The Pittsburgh Press from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania • Page 45

THE PlTTSBt) BGH P.BEBB Theater 8 and Photo Play a Music and Musicians PAGES ONE TO EIGHT PITTSBURGH, SUNDAY MORNING, FEBRUARY 24, 1924 PAGES ONE TO EIGHT it i ty-ti ti" v- ir i. li toitifiiw 0 0 -i tJi -h (iP'-) It AiMf'P Ill II NiH 7 Ifeil jtwa 1 r1 XU'vS i Irnf I is NIXON drdlaX-Z DAVlc5 f-sJl ROiEANNE" PLAYER FOLK NOTED AT THE THEATERS THIS WEEK DAVIS Keith Vaudeville NIXON "Sancho Panza" ALVIN Time" original Kraut; Zee Barnett, the M'lglnal Bellabruna, and so on. The ther names of major prominence are Myth Thayer, Tvan Servals. Emmie Xlclas, Sony Ltyton, Marina Abel. A Paton Gibbs, Paul Ker, Eric Titus, Townsentl Ahearn.

Peggy O'Donnell, Cthel Brandon, Krba Kobesou, How-irU Samples. Noel Burns, and others. CLASSY ARRAY OF PICTURES BOOKED HER IN NEW BILLS ryOVE and romance, racing 1 1 youth filled with the glow as of all that constitutes the and form the ANCHO I'ANZA," described as a fantastic production, based on Cervantes' famous story, "Don Quixote," and with J.Ir. Otis Skinner as the star, is to be the attraction at the Nixon theater thU week. It is a tale of the colden life of the modern young man woman basis of "Sporting Youth," the at cess on th letrltlmat stage yrh Mary'Nash.

Ilamou Novarro and Barbara La Marr are Usual Other feature at the "Tho Etrangnr," a plcturixatlon of tfohn Galsworthy's great play, will be seen at the Olympic theater this week. Bttty Cornpson, Richard DU and Tully Marshall aro in the cast. A comedy and news reels will also be ithown at the Olympic The Sheridan Sjv.are and Harris theater will offer classy bills of vaudeville and photoplays. The Academy's burlesque season elorcd last night. Tha programs In the city's theater follow: ijayijCkeith IN THE program of high grade vaudeville arranged for the sixth week of the gay midwinter festival at the Davis theater, every ang of the polite varieties will be artistically expressed.

There is a distinctive headline feature in the pleasing personality of Nan Halperin, a singing character comedienne, who has been recently starred in "Little Jesslo James" Four years have elapsed since this diminutive singer b.st appealed to vaudeville audiences, tn the present week she will render traction for the new week opening at the Grand theater tomorrow, the second feature of the mid-season festival now in progress at that place. The story is by Byron Morgan, one of the cleverest writers, as far as youthful romances ere concerned, of the present day. Reginald Denny, whose work has won him a stellar position as far as public admiration is concerned, in this picture becomes an actual star, recognized how as one of the finest actors upon the silver sheet. Laura LaPlantc and Hallam Cooley are also in the picture. John Galsworthy's virile pen is responsible for "The gc ot bpain, produced by Russell Janney and with music composed by Hugo" Felix.

T.ert French arranged the dances and exceptional cast is carried. Nan Stephens' new play, "Roscanne," with Charles Gilpin, noted Negro actor of "Emperor Jones" fame, in the leading role, brings the Pitt back to a legitimate basis tomorrow night. The action of the play takes place in a small town in Georgia, but it in no way attempts to solve any of the so-called problems. The production conies to Pittsburgh from an engagement of six months in New York. The original "Blossom Time" company, returning from a successful tour of the larger cities of the middle west, will play a return engagement at the Alvin theater this week.

Based on the life and romance of the great composer, Franz Schubert, "Blossom Time," is one of the finest light operas ever produced. Several famous principals head a cast of 50 exceptional musical comedy players. The sixth and last week of the midwinter festival at the Davis will be headlined by. Nan Halperin, late star of "Little Jessie James," who is coming with a new cycle of songs and character Ivnc stories. She will be surrounded by manv distinguished Keith vaudeville entertainers, among them the famous Chanssi fnmdv of Greek dancers, and Franz Drdle.

eminent Stranger," the new Olympic offering. It is an adaptation of the British author's story, "The First and the Last," and with a cast that includes Betty Comp.on, Richard Dix, Tully Marshall and Lewis Stone, it should prove excellent screen material. Good acting and a strong story arc reputed its finest features. The Cameo theater, operated by the Universal Pictures corporation, under the management of George F. Roister of New York, has been entirely remodeled and renovated, resulting in a big improve-ment'of the theater.

