THE OPERA.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXIX, Issue 4130, 16 June 1874, Page 3

THE OPERA.

GENEVIEVE DE BRABANT Was repeated last night by the Opera‘Company, and was again received with great applause. It is undoubtedly, call it by any name—opera, extravaganza, or musical burlesque—an admirable “piece of fooling.” As we have already remarked, the scenic and mechanical artists of the establishment 'made the most of their opportunities, and in the train scene, with the departure of Martell’s army, achieved a really wonderful bit of stage illusion. The opening scene in the fourth act —Versailles, illuminated for a fdto—was also very good, and the dance which was introduced was prettily performed by the young ladies who form the ballet. The opera contains some excellent music. Drogan’s (Miss May’s) “ Song of the Pie ” was amusing, but the balcony duet with Genevieve (Miss Lambert) was one of the gems of the evening, and was feelingly sung by both ladies. The trio of the pulse was also well done, while the sleep song was most warmly applauded. The “ Romance of the Ringlet ” also gave Miss May an opportunity for one of those arch performances in which she takes so much pleasure. Mr. Templeton as Cocorico, played with great spirit, and sang the tea song, and “ These farewell Kisses from thy Lips” most pleasingly. Mr. Lester’s “ Martel" and Mr. Levison’s “ Burgomaster” were extremely good. Mr. Rainford and Mr. Ycmon as “ Sergeant-Crab” and full private “ Pitou,” respectively, only appeared in the third and fourth acts. They were exceedingly amusing, and created roars of laughter with their “ We run them in.” Mr. Wilkinson’s make-up as “ Philibert” was highly diverting. The ladies of the company not already named, must be complimented on the manner in which they sustained their parts. In Miss Amy Johns the page “ Oswald” had a very handsome representative. Tins evening the elegant and always popular opera of THE HOSE Ob’ CASTILI.E will be presented. It contains some admirable songs, such as “ I am a simple Muleteer,” “ Can.Vt thou, dear Maid ?” “ Oh, were I the Queen of Spain “Of girlhood’s happy days I dream “ I’m but a simple Peasant Maid,” &c. The season, it will not be forgotten, new thaws rapidly to a close.