AMUSEMENTS, MEETINGS ETC.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXXVI, Issue 18444, 30 March 1922, Page 3

AMUSEMENTS, MEETINGS ETC.

“THE SIGN ON THE DOOR,” TONIGHT. The Daily News, in speaking of the opening performance of “The Sign on the Door,” in Perth, says: “ ‘The Sign on tTie Door’ justifies loud and even extravagant language of praise. A prologue and three acts compass the story, which runs swiftly through a maze of possibilities to a climax as startling as it is satisfactory. There are three women in the case, but only two of them figure in the stage version. Anne, the wife of ‘Lafe’ Regan, prior to her marriage. had an experience with Frank Devereaux, a polished wife stealer and seducer. Devereaux visited the Regans and fascinated Helen, the daughter of the husband by a former wife. ‘Lafe’ was aware of an infamouto ruse, by which Devereaux attempted to lure the wife of a friend, but he did not suspect his wife’s past, or his daughter’s present relations with the man. Complications arise. Mrs Regan learning that Helen had an appointment to meet Devereaux at his rooms, set out to save her. Her husGand had left home earlier to confer with his friend. Anne reached the rooms before the daughter, and while she was there the husband arrived to get even with the scoundrel on behalf of his friend. Anne was concealed. Devereaux was shot by Regan, who disappeared. To save her husband, Anne confessed to the murder, declaring that Devereaux molested her. Then followed a thrilling procession of incidents, culminating in surprising fashion. The audience was spellbound by the dramatic power of the play, the sustained intensity of which captivated the imagination, and proclaimed the genius of the author.” This play will be staged to-night only by J. C. Williamson’s popular “Scandal” Company, headed by Maude Hanaford and W. J. Kelly. The box plans are at H. I. Jones and Son's. HIS MAJESTY’S. Madame Annette Hayward, who is at present singing at His Majesty s. has a wonderful voice and a wonder! ul charm. Last night she delighted the audience bv her singing of “Home Sweet Home.” “The Rosary.” and “Sweet Spirit, Hear my Prayer.” It was indeed a rare treat. To-night Madame Hayward’s programme will be distinctly Irish including “Killarney,” “The Rosary” and “The Harp That Once.” This is a programme that should not be missed. Apart from the gifted singer, a fine picture programme is being presented. It includes “The Blood Barrier,” or “Diamond Cut Diamond.” Iliis story is taken from the novel by Townsend Brady, and it tells of the efforts of foreign agents to obtain a set of certain dye formulas in possession of the hero. The play is one that affords the popular stars some of their best opportunities which they handle to the best advantage. “A Broadway Cowboy” is a comedy drama of many' mirth-provoking situations. William Desmond, in the leading role, is seen in a vehicle for which he is admirably suited. In this feature, the star does some of his finest work, and his finished ability as a comedy actor as well as a dramatic actor is shown to advantage. The supports are excellent.