ENTERTAINMENTS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21396, 20 October 1934, Page 18

ENTERTAINMENTS

ROXY AND TIVOLI THEATRES The popular American comedians. Wheeler and Woolsev, give another fine performance in the leading roles of "Cockeyed Cavaliers," which is the first of two full-length films which are .being screened at the Rosy and Tivoli Theatres. Their previous films include "Dixiana," "Tho Cuckoos" and "So This Is Africa." In their latest picture, the pair are seen as two medieval knights, who boldly sally forth to assist the daughter of a commoner who is being forced to marry a duke. An excellent performance is given bv Wheeler, who is afflicted with kleptomania and goes into a trance, while even the sight of Woolsev in the garb of a knight with his inevitable spectacles and cigar is hilarious. The picture is a first-class burlesque and contains some particularly tuneful songs. Among the supporting players are Noah Berry, Dorothy Lee and Thelma ; Todd. The second attraction, "Half a Sinner," is a splendid comedy-drama. Adapted from the successful stage play, "Alias the Deacon," tho storv centres round the adventures of a gambler who poses as a parson. Tho noted stage player. Berton Churchill, gives an outstanding performance in the leading role and is well supported by Joel McCrea and Sally Blane. CIVIC THEATRE In the entertaining comedy "Tho Cat's Paw," which was screened for tho first time at the Civic Theatre yesterday, Harold Lloyd ascends to the higher lei'el of orthodox comedy, without forgoing any of those inimitable characteristics which have placed him in the first rank of screen comedians. Taking the role of the sly and inoffensive Ezekiel Cobb, he appears as the son of a missionary in China who has received a liberal education in the classics—both Chinese and European—and has become thoroughly steeped in the philosophy of a Chinese savant, Ling Po. He returns to his home town, Stockport, where the local politics are marked by corruption and vice, and where his Chinese philosophy and habits make him grotesquely out of place. He is still that sly, timid young man, always doing and saying the wrong thing, and quoting Chinese proverbs to meet the most impossible situations, but he is also the centre of an interesting and highly amusing story. He is persuaded to offer his services as Mayor, simply because the rival faction is convinced that ho will not be elected, but, somehow, his child-like-simplicity arouses the public sympathy, and ho is elected by a large majority. Inspired by a charming cigar-ette-seller, Petunia Pratt, a part convincingly taken by Miss Una Merkel, ho determines to clean the city and exterminate the "organisation" at the head of affairs. C°bb's utter simplicity and ignorance of American polities lead him to revert to Chinese methods for the suppression of crime in the city. He rounds up the whole of the criminal population and in the basement of an antique shop proceeds to enact a piece of ancient Chinese history by giving the criminals the alternative of confession or execution. When two bodies are carried in from the execution chamber with their decapitated heads lying neatly in basins resting on their chests, tho entire company becomes terrorstricken and confesses almost "en bloc." He decides to return to China, but at /; the last minute alters his plans. There is a strong supporting cast, including George Barbier, Nat Pendleton and Grace Bradley. George Barbier as Jake Mayo, Cobb's sponsor in the election, gives an exceedingly clever portrayal, while Nat Pendleton as the frightened "gangster" also is very good. The splendid supporting programme includes a Fox Movietone News with a graphic account of the Morro Castle disaster and some fine pictures of the America's Cup contestants Rainbow and Endeavour being sailed in trials prior 10 the race. In addition, there is an educational film, entitled "Bubble Blowers,"--which presents glimpses of several picturesque countries, including Mexico, Holland, Bavaria and Japan. In the interval selections are given by the Civic Orchestra and the tolo "Moonlight Madonna" is rendered.

