THE NEW REGENT

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 16, 9 April 1927, Page 14

THE NEW REGENT

“YOU NEVER KNOW WOMEN” “The pen is mightier than the sword.” That may be so, but one would i'eel better able to wield a sword than to use the pen in adequately describing and completely conveying to the public the worth and standard of the excellent programmes that of late have been presented by the management of the new Regent Theatre. Without a doubt the entertainment offered in this luxurious theatre is such that the most fastidious—and there are plenty—could find not the smallest cause for complaint. A new week commenced last night with the Paramount feature, “You Never Know Women.” Florence Vidor and Clive Brook fill the leading roles to the absolute satisfaction of everyone, while the supporting cast calls for much praise. It‘ is said that a woman never really knows what she wants until she has lost it—and that detracts not one whit from the charms and grace of the fair sex. That is just what happened when Vera, a little Russian girl, thought she was in love with a handsome stranger. Then she lost the man she “loved as a brother,” and she knew what she wanted. A gripping plot, cleverly worked out and containing ample to entertain, is brought to an excellent conclusion. Rare entertainment in the form of celebrated continental vaudeville acts is woven into the plot, forming in short a decidedly good drama of life and love among a band of Russian players. The only way to enjoy and realise the worth of this remarkable production is to see it. The Regent News containing items of interest, an exceedingly funny comedy, “Her Engagement Day/ ’and “The Tower of London,” featuring the tragedy of Lady Jane Grey, complete the picture programme. The latter is the second of the “Haunted Castles of England Series,” which are a popular addition programme. Mr. Eddie Horton was accorded a deservedly appropriate reception for his delightful renditions at the mighty Wurlitzer. “Miserere” from “II Trovatore,” “Heart of Thine, Sweet Voice” from “Samson and Delilah,” and popular medleys were his choice this week. His playing was an absolute revelation and to insistent applause he rendered “Rose Marie.” Last, but not least, came the Armand Brothers, described as sensational gymnastic exponents. The description falls short in that the cleverness, neatness of execution, and wonderful ease with which they performed remarkable feats was not recorded. These two artists carried out the most difficult stunts with an air of seeming carelessness that made the spectator hold his breath. Unlike the usual mediocre gymnasts the Armand Brothers give something that is different and the applause which greeted their efforts left no doubt as to their popularity with an audience that could appreciate a decidedly clever turn. The operatic orchestra, under the baton of Mr

Maurice Guttridge was in excellent form, and its rendering of the over cure, “Masinello” (Auber) is well worth hearing. Patrons have only until next Thursday to see the new Regent programme and it’s one that should really not be missed.