POLLARD'S OPERA COMPANY.

Wanganui Herald, Volume XXX, Issue 8989, 22 October 1896, Page 2

POLLARD'S OPERA COMPANY.

Nell Gwynne.

The second performance last (Wednes< day) evening by the ever-favonrite Pollaids was greeted by a bnmpor downstairs house and a good dress oirclo. B Manqnette's oomio opera " Nell Gwynne " was tbe piece put on, and considering tbat the opera is one of the recent acquirements of the Company, the management are to be congratulated on the very efficient manner in whioh it was performed, oad the excellent staging and effects. The libretto possesses more than the usual merit of comic opera, being orisp and pangonb andhumorons to a degree, while the composer exoele himself in the oharming solos, concerted pieces, and choruses. Tbe large sudience was delighted with the performance, and showed their appreciation by warm and prolonged applause, a number of encores being demanded. The story is simple, yet interesting, centering in the adventures of Nell Gwynne and her companions in humbling, the Duke of Buckingham and the Earl of Rochester, who had spoken somewhat contemptuously of Nell, who was a playacfcreii. Mies Marion Mitchell was entrusted with the chief role of " Nell Gwynne," and had an excellent opportunity of displaying her versatility. Her solos were given with purity and sweetness, her best number being " Only an Orange Girl." Her acting too was good, particularly in tho aroadian soone. Miss Maud Beatty was well oaste as the Duke and Miss Maad Hewion as the Earl of Boohesfrr, gave her good support tbe singing of both befog above tbo avorago. Miss Howson received a merited encore and a handsome floral tribute for her Blessing rendition of " Love ia gone a Maying." Miss Boas Stephens as Faloon was warmly received for' her tasteful singing, and Miss Marie Metcalfe made tho most of her part at cousin to Lady Clare, the latter being represented by Miss Lily Stephens, who übly supported " Nell Gwynne " in her scenes. Miss Emily Metctlfe performed Jeisamine satisfactorily, and Miss Nellie Wilton as Charles 11. had little to do, but performed the put creditably. Mlus May Beatty mode a most amusing Marjorie, her get up and eocentrioities fairly convuliing the audienoe. With Mr W 8 Percy as tbe Beadle, and E Nable as Weasel, the trio supplied the comic element, and kept the house in roars of laughter. The gorging propensities of Marjory and the Beadle being p&rtioulftrlv amusing.

To-night the oharming comio opera " Paul Jones " is to be staged, and is sure to attract a packed bouse.