GRAND THEATRE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17216, 6 December 1923, Page 5

GRAND THEATRE.

“Thorns and Change Blossoms,” which occupies the place of honour on the programme at the Grand Theatre, has several features that, lift it completely out of the rank and file of film productions, in the first, place, it is a daintily-designed story of Spain, perhaps the mo«t romantic country in the world. Secondly, its photography is soft, warm, and so highly finished that all suggestion of harsh effects has been eliminated. Thirdly, this photographic art is enhanced by clever coloured films. These featuTSs, backed by a careful selection of actors and actresses, make “ Thorns and Orange Blossoms ” a piece that it is a genuine pleasure to see. Falling in with the theme of the story, and coming iust when a company of people are'shown listening to a radio concert, the management has arranged for music to enter the theatre by means of a wireless installation This is done with the help of the Christchurch Radio Society. The music, while that scene is on the screen, is played at the society's central broadcasting station, is received in the theatre by instruments installed for the purpose, and is amplified there. The effect is mlogical, and the experiment gives those who attend the theatre a lesson in the manifold uses to which wireless may he put. Particular attention has been given to the scenery, which is amongst the best ever shown in Christchurch ; but the main feature of “ Thorns and Orange Blossoms ” is its study of a woman’s character and its exposition of the sudden change, possible in some types of femininity, from love to hatred and hack to love again Another good item on the programme is “ Two Weeks.” notable for the inclusion in the cast of Miss Constance Talmadge. who appears as a chorus girl. There is also a chapter of the serial. “ The Social Buccaneer.” and an admirable musical programme is provided.