Mulder-Fabbri German Opera: Merry Wives of Windsor

“Among the very best performances of the Mulder-Fabbri company, at the Stadt Theatre, was that given last night. Not one of them certainly proved more popular or attractive; for rarely has ‘The Merry Wives of Windsor’ had more artistic representatives in this city; From the repeated demonstrations of approval that issued from all parts of the house it was evident that the appreciative assemblage was thoroughly alive to the humor and sparkling music of the production, as well as to the unexceptionable manner in which it was presented. ‘The Merry Wives of Windsor’ is admittedly the finest of German comic operas, and has long since elicited the warmest encomiums for its raciness, spirit, drollery and charming orchestrations. Offenbach and company must assuredly be well informed as to its merit, as a composition, judging from some of his most brilliant efforts. In alluding to the artists who participated last evening, it is but just to state that individually and collectively they won decided commendation. Falstaff had a glorious representative in the veteran Karl Formes, for whom, by the way, the part was written by Nicolai. His acting was superb throughout, the rollicking humor which distinguished his performance provoking the heartiest merriment. In the duet with Ford (W. Formes), ‘Wie freu’ich mich,’ in the beginning of the second act, he was warmly encored, besides being the recipient of enthusiastic applause. Mme. Fabbri sustained the role of Mrs. Ford like a thorough artist, displaying a wonderful amount of versatility, which, with her excellent vocalization, rendered the part very acceptable. She was ably sustained by Mlle. Clara Perl, who made her appearance as Mrs. Page. The duet in the first act between those two artists was exceedingly well sung, as, indeed, were all the sparkling solos and concerted music with which the work is replete. Herr W. Formes acquitted himself with credit as Mr. Ford; the other characters being well presented, including Fenton (T. Habelmann), Mr. Page (Lehmann), Slender (C. Bernard), Dr. Caius (L. Weinlich), and Anna Page (Mlle. Rosetti). The last scene was particularly effective and afforded the audience intense enjoyment. Under the skillful baton of Professor Mulder the orchestra did its work with faultless accuracy and precision, and the chorus left little to be desired.”

“The large audience which usually crowds the Stadt Theatre was greatly pleased last night by the very clever performance of Nicolai’s ‘Merry Wives of Windsor,’ in which all the principal members of the troupe took part, aided by Clara Perl, who lent her services for this special occasion, and was warmly applauded. Carl Formes was the Falstaff. The part was written for him, and he fills it to perfection. Fabbri, Rosetti, Habelmann, Bernhard and the other members of the troupe were all in good voice and gave entire satisfaction."