Sf Irffci. ATVT -RTF?.' a 
 
 GREAT MUSICAL DEPOT 
 
 OVEF 
 
 COT 
 
 PIA: 
 HAI 
 
 Willl 
 once : 
 Piano 
 payal 
 all pa 
 cash 
 
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 ved for. 
 
 5TEM 
 
 NEW, from 10s. per Month. SECOND-HAND, from 8: 
 
 FATHER PARTICULARS ON APPLICATION TO 
 
 4 & 5 WESTMORELAND-STREE' 
 
 DUBLIN.
 
 THE BURLINGTON RESTAURANT 
 
 AND DININGROOMS, 
 
 ST. ANDREW-8T. AND CHURCH LANE, 
 
 3D TJ IB L X IT , 
 
 (irEXT HIBERNIAN BANK.) 
 
 LUNCHEONS, DINNERS & SUPPERS, 
 
 HOT OR COLD, A LA CARTE, 
 Consist of SOUPS, FISH, ENTREES, JOINTS, GRILL G-AME, VEGETABLES 
 
 AND SWEETS, CHEESE, &c., &c. 
 
 ALL AT FIXED PRICES, per "Meal" or "Portion." 
 TABLE D'HOTE DINNERS, 2s. 6d. & 3s., daily, from I till 8 p.m. 
 
 DINNERS OP FISH every Friday, 3s. 
 TEIPE AND COWHEEL on Wednesdays and Saturdays. 
 
 WINES, SPIRITS, ALES, STOUTS, &c., 
 
 OF FIRST-CLASS QUALITY. 
 
 The Burlington Restaurant & Diningrooms, 
 
 ST. ANDREW-ST. & CHURCH-LANE, DUBLIN. 
 (NEXT HIBERNIAN BANK.) 
 
 THE DOLPHIN, 
 
 ESSEX-STREET, DUBLIN. 
 
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 This Old-established House is now the Property of 
 
 JOSEPH CORLESS, 
 
 Who is also the Proprietor of THE BURLINGTON RESTAURANT 
 AND DININGROOMS, ST. ANDREW-STREET, DUBLIN. 
 
 The "Dolphin's" well-known Sandwich Bar and quiet Dining- 
 room will be preserved, and none of the old features for which the 
 house has been long famous will be interfered with. Improvements 
 have been made in the cuisine, and, aided by modern administration, 
 the present Proprietor hopes to make the entire service of the Estab- 
 lishment in every way agreeable to the Patrons of the " Dolphin." 
 
 THE DOLPHIN, ESSEX-STREET, DUBLIN.
 
 JAMES DOBSON & CO., 
 
 Decorators to TJieatre Royal, Gaiety Theatre, Theatre Royal, Belfast, 
 
 Antient Concert Rooms, Royal Sank, Metropolitan Buildings, 
 
 Abbey -street, and all the Leading Public Institutions. 
 
 GENERAL HOUSE PAINTERS & ART DECORATORS, 
 
 f vitizk and <f uitigu |U0w 
 
 EVERY DESCRIPTION, GILT, &c., 
 
 PIER AND CONSOLE TABLES AND GLASSES. 
 
 IN BLACK AND GOLD FRAME, 
 SHOWS FULL FIGURE, 
 
 PRICE, 30s. and 37s. 6d. 
 
 DESIGNS FEES, 
 
 Cabinet Furniture, Bedsteads, Bedding, 
 
 AND EVERY REQUISITE FOR 
 
 GENERAL HOUSE FURNISHING. 
 
 113 & 114 STEPHEN'S-GREEN, WEST,
 
 
 OF THE 
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN, 
 
 W// //j Opening in 1821 to its Destruction by Fire, 
 February, 1880; 
 
 OCCASIONAL NOTES AND OBSERVATIONS. 
 
 BY 
 
 R. M. LEVEY AND J. O'RORKE. 
 
 JOSEPH BOLLARD, PRINTER, DAME-STREET. 
 1880.
 
 
 1^ 
 
 A F 
 
 orgotten 
 
 When Aungier Street Had Its 
 By GEORGE HUJ 
 
 ABOUT 200 years ago Sir Edward 
 Lovett Pearce, Engineer and Sur- 
 veyor-General of his Majesty's Forti- 
 fications and Premises in the Kingdom 
 of 1 1 eland, supervised the erection in 
 Dublin of two public buildings. One 
 now houses the Bank of Ireland; whilst 
 the other, having long since passed to 
 oblivion, is represented by some waste 
 ground and tenements at the junction 
 of Aungier Street and Longford Street, 
 well known- to students of the 
 history of theatres in Dublin, from the 
 stage of the Aungier Street playhouse 
 many distinguished comedians and 
 comediennes delighted, and the greatest 
 tragedians and tragediennes enthralled, 
 Dublin lovers of the histrionic art. 
 
 Quaint Provisions. 
 
 The terms of the Articles of 'Agree- 
 ment for the erection of the theatre 
 and Hie carrying out of other business 
 1 therewith, are rather quaint. 
 On the 21st February, 173:2, Sir Edward 
 i'earcc entered into agreement 
 with Thomas Griffith, Francis Elring- 
 kon, Lewis Layfield, James Vander- 
 bank, and Anthony Moreau, Associate 
 Comedians oi' the City of Dublin, for 
 the building and erection of a good and 
 Efficient playhouse in some convenient 
 place within half a mile of the Tholsel, 
 which phiyliou.se should be fitted with 
 . 'j.'illery. stage traps, and 
 side runners for two setts of scenes arid 
 other conveniences in consideration 
 ite Cornelians would 
 y hundred pound? 
 
 P.O., ancestor of the Earl of ] 
 ton; Colonel Ligonier, later 
 General, Hanger of the Phoei 
 and Master of the Game; ar 
 Arthur Hill, afterwards Publi 
 trar of Deeds. 
 
 Opened With Great Cerei 
 
 The Associate Comedians ha' 
 tained a suitable site by the j 
 of two plots of ground, one i 
 ford Street from ; David Dig 
 Touche, Esquire, the other in 
 Street from Samuel i Taylor, bre 
 foundations of the pew play-hoi 
 laid with pomp and ceremony 
 1733. The theatre !was opened 
 
 19th May, 1734, 
 Dorset. 
 
 Aungier Street, A 
 to the new buildi 
 from Sir Francis A 
 Rolls, in the time > 
 then a residential c 
 and cultured class 
 
 y Lionel 
 
 lich gave i' 
 g, derived 
 ngier, Mastt 
 
 uirter for a 
 of citizen. 
 
 were Longford Sti e1 and the 
 bouring Stephen S 
 
 Widows Bought Out. 
 
 Sir Thomas L. Pearce died 
 before the erection ;' ihr I'l.-tyln 
 completed. Some time latei 
 Anne Pearce, as )vpresenta!ive 
 late husband, handed over 
 everything conned- d with th'j 
 
 to Viscount Mo unt joy 
 of himself and the other subs 
 
 In 1-741 Frances Elrington, 
 Frnncis Elrington. one of the
 
 kyhouse 
 
 shionable Theatre 
 
 a lease for 21 years at the rent of 
 per annum. Notwithstanding that in 
 addition to his own valuable services IK- 
 secured those of the most talented 
 actors of the clay, he failed to make 
 the enterprise pay, and by the year 
 1754 Sheridan, who " had spent con- 
 siderable sums of money in the pur- ^ > t, S Q . , 
 chase of a wardrobe, or wardrobes, 
 scenes, machinery, ul:ri.-iis, and decora- 
 tions/' found himsi-lf and ihe theatre ^MENT 
 responsible to mortgagees to the ex- 
 tent -of 2,000. 
 
