THE THEATRES.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume III, Issue 882, 7 December 1916, Page 9

THE THEATRES.

OPERA HOUSE. The current programme at the Opera House fully justifies the liberal patronage which has been accorded it. Chris Richards, the famous English comedian provides the principal turn. The Two Devons are a pair of clever dancers and singers, while the revuette presented by Coyne and Pearl is an item which should not be missed. Harry Little is a baritone singer of rare ability. A novelty turn is presented by Leeds and Lemar, an eccentric duo. A good juvenile turn is lhat of The Three Ruddles. Cestria, and Clarke and Wallace are still appearing.

EVERYBODY'S THEATRE. "Sweet Lavender," which has been drawing large attendances to Everybody's Theatre this week, is an impressive story of sacrifice and attonement, relieved with flashes of comedy, and containing throughout, a wonderful love interest. It is based upon Sir Arthur Pinero's famous drama and the leading characters are interpreted by Henry Ainley and Alma Taylor, two of England's leading emotional artists.. The story is one which holds the attention throughout. The programme includes a hilarious Keystone Triangle comedy, a Gaumont Graphic and an animal study. STARLAND THEATRE. The scenery contained in "The Little Gipsy," this Week's Fox feature at Slarland, is some of the finest yet seen in any photo-drama to date. Particularly good are some magnificent moonlight woodland scenes. The play also contains some splendid spectacular effects including the bursting of a dam, a terrible cloudburst, and the burning of a factory. The story is one with an intense heart appeal, and abounding with charm and romance. The scenes are laid in Scotland. "Aristocracy" is the Paramount feature which was shown to-day at the day sessions, and which will also be presented at the evening session.

HIS MAJESTY'S THEATRE. "The Payment," the title of the problem play which is running at His Majesty's Theatre this week, takes for its moral the reflection that whatever price is paid for evil, it is too high. It is the story of a young girl, poor, but talented and ambitious, who determines never to live the life of her parents, who are mill workers. She comes to the city where she meets a man, married but unscrupulous, who offers to help her realise her ambitions —for a price. The conclusion is touching and appealing in the extreme. There is an excellent supporting programme.

PEG 0' MY HEART. This comedy was presented twice at Ihe Theatre Royal yesterday, a matinee being given in the afternoon and the usual performance in the evening. The work of Miss Allgood in Ihe principal role' Was excellent, and she was well supported by a capable company. The final performance will be given this evening.