ENTERTAINMENTS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIII, Issue 19324, 11 May 1926, Page 6

ENTERTAINMENTS.

OPERA HOUSE. The new revue entitled " Caught in Cairo," presented at the Opera House for the first time yesterday by Con Moroni, proved itself to be an excellent mirth provoker. Large attendances expressed their appreciation at both sessions. As a digger of the Australian forces ('on Moreni revived again that style of war humour which, even in these days of peace, has such an irresistible appeal. The scene, laid in Cairo in the days just preceding the armistice, was complete in its. atmosphere of sheiks, harem girls, private soldiers and " brass hats." The old army slang which at one time became part of the most respectable vocabulary was again in prominence, and because of their associations the utterance of Con Moreni, as Ginger, had a two-fold appeal. The humorous situations which arise between (linger, his pal Bert, the " champion lead-swinger of the A.l.F.and a general complete with brass hat and red tabs were ■ of that ludicrous nature so popular with lovers of wholesome farce, and they were enthusiastically received bv a delighted audience. The " Bedouin Love Song was excellently sung by Cyril James, as the sheik. Violet Lester charmed all with her singing of " Nightingale," and sang a most pleasing duet, Murray Moon," with Dan Weldon, as General Brady, the " brass- hat." Harry Moreni as Bert, an immobile character, was an excellent foil for the lively antics of Con Moreni. The " rather ladylike" Percy Vere, played by Alex McAllister, was responsible for many hearty laughs. Liz, a simple English girl and bride of Ginger, was admirably portrayed'by Dolly Varni, who acted the part without any sense of straining after effect. Gene Carlton, Les' Austin and "The Winsome Six " all contributed to a very enjoyable entertainment. In the vaudeville section Joe Brennan, assisted by Miss Ida Newton, gave an exhibition of versatility in his portrayals of a pantomime dame, a sailor and an old veteran. The latter study demonstrated his ability for really serious character work. Halma, the crazy juggler, was a source of wonder when spinning balls, hats and umbrellas in bewildering fashion; a clever entertainment evolving much applause. As a " couple of Pommies " the Carty Brothers made their usual good contribution to the programme. Swift and Daly, comedy musicians, proved that melody can be obtained even from motor horns. A duet 011 wind instruments, in which the lady of the. partnership played the cornet, was productive of pleasing harmony. The programme will be repeated each evening and at the usual matinees. "THE SKIN GAME." John Galsworthy's drama, " The Skin Game," will be presented at His Majesty's Theatre to-night and two following evenings. Mr. Frank Harvey and Miss Remy Carpen both have powerful roles. PRINCESS AND TIYOLL Reginald Denny has another delightful light comedy role in his latest production for Universal, " California Straight Ahead," in which adventure and humour are again mingled in pleasing proportions. The picture will head the new programme opening at the Princess and Tivoli Theatres on Thursday. " That Reginald Denny is one of the foremost light comedy stars of the screen " says a critic, cannot be denied after seeing ' California Straight Ahead. 1 ". Presented with an unusual story, and many opportunities for clever comedy bits, Denny gives one of the most delightful performances of his screen career. Even his portrayal of the hypochondriac in 'Oh, Doctor! ' is rivalled by his performance in this latest farce. The situations on which ' California Straight Ahead' are based are intrinsically funny, because they chronicle an event painfully familiar to almost, every one—a long motor trip. Denny in this picture is represented as a young man making a cross-country fcrar in a palatial motor bungalow and the adventures and mishaps which occur are productive of seven reels of delightful comedy. Harry Pollard, the director, has incorporated some splendid scenes and types in the shots of other tourists, and of action taking place in the auto camps along the road. In the thrilling climax Denny proves himself a race driver of no small ability as well ns an accomplished actor and a versatile comedian, for he pulls the audience to its feet with a hair-raising performance. Denny is given splendid support by Gertrude Olmsted as leading woman, and by Lucille Ward, Charles Gerrard, John Steppling, Fred Esmelton, Tom Wilson, Leo Nomas and others." Harry Pollard, creator of Denny's other recent comedies, in addition to. directing the film, also collaborated with Byron Morgan in writing the story. Betty Bronson, who won sudden fame through her performance in " Peter Pan." has the principal role in " The Golden Princess," a Paramount picture which will also be screened at both theatres. It is a talc of the days of the Californian gold rush. The hero is a young prospector who falls in love with the daughter of his elderly partner. When the latter dies the young man sends' presents to the girl, who believes they are from her father. Finally she sets out in search of him, and a series of thrilling adventures leads up to a happy ending. The supporting cast includes Neil Hamilton, Rockliffe Fellowes, Phyllis Haver and Joseph Dowling.

R, I ALTO AND REGENT. " Graustark." the film adaptation of George Barr MeCutcheon's novel, will be the principal attraction at the Rialtn and Regent Theatres this evening. Norma Talmadge as the Princess of Graustark, is more than usually attractive, the role seeming to bo, created for her. The story is one in whic*h romance and intrigue are cleverly interwoven, its conception is almost daring in its originality and it is certainly one which few writers could have worked out so convincingly. A very effective background to the scenes of royal intrigue is furnished by the magnificence of the palace and court rooms of the royal city. The film is marked by quickness of action and abundance of incident. " A Man of Iron " featuring Lionel Barrymore, will bo the supporting picture at the Rialto Theatre, and

" Helen's Babies " with Baby Peggy will be the second attraction at the Regent Theatre.

STRAND THEATRE. " Peter Pan " is at the head of a special programme for children that 'is being shown during the day sessions at the Strand Theatre. Everyone knows the story, which is even more pleasing in its screen form. Betty Bronson, in the title role, adds her own charming personality to the character created by Sir J. M. Barrie, and the result has been perfection. Ernest Torrence as Captain Hook, gives a characterisation that overshadows his role in "The Covered Wagßon," At the evening sessions a different programme is being 'shown. " The Dark Swan." featuring Marie Provost and Monte Blue, is the principal attraction. An item that is attracting considerable attention is an exposition of the. " Charleston " by Dancing Dan and the Strand Majestic Follies. The entertainment includes the usual supporting' attractions.