MOVIES v. STAGE.

Grey River Argus, 23 April 1929, Page 5

MOVIES v. STAGE.

London Results. ABE DRAMA AND COMEDY DOOMED? LONDON. April 21. That the talkies will be the final knockout t 0 the majority of rhe hard hit London West End theatres, is the opinion of some leading managers 2 according to an article in the Sunda~ Dispatch, which says: — It is estimated at present that about 15 per cent. of the theatres show a profit, which is Jittn the barest. Managers point out that, while prices are only slightly raised, com pared with pre-war cost', everything connected with prodution has doubled. It is useless tc attempt to raise prices because it ou.y aggravates mischief, namely, cinema competition. The silent films are bad enough, but now the talkies threaten much greater mischief.

Basil Dean, at present the foremost producer, has given up the fight, an 3 decided to enlist for the talkies. He recently lost £7OOO on a short-lived play. Mr Dean added that ou'y three pe r 1 cent, of the West End plays «how a profit. The big musical comedies will, live while prices are low, but drama comedy and farce are doomed. Other theatrical managers scout pessimism, and are expressing the opinion that people still want good shows, but star salaries must be reduced.