MAJESTIC

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 96, 14 July 1927, Page 17

MAJESTIC

“THE SCARLET LETTER” An entertainment of unusual interest will be provided at the Majestic to-morrow. It marks the date of the inauguration of the new orchestra, under the baton of Mr. John Waugh, a British musician of the highest ability and world-wide experience. The orchestra has been reorganised to provide Majestic patrons with an even more ambitious musical programme than heretofore. It is only fitting that the largest and finest theatre in New Zealand should have the largest and finest orchestra. A particularly fine musical score, arranged in America, and played in the world’s leading picture theatres, for “The Scarlet Letter,” will be played. The overture will be the popular “Zampa,” which will eloquently demonstrate the artistry and skill of the new orchestra. A New Zealand scenic entitled “Tall Timbers,” the latest topical budget, a hilarious Mermaid comedy entitled "Hold Your Hat,” featuring A 1 St. John, and Eve’s Review, will complete the excellent supporting programme. A beautiful prologue entitled “The Little Quaker,” with twelve performers. has been arranged by Valeska. Motion picture goers who thrilled to the infinite artistry of Lillian Gish in “The White Sister” and who rightly regard her as the finest actress of modern times, have yet to see her in her greatest role. Soon, however, they will be able to do so. for in “The Scarlet Letter.” Nathaniel Hawthorne’s classic story of Puritan days, which is coming to the Majestic Theatre tomorrow, Miss Gish has the role of the immortal Hester Prj-nne—a role which still further establishes her greatness. Although written very many years ago, “The Scarlet Letter” is still regarded as one of the best pieces of dramatic literature ever given to the world, and it has been read and re-read by men and women of every nationality. Dealing with an age of narrow-minded, blind prejudice, it tells of a man and woman who loved with a mighty overpowering love, and of the price they paid for it. Its powerful theme and the plenitude of its dramatic situations make it an ideal screen subject. And it could have no better heroine than Lillian Gish. For years picture producers desired to bring “The Scarlet Letter” to the screen, but certain difficulties stood in the way. It was left to the production executives of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer to overcome these difficulties, and with the advice and co-operation of the Federal Council of Churches of America they did so. Now, in all its impelling power, “The Scarlet Letter” is being presented throughout the world. “The Scarlet Letter" tells a story that is as dramatic and inspiring today as when it was first written. Its heroine, Hester Prynne, was young and. gay, and in love with life. For these reasons the stern men and women of the Puritan colony in which she lived regarded her with disfavour and suspicion. And when a great new love entered into her life and fate whirled her into a tangled web of tragic happenings, she faced the scorn and bitterness of her neighbours with proud senerity because love is greater than intolerance. Victor Seastrom. who directed “The Scarlet Letter,” has made many remarkable pictures. Both "He Who Gets Slapped” and “Name the Man” were made by him, but “The Scarlet Letter” is undoubtedly bis supreme achievement. Frances Marion, greatest of all scenario writers, was responsible for the screen adaptation of Hawthorne’s masterpiece, and a distinguished supporting cast includes Hanson, “the Swedish John Barrymore,” Karl Dane, of "The Big Parade” fame, and Henry B. Walthall.