Mulder-Fabbri German Opera: Martha

For L'Africaine.

“In consequence of some delay incident to the elaborate mounting required by ‘L’Africaine,’ ‘Martha’ was substituted yesterday evening at the Grand Opera. As interpreted by the artists of the Mulder-Fabbri troupe, Flotow’s melodious [dramatization?] is but a pale and imperfect [illegible] of its better self. Fil. Rosetti, the Martha of the evening, is engaging in manner, and has sufficient strength of voice and firmness in [illegible] holding her notes, would be agreeable in [illegible]. Mme. Perl, who sings Nancy, has some full, [illegible] tones in her lower contralto register, but her upper are so weak as to be almost inaudible unless [illegible] forced.

As for Herr Formes and Bernard, the Plunkett and Lionel of the piece, the most indulgent [illegible] can find little to say. It has been in all [illegible] considered essential to artistic excellence that the [illegible] should be in condition to sing within a quarter [tone?] note, at least, of the key. Failing in this, good [illegible] a due regard for the public tympanum dictate [illegible].”

The orchestra refused to play if not paid immediately; they left and a new orchestra was hastily improvised; Martha was substituted for L'Africaine.

“…L’Africaine was announced, but the orchestra struck and demanded their pay for services already rendered. Mr. Cole, not seeing the justice of this, offered to deposit a sum of money equal to their pay for the week, and stated that at the end of the week they would be paid. This they refused, and an orchestra was secured from other sources. Finally, upon Mr. Cole visiting the secretary of the Musical Protective (?) Association, and renewing the offer he had made to the orchestra, it was accepted and the orchestra decided to perform, but at so late an hour that no rehearsal could be had, and therefore the opera of ‘Martha’ was substituted. The performance was inferior and did not give satisfaction. Mr. A. Predigam conducted the orchestra during the evening.”