ENTERTAINMENTS.

Waikato Times, Volume 114, Issue 18986, 1 July 1933, Page 3

ENTERTAINMENTS.

TO-NIGHT’S PROGRAMMES

STRAND THEATRE

“Witty and intelligent” is how an •verseus critic described “Topaze,’ ■which will have its initial presentation at the Strand Theatre to-day- It is notable for the appearance of .John Barrymore in a distinctly new type of role, that of a timid schoolmaster who Anally turns 'thief and rogue, in iact, a very engaging rogue. John Barrymore will be remembered for his portrayal of the baron in “Grand Hotel.” In “Topaze” the actor is in his element, for his role calls for subtle interpretation. “Topaze” was adapted from the play of the same name which was received with acclamation in London, Paris and New York. Paris provides the background to the adventures of the timid schoolmaster, who is convinced that honesty is the best policy. When his honesty results In the loss of his position, the schoolmaster changes his philosophy, with eurprising results. Myrna Loy is in the-oast.

theatre royal.

Thoroughly satisfying comedy is the L,*«ynote of “What! No Beer? which will have its initial presentation at the Theatre Royal to-day. In Buster Keaton, Jimmy Durante and Roscoe Ates the Aim has three master comerdlans who maintain the fun at a high pitch. They are ably supported by the beautiful Australian actress, Phyllis Barry, who created such a favourable impression by her acting opposite Ronald Colman in “Cynara.” Keaton is cast as a taxidermist,, and Durante as the town barber, but by an accident they And themselves the proprietors of- an illicit brewery, and to add to their troubles they become involved in the machinations of two beer-selling “gangs,” who seek to ■control their output. From this point the Aim alternates between hilarious comedy and excitement until the conclusion, when one of the partners adopts an entirely novel method of removing all inorlminating evidence when a police raid is threatened-

OIVIO THEATRE. “Wedding Rehearsal,” a very entertaining English comedy is concerned with the determination of the Dowager Marohloness of Buckminster to see her grandson, a handsome guardsman, married. The dowager draws up a list of eligible young London society women, and in a last endeavour to maintain his liberty the grandson sets out on a career of match-making to ensure that all the girls are provided with husbands- The first two he commences with are the famous Roxbury twins, and bis efforts to bring ■their romances to a successful conclusion lead him into a series of amusing complications. Roland Young contributes a very fine performance and is ably assisted

by Lady Tree as the girls’ mother. “Santa’s Workshop,” one of the charming Silly Symphonies which are becoming so popular, Is exceptionally well produced., and appeals just a 3 much to adults as to children.

ROXY. THEATRE. “Horse Feathers" Is Marx Brothers comedy. The picture is tuned with catchy songs and gags that are all brand new. Highlights of the production are the playing of the theme song, “Everyone Says I Love You,” on the harp, by Itarpo, on the piano by Chico and by Groucho with the guitar. A second attraction, “The Secret Call" tells the story of a young girl who sets out to avenge the death of her father, the victim of a crooked political ring. The manner in which she attempts to accomplish this even at the sacrifice of her own love makes for first-clas drama- ' •■■'- ■■