AMUSEMENTS.

Hokitika Guardian, 31 July 1926, Page 1

AMUSEMENTS.

EVERYBODYS PICTURES.

“WOLVES OF THE BORDER’ -TO-NIGHT.

“ Wolves of the Border” is the last word in a Western comedy-drama. Franklyn Farnum is the star, supported by a cast oi well-known players. Margaret, as Aunt Martha, will he remembered for the part she played as Maggie in the series of “ Dinty ” comedies. Her ability to portray comedy character parts places her at the head of the profession. Andrew Waldron, as 11 Skeeter ” Hansen, is one of the oldest character actors on the screen. His experience dates back some thirty years to a long tour of vaudeville and dramatic stage. He is always in demand for the screen. William Dyer is one of the pioneer Western “heavies” in filmdom. His characterization in “The Silent Call” was a sensation. “Wolves of the Border” : i-s the story of a mysterious band of men headed by a daring loader, known only as “The Wolf.” “The Wolf” was secure in his position as he posed as a we]l-to-do-rancli owner and enjoyed the confidence of the country-side. His maraudings went on unmolesteduntil Dick Donaldson, owner of the El Fanitn, determined to rid the country of The Wolf and his band. There is comedy galore, when “ Skeeter ” Hansen, whose only regret in life was that lie had never married, suddenly finds his dream realised in Aunt Martha. Aetioft and thrills a-plenty, and a corking fight is staged at the finish. This is the type of story that is hound to please. “ Wolves of the Border ” necessitated an umisally large east, some two hundred cowboys being used. Nothing is more exciting or thrilling than to see a. gang, of mounted cowboys come thundering down the road at breakneck speed, risking their lives in seemingly impossible stunts and rides. “ Wolves of the Border ” almost cost Franklyn Farnum his life. The story called for an ambusli scene, with Farnum the victim, and a fall from, his horse. The fall was a hit too realistic, frightening the horse, which nearly trampled Farnum to death before he could be rescued. The serial and a good comedy complete the display to-night. THE OPTIMISTS.

MONDAY NEXT. Everybody has heard of the London “ Co-optimists,” a epneert party which has served the London public with a delightful variety entertainment for the : last five years. It lias been one of the most popular shows in the theatrical history of the Old Country. A i similar concert party, called “The Opti- ] mists.” has been formed to tour Aus- ' tralili, and will open at The Princess 1 Theatre, Hokitika, on Monday for one 1 night only. Among those prominent members of “ The Optimists ” is Sam < Stern, the famous character comedian I direct from his London and New 1 York engagements. He won fame in a ; single night when lie took London by - storm with “ Yiddle on Your Fiddle,” his own composition. The song was as popular then as “ Yes, We Have No Bananas ” was a year or two ago. Sam Stem is- well known for his Italian, French and Jewish sketches, and wi 11 give sketches from his extensive repertoire at the Princess Theatre when he appears with “ The Optomists.” Another well known artist in t the company is Miss. Peggy Peat, Australia’s premier songstress, Veta Gil- 1 bert, continental dramatic soprano and s pianist. Supporting Mr Stern is Franeis Cornwell, , a brilliant and popular s baritone. Miss Nanova Baudinet, Parisicnne soubrette and danseuse, who- will feature all the latest ball room dances, including the famous € Charleston; Air Arthur Burns. Eng- s land’s favourite character actor, is also v in the company, and his work in sev- ~ eral sketches should be appreciated. s Tlie Beau Brummel of “The Optimists” is Mr Stan Hudson Alrtli, who will fen ture some of Sam Stern’s popular ]. compositions. , Miss Marie Francis is a charming girl in song and dance, spec- () ialising in toe. ballet and national , dances. The company has just ter- (i minated a successful season of 14 nights in Auckland. According to press t reports this company is credited with j being one of the best combinations g that has toured Australia. The box plan is at Mclntosh’s confectionery shop. |