CITY THEATRES

Press, Volume LXXI, Issue 21411, 1 March 1935, Page 19

CITY THEATRES

i ♦ — j MAYFAIR "THE GAY DIVORCEE" Ballroom dances will nol be mere dances from now on. They will tell stories, just like the interpretative dances of professionals. The first of the new plot-idea dances is "The Continental," which is being introduced to the public in RKO-Radio's gay and spectacular musical comedy, "The Gay ) Divorcee,'' which will bo presented for i the first time this evening at the j opening of the new Mayfatr Theatre in Worcester street, opposite the Government Buildings. "The Continental" is demonstrated in this lavish pho'oplay by Fred Astairc and Ginger Rogers as co-stars. They recently introduced that dancing rage, the "Carioca," by way of the screen, I and Ihe new number is expected to prove even more popular. As described by Dave Gould, who staged it as well as the "Carioca," "The Continental" represents the progress of a gay and enthusiastic courtship, made up of steps from the favourite dances of different nations, including the stately minuet, the rhumba, the tango, waltz, fox trot, strut, low down, and the simpler forms of tap. it begins with a gesture of chivalry, a la minuet. The gentleman kisses the lady's hand. Thus introduced, they are ready to begin. The girl rests her forehead against the gentleman's shoulder and they do a circular fox trot.

The pair, drawn into greater intimacy, now soar into a frivolous but simple tap step. The joy of their meeting thus expressed, the couple again become romantic, in a series of waltz whirls to fox trot tempo. As these conclude, the gentleman elevates the girl's hand above his head and she struts happily around him. By this time the romance is far enough along to entitle the gentleman to a little gaiety on his own. He launches the girl into a glorious, complicated convolution that combines a bit of jazz, a dash of rhumba, and a snappy cut-out step. The climax of the romance is a beautiful, animated waltz which ends in a snap halt after a whirl, and the girl's momentum carries her across the gentleman's knees, sitting posture. She is then kissed; the end of the romantic story. That is "The Continental," the new joy dance, as done to a tune called "You Kiss While You're Dancing," especially written by Con Conrad and Herb Magidson for "The Gay Divorcee." CRYSTAL PALACE "LONDON SI'LAKS" "The Case of the Howling Dog," an exciting murder mystery, will be shown finally at the Crystal Palace Theatre to-night. There has been for some ume an express desire for an extensive production based on the structure and life of London, and the film "London Speaks," which will be shown at the Crystal Palace Theatre to-morrow, has met this desire in a remarkable fashion. Produced by the Greater Australasian Films, Ltd., the picture is the story of an Australian in the metropolis. It has been described as "sometimes glorious, sometimes tragic, sometimes cruel, but always fascinating." Enclosed in the boundaries of London proper is to be found more real romance, history, and adventure than in

all cf the other cities if the world put together, and all this and more has been captured by the first feature length film ever produced in London by Australian enterprise and capital. The spectators visits the Okie Cheshire Cheese in Fleet, street, the famous old inn which was the rendezvous of so many of England's famous literary men. Likewise Ihc Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, tin: Tower, Rotten Row, all world-famous landmarks—in fact, everything of interest to persons visiting London for the first time—or renewing old acquaintanceship—is contained in "London Speaks," which is probably the most intensely interesting film of the year. The camera takes the audience through beautiful modern streets and through old thoroughfares—the Poultry, Milk street, Bread street. The Lord Mayor is seen riding in his coach, the Horse Guards being changed at Whitehall. A famous figure of Petticoat lane is seen taking £4OO on a Sunday morning, and Park lane

opulence is contrasted with the slums which still exist. The film has been exceptionally well constructed, so that the camera returns again and again to the river Thames, which forms the centre of the picture, as it does of the city. Madame Tussaud's, Kew Gardens, Hampton Court, and Bushy Park, these and a hundred other well-known places are shown. The narrative is simple and straightforward, and the photography excellent. THEATRE ROYAL "CATHERINE THE GREAT" AND "MOULIN ROUGE" Playgoers to the Theatre Royal this week are assured of really excellent entertainment in the two very fine productions. "Catherine the Great" and the piquant musical comedy "Moulin Rouge." "Catherine the Great" is notable for ibe skill and polished acting of its principals. Flora Robson, as the Empress Elizabeth, is magnificent, portraying this eccentric figure of Russian history with real merit. As the Grand Duke Peter, Douglas Fairbanks is excellent, and he is ably assisted by Elizabeth Bergner. Charm, grace of movement, and a wonderful gift of expression are the qualities which appeal most in this German star and mark her as a great actress. "Moulin Rouge" is a comedy and a farce combined. Franchot Tone, one of the youngest stars, scores an immediate success playing opposite Constance Bennett, who is inimitable in productions of this kind. She plays a dual role

and by skilful handling avoids the pitfalls with which such a role is often beset. At one time she is the temperamental French musical comedy star, and at another the ambitious American girl seeking fame in American musical comedy. GRAND "MANHATTAN MELODUAMA" "Every Woman's Man" will be presented iinally to-night at the Grand Theatre. Clark Gable gives probably the most compelling performance of his career in "Manhattan Melodrama," which will begin a return season at the Grand Theatre to-morrow. With Myrna Ley and William Powell prominently cast, the picture is most absorbing entertainment. The film begins with a prologue re-enacting the fire and panic aboard the excursion steamer General Slocum, in Nov/ York harbour in 1904, when hundreds were killed. "Manhattan Melodrama" is wonderfully entertaining, and at the same time thoughtprovoking. Flashes of comedy all through the piece tread sharply on the heels of the deeper emotional scenes to keep the entertainment balance and add to the effectiveness of the finale. The supporting programme will include Chapter II of the serial "Gordon of Ghost City," starring Buck Jones. Box plans arc now open at the D.I.C.

