AMUSEMENTS.

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXIII, 1 April 1926, Page 5

AMUSEMENTS.

“GERALD CRANSTON'S LADY.” AT THE GRAND. The William Fox super special, “Gerald Cranston’s Lady, '' U D screened to-night at the fj*' an A This feature play is written fi om the novel of the same name written b> tho well-known and popular authoi, Gilbeit Frankau. The story is povtin ed bj an enormous cast, with Alma. Rubci. and James Kirkwood at the head, it is the powerful story of a man v ho buys and pays for a woman s tit o and social position, considering love as “simply amusement for fools. nw central character, Gerald Cranston, la giant in the industrial woild London, with fortune and power, and ambition to possess move, but lacking the one thing that lie feels necessary to complete his ultimate happiness, social recognition. In a peculiar way he is afraid of women, not timidity oi a genuine physical fear, but rather a terror of the power of Jove, believing it to be a force that might prevent his concentration on commerce, interfere with liis freedom of action and limit the sweep of Ins ruthless and growing power. Still a certain social position is necessary, and with this object in view he marries a woman ot beauty and pride of ancestry an* establishes her in his luxurious home. His social position, through this alliance is assured, and he prepares to go forward and conquer new worlds ot wealth. Gwakl Cranston and his lady understand that their marriage is simply a barter, his wealth for hoi' position. His life does not run according to his oarefuliy thought out schedule, but runs along more tremendously exciting than he had expected, and the climax is not only vernal table but unexpected. The dignified Alina Rubens finds her exact phototype in Lady Cranston, and the story ot the picture being a society one, she is given an excellent opportunity to wear many georgeous and costly gowns. .lames Kirkwood is said to give a really -wonderful portrayal of Gerald Cranston. Seats may be reserved as usual, thane 480. FRED THOMSON WITH SILVER THING, IN “THE FIGHTING SAP.” Stacgeri"g thrills, stirring drama, nid np',"'-'ing v, cnr.nec is the fare _otfered in Fred TliomsoiEs starring

feature, “The Fighting Sap.” Theatre Koval patrons have marked this wonder athlete as one of their favourites, and he is due to appear on the Fuller screen this evening, with his remarkable horse, Silver King, in “The Fighting Sap.” This is the most brilliant and actional drama that these popular stars present, and besides being a vehicle for the display of Fred Thomson’s equestrian abilities and Silver King’s marvellous exploits, it has many other interests. There are many scenes where one gains an inside knowledge of tho ethics of mining and the up-to-date methods adopted in tho United States, and a more human and less heavy interest is also lent to the plot when the girl takes a hand in stemming tides of disaster. This is one of Thomson’s best efforts, and • should meet with instant popularity. Tho big Australian, Frank Hagney, is tho burly villian, and Hazel Keener is the girl. Films in support will include “The Pathe Gazette” and a charming Nature Study, “The Sparrow Hawk.” Another smart Aesop Fable, “Tho Champion,” a Try on comedy, “Hot Heels,” and a chapter of “Samson of the Circus.” This programme will also be shown on Saturday afternoon and evening.

“RIP VAN WINKLE.”Planquette’s great romantic opera, “Rip Van Winkle,” will be produced at tbe Theatre Royal on Monday, April ]9th, and Tuesday, April ,‘?01li. Mr G. R. M. Jones wiil play the name part and will be supported by a very powerful company of 60. The cast is very strong, comprising the best talent in Timaru. Among the names are Miss Connio Flamank, Miss K. Young, Miss O. Mclntosh, Messrs N. Moore, W. Ramsay, C. Gillies, A. Clements, G. McClatchy, M. Ireland, J. McKenna, etc. The comedy element is very pronounced in this opera, and Messrs Foster, IVood, Raymond, Jones, and Master Firkin, also Misses Collins and Russell make merry moments. Miss K. R. Davison is the solo danseuse, and has done line work in training the chorus ladies. Another attractive novelty in “Rip Van Winkle” is the inclusion of some very clever juveniles. Little Alma Firkin is particularly good, and Master Leo Cosgrove sings and speaks his lines well. In fact “Rip Van Winkle” is a powerful drama, independent of the beautiful music. Last, but not least, a very fine orchestra, which has been practising for the past two months, with the company, comp'otes a fine combination of drama and opera. The senary by Mr Cl. Griffiths is most attractive, and the special lighting and other effects are all that can he desired. Mr W. Foster is in charge of the staging: Mr Harry Moore of tin' music. The costumes are being Mipnlod bv McGruer. Davies and Co. and H. K. Lamb and Co. The properties ami stage accessories are in charge of Mr C. Foster.