REGENT

Gisborne Times, Volume LXXIII, Issue 12077, 17 October 1933, Page 7

REGENT

GLORIOUS GOA ITU OPERA

“Fra Diavolo’’, the screen’s firstcomic opera, has scored a, distinct success in Gisborne. Unfortunately, it concludes to-night. Its musical and singing numbers la-lone make- this production (in attractive one. Denis King, principal -of “The Vagabond King” ’is heard in several musical numbers, supported by a splendidlytrained chorus of 150 voices. The song of the bandit chief, Fra Duivolo, is par.ticuarly fine. But stirring singing is not the sole attraction of flliis entertainment- Graceful dancers and clever comedians, scenes d? 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. Most of the humor and hilarity emanates from St-anlio and Ollio (Laurel and Hardy), who'So clowning i s mirth-provoking to a high degree. Forced to join Diavoio’s gang after having been waylaid and robbed, these two simple souls are inimitable as the servants of tlio bandit chief. A highly humorous scene arises from the over-lengthy stay of Stanlio in the wine collar of a tavern.

To-morrow, Pat Hanna will be freen in “Diggers” a , comecly packed w'th laughable incidents, suitable for all the family. The box plans aro new open,, a tavern.