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20 SOUND MOTION PICTURES
offered to several of the large film companies, all of them had rejected it. On August 7, 1926, after some months of preparation, the name "Vitaphone" was adopted as the trade-mark of the apparatus, and it was given its first demonstration by Warner Brothers in their New York theatre.
For the opening programme Mr. Will Hays appeared on the screen and, in words perfectly timed to the motion of his lips, greeted the audience and expressed the belief that Vitaphone would revolutionize the motion picture industry. Thus the invention announced its own destiny and compelled the realization that commercial synchronization of motion pictures with voice and music was practical — had graduated from the laboratory. The same programme included Martinelli, Marion Talley, and other operatic stars; and to indicate the range of possibilities, there were Negroes playing instruments, and some bits of comedy. Then, the crux of it all, the feature picture, with its synchronized musical score, appeared. It was Don Juan, an instant hit, greeted by an enthusiastic audience. The experience gained in these recordings later paved the way for the development that was to come. Meanwhile, Vitaphone had arrived!
Following the first effort Warner Brothers entered upon a regular production schedule of short subjects in which the characters spoke and sang. To these effects were added others of special synchronized sounds. The innovations not only made possible a diversified programme of short subjects, but gave to Warner Brothers an invaluable experience in the handling of the new sound-reproducing device. In character the short subjects varied from vaudeville numbers to multiple-reel features and comedies. Among the stars included were performers as well known as Elsie Janis, Adele Rowland, the Foy Family, Eddie Quillan, Bessie Love, Edward Everett Horton, and many