ENTERTAINMENTS.

Hawera Star, Volume XLV, 3 July 1925, Page 2

ENTERTAINMENTS.

OPERA HOUSE, TO-NIGHT. •THE TOIINAHO.” It' von are '.looking for real melodramatic thrills and some rea.] excitement, see “The Tornado,” which opens with House Peters as tlie star at the Opera House- to-night, for there are plenty of these elements of entertainment brought out in the development of-the story. Perhaps nothing has been done for the screen that is as awe-in-spiring as the unleashed forces of the storm god in some of the scenes. The picture is the screen version of Lincoln .). Carter’s famous stage melodrama, ot the same name. Peters is supported by a cast that includes Ruth Clifford as leading woman, Richard Tucker, Snitz Edwards and Kate Price. Two performances will be given to-morrow (Saturday).

THE GRAND, TO-NIGHT. •‘CHRISTINE OF THE HUNGER HEART. To-night the Grand Theatre will, provide high-class entertainment for all picture lovers. “Christine of the Hungry Heart-,”• is ironr the novel by Kathleen. Norris. Most romantic stories end with a wedding, but this one begins with a marriage, hut this is also the beginning of the romance, and leads up to her greatest .sacrifice which finally brings her the happiness that every woman seeks. It is a fascinating story, superbly told, with a. fine cast. The part of Christine as taken by Miss Florence Vidor, who brings a wealth of ability and experience into her portrayal of the role. And she is supported hv four leading men, not one. They are Warner Baxter as the unfaithful husband, Clive Brook as the neglected husband, lan Keith as the poet, and Walter Hiers, who. plays the part of her sympathetic brother.

“WILD FLOWER.”

Wednesday next at the Opera House J. C. Williamson’s new musical comedy company will present “Wildflower,” the latest comic opera success. The coming of so distinguished a light opera, star as Miss Marie Burke must be regarded as an occasion of importance. Miss Burke is a recognised head singer in London. She has been the creator of many musical comedy roles that have proved big successes there. Her performance of Nina in “Wildflower” is spoken of as being exceptionally fine. It is a part that not only calls for strong dramatic action in places, but requires the possessor of a real voice to do justice to the alluring music. The artist must also be a dancer of merit. .With all these arts and graces, it is said Miss Burke is splendidly endowed. Besides the principal, there is to all appearance a company of big reputations. As a comedian Gus Bluett seems to come into his own in “Wildflower.” Charles Zoli comes with a London reputation, which he sustains as the volatile “Gaston.” Amongst popular comediennes, Marie La Varre shines. Herbert Browne, who plays “Guido,” is an ideal lover and a singer of sweet songs. As to the costumes, the beauty of design and the glorious colouring effects synchronise to perfection with the, tints of the scenery. The entire score is harmoniously alive with lovely themes. The box plan will be opened at Cook's confectionery Monday morning next.

“LONG TACK SAM.” The visit of the Chinese juggling marvel and his company to Ilawera will take'place on Tuesday, July 7, for one night only, at the Opera House, when “Long Tack Sam” will present to theatre-goers a new organisation of twelve Oriental stars, including Misses Toldj and Mina' Long and Madame Long Tack Sam. Supporting the star are all acts of international repute, selected from the J. C. Williamson theatres in Sydney and Melbourne. In a magnificent setting of Chinese draperies which he has brought back with him, and which, together with costumes which cost the star within the neighbourhood of eight thousand pounds, the troupe maintains the keenest interest of the audience for nearly an hour. Moran and Wiser are billed as hilarious hat spinners in a skit, “All-in-Fun.” Errol Addison and Gertrude Mitrenga, specialty and classical) dancers, are said to be the. most artistic and delightful pair vet seen in vaudeville. Tlie royal illusionist is Chris. Charlton, who is assisted in a mystifying act by .Dorothy Browne. Charlton comes with a big English and Continental reputation. His act includes mystery, surprises, problems in sleight of hand not before seen, and many novelties. Another member of the. company is the brilliant liallad singer, Arthur Mayes, a. basso cantante. Novelle Brothers are described as musical aerobatic clowns. These two clever French clowns present some, thing new in vaudeville, and their imitations of the courtship, quarrel and reconciliation of two birds in the hush are almost beyond belief. The box plans opened this morning at the Opera. House co.nfectonery.