"TAPU."

Otago Daily Times, Issue 12601, 3 March 1903, Page 6

"TAPU."

The Pakeha-Maori light opera, "Tapu," which met with such marked success in Wellington, antl is to be the opening piece of the Pollard's Opera Company's short farewell seaEon, which commences at the Princess Theatre on Saturday evening, should appeal forcibly to New Zealander3. The music is by Mr Alfred Hill, of Wellington, aud the libretto by Mi Arthur Adams, also a. New ZeaJander. They, have made use of some of the grand possibilities which exist in New Zealand for roraantio musical and dramatic compositions. Mr HilJ is said to havo caught the spirit of the soil in no mean measure in his composition, and the opera is referred to as a musical gem, melodious and bright. Mr Adams's libretto is diverting, much of the dialogue is smart, and the songs quaint and humorous. If .Messra Hill and Adams havo made the most of theiT opportunities, so also hns tho scenio artist, Mr John Biunton. He has supplied two beautiful settings. The first is a. Maori pa, and tho second the Pink Terrace, Botorua. The Maori, haka and roi dance is introduced with splendid effect, the Pollard chorus going through their work with as much grace and vivacity as tho true Natives; and the musio which accompanies the performance is quaintly pretty. The effect is certainly a- unique ono on any stage. Mr Alfred Hill, the composa of the music, will personally conduct during the performance of " Tapu " in Dunedin. Th»box plan will be opened for inspection at thl. Dresden on Thursday morning.