MAJESTIC

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 543, 21 December 1928, Page 15

MAJESTIC

A FINE PROGRAMME An exceptionally delightful programme is being presented by the Majestic Theatre during Christmas week, and will be shown for the first time this evening. The programme opens with a variety film, “The World We Live In,” followed by an Aesop cartoon, a Majestic News with views of all the latest world events, and a comedy. Then, on the evening programme there will be presented by Miss Lillian O’Leary two bright spots from the children’s “Aladdin” Pantomime.” Then follows the main pictorial attraction, which is entitled “Dry Martini.” “Freddie Fletcher,” a man “who broke his heart in New York and tried to mend it in Paris,” is the latest and best characterisation of Matt Moore, of the noted Moore family of screen players. Moore has an important role in “Dry Martini” Pie plays the part of the closest friend, and chief rival in the matter of consuming dry martinis, of Albert Gran, the convivial lead in the picture. “Dry Martini” is a picturisation of the John Thomas novel and is notable for the deft direction of L’Arrast, the perfect presenting of the cast, the marvellous attention to detail and the fact that the entire action takes place in Paris, largely in The Ritz and quite appropriately in the bar of that famous resort. Mary Astor plays the leading feminine role with Sally Filers. Musical accompaniment will be provided as usual by Mr. WhitefordWaugh’s Majestic Orchestra.’ At the afternoon sessions only Miss Lillian O’Leary is presenting for the children “Aladdin’s” -pantomime, which has a cast of 50 children and adults. The management of the Majestic is spending twice as much as usual on the sumptuous Christmas pantomime, “Aladdin.” The gorgeous scenery and dresses are a distinctive feature of a production full of good things. Novel lighting effects are used in the magnificent “March of the Jewels.” “The Valley of Flowers” is a setting which for beauty of Colour would be hard to beat anywhere. “The Cave of Jewels,” with its scintillating gems, its fluttering white moths, and sinister demons, offers direct contrast to the brilliant “Palace of Aladdin.” where colour runs riot in a maze of beautiful dress creations. The Chinese Palace in Pekin is another striking scene. Novel lighting effects, screamingly funny comedy. beautiful costumes, gay dancing girls and gorgeous ballets will all make the advent of “Aladdin” one of the most memorable in the history of Auckland stage presentation. “RACE FOR LIFE” AT EMPIRE A thrilling horse race in which Rin-Tin-Tin, the famous canine actor, follows close behind Black Raider, barking encouragement to the steed, who wins by half a length, is one of tli© many exciting incidents of “A Race for Life,” to be shown this evening at the Empire Theatre. Rinty as the pal of Danny O’Shea, who rides Black Raider to victory after Bruce Morgan, owner of a rival horse, had been frustrated in a daring attempt to cripple him, has one of the best parts of his screen career. A splendid cast includes Virginia Brown Faire and Carrol Nye.

Rex Bell is the star in “The Cowboy Kid,” a thrilling’ Western drama of bank robbers and armoured cars, which will also be shown.