NATIONAL

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 238, 28 December 1927, Page 14

NATIONAL

THE ROYAL SUNBEAMS The Royal Sunbeams from Aus* tralia, now delighting large crowds the National Theatre, will present "A Merry Xmas Party” for the last time to-night. For next change, to bemads at the matinee to-morrow, a complete new bill is announced. Jackie Clarke, the comedian, will appear in several new songs and dances, and will lead the Tiny Tots in a sketch “Jolly Old Sailors.” This is said to be a masterpiece in comedy sketches, and will no doubt prove popular. Harry Ussher, the boy singer, who has taken all Auckland by storm, will have some new and catchy songs: the different ballets will all appear in new scenas, in one of which Noni Miles will make her first appearance as solo dancer. The Acrobatic Sunbeams have severai novelties yet to unpack, and Little Gwen James, the fairy elf who has endeared herself to all, will also unwind some more surprises. Baby Doreen, whether in solo numbers or as partner of Jackie Clarke, has an irresistible appeal, and she too will be heard and seen in something new. New scenery will be used, and every frock worn will be fresh from the dressmaker’s hands The show is undoubtedly a splendid one, and will draw big houses during the remainder of the season. A complete change on the screen is also announced for to-morrow, when the new star picture will be “Singed,” a William Fox picture featuring Blanche Sweet.

One of the fiercest battles ever enacted before the camera was staged in The Claw,” the Universal-Jewel. Claire "Windsor and Norman Keny are the stars. More than 100 negroes, dressed in the costume of the East African natives, took part in the battle as did Norman Kerry and a score of whites. The skirmish was directed by Sidney Olcott and continued for the better part of four hours before enough satisfactory scenes were made.