THE THEATRES

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18946, 17 December 1929, Page 7

THE THEATRES

EVERYBODY'S THEATRE THE FIFTY-FIFTY GIRL " EVERYBODY'S THEATRE . , " THE FLYING SQUAD ” GREATER CRYSTAL PALACE "THE GREENE MURDER CASE ”■ LIBERTY THEATRE " THE WHEEL OF LIFE GRAND THEATRE " SIOUX BLOOD " GRAND THEATRE "AVALANCHE” STRAND THEATRE "LONDON AFTER MIDNIGHT ” Strand theatre "red wine" THEATRE ROYAL Talking Picture, “MADAME X” FULLER’S OPERA HOUSE Musical Comedy Co. in “ ARCHIE “ WIRTH'S CIRCUS OPENING SATURDAY NEXT CIVIC THEATRE Christchurch Musical Society in “THE MESSIAH ” (Wednesday) CIVIC THEATRE Talking Picture, “LADY OP THE NIGHT u (commencing Thursday)

uuuiinniniiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiifliiiiiniiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiu' fine programme at EVERYBODY’S THEATRE.

A modern version of the story of the man who said he could do more work in a day than his wife could do in three but with a different ending, is cleverly told in “The Fifty Fifty Girl,” one of the two big pictures on the entertaining programme at Everybody’s Theatre this week. . Bebe Daniels, the fascinating dark-haired young lady who has made such a name for herself as a comedienne, is in the title role, and this picture,, in spite of its serious moments, is one of her best comedy successes. Jame Hall, as Jim Donahue, Bebe’s companion in adventure, also gives a very creditable performance. Bebe Daniels plays the part of Kathleen O’Hara, a modern young woman who believes in equality of the sexes and thinks she-' has successfully stamped out of existence the sentimental, weak woman that she might have been. Jim Donahue (James Hall) is in love with Kathleen, but, bent on having a career of her own, she will not admit any interest in him. Kathleen is given a chance to put her beliefs to the test when she and Jim become joint owners of the El Dorado gold mine. They both want to run the mine, and after a dispute that follows upon a wager it is agreed that Kathleen shall take on the man’s work in the mine while Jim stays at home with the house work and the cooking. The first one to call for help

Is to gret the other’s half \ share of the mine. But Kathleen has forgotten one factor and that is the evilly disposed Morgan, in whose hands she and Jim find the mine when they come to take possession. Morgan badly wants the mine, and so starts a policy of terrorism against Kathleen. After a thrilling chase and many hair-raising experiences in the mine Morgan incites his Italian employees against the frightened girl. She can hold • out -no longer and calls out to Jim for help. He takes charge of things just in time to rescue Kathleen, save the mine and defeat the plans Of Morgan and his confederates. The ends as it. should- with Kathleen and Jim a pair of happy lovers. “The Flyipg Squad,” one of Edgar Wallace's best thrillers, is the second big picture. It tells' the story of a long struggle between the London police and a big underworld smuggling gang and a detective’s love for a beautiful young woman who has joined the gang out of a mistaken idea that she is avenging her murdered brother. The plot with its atmosphere of bad men and bad deeds is admirably worked out. Dorothy Bartlam and John Longden have the principal parts. An interesting news picture of army and naval manoeuvres in England, and a short scenic of old Norman ruins in the South of England complete the programme. The Select Orchestra, under the conductorship of Mr Albert Bidgood, plays an admirable programme. INTERESTING MYSTERY AT CRYSTAL PALACE. ■ Natural history is one of the most fascinating subjects, known to students, and if served up in an attractive manner, it is a subject in which all may take an interest. A fine example of this is to be found at Crystal Palace Theatre this week, where fish life is shown on the screen. The dangerous electric fish, the deadly cuttlefish, and the terrifying octopus each has its part. An aquarium forms the studio and these deadly fish are seen at close quarters, engaged in fights to the death with adversaries. The manner in which the cuttlefish arid the octopus defend themselves is clearly shown and in the, final view of an octopus and lobster engaged in combat, the audience was given an insight into the battles which take place on the floor of the sea. The Fox Movietone News contained some interesting and instructive views, notable among which was a selection from the Yellowstone, National Park, where boiling pools, similar to those to be seen at Rotorua, exist. The noise of

