THE OPERA.

Evening Star, Issue 3733, 9 February 1875, Page 2

THE OPERA.

Though the attendance in all parts of the theatre last evening was very numerous it was not so large as that which the popularity enjoyed by “Faust” had led us to think it would have been. The merits of the opera and the efforts of- those who filled the principal parts in it deserved at least a crowded house. On the whole it was a most meritorious performance, and the only room for fault-finding was in respect to a few minor details, which repetition of the opera is bound to correct. Miss May fully justifies the high encomiums that ha\ o been passed upon her conception and execution of the rule of Marguerite, which must be bracketed with her Satanolla. We hardly know which to admire most: her exquisite singing in the third and final acts, or her powerful acting in the cathedral and dying scenes. “There was a King of Thule” and the jewel song were capitally sung, while the exhibition of the mingled feelings of joyous surprise and girlish delight winch mark her discovery of the casket of jewels, the present of her unknown lover, was commendable for its naturalness. Of the rest it may be 1 said that Miss Howe was Siebel, and rendered the only air she has to sing, “Gentle flower in the dew,’ so to gain considerable applause ; that Miss Harris did well the little required from Martha; that Mr Hallam was a satisfactory Faust, and sang with much sweetness ; that in Mephistophelcs Mr Rainford had a most congenial character, fairly revelling in the grotesque business in his scene with the soldiers and students ; and that Mr Templeton was a worthy Valentine, singing and acting admirably. So well, indeed, did the last-named acquit himself in the fourth act, that he received a call before the curtain. We, however, would suggest to his consideration the propriety of being less energetic when supposed to be dying. Excepting the religious choruses, which are invariably harsh, the choruses went very steadily, the Kermese and soldiers’ chorus being particularly good. The apotheosis of Margaret was well managed, and with a more effective use of the lime light, will be very efficient; while Mr "NVillis is entitled to credit for his pretty set in the third act. To-night “ Trovatore ” will be produced for the last time.