Grau French Opera Bouffe: Geneviève de Brabant

“‘Genevieve de Brabant’ entered last evening on its fifth week in this city after a month of decided and encouraging success. The warm support which has crowned each representation is but another proof of the substantial reward which enterprising managers are ever sure to receive at the hands of an appreciative public. First class opéra bouffe, talented artists, good scenery, and though last, not least, a competent orchestra, will always be heartily welcomed, and the advent on the boards of the French theatre of the sparkling and musical Genevieve has been hailed with delight. Divested of its so-called objectionale features it now stands unrivalled in every respect. In point of elaborateness, costly fittings and arrangements, charming music and excellent artists, it is all that could be desired, and while the leading performers have already established themselves in high favor, the entire company are in consonance with the splendor of the production. Unquestionably one or two stars will render the defects of inefficient support more apparent; but where talent is fairly divided among all, the result must unavoidably be satisfactory. The opera has now become so popular as to render commendation almost unnecessary. Rose-Bell, Desclauzas, Gabel, Carrier, Beckers and the host of others performed their various rôles last evening in creditable style and were rewarded with the unanimous approbation of the audience. ‘Genevieve de Brabant’ will enjoy a long and prosperous reign.”

Brief: “The burlesque operas at Pike’s and the French Theatre continue every night to attract large and delighted audiences. Amateurs are divided in their preference of the music of ‘Barbe Bleue’ and ‘Genevieve,’ which have cast the ‘Grand Duchess’ and the ‘Belle Helene’ into the shade.”

“Ladies are particularly requested to procure their seats or tickets in advance at the following places: Downtown—Peter’s Music Store, 198 Broadway; uptown—Schirmer’s, 701 Broadway, and at the Theatre Francais. The lobbies at the theatre will be heated and opened at 11 o’ clock, so that ladies will not be compelled to remain standing outside. Andre Beckers, the popular baritone of the Theatre Francais and the comical Charles Mariel in Genevieve de Brabant, has domesticated at 28 Amity St., where he is prepared to teach music and declamation.”

“The popular enjoyment of Opera Bouffe shows no signs of diminution.  The two rival establishments are in full career, each holding forth nightly to crowded houses.”