ENTERTAINMENTS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXVI, 16 April 1932, Page 2

ENTERTAINMENTS

“THE CHAMP”; MAJESTIC TONIGHT A broken-down prize fighter and his small son, living in a border resort where the old gladiator seeks a “comeback”— these arc the characters played by Wallace Beery and Jackie Cooper in their first appearance together, in "The Champ,” showing at the Majestic Theatre to-nigiit. The story is a poignant heart interest drama, based on parental love, hut the picturesque details of a garishMexican border town—horse racing, prize fighting, the whirl of the gambling halls, all invest it with a colour and a thrill that give a new dramatic tang. Beery as the old champion loves the boy with an almost fanatical devotion. Finally realising he cannot give the child the advantages a rich 'divorced mother can, ho resolves to surrender the boy though it breaks' his heart. In the dramatic sacrifice in the Mexican gaol, and in the death scene in the fight arena, Beery and the boy vise to mighty dramatic heights. In the intimate scenes in the hotel there is a wealth of whimsical comedy. Actual races at Cnliente, the most realistic prize fight in years, the battle with the Mexican police, all unite in providing thrills. A notable cast appears. Rosco Ales and Edward Brophy contribute laughs as the comedy fight manager and trainer. Irene Rich plays the rich mother and Halo Hamilton the millionaire second husband. Little Jesse Scott is comical as Jackie's little coloured companion, and Marcia Mae Jones scores as Jackie’s half-sister. “JUST FOR A SONG”; REGENT TO.NIGHT A particularly fine programme, will be presented at the Regent Theatre tonight when British Dominion ' Films screen their big dancing and singing musical comedy “Just for a Song” featuring England’s popular stage and film star Lilian Davies. “Just for a Song” introduces new and catchy song numbers supported by a ballet of beautiful girls and Hie big dancing scenes are photographed in natural colours. This fine production should certainly not be missed. Seats may be reserved at the Regent Confectionary or by ’phoning 1102. PAUL VINOGRADOFF AND SIGNORA BULMAS M. Paul, Vinogradoff the eminent Russian pianist, and Signora. Bulmas, the Italian prima donna and dramatic operatic soprano will give a concert in the School of Music to-night. Those who have heard the two artists in New Zealand agree that they rank with any piano and vocal combination which lias visited the Dominion. M. Vinogradoff thrilled his audience in Wellington on Thursday night and reports of his performance are most enthusiastic A musical treat is promised those who attend at the School of Music to-night.