“ CARMEN ” DRAWS BIG HOUSES AT CRYSTAL PALACE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18547, 22 August 1928, Page 7

“ CARMEN ” DRAWS BIG HOUSES AT CRYSTAL PALACE.

Preceded by probably the most elaborate prologue that has ever been provided for a picture in Christchurch. “Carmen,” the screen version of Bizet’s opera, is being shown at Crystal Palace. The picture breathes the romance, the coquetry and the tragedy of this classic tale, and the Carmen of Dolores del Rio is one of the most excellent pieces of character acting that has been seen on the screen for many a day. Victor M’Laglen, as Escamillo, responds well to the inspiration of the acting which is provided by the work of the feminine lead, and Don Alvarado, as Don Jose, is responsible for some splendid dramatic acting, especially in the scenes that precede the final tragedy. The prologue is worthy of special attention. Miss Olga Vracked as Carmen, Mr C. Williamson as Don Jose, and Mr R. Allison as Escamillo, add to the realism of the whole performance by the excellence of their singing, while Mr Cyril Poulton assists in a charming dance number with Miss Wacked. The prologue has been staged jrith full costuming, and ft provides

just the right atmosphere needed tor the opening of the picture. A special grand opera orchestra, under the baton of Mr A. J. Biinz. plays the Bizet score as well as Spanish and Basque airs.