A STAGE INCIDENT.

Dunstan Times, Issue 1048, 19 May 1882, Page 4

A STAGE INCIDENT.

One of the most sensational scenes in Victor Nessler’s opera, “The Batcatcher otHameln,” is that representing the exodus of roden's from 11 ameln. brought about by the tuneful spells ot Singuf the Charmer. Whilst the fantastic personage is singing his incantation Cion sands upon thousands of rats invade the stage, emerging from doors and winnows of the houses composing the “ set,” from crevices in walls, and from holes in the ground. In the leading operahouses of Germany no pains or expense have been sp ri d in order to impart a realistic character to this ratepisode. The mimic rodents are “made-up” as lifelike as may be, and scamper about the stage as vivaciously as though they were'really flesh and blood instead of skin and stuffing, bo-exc llently managed in this particular “effect” at the Dresden Opera •House that a few nights ago, upon •the occasion of the “ Ratcatcher's” ■first performance in that theatre, the •proneity rats fairly took in the worthy •old cat, perpetually retained upon the ■strength of the establishment in consideration of her long and valuable services. This conscientious creature, whilst watching the stag" “ business ”

with placid interest from her favourite ■corner behind one the wings, suddenly perceived what she believed to be a nost of her natural foes in the very act of committing an audacious tres.pass within the saced limits o; her territorial jurisdiction. With a •piercing mew of indignation she straightway bounded upon the stage, and, to the delight ot the audie ce, furious)} attacked the legion of “ counterfeit ,presentments ” that occupied the boards. No sooner, however, had actual contact with the property rats enlightened her respecting their fictitious nature than she majestically retired. In obedience to an enthusiastic recall, she was brought on a few minutes later in the arms of a super to receive the tribute of applause her spirited conduct had so richly earned. ■Glasgow Mail.