H. Mitchell's English Opera.

Thames Star, Volume X, Issue 3180, 29 April 1879, Page 2

H. Mitchell's English Opera.

"Maritana."

The second appearance of the Opera Company in " Maritana " attracted a full home to the Academy of Music last evening, the stalls being especially well patronised. To thoroughly appreciate even a tithe of all the beauties of an opera such as " Maritana "—well rendered—one has to hear its grand music more than once ; at least so we found it last evening, many gems of the opera previously almost unnoticed presenting themselves in bold relief to the listener. The prima donna was as successful in her vocalisation and action as on the previous evening, and responded to more than one encore, taxing her powers considerably to gratify her admirers. Her singing in the aria " Scenes tbat are brightest" was her greatest hit, the high tremolo notes being vocalised in that finished manner that at once distinguishes the well trained vocalist. Mr Browning's song, " Lo, my courage now regaining," was rendered with great expression, and was received very heartily by the audience, an eacore being de>

manded. Mr Browning was also encored for his song "In happy moments." Mr Florence was as successful as ever as Don Ceesar de Bazan, and was encored after singing " There is a flower that bloometh," and Mrs Florence's song, " Alas, those chimes," received well merited applause. Mr Hod son, as King, deserves praise for the role he assumed. His cantation, in the last act where he asserts he is Don Ctosar, merited the encomiums of the audience. The wardrobe of the company is excellent, and each member of the company dressed their respective parts appropriately.

To-night.

To-night will be produced Bellini's masterpiece, •• Sonnambula," when we predict further success for this talented company.