THE OPERA.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 5251, 22 January 1878, Page 3

THE OPERA.

This grand and sublime opera was performed in a most satisfactory manner last evening, yet, notwithstanding its success as a whole, we regret to feel compelled to notice shortcomings on the part of certain performers who have hitherto acquitted themselves most admirably. The remarks which are made on this occasion will be received in the spirit in which they are given, which is to correct any slight shortcomings, irrespective of the delinquents. The opening movement of the opera, which can scarcely be called an overture, was exquisitely played by the orchestra, and evinced the most careful tuition on the part of their able conductor Mons. Carron. The opera itself opens with a splendid chorus, which was rendered with much effect. The qnartett between Anaide, Maria, Elisero, and Mosd was rendered with consummate skill, and received a most hearty encore. The duet between Anaide and Amenofi was most pleasing, and evinced most careful study on the part of the performers as regatds this particular soena and duet. It was in this duet that the energetic prompter encroached rather too much upon the part of the performers, which is a great detriment to a successful performance. The finale to the first act, “ Che narri ? il ver,” was fine indeed, carrying off the palm amongst all the excellencies which have been rendered by this company in the way of vocal concerted music (unaccompanied). It was the finest display of talent and careful study which has ever been witnessed in this city before. During the second act the choruses were given with great power. Mosd also was most conspicuous for his grand recitative, which reflected the utmost credit upon that careful and painstaking artist, Signor Cesari. During the third act Signor Gambetti acquitted himself in his usual excellent manner. In the fourth act is the great prayer music which is well known to all lovers of music. It was most splendidly sung, and was well complimented by a most spontaneous encore. Considering the nature of the opera, its difficulties, and the ' short time allowed for its rehearsal, the performance reflected the Greatest credit on those concerned, with this exception (and we much regret to feel compelled to sayso) that the role of “ Maria” sorella di Mosd suffered much in not being perfectly committed to memory by our most admired friend Signora Guadagnini. Both Mons. Carron and Mr. HareourtLee well deserve much credit for the tact aud precision with which they overcame any shortcomings on this account. The scenery throughout the opera was extremely good, with the exception of the last scene, ia which the Red Sea is supposed to swallow up a multitude of people. The appearance of the sea was most peculiar on this occasion, tire water evidently being determined to sot at nought the theorem that water would always find its own level. The mid He part of tire Red Sea was at about an angle of 30 degrees elevation from the rest of the water, and had a very elevated appearance indeed. This evening “ Aida ” will bo performed, and we learn with much pleasure that Signor Paladin! has kindly undertaken to render that beautiful aria, “ Celeste Aida,” to which we called attention.