The feature this week will be "The Fool's Highway," showing Mary Philbin in the role ot a waif of the Bowery. Pat O'Malley and Max Davidson are also in the cast. PITT GRAND GAYETY LYCEUM EASTEND. ALDINE OLYMPIC SHERIDAN HARRIS sent a new version of their ludicrous Eastside restaurant scene, entitled, "A Hungarian Khapsody." Jessie Maker and William T. Red-ford will play Paul Gerard Smith's new comedietta, 'Rolling Ft ones." In addition to a breesy dialogue, the story affords, tbe couple a chance to sing a whlstly duet Ttuss Brown and Jean Whlttaker, in "Clown will merge snappy patter with equally breezy songs.

Coombes eVNevins are going to syn copate songs In the liveliest sort or way. Towa d'Hortys, now making their first American tour, will introduce their wonder dog In startling Jugging feats. News motion pictures will complete the bill. NIXOS SANl HO PANZA." ANCHO PANZA," in which Otis Skinner will appear at the Nixon tMTTweek, conws a revelation in the matter of putting scenery In its proper place the background. Russell Janney, the producer, has fulfilled the nubllo demand for beauty of environment, but and thla is highly original ho has set something worm while in the frame he has builuea.

"Sancho I'ansa" is a play of the golden age of Spain, when hearts were merry and colors pay. The presen' production was costumed from de signs by James Reynolds, known for his work in ZlegfelO's "Follies' ana Butt's in London. But the elaborateness of "Sancho Pansa" Is not done for Its own sake. It is but COOLEY IS MEMBER. OF HEROIC VILLAIN SCHOOL.

"Sporting Youth" Burlesque "St. Elmo" "Richard, the Lion-Hearted" Thy Name is Woman" "The Stranger" Vaudeville and Photoplays Vaudeville a frame for a drama of real merit and even more, a frame for a memorable stage portrart by Otia dklnnei. Furthermore, "Sancho 1'ansa" con-tradlcta the mistuken Idea that a costume cannot be funny. Dapple, the donkey, provides moments of broad burlesque. In support of Mr.

Skinner is an exceptional cast, including Russ Whytal, Frederick Til-den, Marguerite Forrest, Robert Ko-saire and Stewart Balrd. ALVI "DI.OSSOM TIME. BLOSSOM TIME," brilliant, beautiful and memorable, comes back to Pittsburgh tomorrow night for another week at the Alvin. Those who have not heard the work before will sit back with Infinite satisfactions In listening to its constantly exquisite score rendered by competent singers and feast with delight upon Its gentle but grateful scenes set in old Vienna of 1876 and peopled with all sorts of delightful characters dressed In the frills and burbelowa of that romantic day! But to those who saw and beard "Blossom Time" last Stiptember, interest wlU center tonight upon the cast which embraces ie original company which performed "P.lodsom Time" In New Tork and made a hit of such proportions that It is still reverberating "Blossom Time" fame throughout American and farther corners of the world. Here are Bertram Peacock, the original Fran Schubert; Howard Marsh, the original Von Schober; Mark Danfortb, MARY PHILBIN PLAYS LEADJNjCAMEO FILM.

Mary Philbin goes in bo stror. for hands by pounding on a Jcor during the filming of an Important scene in "Fool's 1 h-way," her latest Universal Jewel starring production, adapted from "My Mamie Rose," Owen Kildare'a famous life-story, now play ins: at the Cameo, Miss Philbin Is supported by a strong cast, Including pat O'Malloy, who plays the load Mary rhllbln. lead opposite her; Busier Collier, Ma Davidson, Kate Price, Charley Murray, Edwin J. Brady, Lincoln Humor, Tommy O'Brien, Sherry Tansey and Steve FITT KOtiK XX OS ANNE," the play by Nan Bagby Stephens, which will be seen at the Tin theater this week will bring a notable assemblage of Negro artists In the various Important roles. Besides Charles Gilpin of "Emperor Jones" fame the leading feminine role, the name part, will be taken by Hose McClendon.

