STATE THEATRE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 3 December 1938, Page 2

STATE THEATRE

BOBBY BREEN AND IRENE DARE IN GREAT PICTURE. The crowded house at the State Theatre last night had presented to them a picture of outstanding quality which is rarely the good fortune of picture patrons to see, and which is part of the policy of the Amalgamated Theatres Ltd; of always obtaining the best possible programme for their numerous patrons. Probably no boy singer and actor is better known to millions of people throughout the world than Bobby Breen, whose golden voice has enraptured his hearers on the cinema stage. But he had in copartnership last night, in "Breaking The Ice,” a star who, in her initial bow to the picture patrons of the world, has scored as great a triumph as Bobby Breen himself —little Irene Dare, the world’s greatest juvenile skater. And this great double combination had a third string to their strong bow in Charles Ruggles, that superb actor whose career in the pictures has been one long triumph. This magnificent triple alliance had substantial support from Dolores Costello (daughter of Maurice Costello, that great actor of the silent films over 25 years ago), Robert Barat. Dorothy Peterson, Billy Gilbert and Charlie Murray, and it is no wonder that the audience were thrilled with the picture placed before them last night. Irene Dare is undoubtedly a marvellous skater whose thrilling display held the audience spellbound, and her part in the picture is a real show in itself, with sensational acts following in quick succession. Bobby Breen has never sung better than ‘in “Breaking The Ice” and his acting delighted the audience with its naturalness, and his ability to make the most of a very difficult part met with the warmest appreciation. In addition to the star attraction there is on the programme a number of supports which are exceptionally good and which kept the audience deeply interested. A special favourite was the Walt Disney picture, “The Whalers,” with Donald Duck and Mickey Mouse. The audience roared continuously with laughter at this picture which is cleverly produced, and is probably the best “Donald Duck’ yet presented. Beautifully coloured, every foot of the picture is a laughter producer. This outstanding programme will be shown again tonight.