 Shortly afterward- he retired from 
 
 the management, and relinquishing IN UBLIX 
 
 acting as a profession, later be- 
 came manager o! Drury Lane Theativ. 
 On resigning this, Sheridan became S> 
 an itinerant lecturer on elocution and 
 literature, the financial proceeds of 
 which, combined with a pension of tit Celt CtJ, 
 200 a year allowed by George III. 
 (-aid by some to ba compensation for 
 damage to hi.s theatre during the riots. 
 ;<nd by others, recompense for teaching 
 the Scottish friends of Lord Bute to 
 -jH^ak English) sufficed to maintain 
 him till hi.s death U7- 
 
 Henry Mossop, who as an actor 
 ranked second only to Tiarrick, suc- 
 ceeded Sheridan (1760) on similar t< 
 as managT of th- A under Street liou.-<\ 
 but likewise found the venture to result 
 in failure. a< within a very f<-\v years 
 the theatre heejnin' .-addled with fur- 
 ilier debts to the extent of 1.500. In 
 U'.ct. i "ii caused the finan- 
 
 cial ruin of Mcssop, who retired to Chel- 
 ; ;.ea.. wiiere he died in penury in 177:5. 
 
 Aflcr Fifty > rars of Struggle. 
 
 Ihe. noriod covered bv the
 
 INTRODUCTION. 
 
 IN the following pages I purpose to give, not a 
 history of the Theatre Royal, but a chronicle of the 
 most important theatrical events which have oc- 
 curred therein, from the time it was first opened to 
 the public to the date of its most sad and unfor- 
 tunate destruction. The data which I have col- 
 lected will be found useful to the historian of the 
 future and such I cannot doubt will be found at 
 no distant period who will weave the salient facts 
 into a consecutive and complete narrative. This 
 has not been my object. I have sought merely to 
 put together, as far as possible, in chronological 
 order, the notable events which have taken place
 
 iv INTRODUCTION. 
 
 since the Theatre was opened, of the vast majority 
 of which I myself have been an eye-witness. 
 
 My original intention was of narrower scope, as 
 I purposed dealing merely with the annals of Italian 
 Opera, which of themselves could not fail to be 
 highly interesting to music lovers and play-goers, 
 not only in Dublin, but throughout Ireland, and to 
 many friends within and without the operatic pro- 
 fession beyond the "silver streak." The advice of 
 friends, whose opinions are in the highest degree 
 worthy of respect with regard to all matters con- 
 nected with the Dublin stage, induced me to enlarge 
 the plan of the work, so as to include the entire 
 period of the theatrical existence of the Royal, and 
 to embrace its dramatic history as well as that 
 which relates to the lyric stage. 
 
 I have therefore noticed, in chronological order, 
 the principal events which took place in the Royal 
 during the whole period of its existence as a Theatre, 
 the appearances of renowned actors, actresses and
 
 INTRODUCTION. V 
 
 vocalists, the productions of famous plays and operas, 
 together with other incidents and events which I 
 thought likely to interest my readers. 
 
 The casts of the Italian Operas will, I confidently 
 -expect, be found exact and complete in every 
 essential, and the record of the successive' appear- 
 ances in Dublin of the most brilliant stars of the 
 operatic firmament, will, no doubt, have a special 
 interest for Irish amateurs. 
 
 In the compilation of the Annals of the " Old 
 House" in Hawkins-street, I have availed myself 
 of all sources of information at my disposal news- 
 paper files, collections of play-bills, books and pro- 
 grammes, private memoranda and diaries, and my 
 own notes, which go over a period of fifty-four 
 years, during which I have had the honour of being 
 associated with the National Theatre. 
 
 The work has been to me a labour of love ; and 
 no one will be more pleased if the chronicle that I 
 have set down in the following pages should form
 
 vi INTRODUCTION. 
 
 the basis of a more extended and elaborate history 
 of the Theatre Royal. 
 
 It is a gratification to me that I have been enabled 
 to collect in proper sequence, to give form and shape 
 to the record of events, especially some which are 
 preserved only by tradition, or are hid away in places 
 not easily accessible. I am fully aware of many 
 defects in my work ; but I trust to the good-nature 
 of my readers to overlook what is defective for the 
 sake of whatever of interest they may discover.
 
 ANNALS 
 
 OF THE 
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN, 
 
 From Opening, 1821, to Destruction by Fife, 1880. 
 
 PART I . 
 
 1821. 
 
 THE new Theatre Royal, Hawkins-street, opened on 
 Thursday, January 1 8th, i82i,withShakspeare's "Comedy 
 of Errors," with the following cast : Antipholis of Ephesus, 
 Mr. Humby ; Antipholis of Syracuse, Mr. Farren ; 
 Dromio of Ephesus, Mr. Williams ; Dromio of Syracuse, 
 Mr. Johnson ; Adriana, Miss Byrne ; Luciana, Mrs. 
 Humby. The bill also bore the following announce- 
 ment : " Previous to the Play, an Address, written for the 
 occasion by George Coleman the Younger, will be recited 
 by Mr. Farren. To conclude with the Farce of the 
 ' Sleep Walker ;' Somno, Mr. J. Russell. Entrances to 
 the Theatre : To the Boxes, through Townsend-street 
 portico of the new Arcade; Pit, ditto; Galleries, Poolbeg- 
 street. Carriages and Chairs (Sedan) to enter from
 
 8 ANNALS OK THE 
 
 Townsend-street and drive out at Hawkins-street ; extra 
 door for egress from the Pit in Poolbeg-street. Box 
 Office at Willis's Music Saloon, Westmoreland-street. 
 Mr. Lowther, Box-keeper. Prices : Boxes, 55. 5d. ; 
 Pit, 33. 3d.; Middle Gallery, 25. 2d.; Upper Gallery, is. id. 
 The dimensions of the Theatre exceed that of Crow-street 
 by six feet in depth, and an aggregate of seven in breadth ; 
 its form that of a deep oval." 
 
 This will determine the question so often disputed ot 
 the relative dimensions of Crow-street and Hawkins- 
 street. It is curious that the Box Office, after so many 
 years, should have returned to No. 7 Westmoreland- 
 street (now No. 4, 1880). 
 
 With reference to the above interesting cast of the 
 " Comedy of Errors," it may be remarked that the two 
 Dromios continued for many years to be represented by 
 Johnson and Williams. The likeness between the two was 
 most striking, in consequence of the care with which 
 Johnson "made up" to resemble Williams, adding a little 
 to the nose by artificial means, as nature had been more 
 bountiful to the other in that important feature. Williams 
 did not exactly see the fun of Johnson's exact imitation, 
 following closely every look and peculiar turn of his, and 
 all the more remarkable because of his being so full of 
 mannerisms. He therefore tried all means of baffling 
 Johnson by change of dress, or "touching" efface, &rc.; 
 but Dromio of Syracuse watched too closely, and ever 
 appeared the exact prototype of the other, no matter how 
 altered. At last Williams good-humouredly gave in. 
 
 On January igth was performed " Romeo and Juliet/'
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 9 
 
 Juliet, by Miss Kelly (her first appearance in this 
 kingdom). 
 
 On the 231x1, "Guy Mannering." Henry Bertram, 
 Mr. Pearman ; Julia Mannering, Miss Byrne. (Miss 
 Byrne, an excellent .actress and vocalist, was familiarly 
 known as " Miss Byrne of Cabinteely," having belonged 
 to a most respectable family resident in that locality). 
 
 On the zyth was given the Opera of " The Marriage of 
 Figaro." Count Almaviva, Mr. Farren ; Figaro, Mr. 
 Russell ; Fiorello, Mr. M'Keon ; Cherubino, Mrs. 
 Humby; Susanna, Miss Byrne. This was Bishop's 
 meagre English version of Mozart's work. Mrs. Humby 
 was a most fascinating actress, and an immense favourite. 
 Her husband also belonged to the Company, and soon 
 afterwards established himself in Dame-street as a dentist, 
 to which profession he had served his time. 
 
