Grau Italian Opera: Norma

“Mr. Grau wishes it to be distinctly understood that the extra night will be given with the same completeness as regards the Cast, Orchestra and Chorus, as on the regular Opera nights.”

“On Tuesday night we are to have ‘Norma,’ with Lorini who sings the role with so much effect, her pure Italian method being, in the music of ‘Norma,’ heard to great advantage. . . . Upon this occasion, the seats at the Academy will be had at the usual theatrical prices.”

Says half-price tickets are “at theatre prices.”

Cast.

     "Decidedly the stockholders of our Academy of Music are too recherche.  They cannot patronize 'Norma' at fifty cents, though one and all may be seen in their seats when the same opera is given at the usual Academy prices. We wish to assure them that on cheap nights the music is precisely the same, that the house is untainted by the change of price, and that the only effect produced by their absence is to mark prominently (they have the best seats, of course) that the stockholders, to whom the public look upon naturally as the most decided patrons of music, only when it is dear. They injure the interests of the management by not occupying their seats, but yet keeping them reserved, causing in their absence the house to look less brilliant, as the most prominent seats remain vacant.  Notice should be given to the management upon any occasion that stockholders will not need their seats, as thus the house can be duly filled. This may seem a matter of trifling interest to the stockholders; but it is nevertheless one calling for reform.

       The Academy was filled last night by a well dressed audience, showing no evidences of lack of taste for music as they applauded at the proper places and often. 'Norma' has been given here so often since the commencement of the season that it is useless to make any detailed review of the opera. Lorini, as Norma, sang, as usual, with taste and skill. Her style is purely Italian, and it is to be remarked that as the opera proceeds her voice improves instead of fatiguing. Her ‘Casta Diva’ was loudly applauded. The duo with Adelgisa also received great applause. We are inclined to think that Morensi's magnificent contralto is heard to less advantage in the role of Adelgisa than in otherparts she has performed here with great success. But still her pure, rich tones always strike the ear most pleasantly, and she gains nightly in the public estimation. Signor Maccaferri really sings well; his voice is a good one, and were it not that he overacts his roles he would soon be a decided favorite with the New York public. He has merely to manage his voice more and act with less energy to gain the reputation he deserves. Of Susini it is useless to say more than that he sang with his usual power, and was, as he always is, most popular with the audience. His style is large and grand, and always draws applause from the public.”

“The Academy of Music did not look as brilliant as usual last night, because the stockholders neither came themselves nor allowed anyone else to occupy their boxes; in consequence there were many empty seats. The audience was, however, cordial and appreciative, heartily applauding the charming duet singing of Lorini and Morensi, and the magnificent tones of Susini, who is the best of Orovesos. Maccaferri at times sang well enough to prove that, though he rarely shows it, he really has the elements for a superior singer. Of course, the ‘Norma’ of Lorini was a beautiful exhibition of vocal taste and skill.”