TIVOLI

"tiiK notorious sornir; LANG" "The Man Who Reclaimed His Head," will be shown finally to-night at the Tivoli Theatre. "The Notorious Sophie Lang," a fastpaced, well-directed and expertiyacted drama, which has for its heroine a lady "Raffles," will head the new programme at the Tivoli Theatre tomorrow. Gertrude Michael and Paul Cavanagh have the leading roles in this story of a well-known robber, a woman who took to crime because of her thirst for thrills, and the scene moves from fashionable hotels and salons to a trans-Atlantic liner. The story opens wjth a jewel robbery in a New York store. Recognising the handiwork of Sophie Lang, Inspector Parr, played by Arthur Byron, determines to catch her by setting another jcwel-thicf on her trail. And for this purpose he selects Maxmillian Bernard iPaul Cavanagh). When the two fugitives from justice 130001111' aware of" Parr's plot, a thrilling and amusing three-cornered battle of v.-il:-' ensues. Prominently cast in supporting roles are Leon Errol, whose trie!;

knees and pantomime furnish many hearty laughs in his elnaractersiation of a slightly bemused detective, and Alison Skiuworlh. "The Notorious Sophie Lang" is a thrilling and entertaining production, liberally sprinkled with humorous passages. Box plans are now open at the D.I.C. REGENT "WHAT LV'IOKV WOMAN KNOWS" "Evensong," starring Evelyn Lave, will be shown finally to-nigh! at the Regent Theatre. Writing of flic film version of Sir J. M. Barrio's "What Every Woman Knows," which will commence at. the Regent Theatre to-morrow, a northern critic said: "A large audience, held by the strong appeal of the fascinating story, and responding freely to the quiet but sparkling humour of the lighter situations, proclaimed 'What Every Woman Knows' to be one of the best screen productions seen in Auckland for a long time. The elements of success not only include a brilliant cast, mastering perfectly the Scots dialogue, but also a distinctive achievement by the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer promoters in creating the whimsical atmosphere and tensity of excitement which lift the production on to its high level of attainment. Helen Hayes excels as the interpreter of the unobtrusive but sterling little Scotswoman. Maggie Wylie, who becomes the wife of a Labour M.P., assists him heroically from behind the scenes and finally triumphs over the' counter attractions of an outwardly more beautiful type of womanhood. Brian A heme gives a powerful portrayal of the dour but clever Scots railway porter, John Sliand, who accepts the financial help of the Wylie familv for the completion of his education in return for affiancing himself fo Maggie, some years older than himself, a plan which is conceived and carried to success by her adoring father and brothers. Only the screen could provide such a thrilling climax to the election which sees the initial triumph of John Shand, and from the screen also come delightful scenes of Scots home life and incidents in the environs of the House of Commons. A diverting trio are Dudley Digges, Donald Crisp and David Torrence, the male members of the Wylie family."

MAJESTIC

".MENACE" "Caravan" will conclude its season at the Majestic Theatre to-night. A thrilling murder mystery, "Menace," featuring Gertrude Michael, Paul Cavanagh, John Lodge, and Henrietta Crosman. will be screened at the Majestic Theatre to-morrow. In this picture, a madman whose identity is unknown threatens the lives of two men and a beautiful woman, and vows that he will end their lives suddenly and horribly. After several years of fearful suspense, the three innocent people are gathered together in an isolated house high in the California mountains. Then one day a letter arrives stating that the would-be killer is in town, and is setting 24 hours as the time necessary for him to carry out his murderous plot. Just before he is ready to strike seven persons are assembled in the beautiful draw-ing-room of the threatened hostess: but only six of them are fearful of their lives, for one of them is known to be the madman! "Menace" is something much more intriguing than the ordinary murder thriller, and, in addition, is played by a cast of popular and talented actors and actresses. Box plans are now open at the D.I.C.

