FULL OF VARIETY

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 122, 13 August 1927, Page 15

FULL OF VARIETY

THE MAJESTIC PROGRAMME Variety was again the keynote of the current programme presented to a crowded house at the Majestic Theatre last evening. In addition to a high-class picture programme, comprising two really excellent comedies —or, rather, a comedy

and a romantic comedy—a Majestic News, Eve’s Review, and a New Zealand scenic, “Windy Wellington,” a very pleasing feature was also introduced by the stage appearance of the new Majestic Orchestra. Two items, not including recalls, were contributed. A very

welcome innovation, proving decidedly popular. That good music appreciated by picture patrons was very evident last evening, in the remarkably enthusiastic reception accorded the band.

A medley of popular airs, arranged by the musical director, Mr. John Whiteford-Waugh, proved the basis of a very novel competition, in which prizes are to be awarded to the competitors successful in nominating the most numbers played. The orchestra also contributed Brahm’s “Hungarian Dance No. 6,” a repetition being demanded. The usual picture accompaniments were again excellent. When three American soldiers who have unwittingly wandered over into Germany during the armistice period find themselves mistaken for the army of occupation, they have no option but to carry on with the deception. The “army” does the best it can under the circumstances, and judging by ultimate x'esults. it proved a very good best. This is the theme of “Tin Hats.” a very entertaining comedy, which headed the picture bill. Although in the absence of trench scenes it can hardly be termed a war picture, it is undoubtedly the best picture dealing with the war that we have seen for some time.

The adventures of the three lost soldiers when they wake up to the fact that they are in a German village, and that they are regarded as the army of occupation, are at times excruciatingly funny. As the Baroness von Bergen, Claire Windsor provides the romantic element necessary even in a comedy. Conrad Nagel is the handsome young soldier who, posing as the commandant, breaks down the cold reserve of the beautiful German girl, and finally wins her love. The comedy element is in the hands of Tom O’Brien, George Cooper, and Bert Roach, who prove eminently successful. Lupino Lane’s new comedy, “Drama De Luxe,” can be termed one big laugh from start to finish. These “slapstick” comedies are proving very popular of iate, and the reason is not hard to find. A New Zealand scenic, featuring “Windy Wellington,” has been well prepared, and is full of interest, as are also two topicals featuring all the latest European events.