 At this period flourished Pat M'Keon, who had been 
 a painter, and, like a great many of that calling, possessed 
 a very sweet tenor voice, and "came on" the stage with 
 success. He was a nice ballad-singer, and a great favourite 
 with the gallery boys, who familiarly called him by his 
 Christian name. A very favourite song of M'Keon was 
 an old ballad called " Your melting Sighs reach my 
 Heart." On one occasion, when he arrived at the words, 
 " Your melting Sighs," one of his friends in the upper 
 gallery called out, " Ah ! now, Pat, sure you had enough 
 of mcltirf size when you were a painter." 
 
 Mrs. Haydn Corri made her first appearance on the 3ist 
 January as Rosina. Mrs. Corri continued for many years 
 a Dublin favourite. Her husband became organist of the
 
 10 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Roman Catholic Cathedral, which post he filled with 
 credit for upwards of a quarter of a century. Mr. Henry 
 Corri, the eminent English Opera vocalist, is their son. 
 
 February 8th. Mr. Chippendale played Vortex in 
 " A Cure for the Heart-ache." This was the father of 
 the present well-known and favourite actor. 
 
 February i2th was the date of the first appearance of 
 the great Charles Young in "Hamlet" 
 On March isth, first appearance in Dublin of William 
 Farren, as Sir Peter Teazle. 
 
 On July gth, Miss Stephens made her first appearance 
 in Polly, " Beggar's Opera." 
 
 Bochsa, the great harpist, played on the 3rd August. 
 
 August islh. Charles Kemble's first appearance. 
 " Hamlet." 
 
 August 22nd. George the Fourth was present. Sheri- 
 dan's "Duenna," and the Farce of "St. Patrick's Day," 
 were performed. 
 
 An Installation of the Knights of St. Patrick took place 
 on Thursday, 3oth, the King being present. 
 
 1822. 
 
 Charles Horn and Alexander Lee appeared in English 
 Operas. 
 
 Charles Horn was one of the sweetest of English com- 
 posers, and one of the first of English musicians, author 
 of " Cherry Ripe," " I've been Roaming," &c., &c. Alex- 
 ander Lee was also a much-admired ballad-writer, and 
 was afterwards musical director to the Theatre Royal. 
 
 April 8th. First night of " Tom and Jerry ; or, Life in
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. II 
 
 London," " New Classic-Comic-Didactic-Moralistic-Aris- 
 tophanic-Localic-Analytic-Terpsichoric-Panoramic-Cama- 
 rac-Obscuric Extravaganza, or Melange, in Twenty New 
 Scenes." This piece bad an enormous " run," and was 
 made doubly attractive by the nightly " set-to " of many 
 celebrated professional and amateur members of the 
 then popular art of " self-defence." 
 
 July 1 5th. Edmund Kean made his first appearance 
 in Richard III. On his benefit night, August i2th, he 
 played "The Roman Actor; or, the Drama's Vindication," 
 Octavian in "The Mountaineers," and Tom Tug in 
 " The Waterman " (with all the original songs). On a 
 former occasion, in England, he played Harlequin after 
 Richard III. 
 
 November 2 5th. Listen's first appearance Tony 
 Lumpkin. Listen was not duly appreciated in Dublin. 
 
 On Saturday, December 1 4th, the celebrated " Bottle 
 Row " took place. The following is extracted from the 
 Theatrical Observer of Monday, December i6th, 1822: 
 
 " His Excellency the Lord Lieutenant (the Marquis of Wellesley) 
 honoured the Theatre with his presence on Saturday evening. All 
 the rank and fashion of the metropolis crowded to receive him. 
 On his arrival he was cheered with the most ardent and enthusiastic 
 plaudits, which continued without interruption for several minutes ; 
 but soon a serpent's hiss, poisoning the atmosphere of the house, 
 became a signal to some sanguinary confederation of satanic monsters 
 and rebellious cowards to mar .the harmony of the evening, and 
 kindle within the Theatre the torch of political discord and religious, 
 fanaticism, &c., &c. The play proceeded amidst the most tumul- 
 tuous uproar. The close of every act redoubled their vociferations, 
 and the interposition of the noble Marquis was totally insufficient to
 
 12 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 abate them. But soon we were confirmed in our belief that a con- 
 federation of rebels and cut-throats was organized in the galleries. 
 The play ended, the curtain fell, the stage-lights were withdrawn. 
 At that moment, in the midst of the darkness, some sanguinary and 
 diabolical wretch threw a large bottle at his Excellency. It passed 
 over Mr. Barton's head in the orchestra and providentially missed 
 inflicting a deadly wound. The stage-lights were instantly raised, 
 and Mr. Barton held up the bottle for public inspection." 
 
 After some further remarks, the account proceeds : 
 
 ' ' A large watchman's rattle was also thrown from the gallery. It 
 struck the front of the box in which were Lady Anne Gregory, Mrs. 
 -Goulbourn, Lady Rossmore, &c. , &c., and passing violently to the ad- 
 jacent box, in which his Excellency sat, rebounded from the cushion 
 on which his hands were resting and fell upon the stage. The noble 
 Marquis immediately arose, and, with the most undaunted heroism, pre- 
 sented himself in full front to the ruffianly monsters in the galleries." 
 
 The Marquis of Wellesley had given much offence by 
 causing the annual dressing of the statue of King William 
 to be discontinued. 
 
 In Nolan's Theatrical Observer of Tuesday, December 
 27th, 1822, it is announced : 
 
 ' ' We are happy to state that the rioters have been discovered. 
 The following are the names of the persons apprehended for creating 
 the disturbances on Saturday evening : 
 
 James Petford, servant to an officer of the 5th Dragoon Guards. 
 
 Bernard Tuite, a journeyman baker. 
 
 Matthew Handwich, a carpenter. 
 
 Henry Handwich, brother to the above. 
 
 George Graham, a shoemaker. 
 
 James Forbes : who was bailed on the same night by Mr. Charles 
 Slater, of Brunswick-street. 
 
 Mr. Lodge, of Kennedy's-lane. 
 
 James Birmingham liberated.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 13, 
 
 1823. 
 
 January 5th. Mr. Horn and Miss Stephens twelve 
 nights, English Operas. 
 
 February 26th. Mr. John Philip Kemble died at 
 Lausanne. 
 
 April 1 5th. Clara Fisher's first appearance in the 
 " Spoiled Child." 
 
 June 4th. The name of Mr. O'Rorke first appears in 
 the bills in the play of " Kenilworth." Mr. O'Rorke r 
 who formerly played the violoncello in Crow-street, re- 
 mained for many years with the Company ; a good and 
 most useful character-actor, who could " make much of 
 little." One part in particular (very little in itself) he 
 was particularly identified with, viz., the Cook in " Love 
 in a Village." His admirable " make-up " as the fat 
 female cook caused great fun, and his singing " The 
 Roast Beef of Old England" always called forth an 
 encore. He was the father of Mr. John O'Rorke, who 
 has given such valuable aid in this compilation. 
 
 June 1 6th. Mr. Braham's first appearance "The 
 Devil's Bridge." This work is Braham's own composi- 
 tion, except the pretty duet, " Rest, Weary Traveller," 
 which is by Horn. The " Devil's Bridge " is replete with 
 pure melody, such as " Behold in her soft expressive 
 Face," " Tho' love is warm awhile," &c., &c. ; then the 
 Picture Song, "Behold a poor desolate Maid." With 
 modernized dialogue, grand scenery, dresses, decorations, 
 &c., &c., and with first-rate vocalists, this work might be 
 profitably revived.
 
