FIRST-CLASS COMEDY.

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXVI, Issue 20510, 11 January 1935, Page 3

FIRST-CLASS COMEDY.

Florence Desmond Starred in “ Gay-love.” " Danny Boy ” "will be screened finally to-night at the Civic Theatre. Beginning to-morrow at the AllBritish Civic Theatre, British Dominions Films will present, for the first time in New Zealand, the latest British musical comedy, “ Gay Love.” This is the first of Britain’s new output for 1935, and has been classed by critics as one of the snappiest and brightest musical romances yet released from the English studios. Recognised as being the greatest impersonator and one of the most versatile mimic stars on stage or screen, Florence Desmond, whose engagement to T. Campbell Black, the famous airman, was recently announced, leads a strong cast, other members being Sophie Tucker, Sydney Fairbrother, Finlay Currie and Garry Marsh. Apart from her brilliant impersonations, where she sings “ Don’t Blame Me,” as it would be sung by Greta Garbo and Zasu Pitts, and “ I’m No Angel ” as Mae West w T ould sing it. Florence Desmond reveals a delightful pantomimic gift when dressed as a music hall artist of the " gay nineties ” she sings the old-time favourite, “ A Bird in a Gilded Cage.” Writing of “ Gay Love,” the London "Era” cfitic said: “ It has everything one can possibly ask for in the shape of brilliant entertainment.” The supporting programme will include the latest Pathe Gazettes and “ High-lights of the Melbourne Centenary. No. 2,” which shows the Duke of Gloucester during his visit to that city. Box plans are now open at the theatre, where seats may be reserved at no extra cost.