PLAZA

A BRILLIANT DANGER

CIVIC

"THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO" "The Count of Monte Cristo." an outstanding film with an outstanding cast, is now in its fourth week at the Plaza Theatre. The directors have shown an almost uncanny skill in translating a novel so long and so complex to the screen, and the picture brings back vividly to the observer all the genius of Alexandre Dumas. Two of the actors are outstanding—aa Edmond Dantes, Robert Donat, the London stage star, gives a perfect characterisation, while O.y P. Heggie, as the Abbe Faria, is exceptionally good. Elissa Landi makes a charming heroine, and every member of the supporting oast docs full justice to his part. "TRANS-ATLANTIC MERRY-(iO-ROUND" A compound of melodrama with a full range of curd-sharpers, gunmen, confidence tricksters, unfaithful women, and the modern theatre revue, "TransAtlantic Merry-go-round," which will commence at the Plaza Theatre tomorrow, is exciting enough to interest anyone, even if the tangle becomes a trifle obscure now and again. It all begins on the palatial liner Progress, with two resounding pistol shots and the ship's officers trying to break into a cabin. Then the hands of the dock go back 48 hours, the time of the ship's departure from New York. It shows Anyu Rosson's departure from her husband, after which he quietly steals on board to see his own and her disgrace, as this society woman is in love with Lee Lother, a smoothfaced, crook, whose proficiency at poker is very unfortunate for others in tlie game. Then there is Chad Den by and his troupe of revue players, headed by Sally Marsh, whom Lee desires, and who also fascinates Jimmie Brett, another cheerful crook with the manners of an Oxford undergraduate; and there is Dan Campbell, who meanders through the voyage in an advanced stage on intoxication. It seems that Lee Lother has one of Denby's company in '-■' power for having at one time forged his unworthy name to a cheque. Sally gets to know of this, and begs Lee to release the boy from this thraldom. Lee promises fo retu - n the forged cheque to Saily in her cabin after a revue show, and here the two shots are tired, and Lother ceases to live. Who has fired the shots? The examination of all those possibly involved in the murder is being conducted by a police inspector, when there is another shot, and Mrs Rosson falls dead. Her husband, l'uily alive to her intidelity, has done what he went on board to do. So there are thrills up to the last minute. Gene Raymond, Nancy Carroll, Jack Benny, Sydney Howard, Mitsi Green, Sidney Blackiner, Ralph Morgan, and Shirley Gray all do good work, while the Boston Sisters croon harmoniously, in the revue, which is marked by some extremely clever ballets. The girl who mimics Gcoree Arliss is also one to be seen.

"Peculiar Penguins," Walt Dirncy's latest Silly Symphony, which will be screened in the supporting programme, is based on the customary practice. whereby, it is said, a penguin, after strutting about his lady love, lays a small pebble at her feet, and if she accepts it. hey are engaged. In "Peculiar Penguins," however, Disney has Peter present Polly Penguin with an ice-cream cone made from an icicle and a handful of snow, instead of the customary pebble.

"ARE YOU A MASON?" So successful has the opening week of "Arc You a Mason?" been at the Civic Theatre that an extension of the season has been found necessary. When it was released recently in Australia, this film was received with tremendous enthusiasm, and judging by the packed houses that have attended it daily in Christchurch, its success is already assured. The popularity of this production is well deserved, as it is undoubtedly one of the funniest and most entertaining comedies that have yet reached the screen. Two favourites, Sonine Hale and Robertson Hare, head a strong cast of players which includes the cheery Dave .Burnaby, Lewis Shaw, and a charming newcomer to the screen, Gwyneth Lloyd. Briefly the story centres round the desire of a young wife that her husband should become a member of 'he Masonic Lodge. This whim is sponsored by her mother, whose iron hand has ruled her husband since a disastrous indiscretion in his earlier days. It is impossible to write of all the situations that occur in this hilarious farce, but the happy team of stars carry the comedy along at a furious pace and the audience is kept in fits of laughter throughout the whole of the film. The first half of an enjoyable programme is a splendid mystery drama, "Passing Shadows," starring the fine character actor Edmund Gwenn. Plans are now open at the theatre, where scats may be reserved from 10 a.m. daily.

LIBERTY

"HEAT LIGHTNING" AND "LAST OF THE DUANES" "Smarty" and "You Belong to Me" will be shown finally to-night at the Liberty Theatre. A drama, "Heat Lightning," and a Zane Grey western, "Last of the Duanes," starring George O'Brien, will comprise the attractive double-feature programme at the Liberty Theatre tomorrow. With its sudden outbursts of suppressed emotion and smouldering passion, "Heat Lightning" matches in drama the atmospheric clashes of the sun-baked desert where its events take place. The story concerns a former dance Hiall girl who tries to escape her past by opening a petrol station on the desert, where she hopes to find peace and content. With her is her younger sister, whom she hopes to shelter from the world. But she finds she cannot escape the hateful past, when her former lover appears on the scene, and her sister falls in love with the worthless fellow. An allstar cast includes Aline MacMahon, Frank McHugh, Ann Dvorak, and Murile Evans.

In "Last of the Duanes," George O'Brien portrays Buck Duane, a handsome and daring young outlaw. Being an outlaw means eternal vigilance, no home, no rest, no content, always on the dodge, alone and haunted by the thought that he is a marked man. And such was the existence of young Duane after he killed his father's cowardly assassin. This thrilling Western drama is based on Zane Grey's widely read novel of the same name. The leading feminine roles are played by Lucille Browne and Myrna Loy. The management announces that every boy and girl attending Saturday's matinee will be given a bag of sweets. Box plans ai-e now open at the D.I.C.