In this part Miss Hose McClendon is a Negro washwoman in a little town of Georgia. Next In importance Is the role of Leola, the young sister of Hose-anne, which will be taken by Evelyn Ellis, who is considered one of the most able actresses of the Negro theater. In the part of Leo la. Miss Ellis gives a' splendid performance and In the first scene of the second act she draws a compelling picture-one that Is not easily forgotten. Tbe part of Rodney, the young lovr of Leola, Is taken by G.

Edward Briwn, who la well known among the young talent, and the whole company -of 25, Including the famous Pan American quartet, is already famous notable achievement CRANDWSPORTIJIG YOUTH." A ROMANTIC comedy-drama, full of love and laughter, frills and thrills. Is "Sporting adapted from an automobile racing story by Byran Morgan and booked to head the program at the Grand this week. The picturo is to bead a bill ot many excellent offerings in tho second week of the Grand's gala mid-season elx weeks' carnival ot features. Reginald Denny has the leading male role, and dainty Laura La Plante Is his leading woman. Denny has the role of Jimmy Wood, a romantic chauffeur, whose ambition la to become a famous racing driver.

In the cast supporting Reginald Denny and Laura La Plante are Hallam Cooley, Lucille Ward, Malcolm Denny, Leo White, Frederick Vroom, Henry Barrows. Rolfe Sedan, BRILLIANT PICTURES IN "SANCHO PANZA." "Sancbo Panza," comedy based on the spectacular Cervantes' "Don Quixote," which Otis Skinner will appear at the Nixon this week, has beou described by New York reviewers as "The world of Velaaquez come to life with all the colors intcn-ilfled and the gold and silver highly burnished." These irllliant pictorial effects, Rusnell Jannoy, the producer, achioved by the selection of James Reynolds as costume designer and Otis Skinner. Richard Boles-lawkky as 'Stage director. Mr. Reynolds is well known for the scenes of rich pageantly bt creates for Zlog-fllrs Tollies." -VI cars, gilded cabarets, passionate and joy of living, a combination is promised.

Gloria Swanson in Tb humming Bird," is tho Alhambra of-ferine. "Richard the Lion-Hearted." a stupendous pictorial romance based on Sir Walter Scott's "The Taxman," will be the offering of the Eastend theater, with two performances dally. "Thre O'clock In the Morning," a fascinating tale of the rebellion of a gmall town 0ld-fash- conventions is the Rita attrac tion. Constance Blnney plays the of tin! modern girl, with Mary Carr and Richard Thorpe also in tb- cant. The Kcnyon will show, "West of the Water Tower:" the Garden Enid Bennett In 'The Fool's Awakening." WINSOME PRIMA DONNA IN OPERETTA AT ALVIN.

From nonentity to stardom In a Bight that la the enviable record of Kiss Edith Thnyer, the diminutive prima donna la "Blossom Tim which the Shn-berts will present at the Alvin theater this week. Miss Thayer la tho tiniest person She stands tour feet, 11 four feet nine and half without heels and ttfii pounds, though, as fihe says: "I've gain ed a little bit. really, I'm not going to Ifll about, that, however," Mis Thayer Is ae amfmluR bundlo I I IK Thnrer. of wlnsotneness and bas a wealth of pretty expression all out of proportion to ner sise. i a repertoire of new character songs, written express'y for her and sung by no other artisto All sorts of girl types will be caricatured.

Mine. Calliope dharissl, the celebrated Greek dancer, and her 10 children, are making their first American tour and have been creating a furore everywhere. She and her broo4 will interpret choreographic lances, telling, by means of poetic motion, dramatlo and Intensely interesting narratives. The program rangea.from solos to ballets. Franz Drdla, another foreign visitor In this; week's program, was formerly conductor of the Hoyal Opera in and la one of the first violinists of Europe.

He will nlay a number of his own compositions and will be accompanied by Antonio Riccl Voccoll, pianist. From the viewpoint humor, the advent pf the Avon Comedy Four' will be the week's most distinctive feature. The quartet consists of Joe Smith, Charles Dale, Arthur Fields and Harry Goodwin. They will pre- EARLY STRUGGLES OF BURLESQUE COMEDIAN. The career of Danny Murphy, comedian of "Temptations of 1923 this week's bill at the Gayety, Is not much, different from those who aspire to win success on the stage.

