THE OPERA.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 5253, 24 January 1878, Page 3

THE OPERA.

“ MOSB IN 2011X0/' This beautiful opera was repeated for the last performance of the season of the present company, and in some respects was an itnmense improvement on its previous rendering Taken as a whole it was one of the best efforts of the company during the past season. It is with regret that we notice that the ana which called for some allusions in our last issue on account of its imperfections was carefully omitted in the performance yesterday evening. This is much to be regretted, as the remarks made caused some comment the lovers of music in the city, arM it would have been a most satisfactory denial to our remarks if the aria in question had been satisfactorily rendered. That it was omitted is on the other hand an ominous sign that the repetition was feared. Many great improvements were noticed, more especially in the last scene, which was managed most cleverly, and completely , satisfied the large audience. On each of the representations of this opera we noticed a sad diminution in the attendance in the dress-circle, which may be accounted for by the impression that it is commonly supposed to treat on subjects which may be classed as profane, and likely to offend the religious scruples of those who might otherwise patronise it. On this head it is impossible to conceive a greater error. The work abounds in the most sacred and melodious music, composed to immortalise all which is the chief belief of Christianity. Therefore, although for some unaccountable reason it has been prohibited in England (so we are informed), it may be accepted on our assurance as a most enjoyable and thoroughly “proper” entertainment. The performance last evening as a whole was an eminent success, yet it may be as well that the prima donna assoluta should bo aware that many of the audience are in a position to understand the Italian language as spoken on the stage by Signor Guadignini, and therefore were much surprised to hear such an expression as the following emanate from her in reference to Signor Carnero, who has been in the old country considered a fit and able compeer of tho great Titjieus. The expression we allude to is the following ; “ Bonsi ete buono neanco • a pullrimi lo scarpe which, being commonly interpreted, means, “You are not fit to clean my boots.” Now, such an expression at any time is much out of place—more especially on a public stage in reference to a fellow professional. The great success of • the opera company daring its present season calls for a morelengthened noticethan we can afford space for ; still it may he found convenient to-publish a short account of the various performances, which would be most complimentary to the company as a whole.