"THE BELLE OF NEW YORK”

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 468, 25 September 1928, Page 17

"THE BELLE OF NEW YORK”

ANOTHER LARGE HOUSE ••The Belle of New York,” a musical comedy of two acts, presented in six varied scenes, is at present being produced by the Amateur Operatic Society at His Majesty’s Theatre. The lure of swinging music, a fine chorus, splendid in volume and tone, a pleasing setting and clever acting, is appealing to Auckland’s playgoers, and last evening the opera was favoured with another large house. The passing of many years seems to have had little effect on the popularity of the “Belle of New York.” The music, gaining a new lease of life, is taking on like the latest hits, particularly such bright pieces as "Teach Me How To Love You,” "When We Are Married,” and "She Is the Belle'of New York.” In some of these Ernest Snell, as Harry Bronson, delighted the audience with his fine tenor voice.

Mr. Raymond Reeve, as Ishabod Bronson, the millionaire, father of Harry Bronson, who shows much sternness with his son, but a sudden change of front and much laxity with the fairer sex, proves himself a clever comedian. Mrs. Eva Simpson, as the Belle of New York, is suited to her part, and is favoured with an excellent voice. Miss Dorothy Richardspn, as Fifi, adds much colour to her part by beautiful dancing. The costuming and scenery have been very capably arranged. The orchestral side is in the hands of Mr. Colin Muston, and a fine combination of musicians assists materially in making the show the great success which it has undoubtedly proved.' GRAND SHOWS "GIRL SHY" A comedy-drama of business men and chorus girls, entitled “Chicken a la King,” will be shown at the Grand Theatre this evening. This is a hilarious story of a tired business man who, to save his brother-in-law from marrying a chorus girl, the part played by Miss Carroll, himself becomes enamoured with the little beauty. How Miss Carroll leads him on and gives him a much needed lesson for the good of his soul and the sake of his wife, furnishes the basis of the plot for one of the most delightful entertainments screened in many months. George Meeker plays opposite Miss Carroll, and a cast of screen favourites, including Ford Sterling, Arthur Stone and Frances Lee, are in support.

Harold Lloyd’s well-known and enjoyable comedy, “Girl Shy,” is also being shown.

Mayy Astor and Lloyd Hughes, those ideal screen lovers, are appearing together again in “Heart to Heart,” a First National production which has the added attraction of Louise Fazenda to supply the comedy. The story is of a princess, travelling incognito. The entertainment values are well maintained, with Mary Astor looking more beautiful than ever. Comedy, fun, romance, and some finely executed drama go to make “Heart to Heart” one of the finest productions from First National of this favourite pair.