Music & Drama.

New Zealand Illustrated Sporting & Dramatic Review, Volume II, Issue 84, 3 March 1892, Page 1

Music & Drama.

Spectatum admzssi nsum teneatis amici ?

THE ONSLOW MEDALS. On Monday week at Government House a large gathering of musical enthusiasts witnessed the award to Messrs. Philpott and McGinley of the prcemzum virtutis which each had won in the Onslow Musical Competition. Lord Onslow and Sir Maurice O’Rorke made felicitous speeches, and Mr. Philpott in a few well chosen words returned thanks on behalf of himself and his fellow prize-winner. Lord Onslow humorously explained that in the haste and confusion of packing, the medals by mistake had been sent to Melbourne and that therefore the presentation would have to be .a sort of Barmecide feast. But he would take care that they should be forwarded at once to the recipients. He also announced that Lady Onslow would present similar medals for competition for at least two years to come. So unexpected an intimation was of course greeted with loud applause. Herr Carl Schmitt’s services to the cause of music were alluded to in most complimentary terms by all the speakers. The Professor has been presented by Lord and Lady Onslow with a handsome jewelled scarf-pin in recognition of the good music which under his direction has from time to time delighted the guests at Government House.

On the 28th of March Mr. Bentley opens at the Opera House a season of Shakespeare and legitimate drama. He brings with him a powerful company, and judging by the very complimentary critiques in Southern journals Auckland playgoers may expect a genuine treat.

Miss Myra Kemble, with “ Doctor Bill,” etc., will probably open in Auckland towards the end of May.

Amateur Opera Companies will be relieved to hear that Messrs. Williamson and Garner have released Gilbert and Sullivan’s operas from quarantine—The Gondoliers only excepted.

Hugo’s New Idea Minstrels drew a very good house on Saturday evening, and performed an excellent programme without a hitch The piano has been tuned, and a very competent performer thereon as well as the vocalists now have a fair chance to display their powers. Tom Makanini reveals an infinite variety of humorous resource, and Mr. Voss introduced some clever ventriloquial novelties. Will Hugo, Tommy Oakes and Harry Boulton are better than ever, and with the Misses Linden and Gordon and the clever boy-singer Harry Creswell, a very good variety entertainment is assured for all who patronise the City Hall Saturday nights.

On Tuesday evening at the Opera House, Madame Goldenstedt’s postponed concert attracted an audience which positively crammed every part of the auditorium. Next week I hope to give a detailed criticism of the excellent programme. Orpheus.