OPERA HOOSE

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 83, Issue 255, 28 October 1939, Page 9

OPERA HOOSE

“THE STORY OF IRENE AND VERNON CASTLE” Large crowds were attracted to th< Opera House yesterday by the colourful and moving film, “The Story o Vernon and Irene Castle,’’ which portrays the romantic career of a | couple who set their admirers the world over dancing to a now rhythm and new tunes. The Castles rose tc fame in the days immediately preceding the Great War, and this film recaptures the carefree and < —;ntially optimistic spirit of their generation. 1’ is a sincere record of their struggle.’ land achievements, a convincing drama I of real life, but at the same time « brilliant cavalcade of spectaculai dances anti haunting songs, for th< youthful artists’ consuming interest was their art, and they found then greatest joy together in the turbulent rhythm of the dances born of their genius. Vernon and Irene Castle in troduced dances that are familiar ir the ballrooms of to-day, an expressive tribute to the grace and gaiety with which they expressed their artistry. The picture is interspersed with man\ spectacular scenes, while melodic.', that have gained an added -poignance with the years offer bright and happy contrast to the tragedy which came with the outbreak of the Great War. The two principals, Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire, interpret sincerely the couple’s varying emotions as they tremulously presented their first dance before a critical audience, as they joyously accepted the fame and fortune which was their due, and as they faced the agonies of separation through the nightmare years of the war.

Sammy McKim is an up and coming young western actor. The Colorado Hillbillies are eight boys who, with all string instruments, create music that will keep your toes tapping the floor whenever they are on the screen.