STRAND

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 387, 22 June 1928, Page 15

STRAND

“MOTHER MACHREE” “Mother Machree,” the beautiful story of a mother, an Irish mother, everybody’s mother, which has been attracting unprecedented crowds to the Strand Theatre ever since its triumphant Auckland premiere, will commence on its third week of screening this evening. One of the outstanding characterisations of “Mother Machree” is given by Ted McNamara, the comedian who has created such a novel style of acting. McNamara appears as the Harpist of Wexford, and uses a real Irish harp from the old country from which his strumming fingers call forth the melodies. McNamara, in the role of the Harpist, helps to cheer Mother Machree on her way, when she is leaving the shore of Erin for America, and it is the Harpist’s humorous countenance which brings smiles to Mother Machree and Brian, when they are alone and friendless in the big city. “Mother Machree” is an Irish story', full of humour, pathos, romance and motherlove, and is dedicated to all the mothers of the world who have sacrificed themselves for their children. Belle Bennett plays the title role, with Neil Hamilton, Victor MeLaglen and Phillippe de Lacey in support. A very beautiful musical programme accompanies the photoplay. Eve Bentley and her Strand Symphony Orchestra including in their programme many favourite old Irish gems, and specially featuring as their interlude “Emerald Isle,” a delightful medley of Irish airs. An effective musical prologue is presented by Mr. Birrell O’Malley, who sings the famous ballad from which the picture is taken.