STRAND

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 409, 18 July 1928, Page 14

STRAND

“ANNA KARENINA” The story of two defiant lovers, who thought the world well lost, is magnificently told by John Gilbert and Greta Garbo in “Anna Karenina,” now being presented at the Strand Theatre. The new story is a vivid drama of Russia before the revolution, with Gilbert and Miss Garbo in the centre

of the plot in a love affair that results in a strange and dramatic tragedy. Gorgeous uniforms and settings depict the glories of the old Russian court, and a notable cast appears, including George Fawcett, Brandon Hur3t, Emily Fitzroy, Philippe De Lacy and others.

An exquisitely staged prologue is the “Coppelia Ballet,” presented by Mile. Valeska and her Follies. To the familiar strains of the Mazurka, the youths and maidens of the ballet perform a sprightly Russian dance outside the toy shop of Dr. Coppelius. Swanilda, a village maiden (Mile. Valeska) dances gracefully to attract the attention of Franz (enacted by Len Wilson), who has become entranced by a beautiful mechanical doll.

A very beautiful musical programme is provided by the Strand Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Eve Bentley. Amongst the many musical numbers played during the screening of the photoplay are “Canzonetta” (Tschaikowsky), “Nocturne” (Karjenoff), “Swan Song,” from “Lohengrin” (Wagner) and “Russian Scenes” (Trimel). A merry comedy starring that little band of mirthmakers, “Our Gang,” and “Thrills in Many Lands” are included on the programme.