ENTERTAINMENTS

Southland Times, Issue 17652, 9 February 1916, Page 3

ENTERTAINMENTS

DOROTHEA SPINNEY’S RECITALS. ANOTHER MEMORABLE PERFORMANCE, When Miss Dorothea Spinney gave her first recital last week the audience was not so largo as it might have been, hut the wonderful performance given by Miss Spinney on that occasion created such a profound effect that a much larger patronage was assured at her, next recital, which took place at the V.M.C.A. last evening. It was noticeable, too, that many who attended the first performance were present to witness the second,' and the talented artist was accorded warm applause on appearing on the platform. Another of Euripides’ famous classics ’’The Iphigenia in Tpurus” was given, and in this the tragedienne was given full scope to demonstrate her wonderful ability to portray the characters of ancient Greece. There could hardly he a more opportune period to bring before the British public the tragic conception* of fate and judgment which the Greeks held, now that the destiny of modern Greece depends so much on the destiny of our own Empire, and perhaps it is because of the important part which Greece is playing, and is fated to play, in the affairs of the world, that the drama of the Greeks is so acceptable at present. But apart from any feelings of sympathy and goodwill that might lie felt toward the Greeks of modern times, the charming artistry, and the marvellous powers of delineation of Miss Spinney, are sufficient to command more than passing notice. She is truly a great artist, and the audience that assembled last evening to hear her interpret Gilbert Murray’s translation of ’’The Iphigenia in Taurus” of Euripides were unmistakably charmed by the performance, which will last in their memories for many years to come. Miss Spinney was again dressed in a creamy, flowing fabric, which one naturally associates with the Grecian women of olden times, and the note of simplicity created by it was enhanced by the not elaborate stage decorations. Miss Sninney will bo hoard again shortly and her performance is one that can be recommended as the acme of art. POPULAR PICTURE PALACE. There was another capital attendance at fnc Popular last night, when the very interesting and superb programme was again well received. "The Man Mho Fou-nd Himself” is a particularly fine picture, admirably portrayed, and ’’The Second String,” a stirring racing drama, came in for well-merited appreciation. The other subjects are in keeping with the star features, and patrons should not miss seeing this excellent offering. “MARY PICKFORD.” On Thursday night the management announce the appearance of a four-reel production by the Famous Players, “Behind the Scenes,” in which Mary Pickford, "tlie most loved picture actress in the world," appears in what is said to he her greatest success. It is a stirring story of theatrical life fully depicting the struggles and tears, the sunshine and shadow, and the many thorns that best artist’s life. A very strong series of dramatic and comedy subjects will be also shown, including a powerful Essanay drama, "The Family Divided.” in three reels featuring Fdna Mayo and Bryant M’ashburne. Such a strong programme should not fail to attract large audiences on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, GRAND THEATRE. LAST OF “THE AWAKENING.” Splendid houses prevail at the popular Grand Theatre where the good merit of the pictures and the quantity shown have completely won public favour. That powerful human play “The Awakening,” the grandly impressive drama "Re-in-carnation," and the seven excellent supporting subjects, ail of much more than average calibre met with a warm reception last evening. The “special” picture showing the “Arrival of Hospital Ship Maheno” at Auckland will, with the others be shown to-night for the last time. Three star feature dramas outstand on to-morrow’s big programme. The film par excellence will be Kalem’s biggest dramatic Hit "The First Commandment,” a really powerful play which lias won success wherever shown. The play denounces the ways of the American millionaires and their greed for gold. The 1 story suggests that too many people of to-day sacrifice their manhood, while nations barter honour for the sake of the almighty dollar —that both make of money a god. Margaret Courtot shows to tine advantage in the play. Majestic will present an extraordinary and splendidly mounted and costumed play. “CJiinesc Vengeance.” The plot of this play is of most unusual character and in the course of its development many dramatic surprises occur. A third drama -Under Oath” is a secret society play of absorbing interest. Love and intrigue figure largely In the story. Especially selected subjects will be screened in support. These include "Jack Spratfs Parrot,” a mirth provoking comedy. Still another fun producing film will he “Boobley’s Baby” by the Vitagraph players. The Australian Gazette and cartoons by Harry Julius will also be shown. Pictures of such quality, dispensed in such quantity, are certain to sustain the usual big attendance’s.