BRITISH COMEDY.

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXVI, Issue 20233, 17 February 1934, Page 25 (Supplement)

BRITISH COMEDY.

Civic Shows “ After the Ball.” At the Civic Theatre to-day, British Dominions Films present the Gainsborough comedy-romance, “ After the Ball.” By laying the plot of the story in the hall of the League of Nations Assembly, the producers have struck a decidedly original note, and the gentle satire which they direct at that august body provides some delightful humour. “ After the Ball ” is a merry comedy of errors, which opens when a young King’s messenger delays the business of the League while he indulges in a flirtation. The whole business of the Assembly is disorganised by his nonarrival, and when finally he reaches his destisatoion he finds himself enmeshed in a •Omplicated set of circumstances, arising from the failure of a diplomat to escort his wife to the State ball. The wife, against her husband’s wishes, attends the ball accompanied by her maid, where they meet the young courier. There is an interesting and humorous sequel. Bright and witty dialogue, comic situations, brought about by a well-conceived story and catchy musical numbers, combine to make '* After the Ball ” excellent entertainment. An outstanding cast includes Esther Ralston, Basil Rathbone and Marie Burke (weh remembered by New Zealand theatregoers as the star in “ Wildflower ”), George Curzon, Clifford Hatherly and Jean Adrienne. The supporting programme includes a picture of special interest to all New Zealanders— a film of the recent celebrations at Waitangi. Box plans are open from 10 a.m. at the theatre, where seats may be reserved at no extra charge.