THE THEATRE.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXIX, Issue 4249, 2 November 1874, Page 2

THE THEATRE.

Despite the. attractions of the English Opera Company, the Stephenson-Burford troupe had a house crowded in the lower parts on Saturday evening. The piece presented was Boucicault's highly sensational drama, "The Octoroon." The character of Zoo was enacted by Miss Clara Stephenson, who made the most of a rCle which did not afford her opportunity for displaying the ability she undoubtedly possesses. Mr. Burford made an excellent Jacob McClosky, playing the callous, unscrupulous, Yankee in an easy and natural manner. As Pete, Mr. Hydes excelled himself. His very appearance was sufficient to excite tho risible faculties of the most sedate of tho audience. "We have not before seen him to better advantage. . Miss Jessio Raymond's Dora Sunnyaide was carefully and prettily rendered, and Mr. Thorpe succeeded as George Peyton. Messrs. Glover and Wills, as Salem Scudder and the Indian Wha-no-tee, respectively, received thoir meed of approbation ; and the character of Paul did not suffer in the hands of Miss Ifollande. The remaining minor characters were fairly represented. The scenery, expressly prepared for the " Octoroon," was capital, the' cane brake scone especially deserving "honorable menlion." To-night, Craven's drama of " Miriam's Crime" will be played, and the performances are to conclude with tho burlesque of "La Sonnambula."