ENTERTAINMENTS

Southland Times, Issue 19510, 9 May 1922, Page 6

ENTERTAINMENTS

ALBION THEATRE. The eagerly awaited, made in Australia picture, “The Blue Mountains Mystery ” will be screened for the first time at the Albion Theatre, commencing to-night. Presented by the well-known Australian picture producers, E. J. and Dan Carroll, and made by D. W. Griffiths, of Australia, Ray-, mond Longford, it is claimed that this production represents the most ambitious undertaking in history of picture production in Australia. Certainly no expense has been spared. This is a story of society life. The settings in a fashionable mountain hotel provide rich and luxurious interiors, including a remarkable ballroom scene, where, in the famous Ivy Shilling dances a delictful pas seul. “Who killed Heniy Tracy” is the slogan, and mystery is the key-note of the plot ; the unravelling of which holds the attention spellbound during the six acts. Some of the most picturesque sights of the Blue Mountains and many quaint South Sea Island shots are used in the different environments. The drawing is said to be equal to the very best American and

and the cast is absolutely the strongest that cpuld be selected in Australia. This includes Marjorie Osborne (Mrs Henry Hill Osborne), x ßilly Williams, Vivian Edwards, John Faulkner .and Lottie Lyell (the Doreen of the Sentimental Bloke). This attraction it is confidently anticipated, will repeat its sensational Australian success. A rare bit of screen entertainment is assured patrons when “Courage,” with beautiful Naomi Childers in the leading role, will be the attraction. “Courtage” is an adaption of Andrew SoutaPs famous and intensely interesting novel. This is a wonderful story of romance, pf tragedy, of pathos and happiness, with some very human sidelights in bonnie Scotland thrown in for good measure. And through it all runs the great age. A gripping drama of lofty purpose, it is not only an extraordinary piece of entertainment, but it is a tonic for all humanity as well. Among the sterling players who will be seen in support of Naomi Childers are, Sam de Grasse and Lionel Belmore. “Courage” is a First National attraction. The programme is opened by the comedy “Dry Cleaned” and other good pictures. Seats may be reserved by telephoning the Albion.

CIVIC PICTURES. The principal feature on the excellent programme arranged for screening to-night at the Civic is one of those virile, forceful tales of outdoor life in the great Canadian wilds that has such an irresistible attraction' for all classes. Based on the novel “Conjuror’s House,” by Stewart Edward White, the picture which has been styled “The C4ll of the North,” transfers to the screed all the picturesque and stirring incident which made the novel famous. The story develops in an interesting fashion. The plot material concerns the tyranny of the factors of a leading company in a wild region. Into this country comes a "free trader”—one who dares to compete with the company. The factor captures him, fires his post, and demands that he cease to buy and sell furs independently. The alternative is “the long traverse.” It is the girl—the daughter of the iron-hearted factor, who gives him the rifles to save "him on his long “journey to death.” But he is recaptured before he has obtained his start. Then follows the climax. The factor is for immediate punishment, despite the fact that his daughter loves the victim, when he discovers that the hero is the son of a man he wronged years ago. Repentance of the villain is never a very satisfactory solution for a drama, but in this case, it fits in logically and satisfactorily. Jack Holt makes an ideal hero and Madge Bellamy, Noah Beery and a strong east give excellent, support. There is also plenty of action in “Thunder Island,” the supporting picture in which. Edith Roberts is starred, and which will be shown to-night for the last time. When the narrative opens Miss Roberta is seen as a little Mexican girl tending her flocks on the slopes over the opalescent Gulf of Californaia. The pastoral trend of her life is altered by a death-bed marriage to a rich old Spaniard, who takes that means to make her heiress to hia fortune He dies after the girl has left, but an overseer asumes his identity and claims the girl as his wife. Her escape and her thrilling rescue by a young American pearl hunter gives the story a hurricane of dramatic action. The lighter element is provided by one of those really funny Century comedies. Plan for to-night is at The Bristol.

SOUTHWOOD’S QUALITY PERFORMERS Nothing so ambiguous in entertainment has hitherto been attempted as the Costume Comedy Company, to be presented at the Municipal Theatre for a short season of three nights commencing Monday next, by Southwood’s Ideal Attractions. This company, in the presentation of this form of entertainment, use all the arte known tostagecraft, including gorgeous costume?* magnificent stage settings, orchestral harmonies, lighting effects, and various other decorative arts to give colour and sparkle to the happy faces and rich voices of the company of 17 English performers who compose this brilliant and versatile combination. , Miss Nina Gordon, headlined as the world’s greatest mimic, is making her initial appearance with the company in this city, direct from her English successes at the Palace Theatre (London), where her astounding impersonations of famous stage celebrities, including those of Sir Harry Lauder (which caused Miss Gordon to be popularly known as Harry Lauder in Petticoats), have met with the greatest success. Nina Gordon was favourite entertainer of Her Majesty Queen Maiy and the Royal Family, before whom she appeared by Royal command. During her American engagements Nina Gordon was described by the Brookly Eagle as the most wonderful impersonator ever appearing before the public. The first programme to be presented by the “Q. P.’s” is entitled “A Harvest of Humour and Harmony,” which introduces the very latest songs and dances from London and New York, surronded by smart settings, charming costumes, perfect ensembles, and charming voices. The plan opens at the Bristol on Thursday morning, when seats may be reserved without extra charge.