NEW REGENT

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 242, 3 January 1928, Page 15

NEW REGENT

“MAN ON LESCAUT” Once in a while a melodrama is produced that is so far ahead of other dramas that it sets a standard, which stands until some other producer makes something much better. Such is “Manon Lescaut,” the latest Ufa masterpiece, which will be shown at the New Regent Theatre for three more days. Adapted from Abbe Prevost’s wellknown romance, and Massenet’s famous opera, masterfully directed and artistically acted, with its settings and general realistic atmosphere, the story creates in the mind an impression that lasts many days and weeks after one has seen the picture. Though tragedy, the sad fate of the principal characters does not leave an unpleasant feeling. On the contrary, their fate so arouses the compassion of the spectator that one feels regret for not being able to help relieve their sufferings. Miss Lya de Putti in the title role is simply remarkable. Her acting superb, her artistic impersonation of the discarded, broken-hearted Manon leaves nothing to be desired. Hr. Arthur Robison, the noted German producer, directed this picture, which has had sensational runs in all the main European capitals, including a long season at London’s super-cinema, “The New Gallery.'* A special musical score is being played by the Regent operetic orchestra, under the baton of Mr. Maurice Guttridge, including the overture to “Manor Lescaut,’ by Puccini, selections from Massenet’s “Manor,” “Madame Butterfly,” “Othello,” etc.

Russo and Bradford, the operatic vocalists, have proved that it was a wise move on the part of the management to bring them back for a return season. Their reception at every programme is most enthusiastic, and show's them to be more popular than ever. These clever artists, who appear in a beautiful and colourful setting, positively terminate their engagement on Thursday.

Eddie Horton at the organ plays “The Gipsy Love Song,” and a pot pourri of old-time appropriate airs, finishing with “Auld Lang Syne,” in which the whole audience join. A strong supporting programme includes an English tazette, a Pathe colour review and a very clever Mutt and Jeff cartoon.