ENTERTAINMENTS.

Waikato Times, Volume 96, Issue 15353, 29 September 1923, Page 6

ENTERTAINMENTS.

BIG PRODUCTION AT STRAND. A picture that should prove a most popular one was shown at The New Strand Theatre last night. “Omar, the Tentmaker,” is bound to draw a big house to-night. Amongst its most spectacular scenes are a rose garden, with fountains splashing in the silvery moonlight—a poetic youth and a beautiful maid! The streets of golden Naishapur, bustling with pilgrim", natives, vendors of everything imaginable, caravans of camels, bands cl Bedouins on Arabian steeds —and beggars 1 A tavern, with bibulous youths roistering in the immemorial manner! The mystic Temple of Zoroaster, its altar looming up in the semi-darkness of the interior, its minarets where the muezzins chant their call to prayer! The gardens of the Governor, with slaves who carry out his slightest wish, for his wish Is law! The dungeon cells—"the home of ten thousand shadows” —In which the doomed await their execution, or the far greater dread of torture 1 The potter’s shop, emblematic of the seat of the Maker of Mankind, and the clay on the wheel as the clay in His hands! The halls of the mighty Shah of Shahs, whose wealth can buy for his leering senility even the fairest flower of all Persia 1 The study of the philosopher-poet, Omar, the Tentmaker, son of an artisan father, whose manifold talents compose the eternally beloved quatrains and invent a practicable scientific calendar —a room where scrolls of verses mingle with astronomical instruments! A most pleasing assortment of films complete a really good show, seats for which may be booked at the theatre from l till 7 p.m., or by ’phone 1422.

LAST OF “GRUMPY.”

The manager of the popular Theatre Royal may be heartily congratulated on the splendid picture edbertainment which gave real enjoyment to a big house last evening and which cannot be shown after to-night. Beginning with that best of short subjects ‘‘Pathe’s Coloured Review,” which gripped everybody's interest, there followed Bryant Washburn with Joan Morgan, a sweet English actress in Washburn’s own comedy-drama, “The Road to London” an unique offering. The scenic background was very fine. The glimpses of the Thames River were more than worth the price of admission. This story of an elopment in New Babylon was acted on such historic spots as Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Spuare, Windsor Castle and Chapel, Houses of Parliament, Constitution Arch, Westminster Abbey, Whitehall, Westminster Eridge and many other notable places that are “within the sound of Bow Bells and In sight of St. Paul’s. After "The Road to London” came the chief attraction “Grumpy," a most excellent adaptation by Paramount of Cyril Maude's world famous play. Theodore Roberts fairly captured Hamilton last evening as “Grumpy” and Conrad Nagel must be seen to be appreciated. A special attendant will be on duty at the Theatre throughout the day to reserve seats for patrons. “SHERLOCK HOLMES."

All who saw John Barrymore “greatest of living actors,” in his wonderful characterisation of the dual roles in “Dr. Jekyll and Mr Hyde” will be prepared for great acting in “Sherlock Holmes,” the biggest thing in pictures recently released, more especially as associated with Mr Barrymore is a truly wonderful cast of celebrated actors and actresses. The dramatisation of Sherlock Holmes was made by the famous actor-author, Wm. Gillette. It was seen in New Zealand some years back with Cuyler Hastings as the apochryphal detective. Its success was most marked but it lias remained for John Barrymore to set the absolute seal upon its success in this present great screen version, which, released by United Artists Ltd., has achieved overshadowing- popularity and crowded houses everywhere. Bookings are already being made at Paul’s. “GRUMPY” AT FRANKTON. As everyone will rush this evening to see Theodore Roberts in his great success, “ Grumpy ” patrons are advised to be early at the pay box. Bryant Washburn and bonnie Joan Morgan will be seen in “The Road to London," a most entertaining comedydrama, with splendid views of London as a background. “ Buffalo Bill ” will thrill Its followers. Seats may be reserved over ’phone 1580. ' FOX FAREWELL CONCERT. Judging by the interest being manifested in the farewell concert to Mr and Mrs W. R. Fox in the Theatre Royal on Monday, October 8, there will be an overflowing audience. Apart from the desire to honour musicians who have done so much to foster a taste for good music in Waikato, the programme itself will make a strong appeal. It will include six orchestral gems by the Fox Orchestra, a massive concerto by Mrs W. R. Fox and orchestra, violin solos by Miss Peggy Sorby and Mr James Lee (the talented Hamilton players), vocal solos, and items by the massed choirs of 200 voices assisted by the orchestra. Such an excellent programme should attract o large audience, and the concert should prove a great tribute of recognition of the good work done by Mr and Mrs Fox. “ DICK WHITTINGTON ” PANTO. Of the artists engaged for Mr Tano Fama’s latest production, “Dick Whittington,” too much cannot be said of the famous dame impersonator, Ted Stanley. lie is an exceptionally fine artist. Miss Saidie Tilburn, the principal boy, has been the subject of numerous favourable criticisms on her ability. The Sydney Daily Telegraph says that Miss Tilburn Is, without doubt, a very fine artiste, and her role suits her admirably. Little Jackie Cass, who is to play the part of the Cat in the production, shows amazing versatility, and is a singer and dancer of great merit. Ivy Bowment, the girl, has been known to Australian playgoers since her childhood, and ranks well to the front as a soubrette. Frank Cane, the specially act, offers a unique presentation of coloured shadowgraph}’ studies. The Pantomime Beauty Ballet and Chorus arc a very pretty and talented coterie of dancers. Miss Kitty Gresham, who has charge of the ballet, graduated from the lino old Pollard school, and has since those days been connected with the firm of J." C. Williamson. Box plans are available at Paul’s. There will be a matinee for children commencing at 3.15 p.m.