REGENT THEATRE Although it purports to an incident in the life of the famous metal-worker, Benvenuto Cefiini, "The Affairs of Cellini," which op|ned a seayon at the Regent Theatre yesterday, is in reality a delightful comedy which Wight ha7e been enacted at almost any period in the days of romance, Tha historical element is represented principally by the very beautiful settings and dresses, while the essentially modern character of much of the acting is cleverly contrasted with tbo mingled elegance and barbarity of 16th century Florence. It is with Cellini's prowess as a lover and his penchant for getting into and out of 'the most dangerous situations, either by bravery or trickery, rather than with his skill as a goldsmith, that the film is concerned. Fredric March, in the title role, acts tho swaggering but attractive scoundrel with refreshing zest, and at the same time pokes gentle fun at the Fairbanks tradition by the way in which he does riot hesitate to sacrifice his dignity and resort to cunning when bravado will not pay. Constanc« Bennett gives a very statejy and provocative portrayal as tho Duchess of Florence, who, hearing of Cellini's attraction for women, determines to let him test his skill on herself, only to fall a victim as others had done. Acting honours must go to Frank Morgan, however, as the weak, bombastic, fussy Duke of Florence, constantly irritated by the cares and responsibilities of State, always ready to be side-tracked by some new delight, and swayed from one point of view to the ether by the wiser counsels of his adrisers, his fear of his wife and the sly flatteries ox Cellini. The love of the duchess for Cellini, and a transparently obvious attempt at a secret flirtation with ths metal-worker's singularly simple and unresponsive model, on the part of the duke, lead to many highlyamusing situations. In the course of the action, Cellini is many times saved from death at the hands of the duke, the duchess or the nobles of Florence, only by his swordsmanship or quick wit as the occasion demands, but his various enemies are finally either won over or silenced in a variety of wavs. although one is left with the impression that he will bo unable to lead a life of comparative safety for long before embarking on some fresh irresponsible adventure. Fay Wray, Vince Barnett and Louis Calhern lend strong support to the principals. The film was directed by Gregory La Cava. The supporting programme is in keeping with the main picture, and is one of the most entertaining to be screened in Auckland for tome time. It includes another Walt D'sney. Silly Symphony, "The Wise Little Hen." a delicious musical skit. "Not To-night, Josephine," a beaiitv film, "Beauty Hints from Hollywood." en "organlogue," "A Bouquet of Roses," and a Paramount newsreel. The three first-mentioned films are in teclitoieolour. NEW EMPIRE THEATRE "Queen Christina" and "Day of Reckoning" comprise the programme Bt the New Empire Theatre. NEW REGENT THEATRE "Stingaree" and "Heat Lightning" comprise the programme at the New Regent Thteatre, Epsom. ' / T CAPITOL THEATRE Constance Cummings in "Glamour" fcnd "Tillie and Gus" are the pictures feeing screened at the Capitol Theatre.

PLAZA THEATRE It was an inspiration 011 the part of the Gaumont-Gainsborough Studios to give to the screen Oscar Asdic's brilliant stage success of the war years, "Chu Chin Chow." The film version, which opened a season at the Plaza Theatre yesterday, brings back tho colourful pageant, of Oriental life, tho humour, and the vivid music wjiich gave the stage counterpart one of the most successful and longest seasons in the history of the theatre. Tho east alone puts the film in a class by itself. George Policy, perhaps the best-known of the London music-hall comedians, is given wonderful opportunities for his inimitable clowning as Ali Uaba, the happy-go-lucky woodcutter, whose discovery of the Robbers' Cave gives him unbelievable riches and nearly leads him to a tragic end. Then there is the famous German actor, Fritz Kortner, who makes a most blood-curdling and villainous figure of the robber chief, Abu Hassan. Malcolm McEachern, well known radio and gramophone entertainer, makes an interesting appearance as Abdullah, some of whose, songs give him an opportunity to display his amazing basso-prof undo voice, while John Garrick is well cast in the romantic ioic, of Nnrcddin, among whose songs is the beautiful air, "My Desert Mower. Anna May Wong makes a very convincing Zahrat, tho beautiful Chinese slave, whose treachery brings about the downfall of her master. Abu Hassan. A very charming portrayal is given by Pearl Argyle as the slave who is loved by Nureddin. Tho musical score of the work is, of course, one of its great attractions. "The Robbers' Chorus, ' the "Cobbler's Song," "1 Love You So, and "Chu Chin Chow" are all excellently rendered and prove that they have'survived the passage of the years with ease. The spectacular nature of the original production is more than equalled by tho screen version, which is able to use the greater scope of settings to fine effect. All the glamour of the' Thousand and One Nights, the splendour and the cruelty of Haroun al Raseliid's court, and tho exotic beauty of the East are recaptured, and the film stands out as one of the most lavish productions British studios have yet been responsible for. There is an entertaining supporting programme, including English and Australian newsreels. A feature of the latter is the inclusion of scenes showing the arrival of the Duke of Gloucester at Perth, and the reception ceremony. j

