AMUSEMENTS.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXII, Issue 10055, 28 May 1910, Page 5

AMUSEMENTS.

"MADAM BUTTERFLY." AMY CASTLES IN GRAND OPERA. We are to have Grand Opera in English done by a company composed chiefly of Italian' artists of high reputation with an orchestra of over 40 instruments, under the direction of the renowned Signor Roberto flazon, late conductor of La Scala, Milan, and under the direction of J. C. Williamson. We are also to have Puccini for the first time in Masterton. We are, in short, to be offered certainly the most important enterprise in.Gand Opera productions that the Dominion has been tempted with. On Saturday next, at the Town Hall, J. C. Williamson will present "Madam Butterfly," a tragic opera by the great Italian composer, Signor Giacomo Puccini. "Madam Butterfly" is described as the latest and most successful example of the modern Italian school. The Company it woul.l appear, is particularly rich in vocalists. Amy Castles—prima donna--who will sing the part of the devoted heroina "Cho Cho San" on the opening night, strikes the tragic note perfectly. This artist is credited with being fortunately possessed of thi finest lyric soprano, after Melba, yet heard in Australia, and, in the opinion of critics, is the finest dramatic operatic artist that we have had among us. The part is of so exacting a nature that J t is impossible for the same artist to sing two nights in succession. The Company, besides those mentioned, includes Miss Rosina Buckman, Miss Florence Quinn, Miss Lilian Boana, among many others in less important rolss. Of the gentlemen, Signor Jean Zerga is the principal tenor, the prime baritone, Arthur Crane, Orme Darvall, Rufus Ferguson, tenors, and Edward Wynn basso. The box plan will be opened at the Town Hall on Wednesday next, at 8 o'clock, and at nine at Miss Rive's. In order to facilitate the heavy advance booking anticipaed. coupons, entitling holders to first choice of seats will be issued at the Town Hall at 6.30 on Wednesday.