OPERA HOUSE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 6130, 17 March 1898, Page 4

OPERA HOUSE.

The Opera House was crowded last evening, when an Irish national concert was held to celebrate the eve of St Patrick's Day. Mr H. Eossiter, the musical director, had arranged an excellent programme, and almost without exception the different items were of such a nature as to appeal to the patriotism of the audience. The overtures were played by Mr H. Eossiter's string band and the Banjo and Guitar Band, and the latter also played a selection in the second part in place of a song by Mr P. Hockley, who was prevented by, indisposition from, taking part. Signora Venostn. had also to be apologised for, but a very satisfactory substitute was found in Miss Lilian Smith, who sang "Terence's '-Farewell to Kathleen" and " Come Back to Erin/ andwas encored for her second number. Mrs E. T. Eobinson's songs were " Killarney " arid " Kathleen Mavoucneen," and her encore number for the ■' first was "Barney O'Hea." Miss Lucy Eyan, a pupil of Mr Eossiter's, scored a distinct success with her singing of "The Dear Little Shamrock." She was recalled, and gave " Believe me if all Those Endearing Young Charms." Instrumental selections were played by the Misses C. and M O'Brien (pupils of St Mary's Convent) and Misses Burke, Poff, O'Connell and Fowler (pupils of Barbadoes Street Convent). Mr C. Eead and Mr Russell Halley were recalled for each of their songs, and Messrs J. and E. Peterson's duet bad to be repeated.. M>.'A. F. Young, too, hit the popular taste with his song, " The Wearing of the Green," and Mr W. A. Hall recited "Shamus O'Brien" with excellent expression. Mr O'Callaghan gave a step dance, and the pupils of the Marist. Brothers' School sang two choruses. Mrs W. Crbniri and Misses Corrick and Eobinson made efficient accompanists. The pot plants for the decoration of .the stage were supplied by -Mr."W. Jones.