THE OPERA.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 5241, 10 January 1878, Page 3

THE OPERA.

... Last night Bellini’s magnificent opera “Norma” was performed in the Theatre Royal, the principal characters being taken by Signora Guadaguini, Signora Caranti Vita, Signor Paladini, and Signor Cesari. The principal business of the opera is, however, thrown upon the characters of Norma, Adalgiua, and Pollione, very little serious work being reserved Lor Oroveso and the Druid chorus. The trying music of 11 Norma ” was excellently well rendered by Signora Guadagnini, who bravely supported the heavy tax to the end. The Signora, whose voice is, from its very clearness, peculiarly adapted to the correct enunciation of frequent and varied combinations of notes, appears to be in her proper element among these difficult passages. This was especially noticeable in the beautiful cavatina “ Casta Diva,” which, with numerous “ appoggiaturi” and difloult runs, was splendidly sung. Signora Guadagnini played the part of Norma with grace and dignity, but with appropriate fervor. In the duet with Adalgisa her beautiful soprano voice, full of sweetness, was displayed with great purity. Signora Vita sHng the duet with Pollione with considerable success, and the duet “ Mira o Norma” with characteristic tenderness, Signora Vita’s whole soul seemed to be thrown into the music. Signor Paladini, who was in good voice, sang the music of Pollione exceedingly well, and it was impossible to help admiring the ease and sweetness that characterised his vocalisation. The more we hear of this gentleman's voice, the more we like him. Signor Cesari gave a capital representation of Oroveso, his fine cle ir bass voice being heard to great advantage. This evening Signora Caranti Vila will take her benefit, when we expect to see a crowded bouse. This clever artiste has taken many different" characters, and invariably given a most pleasing and entertaining performance.