SOLDENE COMIC OPERA.

Globe, Volume IX, Issue 1227, 8 February 1878, Page 3

SOLDENE COMIC OPERA.

“Babbe Blkue.” Although the Soldene Opera Company are devoted to the production of opera bouffe only, no one can complain that they weary their patrons by the monotonous nature of their performances. Hitherto they have given afresh opera every second night, and each opera has been produced with a completeness which would lead one to suppose that the company had made a special study of it. Last night they gave Offenbach’s “Barbe Bleue,” which certainly must rank among their trump cards. The opera has been produced in Christchurch before ; there is therefore no necessity to refer to its plot. It is sufficient to say that tho story is materially altered from the nursery tale of the same name. Miss Emily Soldene, hi the character of Boulotte, the sixth wife of th e polygamist, was thoroughly at home. Her animated style is contagious, and it would be a matter for wonder if she did not infuse some of her spirit into the other members of tho company, who, to do them justice, are for the most part not in need of such inspiration. Miss Clara Yesey, who was a most charming Hermia, sang the music of the part very sweetly. Miss Maggie Liddle made an excellent Prince Sapphire. Her duet with Miss Yesey in the opening of the opera was a genuine treat. Mr Campbell, who played Barbe Bleue, was in splendid voice, though he by no means realised the youthful idea of the ruthless wife-killer. Mr Wallace’s Queen was a companion picture to Mr Marshall’s King. Both were admirable examples of burlesque acting. Mr Farley made a excellent Popolani, and Mr Hodson as Count Oscar was very good. The young ladies who personated the five wives of Blue Beard by their personal charms rendered his summary process of divorce utterly inexcusable. This opera affords an opportunity for the display of handsome costumes, and the most was made of tho opportunity—the dresses wore ■imply gorgeous. The music is extremely pretty, and was perfectly rendered by tho orchestra; the scenery was equally good. The enjoyment of the numerous audience was frequently demonstrated by loud applause, and the principal performers were called before the curtain after the second act. “ Barbe Bleue ” is to be repeated this evening, and to-morrow “ Ohilperic ” will be performed for the third time by this company in Christchurch.