the bubbling could be heard plainly. Tn other views of this famous park in America, the thunder of the waterfalls could be heard when the water was seen tumbling over the rocks. Another part of the News that was of much interest was an insight into the way in which cormorants are used for fishing in China. A musical number showed Tito Schipa, a noted lyric tenor, singing a Neapolitan love song, which was followed by a Spanish song. Both of these items were very fine. The comic side of the programme was supplied by “Faro Nell,” a burlesque on Western films, in which Louise Fazenda showed that she is as much at home in talkies as in silent comedy. . , „ The principal attraction was ‘The Greene Murder. Case,” a mystery play in which death came to several members of a family with remarkable regularity. William Powell, who has become one of the greatest detectives of the screen, has the duty of discovering the originlIllllll!lll!II!lllllll!l!Iillllllll!lllllllllilllllllill!IIIIIIII!lllllllll!lllll!llinillllli

'iiiiiisiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii ator of this terrifying series of crimes and he does it satisfactorily, although in so doing, he does not let the audience into the reasons for the methods that he adopts. Three members of the family meet sudden death. Suspicion falls in turn on practically every member of the household. The butler was the first to find the body on each occasion; the German cook was mysterious; the family doctor was carrying on an affair with the eldest daughter, while one of the housemaids had religious mania. Each and all of them seemed to be guilty of at least one of the crimes, but in the long run, the clever sleuth finds a solution that is logical, as well as astounding. The picture is interesting. At times, it lags somewhat, for the duty of the detectives seems to be solely that of putting someone under suspicion and then removing it again. This portion of the play is slightly overdone, but, of course, it certainly heightens the effect. However, taken as a whole, the story forms an excellent entertainment and for those who are keen on unravelling mysteries, it should provide a night full of interest. “ SIOUX BLOOD ” AT THE GRAND THEATRE. There is much that may be said in favour of the Western drama. Producers of these films aim always at making their pictures exciting, and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayo, who are the makers of ‘‘Sioux Blood,” which is billed as the leading attraction at the Grand Theatre this week, have certainly lived up to this principle. “Sioux Blood” treats of the blood-thirsty doings of the North American Indians and the deeds of bravery that marked the lives of the white men who drove their caravans over the prairies in those romantic 'eighties, which have been dealt with so fully by novelists who catered to the demand for exciting literature. It is a thrilling tale of two brothers who become separated when a tribe of fully painted and feathered redskins sweep down upon the caravan of their parents, murdering all the adult members of the party and carrying off the younger brother. The elder boy is left to his fate. True to all the traditions of this class of film, the boy does not perish, but grows to manhood with a resolve to devote his life to eradicating the Indians from the prairies. It is a brave resolve, and, needless to say, is one that leads him into countless exciting escapades. He is always one too many for the redskins, and although several times during the film his Scalp Is in danger of being taken to grace the walls of the wigwam of. Crazy Wolf, the warlike chief of the cruel Sioux tribe, he manages, usually

