THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE COMPANY.

Kumara Times, Issue 1624, 10 December 1881, Page 2

THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE COMPANY.

The famous Pirates of Penzance Company made I heir first appearance last night at the Adelphi Theatre,

under very disadvantageous circumstances, the elections occupying all the attention of the people. Notwithstanding there was a very fair house, and those who were there enjoyed a most unusual treat. Never have we been favored by a company of such strength numeric illy and individual excellence, and the pluck of the management in bringing such a large company here ought to be rewarded by bumper houses for the remainder of their short season. Of the plot of the opera we have not space for detail; suffice it to say that it is brimful of wit and satire of the choicest nature, and abounds in funny situations and picturesque groupings. Miss Annie Leaf, in the principal character, was captivating in the extreme, her beautiful soprano voice being heard to great advantage in the aria “ Poor Wandering Me.” Signor Carraini Morley, as the pirate apprentice, was all that could be desired, his truly grand tenor voice ringing out with most remarkable and pleasing effect. Miss Amy Johns, as Ruth, was in every way capital, and we can notice a very considerable improvement in this old favorite’s vocalisation j her acting, too, was easy and natural. Mr J. Stewart Porter, as the Pirate King, was a-great success, his fine baiitone voice being heard to great advantage in tVe music incidental to the opera. Mr Barry O’Neill, as the Major-General, was a hit, a palpable hit—his make up, singing, bye-play, all were alike excellent. Mr Lissant was conscientious and pleasing as Samuel, giving demonstration ot possessing a well-trained organ, to be heard we hope to more advantage in future <*ood acting. Mr Mack 1). Alexander was in his element as the Police Sergeant, the music being thoroughly within his company, and his stentorian voice of good service. Mr Wilkinson, as the Corpora], ably backed up his superior officer, and Was funny without being overdone. The orchestra is very efficient, under the able baton of Mr Wolf, R.A.M. Mr Alipress is a violinist of a very high order ; and Mr Scott a careful pianist. To-night, to oblige electors who were unable to be present, this opei’a will hd repeated* and on Monday night will be produced on a scale of splendour never attempted here, judging from the Criticisms (j our contemporaries all over New Zealand, Planquette’s grand opera “ Les Oloches de Corneville.” We predict ciowded houses to witness these grand productions.