STRAND THEATRE One of the most, popular American comedians, Jack Oakie, gives a characteristic performance the bright musical revue "Thank Your Stars, which is attracting largo audiences to the Strand Theatre. Oakie is well suited in the role of a vain but likeable owner of a musical company. He receives excellent support from such distinguished players as Alison Skipworth, Dorothy Dell and Roscoe Karns. There is an hilarious scene where Jack Oakie imitates the crooning of Bing Crosby. Seven songs which have proved very popular on the New York stage are given an excellent interpretation by Ben Bernie's band. NATIONAL AND PRINCE EDWARD Clifford Mollisou and Wendy Barrio give fine portrayals in the leading roles of "Freedom of the Seas," the first film on the double-feature programme being screened at the National and Prince Edward Theatres. Mollison is cast as a simple but well-meaning young law clerk who is persuaded to join the naval reserve during the war. He is placed in command of a tramp steamer, the passengers of which include his fiancee and her irascible father. The manner in which ho exerts his authority makes a story of compelling interest. A thrilling rriystery drama, "Crime on the Hill," also is being shown. Sally Blane, Lewis C'asson and Anthony Bushel! are included in the cast. STATE THEATRE One of the most spectacular musical films ever screened. "Ejying Down to Rio," is the main attraction on the entertaining programme being presented at the State Theatre. Dolores Del Rio, Gene Raymond and Ginger Itogers are included in the talented cast. The picture is notable for the introduction of a number of new and tuneful songs, such as "Orchids in the Moonlight," "Flying Down to Puo" and "Music Makes Mo."

RIALTO AND CRYSTAL PALACE Herbert Marshall appears in the leading role of "Solitaire Man," which heads the double-feature programme at the Rialto and Crystal Palace Theatres. The second attraction is the comedydrama, "Call It Luck," with Herbert Mundin. SUNDAY PICTURES There is a particularly strong cast in "A Second Honeymoon," which is the main attraction on the programme to be presented at the Rialto Theatre to-morrow night. The story allows a liberal introduction of humour. The proceeds are in aid of local charities. TUDOR CINEMA "The Oat and the Fiddle," with Ramon Novarro and Jeanette MaeDonald in tha leading roles, heads the grogramme to be screened at the Tudor inema. There is a special children's matinee to-day at which "Sky Raiders" will be shown. LONDON NEWSREEL CINEMA Lew* Cody and Mnry Nolan appear in the principal roles of the thrilling detective story, "File No. 113," which heads the current programme at the London Newsreel Cinema. 1 BRITANNIA THEATRE "Alice in Wonderland" and "Hell and High Water" are the films being screened ,at tho Britannia Theatre. STATE THEATRE, ONEHUNGA Richard Dix in "Stingaree" is the main attraction at the State Theatre, Onehunga. "Heat Lightning" also is being shown. NAVY LEAGUE PLAY In connection with the celebration of Trafalgar Day the Auckland branch of the Navy League will present a oueacfc play, "The Splendid Hour," in the Town Hall concert chamber on Thursday night Tho play will be preceded by a varied concert programme. The principals of "The Splendid Hour" are Louise Jonrdain and Charles Archer, while the supporting players include the Rev. Walter Averill. Thomas Vivian, Stanley Knidit. Patricia. Boyle and Winifred Hill. Booking arrangements are advertised. "THE BOY" Sir Arthur Pinero's delightful musical comedy "Tho Boy" will be presented by the Hamilton Amateur Operatic Society at tho Theatre Royal, Hamilton, for a season of five nights commencing on Monday. The play, which is notable for its elaborate costuming and excellent humour, is rendered by a strong cast. Booking arrangements are advertised COMMUNITY SINGING The final community singing gathering of the season will bo held in the Town Hall on Wednesday afternoon, when Mr. Vernon T. Drew will act as song leader. Tho soloist will be Miss Rita MacCullay and the accompanist Mrs. Barrington Snow.