by his skill with a six shooter, and sometimes by cunning, to come , through without being put through such a painful ordeal. Meantime the younger brother has been trained by Crazy Wolf to hate the whites and as Lone Wolf he is sent out to kill his brother. Excitement rises to a high pitch when the two men are struggling for the possession of a knife with which one is to kill the other. In the midst of this struggle the brothers recognise each other, and there is more excitement when they contrive to escape from the Indians. A romantic love interest runs through the story. Tim M’Coy plays in the leading role and he is ably supported by Marion Douglas. The second feature is an adaptation of Zane Grey’s story of the west, “Avalanche.” It, also, centres around the lives of two boys who are survivors from the ruin of a caravan of American pioneers who are set upon by Indians. The boys attain manhood, with the elder always caring for and loving the other. Jack Holt plays in the leading role and gives one of his best performances. As Daunton, a professional gambler, who is prepared to go to any sacrifice and service which will aid his younger companion, he is seen in a story of gripping interest. The supporting films are of a high order and complete a fine programme. THE WHEEL OF LIFE ” AT LIBERTY THEATRE. The management of the Liberty Theatre has secured a splendid film as a feature in this week’s programme. It is “ The Wheel of Life,” a love story with a background of soldier life in England and India. This “ talkie ” production stars the popular Richard Dix a young British officer attached to a regiment in India. Into his life as Captain Leslie Yeullat the wheel of circumstance thrusts Ruth Dangan, wife of Colonel John Dangan. These two principals have many, varied and exciting experiences, both in England and in India, and their paths cross each other only once or twice in that period. The acting of Esther Ralston as Ruth Dangan is of a high standard and reflects credit on the discernment of the directors of the film in having selected her for so difficult a part. The demands of such a role are clearly not beyond her histrionic ability, for she gives a very finished and realistic portrayal of the woman who, driven to desperation, finds at last the man she has been unconsciously seeking. Her husband’s duties take her to India, where she is drawn into the maelstrom of tribal warfare. The scene in which she and other beleagured English tourists make a stand in a Buddhist monastery in Tibet, and the fierce and desper- : ate fighting against the tribesmen, forms one of the finest episodes of the film. The mysterious atmosphere of the monastery is well brought out in several striking scenes in which Nigel de Erulier, the former English comic opera and concert stage star, takes the part of a Lama, or Buddhist high priest. O. P. Heggie, a familiar and an outstanding figure on the Broadway . stage for a number of years, adds to his reputation by the excellent manner in which he carries through the part of Colonel John Dangan. The story, lllllllllllllllll!|[|||||illllll||II!l||||||||illi||||||i|||||||\f l ,|||iniI1llflllillillllllllllli!lllllll]||

aSd ls », Wlth the struggle between love honour on the part of the young fSS 11811 officer » of whom Richard Dix f- portrayal. Some fine R^i 1Cal „ compositions, including “The ST«? en Me lofiy,” are used as an accomamL ment t° the screening of the film. -Lhe supporting programme is varied interesting. Perhaps the most in£ interesting is the film showthe English cricketers in Australia, ana one wishes for more as the film , M r Hoover, President of the United States of America, is introduced «Ll lste ? ers Governor Byrd, of the otate of Virginia, and a brother of Uommander R. E. Byrd. Mr Hoover speaks on the merits of prayer and « an interesting dissertation on fishing. Joe Browning is well to the

fore with comedy in his characterisation of “The Reformer.” Two alltalking comedies, “My Wife ” and “ In a Talkie Studio,” introduce new songs. Topical chapters from world doings are included in a sound and talking film. It opens with nineteen aviatrices leaving on a flight competition. There are scenes in Berlin of a military parade, in which the gooseste'p figures, and there is a patriotic outburst by massed school children. An intriguing study of farmyard life is presented when the chequered fortunes of a White Leghorn are portrayed in clever style. A very fine film is that depicting the life story of Franz Schubert, and excerpts from his works constitute a feast of music. These glimpses of the great composer’s works are well reproduced, and serve to link with them something of the personality of the man whose short life was ended in poverty, though his works will ever continue.

FINE PLAY. “ ARCHIE.” AT NEW OPERA HOUSE.

“ Archie,” one of the most popular of modern English musical comedies, is being presented at the New Opera House to crowded audiences. As Archie, Freddie Forbes is in his element. He has a part which perfectly fits his genius for cheerful comedy, and considerably enhances his reputation with an already enthusiastic public. Cliff O’Keefe has a heavy part in the uncle,* and carries it

off with the greatest effect. A better man for the part could hardly be found. A leader among the mirtlimakers is Ernest Arnley, who plays the part of the uncle’s confederate. As Billie, the erring wife, Catherine Stewart has a good role, which she fills to perfection. One item which meets with great success is a solo dance 'by Verna Bain, who goes through her turn with spirit and grace. The Big Four sing items which meet with great approval.

