Grand Opera House: George Holland Testimonial

“There was quite a large attendance at the Grand Opera House on Saturday afternoon, when the last of the series of Holland Testimonial Performances—at least in New-York—was given, with good results. The programme to which we called attention on Saturday was duly presented. Montaland and Persini sang in ‘Les Brigands.’ M. Varlot sang an aria from Mercadante. Signor Carlo Patti executed a violin solo. And Mlle. Silly sang in ‘La Grande Duchesse.’ Many ladies were present. The Testimonial Fund has gained several hundred dollars by this performance. The united receipts of the several representations thus far given amount to about $12,000.”

“The final performance in this city occurred at the Grand Opera House on Saturday afternoon, January 28, when two acts of the ‘Brigands’ and one act of the ‘Grand Duchess’ were performed. Signor Carlo Patti executed a solo on the violin and Mr. Varlet sang an aria by Mercadante. The attendance was quite meagre, as might have been expected. The programme was weak and little or no effort appeared to have been made to present extraordinary attractions. The manager of the Opera House originally expressed his intention of not giving a performance, but of donating a sum of money equal to the average of what was realized by the Thursday matinees. We regret that he changed his mind, not on account of the pecuniary difference, if any, that would be made, but really for the eclat of the whole affair. The well-known liberality of the manager will probably prevent any pecuniary deficit in his returns by reason of his so changing his mind. So far as this city is concerned the Holland testimonial is a thing accomplished. As a whole it has been a grand success.” [Continues about Holland benefits to be given in other cities.]