ST. JAMES' THEATRE Making a triumphant return to the screen, Norma Shearer gives another magnetic and glamorous performance in "Riptide," which commenced its Auckland season at St. James' Theatre yesterday. More beautiful, more, handsomely costumed and more delightful than before, Miss Shearer gives one of those portrayals that have made her famous. The'devoted American wife of an English aristocrat, she becomes f lonely when her husband leaves on a business trip abroad. A friend persuades her to come to Cannes where she meets Trent, an old New York acquaintance, played bv the inimitable and amusing Robert Montgomery. He makes love to her again. She resists him. Attempt- j ing to reach her window at night, he j falls from a balcony and narrowly es- ( capes death. Tho scandal-sheets of two Continents seize upon the incident and concoct their own versions of the affair. The highly dramatic scenes, following the return to England of tho husband, ; who will not believe in his wife's inno- I cence, are handled with genuine artistry j and skill by Miss Shearer, Montgomery and Herbert Marshall, in the extremely difficult role of the husband. But it is Norma Shearer who makes the picture what it is. "Riptide" should delight those who like powerful drama, subtle American comedy and superb acting. Heading tb« outstanding supporting programme is a thrilling Hearst Metrotone News containing wonderful scenes of the burning of tho ill-fated liner Morro Castle, only a few weeks ago. The great liner is seen, a mass of flames, with the crew huddled in tho forecastle, waiting for the life-boats. Rescue boats are seen landing their passengers on the New Jersey coast in a howling gale and pitiful interviews are secured with survivors, one of whom collapses in front of the camera. Such vivid news photography has not been seen for many a day. Also on the programme are a delightful and breathtaking Pete Smith Oddity entitled "Dartmouth Days" and a beautifully photographed and described Fitzpatrick Travelogue of Scotland. Last night's large audience demonstrated in 110 uncertain manner its appreciation of the Marco Symphony Orchestra, which rendered as overtures "Cavalleria Rusticana" Entracte and Rossini's "William Tell," original and most effective lighting effects being introduced during the storm scenes in the last-named piece.

BOHEMIAN ORCHESTRA An excellent programme has been arranged for the third concert of the Bohemian Orchestra, which will be given in tho Town Hall on Thursday night next. Tho conductor of the orchestra will bo Mr. Colin Muston, and the leader Miss Edith Whitelaw. The programme includes "Irish Rhapsody" by Herbert, "Prelude to Lohengrin" by Wagner, "Suite Coppelia" bv Delibes, and excerpts from "The Gondoliers." Tho string orchestra will be heard in "Serenades" by Elgar and two numbers by Bach. Two vocal items with orchestral accompaniment will be rendered- by Mrs. Harold Owers and Mr. P. J. Drumm will sing "Angels Guard Thee." Booking arrangements are advertised. MAREO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA An interesting request programme has been chosen for the final,concert of the Mareo Symphony Orchestra, to bo given in the Town Hall on Thursday, November 1. The orchestra will have a strength of 55 players and the outstanding items presented during the season will be rendered. The programme includes Mendelssohn's "Fingal's Cave," Schubert's "Unfinished Symphony," Gershwin's " Rhapsody in Blue," Ravel's " Bolero," Litoff's "Robespierre" and the overture "Stradella." Vincent Aspev, violinist, will render "The Flight of the Bumble Bee." The pianists will be Miss Kathleen O'Leary and Mr. Eric Bell. Booking arrangements are advertised. GAELIC SOCIETY The Gaelic Society will hold its monthly social in the Manchester Union Buildings, corner of Victoria and Hobson Streets, 011 Wednesday, October 31.