THE OPERA.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXIX, Issue 4229, 9 October 1874, Page 2

THE OPERA.

MARITANA. Wallace's beautiful and popular opera “ Mari tana ” wag performed last night iu a manner which surpassed all its previous representations ; and as sung and played’by the company collectively may be pronounced their greatest success. The efforts of all. seemed to unite harmoniously and happily towards accomplishing the effect with- which the piece requires playing to be thoroughly appreciated ; and there was no lack of proof that the desired end was attained to the complete satisfaction of the audience, for applause was loud and frequent, and what is always still more conclusive evidence of success, a dead silence reigned throughout the house during the performance of the best parts of theopera. The leading artists of. were in excellent voice and spirits, and all secured well-merited encores, accompanied by bouquets. Miss Lambert, as the beneficiare of the evening, was very heartily received, and attained her usual success in the character of the page, which she plays very prettily and with much taste. In singing “ Alas, those Chimes,” the lower notes were most effectively rendered, and throughout the solo her fine contralto voice was most advantageously used. Miss May held her audience quite entranced whilst giving the “ Harp in the Air,” and she was scarcely less enchanting in singing “ Scenes that are Brightest.” The beautiful' duet, “Sainted Mother,” was magnificently given. The sweet melody produced by the combination of the soprano and t central to in the soft passages is indescribable; and on the completion of the duet the applause rose in subdued muimnrs_ of admiration, and gradually expanded into a general acknowledgement of the rich treat which Miss May and Miss Lambert had afforded. “ Don Caesar .de Bazan ” is a character which suits Mr. Hallam admirably, and his representation of it last night was one of the very best, both in sipging and acting, . that we have seen this rapidly, improving artist give. He won a richly-deserved encore for his fine singing in the cavatina, “ Let me like a Soldier fall.” Judging from the number of bouquets that Mr. Hallam nightly receives, one is led to the conclusion that his performances meet with a full share of approbation. Mr. Rain ford played and sang the part of Don: Jos 4 most excellently. “In happy moments,” was beautifully and expressively sung by him, and he was accorded the encore which this gem invariably gains. One of the sweetest parts of the opera is in the close of the second act, where Maritana sings “ What mystery,” and the chorus takes it up in subdued measures. There is a soft thrilling music contained in it which was done full justice to by Miss May, tastefully assisted by the chorus, and the effect was perfect. Mr. Levison improves on acquaintance in the character of the King. The chorus showed a marked improvement on the few previous nights, and all through the evening sang in good harmony and time ; indeed, the Angelus chorus was better rendered than anything they have given this season. A duet had almost escaped mention which should not. It was that between Miss May and Mr. Rainford in the first act, commencing “Of fairy wand had I the power.” It was most excellently rendered. To-night “Cinderella” will be played for the benefit of Mr. Vernon, and, if he meets with his deserts, there will be a full house.