 14 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 July 7th. Miss M. Tree's first appearance in " The 
 Haunted Tower," with Braham. This lady was sister of 
 Ellen Tree (afterwards Mrs. Charles Kean). She some- 
 what later made quite a sensation by her performance of 
 Clari, in a very interesting domestic drama of the same 
 name (music by Bishop). The ever-popular sons;, 
 " Home, Sweet Home," was sung by Miss M. Tree in 
 this piece. 
 
 August 7th. Madame Catalani's first appearance. 
 The performance commenced with " A Day after the 
 Wedding," after which " A Grand Musical Festival." 
 Catalan! sang " Regno piu grati," " Rode's Air with 
 variations," "Non piu Andrai," and "God save the 
 King." On her fifth appearance she sang the airs, 
 " Comfort ye my people " and '' Every Valley," also 
 " Rule, Britannia." Catalan! certainly gave a varied 
 programme, infringing on the domains of tenor, bass, and 
 soprano. 
 
 September 3rd. The new Olympic Circus, Great 
 Brunswick-street, near the College, was opened by per- 
 mission of the Lord Mayor. 
 
 October 2nd. Mr. Mathews (at home) made his first 
 appearance in the youthful days of Mathews (father of 
 the lamented Charles). 
 
 Nov. 1 2th. "Blue Beard" was introduced, with the 
 addition of Mr. Cooke's magnificent stud of Arabian and 
 Hanoverian horses; also "The Cataract of the Ganges," 
 Avith, for the first time, a cataract of real water. Master 
 Smith, the American Roscius, made his appearance during 
 the same month in Richard III.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 
 
 1824. 
 
 January i3th. Macready's first appearance "Vir- 
 ginius." 
 
 August. Edmund Kean fulfilled another engagement. 
 
 October 5th. Mr. Abbot, the new lessee, was now in 
 office. 
 
 October. First appearance of Mdme. Vestris as Lilla 
 in " The Siege of Belgrade." The most versatile and 
 accomplished actress and vocalist of her day, afterwards 
 Mrs. Charles Mathews. 
 
 November 22nd. Mr. Listen's appearance as Tony 
 Lumpkin. 
 
 December 27th. Mr. Calcraft's name appears for the 
 first time in Varney, " Kenilworth." 
 
 December 29th. Mons. Ducrow and his Equestrian 
 Company in the interesting spectacle, " The Battle of 
 Waterloo." Ducrow was indeed the Napoleon of 
 Equestrians. 
 
 1825. 
 
 Mr. T. Philips and Miss Dillon Harvey appeared in 
 " The Barber of Seville." Tom Philips, called " Gentle- 
 man Tom," from his aristocratic person and bearing, was 
 a very finished actor and vocalist, retaining for years a 
 hold on public favour. He unfortunately met with an 
 accident on the Liverpool Railway, about the year 1838 
 or 1839, from the effects of which he died. Miss Harvey 
 was charming in person and a most " insinuating" actress 
 and vocalist. As Mrs. Browne, she remained on the
 
 1 6 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 stage for some time after her marriage, having contracted 
 a happy union with Captain Browne, member of a Galway 
 family. 
 
 January 3rd. Ducrow opened the Olympic Amphi- 
 theatre, Bachelor's Walk (now a large furniture ware- 
 room). 
 
 Thursday, February 7th. " Der Freischutz" performed 
 for the first time. Miss Forde, Agnes ; Miss Harvey, 
 Anne ; T. Philips, Rodolph ; Mr. Calcraft, Casper. The 
 performance was a great success. 
 
 Mr. (afterwards Doctor) Smith's Oratorio of "The 
 Revelation " was given for the first time this year at the 
 Rotundo. 
 
 April nth. Mr. Vandenhoff's first appearance in 
 Rollo (" Pizzaro "). 
 
 April 22nd. A new Opera, written by a lady of this 
 city. Overture and music by Sir John Stevenson 
 (first time), entitled " The Cavern ; or, the Outlaws." 
 It is surmised that Lady Morgan was the authoress. 
 
 May 28th. Edmund Kean's engagement previous to 
 his departure from Europe. 
 
 July 7th. Miss Foote (afterwards Lady Harrington) 
 made her first appearance in "The Belle's Stratagem." 
 
 August 23rd. Mr. Sapio (tenor) re-opened the 
 Theatre as Orlando in " The Cabinet." 
 
 October 27th. Braham played Rodolph in "Der 
 Freischutz." 
 
 November 7th. Miss Stephens joined the Company.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIX. 17 
 
 1826, 
 
 November. Mrs. Waylett's first appearance. She was 
 an actress and vocalist of the style of Vestris. 
 Mr. Levey entered the Theatre Royal Orchestra. 
 
 1827. 
 
 Mr. Booth appeared as " Richard the Third." 
 
 Miss Paton made her first appearance in " Der 
 Freischutz." " Oberon" was performed for the first 
 time. The soprano music of " Oberon " was composed 
 expressly for Miss Paton by Weber, and his estimation of 
 her powers may be judged by his giving her such a scena 
 as " Ocean, thou Mighty Monster," her singing of which 
 has been equalled only by Titiens. 
 
 In October, Mr. Alfred Bunn became Lessee, and the 
 Theatre having been newly decorated, was announced to 
 open on Nov. 3rd, with the following Company : Signor 
 Begrez, Messrs. Bennett, Melrose, Guibiler, Balls, Charles 
 Ross, Roe, F. Cooke, Daly; Madame Cornega, Miss 
 Graddon, Mrs. S. Booth, Miss Kenneth, Miss Hamilton, 
 and Miss Aston. Stage Manager, Mr. Calcraft. Prompter, 
 Mr. Collier. Ballet Master, Signor Nenafra. Leader of 
 the Band, Mr. James Barton. (The opening was delayed 
 until December nth, when O'Keefe's "Castle of Anda* 
 lusia " was played.) 
 
 In this month " The Brothers Hermann " appeared in 
 the Rotundo, introducing, it may be said for the first 
 time, the classical instrumental quartets of Beethoven, 
 Mozart, Haydn, c., &c. ; also the vocal quartets of the 
 
 p.
 
 1 8 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Orpheus Collection, c., &c. The brothers had but very 
 limited voices, but managed, by extreme united practice 
 and severe attention to the marks of expression, to pro- 
 duce an effect in part-singing until then unheard in Dublin. 
 Mr. W. S. Conran (father of Elena Conrani) presided at 
 the pianoforte. 
 
 1828. 
 
 February. J. B. Cramer appeared at the Rotundo. 
 
 March ist. The Marquis of Anglesea entered Dublin 
 in state. 
 
 March 22nd. The Ladies Paget attended the Theatre. 
 " The Duenna " was performed by desire. 
 
 April 2nd. A Concert was given by command of his 
 Excellency for the benefit of the Irish Musical Fund 
 Society, at which Mr. Alday, Mr. J. Barton, Mr. Pigot, 
 Mr. Weidner (flute), Mr. Duncan (pianoforte), and Mr. 
 Haydn Corri (Conductor) assisted. 
 
 April loth. Weber's " Abon Hassan " was produced. 
 
 April 2ist. First appearance of Mr. Charles Kean as 
 Young Norval. Mr. Kean acted during the engagement 
 in "Romeo and Juliet," "Venice Preserved," " Bar- 
 barossa," "Lovers' Vows" (Frederick), Lothair in 
 " Tragedy of Adalgetha," &c., &'c. 
 
 . April 26th. Mr. Logier gave a Grand Concert in the 
 Rotundo in commemoration of the arrival of the_Marquis 
 of Anglesea. 
 
