AMUSEMENTS, MEETINGS, ETC.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXXVI, Issue 18531, 13 July 1922, Page 3

AMUSEMENTS, MEETINGS, ETC.

PARAMOUNT PICTURES.

“THE SHEIK” ATTRACTS PACKED HOUSE. Every seat was occupied at the Opera House last night on the occasion of the second screening of that, wonder picture of the desert "The Sheik.” One of the most pleasing items is the splendid vocal numbers sung by Mr H. Gasquoine, a recent arrival from London. For his rendering of "I’ll Sing Thee Songs of Araby” last night he was accorded an ovation which was fully deserved. As for "The Sheik”—'the verdict was one of unqualified approval, for the picture proved indeed a gorgeous production fully justifying all that had been said concerning it by the critics of England, America, and Australia. As is well known, the story is founded on a daring love theme. As the hero, Rudolph Valentino is superb; as the heroine Agnes Ayres matches him to perfection. The roiling sands of the desert, the barbaric splendour of the chieftain’s home, the multitude of armed and fearsome Sledouins sweeping over the sands on their splendid steeds, the treacherous sand-storms and glorious star-lit nights—all are perfect artistry. things, linked with the straufat-.iss of the romance itself, give to “The Sheik” a unique and distinctive pre-eminence among the greatest film productions of the day. Screened to the accompaniment of delightfully appropriate music, and with songs which lend an added interest to the themes sung by an accomplished vocalist, “The Sheik” is undoubtedly proving to be one of the moat powerful and fascinating attractions yet provided by the Paramount management. Tonight and to-morrow night will be absolutely the last two chances of seeing "The Sheik” and of hearing Mr Gasquoine’s beautiful singing. The usual week-end programme is announced, and a glance will show that something really outstanding may be anticipated. The star items are Alice Brady in “The New York Idea,” which is in short, the fact that to appear two season’s running with the same jewels, the same husband, and the same automobiles was distinctly unfashionable—quite a promising story—and "Mr Lulu Bett,” featuring Agnes Ayres. On Tuesday and Wednesday nights. Zane Grey’s famous novel, “The Man of the Forest,” is to be the special attraction provided by Paramounts at the Opera House.

LOYAL TEMPERANCE LEGION. The usual fortnightly meeting of the above was held in the Okoia Hall, last Friday evening. One new member joined. Master Chas. Oliver presided. The Legion has matte steady progress with parliamentary rules, and can now move and second resolutions in fine style, thus enabling the boys and girls to conduct their meetings in proper order. Mrs Duxfield, superintendent, gave a helpful address on “Alcohol’s Dresses,” pointing out that though alcoholic drinks looked pretty and attractive outside there was always the old enemy alcohol inside. Recitations were given by Grace Brandon, anid Clem. Gregg; also tuneful singing by Olive McGrall, Lily Jacobs, Grace and Nancy Brandon, besides action songs and choruses by the L T.L.

It was announced that the address for next meeting would be: “Weights and Measures,” to be given by Mr H. Allen who is also bringing a young people’s orchestra. The singing of the Temperance Doxology brought a bright useful meeting to a close.