RECENT

Gisborne Times, Volume LXXIII, Issue 12075, 14 October 1933, Page 7

RECENT

GEO RIOTS. CO AIIC OPERA

“Fra Diavolo” opens to-day at the Regent. The popularity of comic opera is undiminished and the success of this innovation leads one to hope that many more old operas will ho produced ns sound films in the same attractive style. Its musical and singing numbers alone make this production an attractive one. Denis King, principal of “The A agabond King” ’is hoard in several musical numbers, supported by a splendidlytrained chorus of 150 voices. The song of the bandit chief. Fra Diavolo, is partiouarly fine. But stirring singing is not the sole attraction of ttjlxiss entertainment. Graceful dancers anl clever comedians, scenes o. love and laughter and picturesque backgrounds combine to make a delightfully romantic story full of sparkling wit and humor. As Fra Diavolo (the Devil’s Brother) Denis King is -seen in the picturesque role of a. brigand-marquis. Associated with him are such versatile artists as Thelma Told. Stan Laurel and Oliver. Hardy. Afost of the humor and hilarity emanates from Stanlio and Ollio (Laurel and Hardy). whose clowning is mirth-provoking to a high degree. Forced to join Diavolo’s gang after having been waylaid and robbed, these two simple souls are inimitable as the servants of the bandit chief. A highly humorous scene arises from the over-lengthy sta v of Stanlio in the wine cellar ot a tavern. Of special interest in the supporting programme are two outstanding features a thrilling exhibition of motor cycle riding, with explanatory remarks By Beto Smith, and travelogue of Barbados and Trinidad.