THEATRE ROYAL.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXX, Issue 4333, 8 February 1875, Page 2

THEATRE ROYAL.

“Lucretia Borgia” was produced on Saturday evening to a capital house. The principal parts of course fell upon Mr. and Mrs. Bates, and it is perhaps but slight praise to say that the play was rendered in a manner that gave infinite satisfaction. When Mrs. Bates plays such parts as Lucretia she always raises a doubt in one’s mind as to whether she appears to greatest advantage in tragedy or the drama of modern times; and although it may be difficult to determine such a point, she leaves the clear conviction that she is an actress of undoubted ability. Lucretia was a very talented rendition, and one that elicited warm approbation on the part of the audience. Mr. Bates played a part, which is for him a very small one, namely, that of Genuaro, but anything he takes iu handis done conscientiously and well, and Gennaro was no exception to the rule. The interest of the play centres iu the two characters already spoken of, and it Mill be well understood that in such hands nothing that would tend to make the play a success was omitted. _ Mr. Burford played the Duke to a nicety ; in short, it is a pleasure to notice the painstaking manner in which Mr. Burford has supported Mr. and Mrs. Bates during the present season. It is equally gratifying' to he able to say something complimentary of -Mr. Thorp, who was placed in a position of some difficulty as Gubetta. The part is usually entrusted to an “old stager;” as a matter of fact great experience is required to do it justice, and, under all the circumstances, Mr. Thorp did very well. Mr. Stoneham (Maffeo) and Mr. Hesford (Beppo) are also deserving of praise for the creditable support they afforded. Mr. Howard created great amusement in the afterpiece, “ The Wandering Minstrel. This evening Mr. Bates takes a benefit, the piece to be produced being “The Marble Heart.” Of the long list of theatrical celebrities who have visited Wellington, Mr. Bates is one of the most worthy. On the stage or off the stage Mr. Bates has proved himself a credit to the profession of which he is so distinguished a member, and on the principle of giving honor to whom honor is due, it is proper to add that Mr. Bates has won the respect and esteem of a large number ot citizens with whom he has been brought in contact during his short stay in the city. This fact is not mentioned with any adulatory intent. It is hinted at merely as a just right that belongs to every deserving man, and Mr. Bates is a deserving man from whatever standpoint his character may be viewed. A crowded house upon such an occasion would be a becoming recognition of such -a man, and apart altogether from pecuniary considerations, Mr., Bates’ friends, it is hoped, will contrive to bring about such a result.