Maretzek Italian Opera: Zampa

The Wintergarten has become the most popular of all the English theaters. (…)

“The second representation of Herold’s beautiful opera of Zampa was, as we expected, superior in every point. It was just that one rehearsal upon time that all the parties concerned needed, and, that obtained, the whole work goes on with smoothness and brilliance. The music is very difficult and arduous in the extreme for the principal singers, but the artists on this occasion were equal to the demands and acquitted themselves admirably.

            Mazzoleni has made a strong mark in the character of Zampa. The music requires a powerful and an extensive voice, and Mazzoleni supplies both these requirements; it also requires taste and expression, and in those respects Mazzoleni is by no means wanting; on the contrary, he exhibits a passion and a tenderness not usual in his manner. He sang his Brindisi and his Aria in the second act with infinite power and spirit, gaining enthusiastic applause, and his singing in his duet with Poch, was a brilliant effort of power and passion.

             Mdme. Poch sings with much dramatic effect and ably supported Mazzoleni, gaining her share of credit from the duet, and deserving especial praise for her duet with Testa, who also sang well throughout. Mme. Testa sang correctly and judiciously, and were she to be less demonstrative, vocally and dramatically, would find her efforts far more effective.

            Bellini and Ronconi kindly undertook two inferior parts, and they threw into them all their artistic knowledge, and acted and sung with a geniality of spirit which seemed to infect the audience, and added vastly to the interest and beyond a doubt the success of the opera. The orchestral performance was a delightful feature; the delicate, fanciful and melodious instrumentation was executed with grace, precision, and artistic coloring. The opera last night was a success, giving unqualified pleasure to a select and fashionable audience, who sighed audibly for the brightness and luxury of the Academy, to say nothing of the acoustic effects.” 

The auditorium was only half-way filled, although the performance would have deserved a full house. Poch, Mazzoleni, Ronconi and Bellini sang rather decently. Mazzoleni was asked for an encore of the “Trinklied” (Drinking Song) in the first act; the duet of Mazzoleni and Mme. Poch in the second act was also requested to be repeated.

“. . . . The second performance of Zampa, Wednesday, was better than the first. Nevertheless most of our critiques still hold true.”

The performance of the solo part (which one not mentioned) was dissatisfactory; however, the comedic supporting roles were very well performed. The lack of success of this opera took it off the repertoire quite rapidly.

Very brief: “was well received by large and brilliant Audiences.”