Di Murska Italian Opera: Lucia di Lammermoor; CANCELLED

“Quite a large number of ladies and gentlemen went to the Academy of Music yesterday afternoon to witness the farewell performance of the Italian Opera company which has occupied the building for the past fortnight. ‘Lucia’ was advertised, and the chorus and orchestra were on hand as usual at the stage door. On the doors of the Irving place entrance small placards were affixed, announcing that there would be no matinée. The money was refunded at the box office to those who had bought tickets for the announced representation. The chorus singers were terribly excited and indignant, and several declared that they had received no money for their late services at the Academy. Mlle. Di Murska was prepared and anxious to sing, even gratuitously, rather than disappoint the public, but her wishes were disregarded.”

“The matinée announced at the Academy of Music on Saturday did not take place, and so Mr. Maretzek’s latest opera season ended in the usual manner. The performances were very bad, and the venture can hardly have been profitable.”

“The friends of the management of the Di Murska Company wish to state that there was no difficulty between the management and the troupe which could have prevented the matinée performance on Saturday last, but as, during the entire week, only $1,800 was received, and the expenses mounted to $8,000, the management concluded that it was better to discontinue such ominous business. All the money received at the box office, and a large sum besides, had to be paid out to the company. There was little use, indeed, in continuing a season of such unexampled financial misfortune.”

“The Maretzek opera season, at the Academy of Music closed abruptly on April 18. A matinee was announced for that day, but none was given.”