THEATRE ROYAL.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XVIII, Issue 6097, 2 June 1881, Page 5

THEATRE ROYAL.

Heuu Basdmanx appeared last night in the double role of Fabien and Louis Pranohi, in "The Corsican Brothers;" Mr. .T. F. Cathcart, as Chateau Renand; Mr. NVinn, as Montgirou; Mr. Musgrave, as Mertelli ; Miss Louise Beaudet, as Emilie de l'Esparre; Miss Louise Crawford, as the Countess de Seviglia ; Miss Jessie Raymond, as Coralie ; and Miss Lucy Ashton, as Estelle. This piece is one of those spectacular and sensational dramas which invariably excite a mixed feeling of sympathy and horror. There is an instinctive attraction in the supposed intercommunion of the thoughts of the brothers Franehi before and after death, which appeals to sensibilities much deeper than find expression either in the plot or its situations. Herr Bantlmann found in this double role the means of creating a very strong part as Fabien. The piece was well put on the stage. The duel between Fabien and Renaud with broken swords was represented with great vigour, and its varying alternations were watched with interest by the audience. The part of Emilie is not equal to Miss Beaudet's fine powers, but it is impersonated, as far as it goes, with excellent effect. The minor parts were very well played. The performances concluded with the screen scene from '' The School for Scandal" —Mr. Musgrave as Sir Peter, Miss Beaudet as Lady Teazle, Mr. C. Hall as Joseph Surface, and Mr. J. F. Cathcart as Charles Surface. This well-acted scene gave great satisfaction, and was loudly applauded. This evening '' East Lytine" will be the play, followed by "Tom's Revenge."