ENGLISH OPERA.

Globe, Volume XXI, Issue 1772, 24 October 1879, Page 2

ENGLISH OPERA.

The Florence and Browning Opera Company gave their opening performance last night at the Theatre Boyal, and created a very favourable impression. The entertainment, which was of a light and pleasing character, partook of the nature of what is known as “ Opera di Camera.” The compositions chosen were “The Chelsea Pensioner” and “ The Bose of Auvergne,” both by Offenbach. The first operetta is new to Christchurch, and went very well. The music is light and sparkling, and comprises songs, duets, and trios for soprano, tenor, and bass, all of which served to display the special talents of Mr and Mrs Florence and Mr Browning. The lady possesses a sweet voice, capable of considerable expression, and sings with taste, her acting is also arch and vivacious, and she is likely to become a favorite in Christchurch. Mr Florence has a magnificent tenor voice, full of power and sweetness, and a compass extending to the upper C. He sings without effort and in cultivated taste. Mr Browning is the possessor of a fine baas organ of grand quality and great range. Each artiste made their mark, though the nature of the pieces in which they appeared were scarcely so adapted to display their undoubted talent as grand opera, in whi6h Mr Florence especially shines. The last operetta, “ The Bose of Auvergne,” has frequently been performed in Christchurch. Mr Florence was the Alphonse, Mr Browning Pierre, and Mrs Florence Fleurette. All the characters were sustained with spirit and created great merriment. In the course of the operetta Messrs Florence and Browning sang “ The moon has raised her lamp on high,” from the “ Lily of Killarney; ” and Mr Browning introduced “ The Village Blacksmith.” They were each rapturously applauded ; indeed, encores were the order of the evening. A lively trio, “Babette’s wedding,” also went very well. All the concerted music was done full justice to. The accompaniments were given with great ability by Mr H. F. Towle on the pianoforte, though a full orchestral accompaniment would have imparted greater esprit to the performance. The same performance will be repeated this evening, and “ Maritana ’ * is promised for Saturday night, and should draw a crowded house.