Ho Is a native ot Now York and at an early age he evinced a desire to be an actor. He paved his way by appearing In a a eur entertainments and he sought to follow in the footsteps of Louis Mann, and become a dlaloci comedian, 1 1 this thought In mind he began an Danny Murpby, Intensivo study of ihe Oorman character, familiarising himself with proper comedy manners and dialect, finally becoming Identified with Columbia burlesque aa a fca- Hallam Cooley. who has one of that ih4 her "Thy Name Is Woman," a powerful, dramatlo feature, with an unusually effective theme, and combining story value with scenic effects that aro reported superb, will be the Aldine and Cameraphone attraction. With Barbara La Marr, Ramon Navarro, Wal-Mirnnnl1 and Robert Edcson in the cast, a thrilling Interpretation nj-Lnj-L- I L. J.

O'Conner, C. L. Sherwood and WlUiam A. Carroll, adoui new Juvenilo comedy, win be an additional hilarity provoker on the Grand's program. Other pictures will be the Grand News Weekly and "Topics of the Day." Conttaeed en TCext Pace.

DANCING FOR MOVIES IS CALLED HARDEST OF ALL. "Dancing Is a fascinating and healthful pastime," asserts pretty Conslance Blnney, herself a talented dancer, and who if ody-drama "Three If O'clock in the Morning," which Is to top tho bill this week at tho Rita theater. mlng dance steps for registration by tho motion plo-turo cameru Ik much more difficult than dancing before a (heater Htidlcno, or in the ballroom," Clio continues. "Even thouKh I biw'Hii duncing at tint ago of 4, I 'found that tho routine steps would iiot do for my screen work." MI vienne.se vonnist. "Sportlnir ToutK," a comedy-drama automobile racing and romance, with 'Reginald Dnny plarlnfr the l.iadlnff male role, will top the list of films at the Orand this week.

Laura Ja Plant will bo K(en or posit the star. A comody and the news reel will also be shown. Described ns one of the fastest and cleanest burlesque productions on te Columbia circuit Is Hurtl and Sea-mon's 'Temptations of 11)23," which omea to the Gaycty tomorrow nlpht for a week's entrapment. Danny Murphy and Georgia Emmett are two of the featured players. "St.

Elmo." the great old play taken mm the story ty Augusta Evans, has STOClTcHARACTER ACTOR MAKES STUDY OF TYPES. One of the moiit important players tn a stock company Is the character wfco, drlne a season of 40 weeks or more, la called upon to visual! many Jldely contrasting roles Cliff Boyer, who plays tho character parts In tho productions of the Lyceum Shock has had admirable experience in this line of work and whatever success he may have attained In due to hln persevering efforts in making a study of all types of character. In "St Elmo" he is said to have a role well adapted to his cpa-bliiUe CBS been selected by popular request as tne stock bill at the Lyceum this week. Marguerite Fields and William Laveau will play the leading roles and there will be several new faces seen In the cast. "Ilichard, the Lion-Hcarted," will bo the attraction at tho Eastend theater this week.

It is a story of medieval England, produced on a massive scalo. Wallacj Berry, Kathleen Clifford, John Kowers and Marguerite de la Motte head the cast. Tho Aldlne's headline film attraction this week will re "Thy Name Is Woman," which was such a gret sue- NAN HALPERIN MADE OWN WAY TO SUCCESS. Nan Halperin Is an artiste who, like Topser, "Just growed." No one except herself is responsible for her devfOnnment and her success. She I hasn't ii ,1 1 a A with anyono.

She hasn't fallen un the Influence L. of other stars nor I 4 copied "them as Vounir actor 1 often uncon-SVffr'i Srlouly do. Prom 4 time she was a child she had a knack of charac tpnzins. now in ,1 her twenties, Jt i she in known throughout the country an one of the most Inter estlng fia II a I per In. ttea In American vaudeville.

Bhe Is to appear at the tavU thUx this week. leading roies in rporun(r muui, which heads the second of the six weeks' mldseason carnival of feature programs at the Orand this week, is another screen actor who may be said to belong to the heroic villain' school which has been pop'ilarlzed recently. Cooley la a grad- uate of the Vnl-' versity of iMinnc- 7 sola. He Btarted his acting career In a stage engagement of "Th Man from Mexico," and found his first "screen work with KellB, Hnllam Cooley. one of the companies prominent among producors during the early days of the screen.

He portrays a semi-villain "Sporting Tooth." rale in tared plajre V1.J.