ENTERTAINMENTS.

Waikato Times, Volume 96, Issue 15359, 6 October 1923, Page 6

ENTERTAINMENTS.

GREAT FILMS AT THE ROYAL. The huge double-star attractions, which make a splendid impression at the popular Theatre Royal last evening and which will be shown for the last time to-night arc up-to-date pictures of the highest standard. Paramount's 8000 ft reproduction of Cosmo Hamilton’s widely-read novel “ The Rustle of Silk " is an admirable production in every way. The photography and the misc cn scene and settings were beautiful. The story of a Prime Minister of England who hardly noticed women—for whom the “rustle of silk” had no attraction until it was worn by his wife’s maid —is unusual and full of interest. Betty Compson, beautiful Anna Q. Nilsson, in glorious gowns and furs, and that sound actor Conway Tearlc scored heavily in the principal parts. The second attraction, “ Breaking Home Ties," is a particularly human story, in which trouble enters the door of a very happy family

through a jealous son attempting to kill a friend who has estranged the affection of his affianced wife. “Breaking Home Ties” is a play of big heart appeal. A special attendant at the theatre will reserve seats from two o’clock until seven p.m. “Turn to the Right ” is underlined for Tuesday next.

“TURN TO THE RIGHT.” There is a big treat in store for picture lovers in the advent at the popular Theatre Royal on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings next of the world-famous play, “Turn to the Right," the success of which in the cities of the world totally eclipsed that of all other stage productions of its time. Winchell Smith, the

lucky author, who also wrote “Officer GGG” and “Brewster’s Millions,” received £IOO,OOO for the screen rights of the story—the largest sum ever paid to an author, yet the plot is so refreshingly off the beaten track that its popularity and monetary success has proved it to be easily worth the amount paid. Dorothy Dalton’s greatest success, “Dark Secrets,” will be shown in combination. Early applica-

tion at Paul’s for seats is advisable. “THEODORA,” A MIGHTY FILM. The latest spectacular. Italian film, “Theodora,” presented by Goldwyn studios at the popular new Strand Theatre last night, was an instantaneous success. It seems to be the fashion of Italian made motion pictures to present some giant as one of the principal characters. This has since been followed in “Theodora,” announced as the world’s greatest spectacle. The character is “Gorgia,” Ihe Emperor Justinian’s chief executioner. “Gorgia” plays a considerable part. One of the most dramatic scenes is supplied when the empress stabs Marcollus, friend and co-con-

spirator with her lover, so that he may not he forced by the torture chamber to reveal the identity of his companion. The other scene follows after Theodora has heard a man denounce her from the galleries of the hippodrome and has demanded his head for the insult. As the man is dragged in front of the royal couple she discovers that she has unknowingly scaled the doom of her sweetheart. It is then that “Gorgia” again appears on the scene, and Andreas is only saved from a terrible death by Theodora loosening the hordes of forty starved lions on the helpless populace and permitting her sweetheart to escape in the confusion that follows. “Theodora” is the historic story of the early 'Byzantine period. The story of the wife of Emperor Justinian is as fiery as it is powerful and picturesque. Seats for to-night shculd be reserved at the Theatre, where they may be obtained from 2 till 7 p.m., or by Theatre ’phone 1422. THREE STARS AT FRANKTON’S OWN No bigger and better picture bill has ever been shown at Frankton’s Own Theatre than to-night's splendid three stars offering. Betty Compson, Anna Q. N'illsson, and Conway Tearle will be seen in “ The Rustle of Silk ’’ in eight acts, and a cast of stars will present “ Breaking Home Ties," one of the most-popular picture successes ever brought to New Zealand. “Buffalo Bill ” will thrill its followers. A crowded house is assured. FOX FAREWELL CONCERT.

The farewell concert to he tendered Mr and Mrs W. R. Fox by the Mayor and citizens of Hamilton, at the Theatre Royal on Monday night, is creating much interest, and, judging by the manner in which tickets are selling, there will be a very large audience. Everyone recognises the good work done by Mr and Mrs Fox in providing, with their pupils, good orchestral music, and there is 'widespread regret at their departure. The programme arranged is of unusual attractiveness. The orchestra will be heard in the beautiful Introduction and Prayer from Rienzi, and other choice items. Mrs W. R. Fox, with the orchestra, will give the massive Concerto in C Minor (Mendelssohn), which should be very impressive. The massed choirs (200 voices) will he heard in the Hallelujah Chorus, and the Hamilton Choral Society and Male Choir will each give enjoyable items. With vocal solos by Mrs Le Petit and Mr J. G. Norman and violin solos by little Peggy Sorby and Mr James Lee, it will be seen that the programme is of outstanding merit. Seals should be booked at Paul's Book Arcade. STUDENTS’ RECITAL A varied and interesting programme is promised by the students of Mr Edwin Dennis in their forthcoming recital on October ’ 25, at the Theatre Royal. Apart from the ordinary solos, duels, quartettes, excerpts from grand and comic opera have been included. A number of items will be in costume, and special attention has been paid to the lighting effects. Two junior choirs will be performing in action songs and the Philharmonic choir will be rendering part songs. In all there will be approximately 130 students performing, assisted by artists in elocutionary and humorous items, and a professional orchestra. COMPETITIONS AT THAMES. Under the auspices of the Australasian School of Grand Opera musical and elocutionary competitions will be held at Thames, commencing on November 28. Entries will close on November 17 with the competitions secretary, Pollen Street, Thames.