DE LUXE THEATRE.

Evening Post, Issue 86, 8 October 1936, Page 6

DE LUXE THEATRE.

J "The White Angel."

The significance of the nineteenth century, as many; historians have shown, lies in the emergence of women from their cloistered and barren existence. And with their liberation we also witness the emergence of the ideal of social service. Of the many women whose deeds stand put during that epoch, one is pre-emment, or at least, a first among equals. She is Florence Nightingale, founder of the modern nursing and a glowing symbol of feminine emancipation. Dedicating herseit to a career of service to humanity, she still embodies all the noble characteristics of the modem social worker. A magnificent and inspiring portrayal of Miss Nightingale's life, "The White Angel," opens its Wellington season tomorrow at the De Luxe Theatre. The Lady With the Lamp is there wandering through the ghostly hospital nails at S_cutari, with its dying and wounded groaning pitifully. For a moment, the anguished cries are hushed as Florence Nightingale glides past, listening intently, perhaps, for one who may need her most. There are mumbled words of thanks and prayer for this ministering angel of mercy. And so~endlessly through the night walks Florence Nightingale. It is with awe that one approaches this sublime woman and it is with awe that one watches her in "The White Angel." Florence Nightingale was a great humanitarian, and the picture seems to have caught the spirit of her life and to have portrayed it so vividly that millions, young and old, who • have taken nurses for granted, will nave a better understanding of the struggle, sacrifice, and battle that raised this work to the professional dignity it now enjoys. , , , , The film has a superb cast headed by Kay Francis playing the role of Florence Nightingale. Others include lan Hunter, Donald Woods, Nigel Bruce, George Cui-zon, and Henry O'Neill, with over 1000 extra players. There is a particularly good list"-of supporting subjects which includes the charming child star Sybil Jason in "The Changing of the Guard," a grand musical in Technicolour, together with an excellent presentation of music by the Orchestra De Luxe and the Wurlitzer, under the direction of Mr. L. D. Austin. Box plans are available at D.I.C. and theatre. The latest issue of the "March of Time" series will also be screened.