Harrison-Maretzek Italian Opera: Fra Diavolo

“The week’s performances at Pike’s Opera House, disturbed by the Purim Ball and the Seventy-first Regiment Reception, were brought to an end on Saturday, when there was a brilliant matinée performance of ‘Fra Diavolo.’ The attendance was in the highest degree fashionable. It is evident that the house has won its position, and outranks any other establishment of its kind in the metropolis. The energy of the management has contributed to this result, and the performances have been characterized by musical completeness and certainty. They were rendered additionally interesting last week by the introduction of a new prima-donna. Mlle. Elder, a lady who has had the advantage of the best instruction both in this country and in Europe, made her first appearance on any stage in the difficult character of Annetta, in ‘Crispino é la Comare,’ on Thursday. She astonished every one by the easy gracefulness of her bearing, and the facility which she undoubtedly possesses to interpret character. Mlle. Elder possesses also a true soprano voice, capable of the finest execution, and of clear, tender, expressive intensity. With the freer delivery which will come from experience, she can readily assume the rôles of Miss Kellogg, and we are sure with satisfaction to the public. Her first appearance was an ovation, the stage being literally strewn with flowers.

Owing to a previous engagement with Lotta the house is engaged for the present week, and the operatic company goes to Philadelphia, returning on Monday next.”