“LAND WITHOUT MUSIC”

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23107, 5 February 1937, Page 3

“LAND WITHOUT MUSIC”

RICHARD TAUBER STARRED Since the talking picture came into its own a large number of singing stars have been introduced to film patrons, stars whom it was unlikely they would hear outside records. Actually it is a relatively short time ago that Richard Tauber became known to the British public and was immediately taken to their hearts. His stage success has been followed by a number of. films in each of which his appreciation of screen technique has visibly increased. In his latest film, “ Land Without Music.” to be commenced at the Empire Theatre to-day. his voice is not only heard to greater advantage than ever before on the screen, but he establishes himself as a film actor of no little merit. His speakin" voice has acquired clarity and power, while his every gesture reveals a new-found ability to adapt himself to any role. The music of “ Land Without Music ” was composed by Oscar Strauss and is extraordinarily well suited to Herr Tauber’s golden voice. The life and gaiety that he brings to the delivery of the more rousing numbers are most infectious, the whole production scoring added strength as a result.

The story is of the comic opera type, and provides an admirable medium with which to exploit the talent of the star and cast, being an adroit mixture of comic, romantic and musically spectacular incident. It contains moments of artless humour, dispensed with boisterous bravado by Jimmy Durante, and a hint of popular romance, both of which help to make it bright entertainment.