PLAZA THEATRE

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 83, Issue 143, 20 June 1939, Page 9

PLAZA THEATRE

“Tlin MIKADO" Gilbert ana Sullivan's immortal comcley gem, “'lhe iaixado, ’ concludes to-nignt al the Plaza Theatre. Filmed entirely in the glorious pastel tones of modern techmcolour, and made with the full co-operation of Mr. Rupert D’Oyly Carte, owner of the copyright, the him version retains all the piquant fantasy which marks the traditional stage presentation. Most of the principals arc members of the D’Oyly Carte Opera Company, and the music is provided by the London Symphony Orchestra. Kenny Baker and Jean Colin play the two romantic leads. “The Great Man Votes” and “Annabelle Takes a Tour.” That a man who is great to his children owes it to them to prove himself great to the rest of the world is the theme of “The Great Man Votes,” commencing to-morrow at the Plaza Theatre, presenting John Barrymore as the hero, with other roles of importance tilled by seven-year-old Peter Holden and 11-year-old Virginia Weidler. The story deals with the life of a watchman on a big city building project, Gregory Vance (Lionel Barrymore), who, with his two children, lives in a tumble-down home among the skyscrapers. Once a famous historian and educator, Vance lost his inspiration when his wife died some years before. A school feud between the children and the son of the wealthy owner of the new building re-

sults in the children meeting their rich relatives and their father losing his job. However, an election is coming along, and the wealthy owner, McCarty (Donald Mcßride)., finds that skyscrapers have encroached on the local precinct to such an extent that Vance is the only registered vefer left. Vance thus finds himself in a position to dictate his own terms. On the same programme is the sparkling comedy, “Annabelle Takes a Tour.” Lucille Ball, as the actress Annabelle, contributes a brilliant performance to the hilarious story of her adventures, and Jack Oakie, amusing as ever, also gives a sterling perform-