 June i yth. Mr. Luke Plunkett made his first appear- 
 ance as " Richard III." Mr. Plunkett was a most re- 
 spectable and intelligent gentleman, only eccentric on one
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 19 
 
 point he thought himself the greatest Richard III. in 
 existence; he was in consequence called "Mad Plunkett." 
 He acted Richard once every year for a considerable time 
 in the cause of charity, and filled the house, the performance 
 creating the reverse of a tragic effect, shouts of laughter 
 occasionally concluding each scene. He usually rode 
 into Bos worth Field on a donkey, in which position he 
 fought the combat with Richmond, dismounting only 
 when he received the fatal stab. On the last occasion, 
 when Richard died, a universal encore was the result, 
 when Mr. Plunkett raised himself from the ground, came 
 forward to receive the plaudits of the audience, and then 
 cooly returned and died a second time. 
 
 June i pth. Bradbury, the great clown, appeared in 
 " Harlequin Poor Robin." 
 
 July 1 5th. Madame Vestris appeared as Phcebe in 
 "Paul Pry," singing Balfe's song, "The Lover's Mistake," 
 (one of his earliest compositions). 
 
 July 29th. Mr. Sinclair (a very popular tenor) appeared 
 in English Opera. 
 
 August 25th. Ducrow commenced an engagement with 
 a melodramatic spectacle, called, " The Massacre of the 
 Greeks; or, the Siege of Missolonghi." On this occa- 
 sion Ducrow was obliged to retain some of the Stock 
 Company, amongst whom was the favourite Brough, who 
 was cast for a part, but did not attend punctually at re- 
 hearsals. On the late arrival of Brough one morning, 
 Ducrow exclaimed "Prompter, fine that gentleman!" 
 Brough, annoyed at the sarcastic tone, said, "Sir, 
 I have a name." " Well,'' replied the great equestrian,
 
 20 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 " I said, ' that gentleman? I beg pardon if I made a 
 mistake." 
 
 September 27th. The Theatre Royal was advertised 
 to be sold by public auction on November 6th, by Mr. 
 George Robins, in a most elaborate announcement, quite 
 up to his style. No sale took place. On the i3th No- 
 vember following an advertisement appeared from George 
 Robins : " In consequence of a very eligible offer having 
 been made for the purchase of the property, which will 
 probably terminate by a sale by private contract, the 
 auction will be postponed to the loth December." 
 
 November 26th. The Theatre re-opened with the play 
 of " The Hypocrite." Mawworm, Mr. Dowton. Stage 
 Manager, Mr. Calcraft ; Acting Manager, Mr. Elrington 
 (father of S. N. Elrington, Esq.). Mr. Elrington was 
 highly respected a manager of much experience, an ex- 
 cellent actor, with fine stage presence, and a courteous- 
 gentleman in office. 
 
 December ist. Mrs. Humby's first appearance on her 
 return from London. 
 
 December 2nd. Miss Coveney's (only 1 1 years of age) 
 first appearance as Mandane in " Artaxerxes." 
 
 December i3th. Mrs. Way lett joined the Company. 
 
 December 271)1. Engagement of Miss Paton. "Love 
 in a Village," &c. 
 
 1829. 
 
 Jan. 4th. Miss Paton played Desdemona to Bennett's 
 Othello, and sang the original Shaksperian song, " My
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 21 
 
 Mother had a Maid called Barbara." Miss Paton's 
 Desdemona was pronounced a great success. 
 
 January 26th. Engagement of Miss Foote. 
 
 March i4th. Catalan! commenced a farewell engage- 
 ment, after which she proceeded to the provinces, taking 
 Mr. Levey as Violinist. 
 
 March 2oth. Edmund Kean being prevented by 
 illness from fulfilling his engagement, Charles Kean came 
 in his stead. Miss Huddart also played. 
 
 March 28th. Madame Caradori Allen appeared, sing- 
 ing between the pieces. 
 
 May 1 8th. Appearance of Edmund and Charles Kean 
 together. Edmund Kean having recovered, appeared in 
 " A -New Way to Pay Old Debts," as Sir Giles. Charles 
 Kean played Welborn. 
 
 May 2 1 st. "Othello." Othello. Edmund Kean ; lago, 
 Charles Kean. 
 
 May 23rd. " Brutus.'"' Both appearing. 
 
 June 6th. Catalani re-engaged for five nights. 
 
 June 1 8th. First appearance of Mr. Tyrone Power, as 
 Sir Lucius OTrigger in the " Rivals.'"' Madame Vestris 
 also appearing. Concluding with the Farce of " The Irish 
 Tutor." Doctor O'Toole by Power. Some nights after 
 Power appeared in " The Irishman in London," the fol- 
 lowing criticism appeared in the Freeman s Journal: 
 
 " The new piece, 'Home, Sweet Home,' on its second performance 
 last evening, went off so so. It is a trifle, in which the principal 
 redeeming feature is Madame Germaiice (Madame Vestris) and her 
 songs. The principal feature in the evening's entertainment was the 
 importation of an Irishman, as some of our contemporaries desig-
 
 22 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 nated him, ' second only to Jack Johnstone.' We feel every respect 
 for the efforts of Mr. Power, but he would require a power of brogue, 
 in addition to what he possesses, to make us for a moment institute 
 a comparison. We have seen Mr. Barry play Corporal O'Slash ; 
 and the remark is not dictated by invidiousness, but the rich and 
 racy pronunciation of his Minister tongue we missed. Mr. Barry 
 has his defects, and Mr. Power has his own perfections ; yet when- 
 ever he performs before a Dublin, nay, an Irish audience, he should 
 lay aside the ' Irishman in London,' and feel himself breathing that 
 air which, as St. Patrick says in the song, ' banished all the vermin.' 
 It is more than ridiculous to see a Cockney twang mixed up with an 
 Irish brogue ; it is like Heathen Greek with Christian English. 
 These remarks may seem severe, but they should not be used did we 
 not know Mr. Power to possess qualifications of a high order. The 
 house was tolerably well attended." 
 
 W. Dillon, well known as "Billy Dillon," a most 
 talented and popular writer for SatindeYs, died this 
 month. He was married to a sister of Gaudry, com- 
 poser of many celebrated glees, amongst which, " De- 
 scend Celestial Queen of Song," stills holds ground. 
 Gaudry was also composer of the charming song, " Art 
 Thou, too, gone?" Gaudry was Mr. John O'Rorke's 
 uncle. 
 
 July nth. Mr. Charles Young appeared in "Rienzi," 
 Power acting in the afterpiece. 
 
 Charles Kemble was also engaged, playing Charles- 
 Surface ; Joseph Surface, Mr. Young; Sir Benjamin 
 Backbite, Mr. Power (what a trio !) Power was a very 
 good light comedian, and had he never taken to the Irish 
 characters, must have made his mark in almost any walk 
 of the drama. Leaving first impressions aside, and all 
 cant about the good old times, really no idea can be
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUNLIN. 23 
 
 formed of the Kembles, the Youngs, Edmund Kean, &c. 
 they were indeed giants. Young's voice was like musical 
 thunder, but capable of the most varied and exquisite 
 modulation. Zanga, in the '' Revenge," he made his own, 
 none even of his great contemporaries attempting the 
 character. If any very elderly playgoer can (with the 
 writer of these lines) remember the climax of the speech 
 where Zanga incites Alonzo to the murder of Carlos and 
 Leonora, concluding with the words, " Thus tread upon 
 the Greek and Roman glory," the sound must still ring in his 
 ears. Young talked, even in private, in measured terms, 
 slowly and ponderously, and with a very slight lisp. He 
 lodged at Burnside's, in Hawkins-street, in the house 
 now occupied by Mr. Farrelly, saddler ; he slept in the 
 front drawingroom, and was disturbed one morning at 
 four o'clock by a tremendously loud knocking at the 
 hall-door. Young arose from bed, opened the window, 
 and appeared in a long white night-cap, and beheld a 
 " rale ould " Irish donkey and cart, the ragged proprietor 
 of which still continued the dreadful knocking. Young 
 called out in his thundering and blank verse style " In 
 the name of G cl, sirrah, what is the meaning of this 
 unseemly clamour, disturbing sleepers from their natural 
 rest? Desist, man, desist!" The culprit looked up, 
 and beholding the tragic face and white night-cap, replied 
 in a rather guilty tone, but with a lovely brogue, " We're 
 come to empty out the dust-pit." Young related this 
 in his dressing-room with great unction. Perhaps the 
 elderly gentleman above alluded to may remember 
 Charles Kemble's Charles Surface, or his Mercutio ; also
 
 24 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Edmund Kean's Sir Giles Overreach, or Sir Ed-.vard 
 Mortimer : if so, he has some compensation for his old age. 
 
