ABBOTTS OPERA HOUSE.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXIII, Issue 7639, 17 May 1886, Page 5

ABBOTTS OPERA HOUSE.

The well-known Adelphi drama, " Green Bushes, or Ireland One Hundred Years Ago," was produced by Mr. Grattan Riggs and Mr. MacMahon'e dramatic company at the Opera House on Saturday night, and although the weather was unpropitious, there was a very fair house, especially in the lower portion of it. Mr. Kiggs took the role of Wild Murtogh, and although in comparison with some of the parts in which he has recently appeared, and in which he brought out the beat features of the Irish peasant, that of Wild Murtogh was uncongenial, yet he made the'repulsive role quite aa effectual as any of the others, aud afforded a further proof of his wonderful versatility. He wae well supported by the leading members of the company, Mr. Fenton especially making the role of Connor Kennedy a very strong part, while Mr. Robert Inman, as the treacherous brother, George Kennedy, evinced an appreciation of the character which left little to be desired. Mr. Joyce and Mr. Soagrove, in tb. low comedy parts of "Jack Gong," and "Grinnidge," made up aud acted their parts admirably, causing roars of laughter while they were ou the stage. In the leading female part, that of Miami, Misa Emma lironton displayed a great deal of dramatic power, and in several of the scenes sho was very warmly applauded. Miss Jesaie Grey made a leading feature of the part of Geraldine, and in Nolly O'Neil, the warm-hearted peasant foster sister of Geraldine, little Miss Madge Innian gave an admirable pourtrajal, fairly bringing down the house in her song, "The jug of punch," and in the more pathetic scones she played with power and effect. Miss Masters, as the child Eveleen, did a great deal of credit to her training, The play, being well mounted, was as a. whole a success. It will be repeated to-night. The farewell benefit to Mr. lliqgs is underlined for Wednesday niqht, the last night of the season, and on this occasion a double bill will be produced, including "The Emigrant," and the ever-popular farce "Handy Andy," in each of which Mr. Riggs will take the hading character. We have no doubt, from the popularity which Mr. Kiggs has acquired by his admirable impersonations, as well as by nis geniality, that there will be a crowded house on the occasion of his benelit.