MAJESTIC THEATRE

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 79, Issue 1, 2 January 1936, Page 9

MAJESTIC THEATRE

‘■BROADWAY MELODY Or 1936” The popularity of “Broadway Melody of 1936,” at the Majestic Theatre, is proved by the ability of the spectacular musical extiavaganza that continues to draw crowds. The tap-dancing of Eleanor Powell alone is entertainment enough, for this lissome, graceful brunette is without doubt the best exponent of intricate steps ever seen on screen or stage. But when a coherent plot is added to the dancing attractions, and a superb cast handles various roles faultlessly, the lure of “Broadway Melody” is understandable. Nor is Miss Powell alone in her : dance numbers, for in some of them she is associated with. Vilma and Buddy Ebsen, simultaneous dancens de luxe, who arc also famous as a brother-sister duo of comedians. Their work with the star is among the highlights of a picture remarkable for its wonderful set- . tings, its singing and dancing. Robert Taylor as the young producer with his troubles is manly and attractive; JackBenny, famous radio pci former, is suave and sincere as the soluinnist who gets Taylor into most of his lixes; Sid Silvers is the “side-kick” of Benny, and his impersonation of a French actress is very creditable; June Knight is the blonde backer for Taylor’s show, who demands her pound of flesh for the bargain; Nick Long does some clever acrobatic dancing witn Miss Knight, and Frances Longford, radio singer and Harry Stockweii. baritone, give excellent numbers. The choruses, ensembles (including one in which the Albertina Rasch toe-ballet dancers collaborate with Miss Powell), the frocking, and the cleverly-designed settings on mirror floors are right up to standard. The .1936 “Broadway Melody” easily eclipses anything of its kind seit out of Hollywood. Hilarious laughter follows the burlesque description of how to woo sleep by Henry Branch, and there is plenty of humouf in the science of snoring as demonstrated by a clever mimic in the big picture.