EXCELLENT DRAMA AT THE THEATRE ROYAL.

The main part in “ Madame X ” is played by Ruth Chatterton. Her performance commands the utmost admiration, her acting in some of the tense scenes being superb. The other notable piece of acting in the picture is the performance of Raymond Hackett, who takes the part of young Floriot during the trial scene. Lewis Stone as Floriot has a part which suits him. The

“ shorts ” which provide the first half of the programme are the opposite in tone to the main picture. In them, for the most part, the audience has an abundance of American entertainment, which does not err on the sombre side.

The Audio Review’, which has become so popular on account of its excellent photography and universal interest, shows, among other things, many scenes on English rivers which are eminently delightful. George Dewey Washington, a coloured baritone, whose voice has all the richness of his race, sings “ The Rond to Mandalay.” Johnny Marvin, with voice and ukulele, provides another pleasing musical interlude; and the Locust Sisters join in a harmonised version of a popular song, to which they lend a quality they may call their very own. A pretty and able step-dancer who makes an artistic appearance is Rose Marie Sincott. The very latest in syncopation is provided by Phil Spitalveny and his Pennsylvania Hotel Band.

SPECTACULAR PICTURE FOR CIVIC THEATRE.

Magnificent sets—replicas in many cases of the historic halls in which the Third Napoleon trod—the full ecstasy of the decadent court of France with its gaily costumed dames in their hooped

finery, marbled halls of splendour and the Parisian dives—all these are part of D. W. Griffith's “Lady of the Night,” a romantic screen poem out of fancy’s pages, which is scheduled to open at the Civic Theatre next Thursday. The picture unfolds the intrigues of a mistress of Napoleon who, thwarted in her selfish love for an officer of the Prus-

sian legation, succeeds in marrying him off to a girl of the streets for the express purpose of debasing him. The supporting programme includes Pathe Audio Review and a wonderful technicolour subject, “The Virgin Queen.”

OPPERMAN V. O’SHEA AT ENGLISH PARK

To-morrow night, at English Park, the public will have an opportunity of seeing Hubert Opperman, the “ human motor ” and the most brilliant cyclist in Australia, contesting a two-distance match race against Phil O’Shea, the best all-round cyclist produced in the Dominion.

Last Saturday evening, thousands were thrilled by Opperman’s wonderful speed and stamina when he defeated Harry Watson, the Ne-w Zealand road champion, decisively, after a particularly strenuous ride. In O’Shea, however, Opperman will find a most formidable opponent, as the veteran is a combined track and road rider, and able to unwind a fast sprint after a hard ride. On Saturday, O’Shea rode brilliantly in the handicap races and demonstrated that he is capable of extending Opperman in the match race. Arrangements have been made for Opperman and O’Shea to be “ human paced ” by teams of tandems. After the experience gained on Saturday, the race should prove a thriller from start to finish.

The meeting between Opperman and O’Shea is the greatest event in cycling history for many years. Both riders have marvellous records on track and road, each having won the Australian Road Championship three times in succession.

During the evening, Opperman is to make an attempt to lower the New Zealand motor-paced record of Bmin 58 sec, recorded by W. Mackie in 1926. A great race is promised in the meeting of A. C. Ritchie and W. T. Weir in a five miles motor-paced race to decide who w r ill meet Hubert Opperman in a grand motor-paced match race over three distances on Monday. Both Ritchie and Weir have proved themselves to be expert motor-pace followers and should give a thrilling exhibition of pace following. Other events on the programme include handicap cycling and running, all the local talent participating. The Woolston Band will play from 7.30 p.m., the sports commencing at eight o'clock.