MAJESTIC

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 74, 18 June 1927, Page 15

MAJESTIC

“THE RED MILL” Stout Willums in wooden shoes and baggy breeches, complete with their meershaum pipes and man-sized beer pots; dainty little Gretchens romping by the canal sde; in fact, everything that goes to make Holland with all its quaint dress and customs, are included in “The Red Mill.” This original and very delightful Hutch comedy, adapted from Victor Herbert’s stage success of the same name, was screened to a large “house” at the Majestic Theatre last evening. Marion Havies is featured in the leading role, that of Gretchen, a maid at the inn, and the part—one abounding with opportunities for whimsical comedy—is exploited to the utmost advantage. Owen Moore is the Irishman, who, sojourning a while in the Land of the Tulips, tries his best to run away with Gretchen under the mistaken impression that she is the rich burgomaster’s daughter. Gretchen is quite willing to be run away with, particularly as the Irishman is bold and handsome, but wants to be quite sure first that he really loves her. Her doubts on this point finally set at rest, she surrenders in the approved fashion. From the final close-up one is led to assume that they live happily ever afterwards. Included in a strong cast are George Siegman (a particularly villainous innkeeper); Louise Fazenda (a lovesick maiden); and Karl Hane (a remarkably efficient valet). In addition to a Gazette and a very instructive film dealing with the uses of electricity, an entertaining Liege Connolly comedy is also submitted. After two or three years’ absence. Mr. Walter Kingsley, of the Humphrey Bishop company, makes a welcome re-appearance, his numbers indeed proving welcome additions to the programme. In “Bells of the Sea,” and “Up From Somerset,” his pleasing baritone proved to have lost none of its charm. Both were warmly received and in response to insistent demands the soloist obliged with “Vale," a number that was accorded very artistic treatment.

The Majestic Orchestra under the direction. of Mr. Mumford, provided an artistic setting to the programme.