THE POLLARD OPERA COMPANY.

Press, Volume LV, Issue 10095, 22 July 1898, Page 5

THE POLLARD OPERA COMPANY.

'»■ There are few prettier or more musical operas than that which tells of the contretemps arisiug from the conduct of unsophisticated young lady Falka, who elopes with her still more unsophisticated and youthful lover from a badly guarded couvent and gets into innumerable scrapes, only to get out of them again by the aid of a pretty face and charming piquancy of manner, which storms an old uncle's heart. The piece was played by the Pollard Opera Company last night. It is safe to say they uever played it better. This was largely due to the inclusion of Mr Ernest Fitts as Boleslas, the Tzigani chief. He both played and looked the part to perfection, while his singing was even better than usual. He sang " I am the Captain Boleslas" inimitably, and in his song during the Tzigani ballet his rich voice was heard to still better effect. The trio "Oh Joy or Rapture" in the second act was also vastly improved by the inclusion of his voice. Mr E. Nable played the part of Governor Folbach (Falka's aforesaid old uncle) excellently, and the humorous scenes between himself and Mr H. Quealy as Tancred (the scarecrow nephew) simply convulsed the audience. In the latter character Mr Quealy took full advantage of the ample opportunities the part offered for comicalities. Mr W. Percy was very good as Arthur, Falka's lover, and his appearance, in ladies' garments was the signal for loud laughter. In the duet in the third act between Falka and himself ("Slumber, oh Sentinel") he sang exceedingly well. Mr A. Stephens made up exceadingly well as Pelican, the ever thirsiy janitor. Much praise is due to Miss May Boatty, who played the title role. In the duet "For your indulgence we are hoping" and her song "I am my noble uncle's heir" she sang with artistic taste and sweetness, and she received a double encore for " 'Tis eventide, the shades are stealing." Her advice to Arthur about a young ladies' boarding school waß also tastefully sung. Her pourtrayal of character was excellent. Miss Emily Metcalfe played Edwidge very well and sang artistically,, aud Misa Lily Stephens was very good as the heiress Alexine. The other characters, notably Miss Wilson as Janotha, were all carefully played. The scenery was excellent. To-night "In Town" will be staged.