AMUSEMENTS

Grey River Argus, 22 May 1944, Page 6

AMUSEMENTS

Opera House Finally to-night: “Sherlock Holmes in Washington” and “Get Going.” Next attraction (commences tomorrow Tuesday): “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.” “MR SMITH GOES TO WASHINGTON” A tour-de-force in timely, deeply emotional human comedy “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” commencing at the Opera House tomorrow (Tuesday) presents James Stewart in the title role and the youthful charm, earnestness and idealism- with which he invests the part contributes greatly to the picture’s appeal. Youn? Jeff Smith is head of the Boys State Rangers and when a vacancy in the United States Senate has to be filled his name comes to the attention of the ruling political forces who want the,, appointee to be harmless and an inexperienced tool. J'eff goes to Washington unconscious of the fact that he is helping to betray the ideals he holds so dear. Miss Arthur his secretary is prone to scoff at him, 'but she falls in love with the ’human honest vouth. Little by little Jeff learns that he is being victimised. Climaxing scenes in “Mr Smith Goes to Washington” flowering out of rich antecedent material reveals Capra and his cast at their best. As Stewart revolts the party machine fights back and the. whole nation takes sides in a bitter fight to the finish. The picture rises to truly memorable heights. Edward Arnold, Guy. Kibbee, Claude Rains, Thomas Mitchell and Eugene Pallette are the leaders of a powerful political machine, Beulah Bondi portrays Stewart’s mother and a large number of men and women in every walk of life.—senators, political figures etc; animate the .picture's background. Regent Theatre Finally To-night: “Journey For Margaret.” Commencing Tuesday: “Fliaht For Freedom” starring Rosalind ■ 'Russell and Fred MacMurra(y.

Carrying a deeper significance than even its gripping romance would indicate R.K.O. Radio’s “Flight For Freedom” starring Rosalind Russell and Fred Mac Murray commences at the Regent Theatre on Tuesday. The picture suggests arr “inside story” behind the naval attacks on the Marshall and Gilbert Islands and other fortified areas .of the South Pacific closely following the war with Japan. Many experts have wondered how the Navy knew which of the thousands of islands in those mandated groups at which to strike. The picture answers that question in thrilling fashion with its story of a great woman flier’s last flight. Miss Russell plays the part of a famous round-the-world solo flier who is in love with Mac Murray, also a famous flier. How she scarifices her love and life in order that her country may secure the knowledge it needs forms the climax-of one of the most powerful and compelling stories - ever filmed. The supporting cast includes Herbert Marshall, Edward Cianelli and Walter Kingsford. “(MOTHER GOOSE” PANTOMIME. Bright frocking, spectacular scenic effects, lavish in colour and many striking highlights will be seen in the favourite English pantomime “Mother Goose,” which will open a season of six nights and two matinees at the Regent Theatre on Monday next, Ma v 29. The nett profits are for the. benevolent fund of the Returned Services’ Association. The pantomime has a very strong cast of 150 adults and clever children, tuneful music, catchy songs, scintillating ballets and an abundance of clever comedy, fairies, imps, b rds and villagers all play their part in “Mother Goose.” The cast includes Patti Mclntosh as the “Fairy Queen”, Mr. Keith Fehsenfeld as “The Demon King”, Mr. Jack Mclnroe as “The Baron”. Mr. Don Mcßeth as 1 The Wicked Old King,” Doreen Wylde as The Principal Boy, “Jack”, Nance McKane as the principal girl, “Jul - Flora McLean as “The Spirit of the Lagoon”. Pauline Cust as “Onyx” the Goose,” G. Sullivan as “Simple Simon” 'and the popular ‘English comedian, Eddie Martin as “Mother Goose,’ .the funny ’ old dame. Beautiful ballets are under the direction of Miriam Trott and Monica Sinnott. A large orchestra is under the baton of

Mr. W. Ford. The'production is in the capable hands of Mr. Eddie Martin who delighted the theatre goers of Greymouth with his last production “Navy Knights.” Special pantomime scenery has been painted by Mr. J. Rhodes and the electrical effects are by Mr. J. Knight and assistants. A special children’s matinee will be held on Wednesday, May 31. “Mother Goose” will revive many pleasant memories of the old pantomime days, and the shades of many old English stage stars will be recalled when the curtain rises. The box plans are at Kilgour’s and patrons are advised to reserve early. Country patrons mav reserve by letter and postal note to the R.S.A. Office, Mackay Street, and tickets can be picked up at the Regent Theatre.