 November nth. Mr. Braham and Miss Byfield 
 appeared in " The Devil's Bridge." 
 
 December 2nd. " Massaniello " produced for the first 
 time in Dublin. Fenella, by Miss Huddart; the Prince, 
 by Mr. Newcombe, who sang his music most sweetly and 
 effectually. Mr. Newcombe married Miss Garbois, the 
 principal danscuse of the Theatre Royal, and still the 
 first mistress of her art in Dublin. 
 
 1830. 
 
 January 23rd. The new Adelphi Theatre was opened, 
 now " The Queen's." 
 
 February -z 2nd. Macready appeared as Virginias; 
 Miss Smithson, Virginia' ; ending with " Black-eyed 
 Susan," in which T. P. Cooke played William (his first 
 appearance). 
 
 May joth. The Theatre opened with the " Colossal 
 Elephant." Mdlle. Djeck, in the " Elephant of Siam." 
 
 May i Qth. First appearance of Mr. Yates (father of 
 Edmund Yates). Mr. Yates in Sylvester Daggerwood. 
 Mrs. Yates also appeared. 
 
 The imitations of the great actors by Yates have never 
 been equalled. 
 
 June 1 9th. Miss Paton and Mr. Wood appeared in 
 " Love in a Village." Mr. Joseph Wood, a former pupil 
 of Tom Philips, had appeared in London with success as 
 tenor. He afterwards married Lady Lennox (nee Paton) 
 on her divorce from Lord William Lennox. They con-
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 25 
 
 tinned for years to visit Dublin, always drawing great 
 houses. 
 
 June 23rd. Power appeared in " The Irish Tutor," 
 after Bishop's Opera of " The Slave." 
 
 June 25th. Theatre closed for night rehearsal of " The 
 Maid of Judah," a work by Rophino Lacy. The story 
 taken from Sir Walter Scott's "Ivanhoe;" the music 
 culled from Rossini's Operas. 
 
 June 27th. Theatre closed in consequence of the 
 death of George IV. 
 
 June 30th. " Maid of Judah." First time. 
 
 July 1 2th. Miss Fanny Kemble performed Juliet ; Mr. 
 Charles Kemble (her father) Mercutio (and such a Mer- 
 cutio !) ; Mr. Abbott, Romeo. 
 
 July 1 6th. Sanspareil Theatre, Fishamble-street, ad- 
 vertised. 
 
 October 5th. Mr. Bunn issued an address announcing 
 the opening of Fishamble-street Theatre, under His 
 Majesty's patent. Mademoiselles Celeste and Constance, 
 danseuses, were the stars. " The French Revolution " 
 was produced, in which Dick Barry acted an Irish part 
 (Terry Regan) with immense effect. 
 
 November 2oth. The Theatre opened under the 
 management of Mr. John William Calcraft. " Speed the 
 Plough " was performed. Sir Abel Handy by David 
 Rees (his first appearance). 
 
 1831. 
 
 February igth. Farewell engagement of Mr. Charles 
 Young, previous to his retiring from the stage.
 
 26 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 April i3th. Production of the English version of 
 Mozart's " Cosi fan tutti " " Tit for Tat." 
 
 August. Miss Inverarity, a soprano of Scottish birth, 
 played a short and successful engagement. 
 
 August 291)1. The Dublin Musical Festival com- 
 menced with a Full Dress Ball at the Rotundo. 
 
 August 3oth. The first musical performance at the 
 Royal Theatre. A Miscellaneous Concert. 
 
 August 3 1 st. Afternoon performance. "The triumph 
 of Faith," by Ferdinand Ries. 
 
 September ist. " The Messiah." 
 
 Paganini, then the wonder of the world, appeared 
 during this Festival. The concerts at which he played 
 were well attended; but the sacred performances were 
 comparative failures. The name of the great violinist 
 appeared in the bills on the last day, and a strange 
 novelty presented, viz. : Paganini, mounted on a plat- 
 form, performing his wonderful solos between the parts 
 of " The Messiah." This event considerably increased 
 the receipts. Messrs. Litolf and Adams' French Band 
 performed at the Balls. 
 
 November. Theatre opened for the Dramatic Season 
 with " The School for Scandal." Sir Peter Teazle, Mr. 
 David Rees; Lady Teazle, Miss Huddart (afterwards 
 Mrs. Warner). 
 
 November 2 6th. " The Warden of Gal way," produced. 
 A successful Tragedy by the Rev. Edward Groves.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 27 
 
 1832. 
 
 The principal event of this year was the production of 
 " Robert the Devil," an English version of Meyerbeer's 
 " Robert le Diable /' with Mr. and Mrs. Wood. 
 
 1833. 
 
 First appearance of Madame Taglioni (the greatest 
 dansciise then in existence). She received 100 per 
 night. Mons. Silvain accompanied her, a great Maitre 
 de danse. Silvain, changed from Sullivan, was a Cork 
 t: boy," who, displaying an early predilection for the 
 Terpsichorean art, was sent to France to study, where he 
 attained great eminence in his profession. It has been 
 stated (without proof) that he was a brother of Barry 
 Sullivan. 
 
 1834. 
 
 October. Henri Herz, the great Pianist, played in 
 the Theatre Royal. Mr. and Mrs. Wood appeared after 
 their return from America. * 
 
 December 3rd. The drama of " Eily O'Connor," from 
 Griffin's " Collegians," performed. 
 
 1835. 
 
 May. Barnett's Opera of " The Mountain Sylph " 
 produced. A masterly work, founded on Scottish 
 melodies, and scored with the pen of a sound and 
 sensitive musician. This Opera is destined to meet with 
 a welcome when revived.
 
 28 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 1836. 
 
 January 2nd. Tyrone Power. 
 
 January nth. Mrs. Waylett. 
 
 April 5th. Mr. and Mrs. Yates. Production of " The 
 Jewess." 
 
 May 4th. Production of "The Siege of Rochelle." 
 Miss Belts, Mr. H. Bedford, Mr. Ranesford, Miss Adams. 
 
 May 23rd. Mr. C. Mathews and Madame Vestris. 
 
 July 4th. Mr. Keau. 
 
 October 8th. Mrs. Honey and Mr. Collins. 
 
 October nth. Mr. Butler, Tragedian. 
 
 November 6th. Mr. and Mrs. Honey. 
 
 The chief event of this season was the disappoint- 
 ment of Malibran. (See Second Part.) 
 
 1837. 
 
 February. Sergeant Talford's play of " Ion" produced. 
 (Macready.) 
 
 February. The Theatre in Abbey-street opened, under 
 the title of " Theatre Royal, Irish Opera House, Lower 
 Abbey-street, under the King's Patent, granted to Messrs. 
 Jones, of the original Theatre Royal, Crow-street." Mr. 
 A. Lee, part proprietor. 
 
 March 2 7th. Templeton and Miss Sheriff, a pri ma- 
 donna of much fame, commenced an engagement. 
 
