Barnum’s Museum and Circus

     “Ingraham’s famous work, the ‘Pillar of Fire,’ furnishes Mr. Barnum with the material for a new religious drama, which he brings out to-day, under the title of ‘Moses, or Israel in Egypt.’  The piece has been four months in preparation, and has cost many thousand dollars, the tableaux, panorama, &c., being prepared with an eye to accuracy as well as effect.  The afternoon performance at the Museum commences now at 2 o’ clock instead of 3 o’ clock.  The change was made in deference to habitués who live in the country, and desire to take the afternoon trains.”

     “Taking advantage of the increased stage facilities of the new Museum, Mr. Barnum yesterday presented his patrons with a new spectacular drama.  The subject may fairly be described as of universal interest, inasmuch as it is derived from sacred history.  The name ‘Moses, or Israel in Egypt,’ sufficiently indicates the plot.  An acknowledgment is made to Ingraham’s Pillar of Fire, for material obtained from that work; the rest, which is not very good—is due to the pen of G. L. Aiken, Esq.  The situations and tableaux are striking, except the last—‘crossing the Red Sea and Destruction of Pharaoh and his Hosts.’  This, it seems to us, might be improved.  At present the impression is insignificant.”

     “This is certainly the dramatic event of the season, so far.”

     “Musical accompaniment is not lacking. It seldom is, now-a-days, to any sort of play; but to this one it does not seem inappropriate. The entire enterprise is very creditable to Mr. Barnum, and to all concerned in the representation. Perhaps this movement in the right direction implied the consummation of a very desirable change in the character of the entertainment offered at the Museum. There is room for progress in that institution, and we shall be glad to chronicle its advancement.  Meanwhile, we advise all readers, who are fond of good spectacle pieces, to go and see ‘Moses’ at Barnum’s.”

     “For a scenic representation it is equal to anything witnessed in this city for some time. . . . It is the best thing we recollect ever seen done by Barnum. . . . It is in every respect a truly legitimate Barnum ‘curiosity,’ and because it is of an historical nature, it ought to be seen by every one.”