THE REGENT.

Wairarapa Age, 2 October 1935, Page 2

THE REGENT.

“BELLA DONNA.”

“Bella Donna,” which comes to the Regent Theatre to-day, when it will be screened at matinee and evening performances, is the second super-pro-duction of the Twickenham Studios, “The Wandering Jew” being the first. “Bella Donna” has been made on the grand scale, with elaborate and colourful Eastern settings, and the story, which was adapted from the novel by Robert Hichens, was produced by Julius Hagen under the direction of Robert Milton. Mary Ellis, who plays the title role, is a celebrated English actress who was specially engaged to re-create the part previously made famous by Pauline Frederick and Pola Negri. Miss Ellis, who has an international reputation as an actress of outstanding ability, is, in addition, a fine operatic singer. In addition to its lavish staging and the romantic interest of its story, “Bella Donna” is distinguished by a remarkable cast. Apart from the appearance of Mary Ellis in the title role, the eminent German‘character actor,- Conrad Veidt, whose performance was the highlight of “The Wandering Jew,” will be seen as the Egyptian lover Baroudi, and Sir Cedric Hardwicke, England’s famous actor-knight, who plays Charles H. in the forthcoming British and Dominions production “Nell Gwyn,” has the important Tole of Dr. Isaacson. John Stuart, the masculine lead of several forthcoming British Dominions’ releases, is cast as Nigel Armine, Bella Donna’s young husband. Seats may be reserved at Perry’s, ’phone 2406. COMING ON FRIDAY. “NAUGHTY MARIETTA.” Starring Jeanette MacDonald and Nelson'Eddy, “Naughty Marietta” Is announced as the big attraction at the Regent Theatre, starting on Friday, with screenings at 2.15, 4.45 and 8 p.m. Reserves at Perry’s, ’phone 2496.