GEORGE ROBEY’S HUMOUR

Evening Star, Issue 22572, 13 February 1937, Page 13

GEORGE ROBEY’S HUMOUR

' ATTRACTIONS OF ‘ SOUTHERN ROSES * If only to sample the inimitable humour of one of England’s greatest variety comedians, George Robey, the screening of ‘ Southern Roses ’ at the St. James Theatre is well worth a visit. However, the fact that the famous artist is at the head of the cast is not by any means the picture’s solo feature. To support Robey, an exceptionally strong cast of talented performers has been selected from a wide field of stars, and all the players fulfil the requirements of their respective roles. Moreover, the picture serves to bring to the public a group of tuneful musical numbers, picturesque dance scenas, and infectious humour. The fitting together of all these desirable qualities results in perhaps one of the cleverest and most entertaining musical comedies produced by an English company.

George Robey, of course, is the leading light of the piece, and he has been given a part so much in his line that he never misses an opportunity of scoring. Opening in the picturesque -settings of Barcelona, ‘ Southern Roses ’ is the story of a young naval officer, who meets find falls in love with a charming cabaret artiste, Mary Roland, not knowing that she is really an English society girl on an escapade. . Mary’s mother wishes her to_ marry Bill Higgins, the son of a paint magnate, but Mary has other ideas for a husband, and when her friend, Estrella, a dancer, tells her that she loves the youth, Mary encourages the romance. Against his father’s wishes, Bill secretly marries the dancer, and to help her friend, Mary takes Estrella’s place and goes to see the father. The old chap then approves of his son’s choice,- but his nephew, the naval officer, is furious, believing Mary is marrying Bill for his money. However, the real Estrella arrives, and they finally learn that she has already married the paint manufacturer’s son. Officer and heroine declare their love, and all is well. Gina Male, vivacious dancing and singing star from Hollywood, _ is with Robey in his light-hearted gaiety, appearing as the attractive Mary Roland, who goes to Barcelona to sing in a night club as an escapade. Then there is Hamilton, who makes a strong romantic appeal as the young naval officer. By her tempestuous behaviour, Chili Bouchier engages attention ns the Spanish dancer, Estrella. Another familiar name appearing in the cast is that of Vera • Pearce, while Gus M'Naughton is his usual bright self. The by-play in the picture is most diverting, and includes the scene in which the “ lads in blue ” mete out punishment to the over-romantic Spanish nobleman, the spirited atmosphere at Estrella’s wedaing celebrations, and the leading lady’s piquant masquerade as a famous Spanish dancer.

The supporting films are well up to the standard so consistently maintained by the St. .Tamos. They include the latest Betty Boop cartoon, an entertaining comedy, another edition of the interesting pictorial series, news shots from various parts of the world, and an animal study.