ENTERTAINMENTS

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21209, 4 September 1940, Page 5

ENTERTAINMENTS

TO=NIGHT’S PROGRAMMES THEATRE ROYAI “Talking Feet” is one of the brightest entertainments seen in Hamilton for a long time, and its humour is all English. Hazel Ascot, who, at the age of nine years, is the champion dancer of England, heads the cast, and she not only dances perfectly but also is able to sing and act. Mark Hambourg, the famous pianist who toured New Zealand some years ago, presents a unique mini-piano ensemble featuring himself and 14 clever juveniles. William Heughan, the famous Scottish baritone, is also well known to New Zealanders, and his number, “The Meeting of the Clan,” in which he is supported by the Seaforth Highland Band, is magnificent in music and voice and picture perfect. The Three Cockney Comedians are responsible for much comedy. ROXY THEATRE “Sixty Glorious Years,” featuring Anna Neagle and Anton Walbrook, is a striking production. It has been produced on a scale in keeping with its striking personal value. The romance of Victoria’s love match and marriage, the alternately tragic and triumphant political affairs which darkened and brightened her reign, her fortitude under distressing conditions, are all enacted in dramatic detail. “Blondie Meets the Boss” continues the amusing Blondie series, and keeps the audience in hilarious mood. It opens on a note characteristic with Dagwood: he is in difficulty with his boss. Blondie’s efforts to save his job for him results only in her taking his place at the office, with exciting and amusing results. CIVIC THEATRE “Swanee River” continues to delight audiences. The very heart of America is embodied in the familiar melodies of Stephen Collins Foster, expressed in such songs as “The Old Folks at Home” (Swanee River), “Old Black Joe.” “My Old Kentucky Home,” “Oh! Susanna!” “De Camptown Races,” “Jeanme with the Lighl Brown Hair” and “Ring, Ring de Banjo,” to mention but a few. Don Ameche, Andrea Leeds and A 1 Jolson have the leading roles. “IRENE” “Irene,” which will head the new programme on Friday, is a sparkling film version of the big stage success. Anna Neagle is very charming in the title role, and Ray Milland plays opposite her with success.

REGENT THEATRE “Mr Smith Goes to Washington” tells a very human and appealing story. James Stewart plays the titl*e role, and invests it with charm, earnestness and idealism. Young Jeff Smith is head of the State’s Boy Rangers, and when a vacancy in the United States Senate has to be filled his name comes to the attention of the ruling political forces who want the appointee to be a harmless and inexperienced tool. Jeff goes to Washington unconscious of the fact that he is helping to betray the ideals he holds so dear. Little by little Jeff learns that he is being victimised, and what he does to assert himself brings the story to an exciting climax. “YOUNG TOM EDISON” “Young Tom Edison,” featuring Mickey Rooney, will head the new programme on Friday. It deals wi,th the youth of the famous inventor. STATE THEATRE

In these days of international strain many people want brightness in their entertainment. “Wine, Women and Horses” make an exciting combination, and the film is one of the most entertaining seen for a long time. With its diverting situations and dialogue it keeps an audience amused throughout, while the romance introduced is very pleasing. Ann Sheridan and Barton Maclane do splendid work in the leading roles. “Slight Case of Murder” is an intriguing title, and the film lives up to it. It is an exciting drama, with mystery, thrills and romance, and holds the interest of the audience throughout. There is a strong vein of humour to lighten the tension. Edward G. Robinson gives one of his strong character studies, and he is supported by an excellent cast.