Maretzek Italian Opera: Un ballo in maschera

“Tonight Un Ballo in Maschera, by Verdi, which though on an indifferent plot, rendered ridiculous by its association with Boston Massachusetts in the time of the anti-artistic Puritans, has some of the inspirations of the real genius of Italy. In this opera the versatility of Signor Mazzoleni especially shines out.”

“Mr. Maretzek varied his programme [sic] last evening by producing Verdi’s popular opera the Ballo in Maschera.  There was a fashionable house, but not a Faust audience, and, we hope that this charming and most attractive work may be given again as soon as possible. Gounod is decidedly in the ascendant at present, Faust being the sensation of this operatic season.

            The Ballo was admirably sung.  Mme. Medori, Signors Mazzoleni and Bellini, gave the stirring music with great spirit, and were all much applauded. In the second act Mazzoleni sung the barcarole admirably. It was enthusiastically applauded and an encore insisted upon. In the rold of the Count this artist has unusual opportunity to display his dramatic powers, and he makes the most of them. In the third act, the scene between Amelia (Mme. Medori) and Reinhart (Bellini), where the husband upbraids his supposed guilty wife, both artists sang and acted admirably.”

“The Opera last night was fairly attended, and the performance of ‘Un Ballo’ was admirable in every respect.”

“The performance was unusually spirited, and was received with great satisfaction by a fashionable and attentive audience.  The male members of the company have the best opportunity in this work, and they were especially good last night. We doubt if Signor Bellini, the baritone, has ever been heard to better advantage.  The fire and energy, too, of Signor Mazzoleni, created a perfect furore.  The barcarolle of the second act had, of course, to be repeated; many numbers, indeed enjoyed that distinction.  Mme. Medori did not seem to be in her usual voice, but seized the dramatic opportunities of the role with all her consummate power and tact.  Mlle. Sulzer was, as usual, excellent as Ulrica, and Mme. Ortolani-Brignoli sang the page’s music very charmingly.  The performance, in all vocal respects, was thoroughly acceptable.  The orchestra, however, under Signor Nuno, did not quite realize the full effect of the score, owing, of course, to deficient rehearsals.”