PERCY HUTCHISON

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 440, 23 August 1928, Page 14

PERCY HUTCHISON

TO VISIT AUCKLAND SHORTLY Mr. Percy Hutchison, the eminent Londonn actor-manager, will make his Trst appearance in Auckland at His Majesty’s Theatre on September 5, with the hilarious comedy, “The Laughing Optimist,” which has been an outstanding success in England, South Africa,, and the United States. This splendid comedy was originally produced by Mr. Hutchison at the famous Garrick Theatre, London, where it was nightly acclaimed as one of the best ever produced in that great city. When “The Laughing Optimist” was produced in Australia, it was described as “ the comedy success of recent years,” and several of the papers described .the production as a veritable triumph for Mr. Hutchison. The company will include Stella Francis, Mary Brackley, and Frances Dillon. “Mr. What’s-His-Name” and “The Luck of the Navy” will also be produced here. “DRESS PARADE” AT ROYAL A story of life at the West Point Military Academy, “Dress Parade.” to be shown again this evening at the Royal Theatre, Kingsland. is one of the most enjoyable military college pictures shown in Auckland The hero is an ex-boxing champion. Vio Donovan, who is in love with Janet, the daughter of the commandant, and therefore a rival of a fellow suitor in Cadet Haldane. Vio grows careless in his studies and, reprimanded by the commandant, pleads fo.r another chance. The tirst year is completed. There is a big dance, attended by Vic’s former boxing manager, Patsy Dugan. Haldane proposes to Janet. who refuses him. Haldane kisses her hand and is observed by Vic, who.bitterly confides to Patsy his intention of returning to the old life. William Boyd and Bessie love are the stars. Ken Maynard will be seen in “The Upland Rider,” a thrilling Western .horse-breeding story, which is the second picture. Imagine Marion Davies wearing her sister’s old clothes—doing nearly qjl the housework —and mimicking Lillian Gish, Mae Murray and Pola Negri just to show she is not down-hearted. This is what she does in her latest picture, “The Patsy.” As Patricia Harrington, the “uninteresting” member of an average family, Marion Davies goes through all the indignities of the Cinderella sister. There comes a time, however, when she decides to develop “personality,” and from then onward wins the admiration and attention of all the male guests of the family. “The Patsy” is a rollicking comedy of domestic life, with Marie Dressier, Lawrence Gray and Jane Winton supporting the 'star.