Strakosch Italian Opera: Final Rehearsal of Lohengrin

“The final rehearsal of Wagner’s grand opera took place at the Academy of Music yesterday afternoon, and the first performance this season takes place to-night. The distribution of the rôles brings in the strength of the company, Mlle. Albani being the Elsa of the present revival. Judging from yesterday’s rehearsal there is much to expect from her performances to-night. She seemed to have caught the spirit of the rôle and to have infused into it the earnestness and conscientious spirit that have given such a charm to previous impersonations in lyric drama. She appears to conceive an idea of the requirements of the rôle different from that of Mme. Nilsson, for one of the attributes of genius is to be original, and it will be interesting to-night to watch the result of such a venture. Miss Cary and Signor Del Puente resume the rôles in which they achieved a conspicuous success last spring, and Signor Carpi will endeavor to rival the triumphs of Campanini. A judicious selection was made, considering the general calibre of the company, in giving to Signor Scolara the part of the King. The labors of the chef d’orchestre, Signor Muzio, at the rehearsal yesterday, were as great as before the first production of the opera. Every detail in the great work was carefully attended to, and chorus and orchestra were compelled to follow the painstaking, finished interpretation of the distinguished leader. A performance of unusual interest may, therefore, be expected this evening.”