Strakosch Italian Opera: Marta

“‘Marta’ was sung at the Academy of Music last evening. The performance of Flotow’s pretty opera by Mr. Strakosch’s artists can be dismissed without notice; no representation of ‘Marta’ has been as conspicuous for effectiveness at the most melodious stage of the opera, and for symmetry, as that we have so often enjoyed at the hands of the same performers. Last night’s entertainment was not marked by an incident of particular novelty; we missed, however ‘M’appari,’ which M. Capoul was too indisposed to sing.”

“The performance of ‘Martha’ at the Academy of Music last night was impaired by the hoarseness of M. Capoul, for whom an apology was made, and who was obliged to omit his principal airs. Otherwise the performance was pleasing enough, the Marta of Nilsson and the Nancy of Miss Cary delighting the audience greatly.”

“The quartet of solo artists that M. Strakosch presents in the sparkling, popular opera of Flotow can scarcely be equalled in any other existing company. The innate grace and ladylike dignity that seems to be a necessary element in all Mme. Nilsson’s impersonations lends additional lustre to the rôle of Lady Henrietta. In the second act the scene with the tenor was entirely attractive and full of effect. ‘The Last Rose of Summer’ was rendered with that purity, expression, and, if we may call it, naiveté of voice, such as no artist has sung it here before for many years. Miss Cary is a very charming representative of Nancy, her tull toned, sympathetic voice and archness of manner being in entire accord with the demands of the rôle. M. Capoul is an impassioned operatic lover, and as that is principally needed in the rôle of Lionel, his impersonation is generally considered as complete. Last night, however, he was indisposed, and an apology was made for him. The favorite aria, ‘M’appari,’ was omitted, much to the chagrin and disappointment of those present. Signor Del Puente repeated his very commendable representation of Plunkett, and gave the song in the beginning of the third act with effect.”