ST. JAMES' THEATRE.

Press, Volume LXVII, Issue 20168, 21 February 1931, Page 11

ST. JAMES' THEATRE.

"ESCAPE. w GALSWORTHY'S PLAY AS A TALKIE. One of the outstanding screen treats of the year is promised to Christchurch .picturegoers when "Escape," the talkie version of John Galsworthy's notable drama, opens at St. James' Theatre to-day. The play, produced with great success in London and, New York, was lauded, as one of the most brilliant contributions the stage has received in years. Presenting a theme of wide appeal, carrying a story that moves along at a rapid rate, and reaches a powerful dramatic climax, "Escape" is unusually well'suited for screen treatment. , This is the first talkie from Associated Radio Pictures, a company formed expressly to make talkies in England. Basil Dean, famous British director, was in charge of the production. It is an all-English film, with an ( all-English cast, and it marks the first time that 'nny Galsworthy work has been brought (o the talking screen. In the, film all the author's dialogue and characters have been faithfully retained. It is of especial interest to note that included in the cast is Marie Noy, the talented New Zealand actress, who has made such a big hit with audiences throughout England. Gerald du Maurier, most popular player -on the English stage,, plays the leading role. As Captain Denant, he croates one of the most brilliant characterisations of the past decade. Edna Best, favourite of New York and London theatre audiences, plays a featured feminine role; Mabel Poulton, one of the most promising of young film players, and star of "The Constant Nymph"; lan Hunter, of "Syncopation" and "Easy Virtue" fame;' Gordon Harker and S. J. Warmington, veteran film players'; Lewis Casson, i sterling legitimate stage actor; Austin Trevor, I Madeleine Carroll, and David Hawthorne I round out tho cast,of featured players. I The box plans aro at The Bristol Piano I "Company.: • . • '