Maretzek Italian Opera: Fra Diavolo

     “The charming opera of Fra Diavolo was performed last evening to a crowded and brilliant audience, drawn out by the clear weather and the delightful and sparkling melodies of Auber. The three principal characters—Zerlina, Fra Diavolo and Milord—were most admirably sustained by Miss Kellogg, Signor Mazzoleni and Signor Bellini.  The phase of humor exhibited by Bellini in the role of Milord is far more grotesque than that of Crispino, but it is equally excellent in its breadth and raciness.  Miss Kellogg is charming as Zerlina, singing and acting the part gracefully and piquantly. Mazzoleni is the beau ideal of the dashing brigand. Bold and manly in his bearing, he also assumes with his title an air of easy assurance, a nonchalant insolence which is exceedingly noble to those who do not know better. In short, he acts the part capitally, and sings with grace, force and spirit.

     The minor ruffians are most decided features in the action of the opera, and received full justice at the hands of Signori Dubreul [sic] and Barili. They were capitally made up, and their quaint, grotesque humor, their thorough stage tact and excellent by-play, gave life and spirit to the whole action. The choruses were well sung, and the charming instrumentation was beautifully rendered under the direction of Carl Bergmann.”

      “Auber’s sparkling opera of ‘Fra Diavolo’ was given here, last night, to an exceedingly good and fashionable audience.  The cast was the same as heretofore.  Miss Kellogg was in admirable voice, and sang and acted with equal brilliancy.  Signor Mazzolini acts the part of the polite brigand with his customary skill, but the music is a little too florid for his voice.  Miss Stockton as Pamelia [sic] displayed a noticeable improvement, and Signor Bellini was, as usual, the life and spirit of the entertainment.  The opera was really enjoyed by an audience which seemed to be acquainted with its best points.”

     “The opera last night presented its usual crowded appearance, and the opera, ‘Fra Diavolo,’ was given in most satisfactory style. Miss Kellogg was as charming, Mazzoleni as spirited, Bellini as funny as ever. Miss Stockton in her little part of Lady Allcash shows decided improvement.

     It was at first intended to leave in the Academy the Liederkranz ball decorations, but they were so elaborate as to obstruct the view of the stage from the tiers and boxes, and were therefore removed."

     The performance was attended and received well.

     The Italians have little skill for Auber’s music. Physically and musically Mazzoleni is a rather clumsy Fra Diavolo. Miss Kellogg gave a highly accurate image of the soubrette part in this opera.