AMUSEMENTS.

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXXIV, Issue 18818, 5 March 1931, Page 12

AMUSEMENTS.

CLEVER ENGLISH VAUDEVILLE. MAJESTIC’S DOUBLE PROGRAMME The words “double feature programme” very often. give the impression that neither of the attractions offered is worthy of an individual screening but even the most fastidious of picture patrons appreciated that this could not be said of the programme which was shown at the Majestic Theatre last night. Both pictures are first-class productions, and patrons are indeed fortunate in finding such a wealth of entertainment on one programme. “Elstree Calling” offers the cream of London’s music hall talent in a bright pot-pourri of vaudeville. It should be stressed that the vaudeville of England is of a much higher class than that depicted in several American productions screened in Timaru. This picture does not dazzle the audience with incredibly lavish settings and regiments of chorus girls. It depends for its appreciation on the merits of the individual performers, who are chosen from the best in England. First perhaps should be mentioned Will Fyfe, genial Scottish comedian, who in his own way rivals Harry Lauder. He renders a characteristic Scottish humorist’s song with a flavour of pre-war to help it along. The best sort of Cockney comic songs, and some eccentric dancing of an unusual kind, are provided by Lily Morris. Cicely Courtneidge, supported by a chorus, sings and dances in a manner wholly delightful. These are but a few of the artists, all of whom keep the audience in a simmer of laughter.

The other attraction, “Lovin’ the Ladies,” is both philosophical and farcical in nature, presenting Richard Dix in a romantic comedy role. When he becomes involved with four heroines, Lois Wilson, Rita la Roy, Renee Macready, and Virginia Sale, excitement, drama and hilarity are the result. There will be a matinee today.

“SWEETHEARTS ON PARADE.” GOOD COMEDY AT GRAND. “Sweethearts on Parade,” the comedy production which opened at the Grand Theatre last night, is the type of screen entertainment that should please every type of audience. An all-star cast, one of screenland’s ace directors, perfect recording of bright dialogue, superb photography and settings, and a story that entertains from the opening scene to the fadeout. are some of the factors that contribute to the success of the fielm. An imposing cast which includes such prominent names as Alice White, Marie Prevost, Lloyd Hughes, Wilbur Mack, Kenneth Thomson, Ray Cooke and Max Asher, interpret their roles with sincerity and spirit. Genuine screen entertainment is contributed by all. Add to this the acknowledged directorial ability of Marshall Neil, who has injected many clever Individual touches into the production, and the sum total is superb firm fare. The story tells of a town girl who comes to the big city with aspirations of marrying money. Instead she falls in love with a snappy marine. Later a marine appears on the horizon and the young lady gravitates a bit off her chosen course. Some complications ensue, but everything works out all right when the “marines have landed and get the situation well in hand.” The element of light comedy prevails throughout. Even the few moments of melodrama are punctuated with laughs. ROYAL THEATRE. FINE DOUBLE PROGRAMME. The double programme which was screened for the first time at the Royal Theatre last night is one which has much to commend it. It offers two productions of vastly different types, both of which combine to make a most refreshing programme. Mae Murray is vibrant, beautiful, alluring, tantalising, in “Peacock Alley.” Married—to be or not to be—is the subject of the discussions between Miss Murray and Claire Tree and George Barraud as Clayton Saville, a wealthy sophisticate who believes that marriage is possession, and possession kills love—and life isn’t worth the living when love has died. The cast is excellent.

Douglas Fairbanks junior and Loretta Young have leading roles in “The Forward Pass.” This pair are ideally cast in the story, and really look and act like college youngsters. The story deals with a campus flirt, played by Miss Young, and a football player, portrayed by Fairbanks. This gridiron hero has moments when he doesn’t feel heroic. The resulting complications make an interesting story, in which a pretty romance is woven.