Maretzek Italian Opera: Fra Diavolo

“The feature of the matinee at the Academy of Music yesterday was Auber’s ‘Zerlina,’ as interpreted by the Austrian nightingale. In fact to judge from the poverty of the rest of the cast the opera of ‘Fra Diavolo’ might be placed on the bills under the name of ‘Zerlina,’ for Lucca is the sole attraction of it. The boxes showed some vacant places yesterday, but the lower part of the house was crowded to the extent of standing room only, and the little lady was in splendid voice, too. She carried the first act through by the charm of her acting and presence, and by the additional brightness infused by her into the sparkling music. The second act, of course, depended wholly upon her, and she repeated her former triumphs. The bedroom scene was characterized by a natural coquetry and fascinating manner, which, united with her exquisite singing, made the scene one to be remembered. It would be difficult to mention another case in operatic history in which a prima donna carried the opera of ‘Fra Diavolo’ through to a successful termination with poor surroundings. Madame Lucca is an artist who pleases on every occasion, and must be heard in more rôles than one to be appreciated at her just artistic value.”