Marie Antoinette

“Madame Ristori made her reappearance here last night before an audience that filled the house to the very dome—the largest, most brilliant and fashionable assembly that has graced any public entertainment in the city this season. The piece was Marie Antoinette, of course—ca va sans dire. It would seem as if our playgoing public had only begun to appreciate this fine tragedy just as we are about to lose it. It was rendered with that admirable fidelity in general tone of which we have hitherto spoken at large; but particularly it must be said that Madame Ristori, Signorita Glech and Signor Bozzo gave their respective parts last night with such earnestness, life and sympathy as if by frequent repetition the spirit of the words had grown into their very natures. It is part of the excellence of such a troupe that nothing in it can become mere routine. The personation is as fresh the twentieth night as the first, with the advantage that much study has given in the interpretation of all emotions. . . . ”

“. . . The excitement in the lobby, incident to the anxiety of the unhappy multitude that had been unable to secure seats, bordered on the comical, at least as viewed by one of the happy few . . . The tragedy was rendered with such additional spirit as a gala night always seems to give to true actors. . . . ”

“The French Theatre was like an omnibus on a wet day, packed as densely as its fullest capacity would admit. We saw hundreds turned away at the doors from want of room inside. The nine-tenths of the audience were ladies and the latest and most brilliant winter fashions shone in the box, balcony and parquets. A large number were accommodated with seats behind the scenes on the stage; others stood tip toe on chairs at the entrance and some were content with catching a glimpse of the stage from the stairs. Could any stronger proof be given of the popularity and deep appreciation of the artiste and the drama . . .”