ST. JAMES THEATRE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 25736, 6 January 1945, Page 7

ST. JAMES THEATRE

GAY MUSICAL FILM The musical film “ Meet the People ” was ■ introduced at the St. James Theatre yesterday. Sparkling with gay tunes and sprightly dancing, the picture features Lucille Ball and Dick Powell. Miss Ball’s role is that of an actress who goes to a big shipyard on a bond-selling tour, and really “ meets the people." Her chief means of introduction is riveter Dick Powell, who is also a playwright in his spare time. He has discovered “the people” and it is through his influence that Lucille becomes “people conscious.” Bert Lahr returns to the screen to contribute his comic talents to the film, and he also sings a specialty number, “Heave Ho. Let the Wind Blow.” Prominent in the cast is Virginia O'Brien, who sings the rollicking “ Say That We’re Sweethearts Again.” Vaughan Monroe and his band provide melodies, and Spike Jones and his City Slickers •also do a novelty number called “ Shicklegruber.” A second film, “ The Big Store.” is an uproarious comedy featuring the Marx brothers. The popular singing star Tony Martin takes the romantic lead. Box plans are at the D.1.C.. Jacobs's, and the theatre.