 May 4th. A grand fancy and full-dress Ball took 
 place in the Theatre Royal. Pit boarded over. An 
 amusing incident occurred relative to this entertainment. 
 Mr. Mitchell, the well-known and much respected confec-
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 29 
 
 tioner, of Grafton-street,had given an estimate for the provi- 
 sion of refreshments. Mr. Calcraft, in the hurry of business, 
 having mislaid it, sent for Peter (the stage door-keeper 
 and messenger), and told him to go, with his compliments,, 
 to Mr. Mitchell for a copy of the estimate. Peter, after 
 a rather lengthened absence, returned with a large book 
 
 under his arm. "What the is that?" said the 
 
 manager. " The Testament, sir," replied Peter. " Mr. 
 Mitchell says this is the only one he has in Grafton- 
 street ; the small one is at his private house." Mr, 
 Calcraft's rage knew no bounds. He seized the poker, 
 but Peter escaped down the stairs, the governor following,, 
 and calling out, " Go back for the Es-ti-mate, you 
 scoundrel." Peter Connell was a Kerry boy, a real ori- 
 ginal, and possibly may have provided Sam Lover with the 
 model for " Handy Andy." His mistakes were ludicrou?, 
 but he had a strong national touch of sarcastic humour. 
 " Fiddlers," he did not admire as a class, and the Saxon 
 " play-actors" were not favourites. It gave him great 
 pleasure to hear that Edmund Kean and Macready were 
 of Irish", " distraction," as he called it. An actor called 
 Sparrow, who during the winter months took advantage 
 of the stage-door fire, was in the habit of abusing Ireland, 
 and when leaving at the end of the season, he gave expres- 
 sion to his ideas. " How glad I am to get out of this 
 dirty, filthy kentree," &c., &c. " Faith, an' Mr. Sparra," 
 said Peter, " you're a very different bird from what you 
 war when you kern to this dirty, filthy counthry. You 
 war lean and moultherin', without a feather on you, and 
 it's fat and fledged you're going away." After the Dublin
 
 30 . ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Musical Festival (1830), Paganini arranged with Mr. 
 Calcraft for a series of concerts. The great violinist 
 called at the stage-door and inquired for the manager. 
 Peter ascended to Mr. Calcraft's room, and asked, " Are 
 you within, sir, for the foreign fiddler ; he's below at the 
 doore ?" Mr. C. : " It is Signer Paganini, you rascal. Let 
 the gentleman up to me instantly." Peter retired 
 muttering, " A fiddler a gentleman ! O Lord, since 
 when ?" Poor Peter was an athlete, and had many fights 
 .at the upper gallery door, where he received the passes. 
 He was on one occasion thrown over from the top 
 banisters to the stone flooring, a fall of forty feet, from 
 the effects of which he died. 
 
 Oct. 1 2th. Miss Julia Nicol (afterwards Mrs. J. Harris) 
 first appeared, playing Bella Shandy in "My Uncle Toby." 
 
 1838. 
 
 January. Thalberg appeared at the Theatre this 
 month. He received ^50 a-night. After the third 
 night the manager proposed a renewal of the engagement, 
 offering half the gross receipts. Thalberg refused, 
 keeping to his first arrangement. The houses for some 
 time averaged about ;i8o, by which he would have 
 received 90 per night. He was, however, quite con- 
 tent, and rejoiced at the result. 
 
 February 6th. Power played an engagement ending 
 on this date. 
 
 March 6th. Mrs. Fitzwilliam played Cherubino in 
 "LeNozze." 
 
 May i gth. Engagement of Mr. and Mrs. Wood. Mr
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 31 
 
 E. Horncastle, Miss M. Hamilton, and Mr. A. Giubilei 
 were of the Company. 
 
 July loth. Power commenced an engagement ending 
 July i8th. He was advertised to sail in the " President" 
 on the 2ist (delayed). 
 
 November loth. Mr. and Mrs. Wood commenced an 
 English Opera engagement. Principal Baritone, M. W. 
 Balfe. Rooke's Opera of " Amelie, or the Love Test," 
 produced for the first time in Dublin. Balfe did not 
 possess a powerful voice, but his vocalism was simply 
 perfection. Bourdogni was his singing-master, and it was 
 indeed a treat to hear the pupil sing the elaborate and 
 difficult solfeggios composed by the master for him. 
 The two lovely baritone songs in " Amelie," " What is the 
 Spell?" and " My Boyhood's Home," received a fine in- 
 terpretation. A revival of " Amelie," with some revisal, 
 would be profitable. 
 
 During the engagement, " Der Freischutz " . was per- 
 formed. At one of the rehearsals of the Incantation 
 Scene, during the casting of the magic bullets, Mr. Calcraft, 
 who was Casper (also the caster of the balls), was much 
 annoyed by the irregularity with which the echoes were 
 given. The performers of the echoes were " supers." 
 chosen from the Dublin Militia, then called the " dirty 
 Dubs." The echoes should follow each other; as, when 
 Caspar calls " one," the echo should be " one ! one ! one !'' 
 <Scc., but the "ones " all came together, and therefore the 
 effect was lost ; and Mr. Calcraft, who had been in the 
 army, had all the u Dubs " summoned before him, and 
 being placed in a line, he explained and told each man
 
 32 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 the order, saying, "You, Murphy, are first; you, Daly, 
 are second ; you, Callaghan, are third ; and, mind you, 
 give the echoes in this order." All returned to their places 
 up in the wings ; the casting recommenced, and Caspar 
 called out " One ! " " One!" said Murphy. " Two //" 
 roared Daly. The effect may be imagined. Mrs. Wood 
 was convulsed with laughter; she had heard of the 
 Killarney echo now it was almost verified. Poor Daly 
 said, " Sure, I was tould to be second." 
 
 1839. 
 
 May. Abbey-street Theatre burned. 
 
 1840. 
 
 October i4th and i5th. " O'Donohue of the Lakes" 
 produced. Madame Balfe made her first appearance at 
 Concerts in the Theatre Royal. Thalberg and Balfe 
 performed. Hackett, the celebrated American actor, 
 appeared. 
 
 October 24th. Balfe's " Maid of Artois " produced, 
 with Balfe, Templeton, Miss Romer, and G. Horncastle 
 in the cast. 
 
 November 7th. The "Siege of Rochelle" produced 
 for first time. 
 
 Tyrone Power played his last engagement in June, 
 1840. He sailed shortly after for America, in the 
 4i President," which was wrecked on the return voyage. 
 Not a soul was left to tell the tale, nor has a plank of the 
 ill-fated vessel ever " turned up." The yearly loss to the 
 treasury from his death was a great blow to the Calcraft 
 government.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 33 
 
 1841. 
 
 November 6th. Mr. and Mrs. Wood appeared after 
 their return from America. " Norraa " was given for the 
 first time in English; also "The Postilion of Longumeau." 
 
 1842. 
 
 May gth. Miss Adelaide Kemble commenced an en 
 gagement in English Opera, supported by Miss Rains- 
 forth, Mr. Brough, Mr. Shrivall, Miss A. Hyland, Mr. 
 Houghton. Conductor: Mr. J. L. Hatton; Leader: 
 Mr. Levey. Opened with " Norma." Balfe joined the 
 Company, and played Figaro in " The Marriage of 
 Figaro." Mr. Weiss (pupil of Balfe) also joined, and 
 played Oroveso. Adelaide Kemble inherited all the 
 dramatic genius of the family, which also displayed itself 
 remarkably in her musical powers. " Norma," even with 
 the recollection of Grisi fresh in the public mind, produced 
 quite a sensation; many considering Miss Kemble's 
 rendering in some particulars even superior to that of the 
 great Italian songstress. Adelaide Kemble was a musical 
 Mrs. Siddons. This Company proceeded to Edinburgh 
 and Glasgow, under the direction of Mr. Calcrafr. 
 
 1843. 
 
