PLAZA THEATRE

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 79, Issue 63, 14 March 1936, Page 16

PLAZA THEATRE

THE LITTLEST REBEL’’ As the tiny Confederate who surrounds the Yanks with smiles, astounds them with songs, and defeats them with dances, Shirley Temple returns to the screen in “The Littlest Rebel/’ which comes to the Plaza Theatre today. Ably supported by a cast which includes John Boles, Jack Holt, Karen Morley and her old tap-dancing friend, Bill Robinson, Shirley plays her first great dramatic role in this screen offering, produced under (Darryl F. I Zanuck. The story of * 'The Littlest I' Rebel/’ adapted from that ever-popu-lar play, deals with happenings in Virginia during the Civil War. After. | Shirley’s father, John Boles, is called to fight for the Stars and Bars, things i go from bad to worse with his family. Loyal servants help to keep the family ’ together, but when their home conies I into the line of lire, Shirley and her i mother. Karen Morley, are forced to l flee. The delicate Miss Morley succumbs to the rigours of war and in a tender and affecting scene, Shirley and her father are reunited. He faces trial and possible execution when he is captured by Jack Holt, a Northern officer. But Holt’s gallantry proves equal to that of the South, and he tries to help them escape. When they are recaptured, both Boles and Holt must face the consequences of their act. The picture reaches a great emotional climax. Shirley’s songs include “Polly Wolly Doodle” and “If All Thy Endearing Y'oung Charms.” Shirley Temple Birthday Party There is a real treat in store for the children of Wanganui at the Plaza Theatre this morning, when, in conjunction with the screening of “The Littlest Rebel,” a huge Shirley Temple birthday party will be held. A gigantic 80Fb birthday cake has been ordered and every child attending this special session will receive a slice of this cake. The management has gone to considerable expense in ensuring that this session shall be a grand and gala | nne and parents who end their children Ito it may rest assured that they will ■ have a really good time.