WELLINGTON HARMONIC SOCIETY

Dominion, Volume 19, Issue 252, 8 July 1926, Page 4

WELLINGTON HARMONIC SOCIETY

The Wellington Harmonic Society ventured out of its usual element—and considerably out of its depth—when it essayed the task of presenting a platform edition of Claude M. Haydons four-act opera “Paolo and Francesca, in the Town Hall Concert Chamber last evening. According to the programme note, “Paolo and Francesca” is a grand opera with a choral prologue four acts, and a choral epilogue. The libretto is founded on Vilder’s drama, “Rose of Ravenna.’’ Haydon’s treatment fails to reach opera standard. The work is weak and colourless. It is possible that in its proper stage setting, with operatic artists and chorus and orchestra, something might be made of it, but that is extremely doubtful As presented by the Harmonic Society, under Mr. Temple White, its deficiencies became conspicuously evident. The whole performance lacked atmosphere. The cast of soloists was as followse— Malutesta, Mr. D. M. Anderson (bantone); Giovanni, Mr. R. R. Orr (bass); Paolo Mr. Frank Bryant; Nanna, Mrs. W. J. Coventry (contralto); Beppo, Mr. AV. E. Robbins (tenor); Stephano, Mr. A. Stark (baritone): Guido, Mr. G. A. Roberts (baritone); Francesca, Miss Myra Sawyer (soprano); Gita, Miss Gladys Dawson (mezzo-soprano); Angelo, Mr. Arthur Coe (tenor). Miss Sawyer san" her numbers faithfully, but lacked animation: Mr. Bryant was occasionally good, while Mrs. ,W. J.. Coventry created a favourable impression. Mr. R. R. Orr was in good voice, but did not appear to be quite at ease. Nearly all of the soloists sang into their books. This, added to an unsteadiness in the choral numbers, suggested insufficient rehearsal Mr. TTaro'd Whittle was at Hie piano, and Mrs. G. P. Aldridge at the organ.