MAJESTIC

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 885, 31 January 1930, Page 15

MAJESTIC

“WHY LEAVE HOME’’ Catchy musical numbers, a rapid firo musical comedy that keeps the audience in constant laughter, a new dance that promises to outdo all others in popularity, and a stellar cast are some of the features of “Why Leave Home?” the all-talking, dancing JTox Movietone musical comedy version of the noted stage success, “Cradle Snatchers.” It is at the Majestic Theatre from today. The cast is headed by Walter Catlett, Sue Carol and Nick Stuart, and among the supporting players are David Rollins, Richard Keene, Dixio Lee, Jean liary, and Jed Rrouty. Three college youths “date up” as many chorus girls for the evening, but are compelled to call the party off for lack of funds. To get money they agree to instruct three married women in the latest “technique” of dancing and kindred entertainment. The husbands of the women are supposed to be off on a hunting trip, but in reality are “stepping out” with the three chorus girls. The boys and the women also decide to go to the same roadhouse for the evening, and as it is a costume and masquerade affair, the various participants fail to recognise one another. But later, a small riot ensues and comic situations come thick and fast up to the whirlwind finish. Directed by Raymond Cannon, “Why Leave Home?” has got claim to being one of the funniest and most entertaining talkies to date. Walter Catlett. musical comedy star who wrote the dialogue, also plays the male lead. Conrad, Mitchell and Gottler, the song writers who produced the snappy musical hits of the “Fox Movietone Follies of 1029.” and of many Broadway shows, wrote these song numbers. “Look What You’ve Done To Me,” and ' Doing the Boom Boom.” the latter being the theme of the ' dance feature as well, are already two of the season’s hits, although the film has been released but a short time. The “Boom Boom” dance, a catchy ballroom step that is sweeping America originated in this picture. Dance teachers prophesy for it a popularity greater than the Varsity Drag. “Why Leave Home?” has its first showing at the Majestic today. An excellent supporting programme of talking and singing featurettes will also be shown.