, besides playing the role of Dick Wayne, produced the Sydney revival which enjoyed such a long run. Playgoers will have memories of the initial New Zealand production of "Hign Jinks," and they will never forget its catchy melodies. The full strength of j the company will be seen in this final; comedy to be presented by this bril- j liant company before its departure for Christchurch. This will include Ethel Morrison, Leo Franklyn, Marie Le Varre, Frank Leighton, Arthur Clarke, John Dobbic. Leslie Crane, and Charles Zoli.

THE CIRCASSIANS.

Tomorrow night, at 8 o'clock, in the Town Hall Concert Chamber, The Circassians will give their final subscription concert for the season. The conductor, Mr. Thomas -Wood, L.R.S.M., has arranged perhaps the most attractive programme yet offered by The Circassians, and patrons are assured of a bright evening. Humorous numbers are not neglected, a feature being the unique way in which "Little Tommy Went A'fishmg" will be given. Granville Bantock's stirring chorus for men. "Captain Harry Morgan," with Mr. Ron Sowie as soloist, and "In. a Persian Market" (Ketelby), with Mrs. Mollie Nottingham as soloist, should prove attractive. Miss Barbara Bannister, L.Et.S.M., is the accompanist. The box plan is at Begg's.

SKATEWAYS.

A big attraction is offered at Skateways, Vivian Street, this evening, when the Ist Wellington Regimental Band will proviie the music for the skating programme. This will be the musical treat of the whole season, and has been arranged to help to augment the funds of the band. There will be special exhibitions and novelty items, as well as competitions and prizes, and a large attendance of skaters and onlookers is expected. The rink is open from 10 am. daily. The evening sessions commence at 7.30 o'clock, and there is jitso a private learners' class each evening between fi and 7. Patrons desiring private tuition in skating are advisei.to telephone 53-242.

KILISIRNIE SPORTS CLUB.

A grar. :1 benefit entertainment of vaudeville items and wrestling is to be held tomorrow night at the Kilbirnie Sport; Club's premises in Coutts Street, in aid of the Children's Health Camp. An attractive programme with a variety of interests has been prepared. Iji addition, the cups won by Kilbirnie wrestlers at the Wellington senior and junior amateur championships will be presented.

"WHIRLIGIGS."

Miss Msrjorie Vause will present her pupils in a dance production. "Whirligigs," in -.he Concert Chamber of the Town Hall this evening.