PLIGHT OF THEATRES

Hokitika Guardian, 22 April 1929, Page 5

PLIGHT OF THEATRES

hit my “talkies.”

(United Press Association - By Electric Telegi aph—Copyright). •

(Received this day at 12.25. p.in./ LONDON. April 21.

That “talkies” will be the final knockout to a majority of hard hit London west-end theatres, is the opinion of sonic leading managers, according to an article in the “Sunday I)ispatch,” which says:—“lt i.s estimated at present about 15 per cent, of the theatres .show a profit, which is often f the barest. The managers point out that while the prices are only slightly raised compared with pre-war costs, every tiling connected with production lias denoted. It is useless to attempt to raise the prices, because it will only aggravate the mischief, namely the . inema competition. Silent films are bed enough, hut now the ‘talkies’ threaten much greater mischief.” Basil Dean, at present foremost producer, has given up the tight and decided to enlist for the “talkies.” He recently lost £7OOO on a short-lived play. Dean added that only three per cent .of the West-End plays show a profit. Big musical comedies will live while the prices ar« low, but drama, comedy farces are doomed.

Other theatrical managers scout pessimism, and are expressing the opinion that the people still want g*od shows, hut star salaries must he reduced.