AMUSEMENTS AND MEETINGS.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXXXIII, Issue 20168, 9 June 1928, Page 3

AMUSEMENTS AND MEETINGS.

THE MAJESTIC. “The Wizard/’ a mystery photodrama produced by Fox Films with Edmund Lowe, of “What Price Glory” fame in the feature role, has its local premiere at the Majestic Theatre to-day, where it will remain for two days. “The Wizard” is based on the sensational French play “Balaoo” by Cfaston Leroux and is the story of nn eccentric scientist who humanizes an ape to do his bidding and to revenge him for fancied wrongs. Thrills, mystery, suspense and a line love interest will hold any audience every moment during the showing of the picture, while the comedy relief furnished by the two darkies in the role of house servants will bring much laughter to relieve the tnesion of the more sombre moments of this picture. Edmund Lowe, as the reporter who finally solves the mystery of the hu-man-like ape, gives a fine performance with inimitable humour n nd Leila Hyanis as the girl in the story is demurely sweet and a splendid actress. Von Seyffertitz as the eccentric scientist and George Kotsonaros as the ape are convincingly brutal and together furnish many thrills.

“The Climbers.” the other feature on the programme, is one of the very best vehicles given Miss Rich for the display of her nerve and charm as well as her skill as equestrienne and markswoman. The scenes are laid in Old Spain at the Court of Ferdinand VII, and in that part of America then known as New Spain. The story has to do with the fate of the Duchess of Arogan, separated from her young daughter, and banished from Spain through the machinations of a heartless climber, the Countess Veya. “The Climbers” is good, honest melodrama, thrilling and glamorous and filled with fair romance. ‘‘THE. STUDENT PRINCE” AND “MADAME POMPADOUR.” Next Thursday and Friday J. C. Williamson’s Royal Comic Opera Company will present for the first time “The Student Prince,” and- “Madame Pompadour.” The company, principals, chorus and orchestra, appear here exactly as in Melbourne where they created a furore for over 20 weeks. Tb.e comedy, which is founded on the romantic play, ‘Old Heidelberg,’ tells of the story of King Copheria ami the beggar maid, and m its unfolding reveals fully the talent of Bcppie de Vnes and the supporting members of the company. Mils de Vries in the role of Kat hie the wait ress who loves a prince, is happily cast, the part allowing her to play for a vivacious personality, and great dramatic opportunities, in addition to a musical score which shows to advantage her singularly beautiful voice. James Liddy, as Prince Carl, is a picturesque figure. Aithur Stigant as Lutz, the principal comedy character, provides most of the laughs of the piece, assisted by V era Spoull as Gretchen, Adele Crane, Hailey Ila].', and the famous chorus. There were times in Paris when the eighteenth century was young, and the Marquise do Pompadour reigned at Versailles. Tho brilliancy, the gay dressing, the mirth and the music, are reproduced in tho company’s second exquisite opera “Madame Pompadour.’’ She was a patron of art, and a friend of letters. She made beauty a cult and under her influence the splendid days of Versailles were more splendid than ever. The Lox plans open on Monday morning at H. I. Jones and Sons, Ltd.

ALL SAINTS’ GUILD The ladies of All Saints’ Sewing Guild held.* a very successful sale in the church room, Wanganui East. The business done was very satisfactory, the stalls being well patronised. In the evening a free entertainment was well patronised, the items given being much appreciated and frequently encored. Miss Robinson’s recitations were full of talent. Mr Goodhew’s songs were a welcome feature, being full of amusement. Mrs Wall, with two short songs and Master Busdcn, with a good recitation made up an excellent programme. The sale was followed by a children’s fancy dress ball and the children had a royal time. Many of the dresses were very pretty and the supper table which was laden with good things, was a pleasant sight with the children sitting around their different coloured costumes. The vicar, Archdeacon. Creed Meredith, made merry with the children after a happy speech of welcome to everyone. The Rev. and Mrs Coles came in from Waverley for the occasion. The prize winners were: Prettiest girl Miss Mavis Hillier, “Fairy”; boy Master Alex. Ring “Highlander,’’ Economic: Girl, Miss Jean Sherman, “Shavings;” boy, Master D. Jones, “Swagger.” Original: Girl, Miss Gwitha Haggie, “Strawberry”; boy, blaster John Drayton “Judge.” Special prizes were awardjed to Miss Rosemary Field “Black Cat;” Master Jim Graves “All Black.’’

SWIMMERS’ CONCERT AT GONVILLE There is quite a brisk demand for tickets for the concert to be held ai the Gonville Town Hall on Tuesday night, the reason being that the object to which the proceeds will be devoted is such a deserving one, namely the extension of the Gonville Swimming Baths. But in addition the programme to be submitted by Mr A. L. Griffths will be the best put on at Gonville for many a hay. Among the contributors of items will be the Lyric Quartet, whose work is too well known to require any praising at this stage. Present indications point to a packedhouse greeting the talented performers on Tuesday night.