French Opera Bouffe Associated Artists: Le Sourd

“New York Theatre.—The theatrical vault in which many pieces have been silently buried—in which during the funeral ceremonies several ‘appreciative audiences’ have caught consumption—was comparatively well filled last evening. It certainly required something of an enlivening character to attract such a respectable assemblage as that which congregated in the New York theatre. There is a peculiar draught attached to the concern which actually prohibits the enjoyment of any entertainment, however racy or original. Fortunately the good-natured, polite and lively French people are impervious to atmospherical inconveniences, and the performance last evening, creditable in its way, was heartily enjoyed. After a charming little comedy, in which buns and champagne were satisfactorily disposed of, ‘Le Sourd’ was produced. The music, by Adolphe Adams [sic], is not wanting in the characteristic sparkle of modern French compositions, but there is, of course, a prolongation of dialogue, which, apart from its clownish tendencies, robs the gems of the pleasure which otherwise might be attached to them. The artists did their utmost to please, and it is satisfactory to know they succeeded in their well-intended efforts. As the opera did not demand a magnificent mounting no unusual extravagance in that respect was displayed. Mme. Gueretti, one of the most clever artists in connection with Mr. Grau’s French opera troupe, and who created no unfavorable impression during the rage of the famous ‘Genevieve de Brabant,’ sustained the part of Petronelle with great credit, while Gerrebreuck [sic] as Le Chevalier d’Orbe acquitted himself satisfactorily, disclosing during the evening a good tenor voice. The other artists taking part in the opera were Messrs. Edgard, Genot, with Mme. Daire, Mathilde and Briot. Altogether the production of ‘Le Sourd’ was favorably received.”

“The French artists whose performances at the New-York Theatre have already had reference, continue to appear there nightly. They sing this evening, Adolphe Adams’ delightful though rather antiquated opera of ‘Le Sourd,’ and, thanks especially to the efforts of M. Girrebeuck, and of Mme. Gueretti, their interpretation of it leaves little room for fault-finding. ‘Le Sourd’ is to be repeated, in view of the success of the first representation, until Saturday evening, when the bill will be changed, and the modern standard comedy of ‘Par Droit de Couquêtte’ will be added.”

“The French company at the New York Theatre will to-night repeat Adam’s pleasant little opera ‘Le Sourd.’”