 February 4th. Engagement of Mr. Glover, Madame 
 Victor, C. Mathews, and W. Farren. 
 
 May 6th. English Opera Company. Mrs. Alfred 
 Shaw, Miss Sabilla Novello, Miss Poole, Miss A. Hyland, 
 Mr. Manvers, and Mr. Giubi'.ei. They played " The
 
 34 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Secret Marriage," " Sonnambula," " Semiramide," "Cin- 
 derella," " Artaxerxes." Mr. T. Bishop and Mr. Chute 
 were in the Company. 
 
 June loth. Mr. D. Leonard was engaged for six nights. 
 
 June igth. Engagement of Miss Helen Faucit and 
 Mr. Anderson. Opened with "Romeo and Juliet;" also 
 played "The Gamester," "Lady of Lyons," "Cymbeline." 
 (End of the summer season.) 
 
 August 7th. The Theatre announced to open with 
 the following artistes : Sig. Camilio Swori, the unrivalled 
 violinist, pupil and successor of Paganim; Miss Clara 
 Novello, Mdlle. Albertazzi, Miss Howson, Mr. Balfe; with 
 a Grand Concert and the English version of the Opera 
 of " L'Elisire d'Amore," called " The Love Spell." In 
 consequence of the severe illness of Mdile. Albertazzi, the 
 Opera was withdrawn, and they had Concerts only, in 
 three parts. 
 
 It was announced that, in consequence of the great 
 political agitation then existing, which so frightened the 
 Italian Artistes they demanded so much additional terms, 
 there would be no Italian Opera that season. 
 
 August 26th. Fanny Eisner appeared for four nights, 
 assisted t>y Mons. Silvain and Mdme. Proche Giubilei. 
 
 The Theatre was then closed till October 28th, when 
 it opened with Mr. Mackay in " Rob Roy." 
 
 November 4th. Engagement of Mr. and Mrs. Wood 
 for eight nights. Their farewell engagement, previous to 
 their final retirement from the stage, opened with " Son- 
 nambula ;" they also played " Norma," " Fra Diavolo," 
 and " Maid of Judah."
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 35 
 
 On the 8th inst., during the above engagement, Pro- 
 fessor Risley and his son (the wonder of the age) made 
 their appearance, and continued in addition to the 
 Opera engagement. 
 
 November 25th (Saturday). Engagement of Mr. and 
 Mrs. Charles Kean. Bulwer's [play of "Money" was 
 played for the first time. 
 
 1844. 
 
 May i4th. Madame E. Garcia (sister to the celebrated 
 Malibran) appeared in "Sonnambula." 
 
 May 27th. The first of three Concerts, with Madame 
 Dorus Gras, Signer Salvi, and Miss Poole. 
 
 June 24th. Miss Rainsforth, Mr. Stretton, and Mr. 
 Harrison commenced an engagement. " The Bohemian 
 Girl " was played for the first time. 
 
 November 25th. Braham's last appearance in Dublin, 
 .at Concerts, under the direction of Mr. John Mackintosh, 
 in the Music Hall, Abbey-street; also Charles Braham 
 .and H. Braham. Revival of " The Tempest." 
 
 1845. 
 
 Monsieur Duprez and Madame Eugenie Garcia ap- 
 peared in a Grand Concert. Duprez sang Balfe's song, 
 " While I gaze on those dear Eyes," in English. 
 
 Duprez appeared in the last act of " Guillaume Tell " 
 as Arnold (his original character). 
 
 July 7th. Miss Romer, Mr. Borrani and Mr. Harrison 
 commenced an engagement. " The Bohemian Girl " was 
 i^iven, and with increased effect.
 
 36 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 August 1 6th. Taglioni commenced an engagement of 
 four nights. 
 
 October iSth. The following artistes commenced an 
 English Operatic engagement : Mr. and Mrs. Alban Croft,. 
 Mr. J. S. Reeves (his first appearance in Operas). The 
 following works were given : " Lucia," " Sonnambula,"' 
 " Love in a Village," " Fra Diavolo," " Bohemian Girl," 
 "Beggar's Opera," "Der Freischutz," "Guy Mannering."" 
 Mrs. Alban Croft came to Dublin, fortified by a London 
 reputation. Her charming appearance, beautiful soprano- 
 voice, and high artistic attainments won all hearts at 
 Covent Garden, and the Dublin public fully endorsed the 
 London verdict. Mrs. Croft fully reciprocated Irish 
 feeling towards her by soon giving up theatrical life and 
 becoming a permanent resident of Dublin, where her 
 talented husband still enjoys high patronage and favour, 
 as amongst the first professors of his art. Mr. Reeves 
 made his first appearance during this engagement, and all 
 hearers immediately predicted a great future for him, 
 To his wonderful voice he added a style refined and 
 elevated to a degree that was marvellous for so young a 
 vocalist ; but he had evidently received a sound early 
 musical education, which all through his great career has 
 done him good service. He repaired to Italy, and soon 
 made his appearance at the Covent Garden Concerts, 
 under the direction of Jullien, who possessed an extra- 
 ordinary aptitude for discovering great talent. The re- 
 sult is now patent. Sims Reeves is still in the enjoy- 
 ment of his powers, and long may he continue to delight 
 his countrymen, who are so justly proud of the greatest
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 37 
 
 tenor they have as yet produced. (This engagement was 
 a great success.) 
 
 1 846. 
 
 July 1 8th. Carlotta Grisi appeared, also Mdlle. Louise, 
 ]\Idlle. Adele, Mons. Adrien, Mons. Berthier, and Mons. 
 Silvain. Carlotta obtained favour as a premiere danseuse 
 only second to Taglioni. She commanded high terms, 
 and drew large audiences. The appreciation of la danse 
 has evidently declined in Dublin. 
 
 October 8th. Taglioni again engaged. This was the 
 last appearance of the greatest of all danseuses. She 
 was accompanied by her father, the beau-ideal of an old 
 gentleman, remarkably handsome in appearance,, and of 
 the greatest refinement of manner. His daughter was his 
 pupil and such a pupil ! On the night of her benefit, 
 Mons. Taglioni danced a hornpipe with all the agility of 
 youth. On being congratulated on the wondrous artistic 
 powers of his daughter, he replied, " Ah ! Elle ne danse 
 pas avec les pieds, die danse avec la tete /" The following 
 is a "cutting" from a London journal of a recent date: 
 
 " The famous dansatsc (Marie Taglioni) for whom the impresarii of 
 Europe once contended, and who still possesses many memorials of 
 her triumphs, has preserved, even unto her seventieth year, her 
 bright, hopeful glance, and a certain harmonious elegance not gene- 
 ral in ladies who have nearly achieved their fourteenth lustre. 
 Marie Taglioni is not only an artist to the tips of her toes, but a 
 fcmmc dn inondc, whose talk is full of charming simplicity and 
 candour, and a fresh enthusiasm which exercises a curiously rejuve- 
 nating effect upon the listener. Neither passionless nor cold, the 
 <lancing of Taglioni, while eminently dramatic, was yet endowed
 
 38 ANXALS OF THE 
 
 with a peculiar airiness and diaphanous grace which deprived it of 
 every trace of earthiness. The slender, elegant figure, waving 
 like a lily on its stem, was beautiful without any trace of gross 
 materialism, charming without appeal to the grosser senses. In the 
 opinions of contemporary critics, the difference between Taglioni and 
 her imitators was that her dancing was devoid of 'earthiness' or 
 'fleshly' attributes which disfigured their otherwise admirable 
 performance." 
 
 November. Mr. Allen and his pupil, Miss Julia Har- 
 land, with Mr. H. Corri, performed in English Opera. 
 Mr. Allen was from Cork, and obtained eminence in 
 London as an excellent tenor vocalist and singing-master. 
 
 December. Helen Faucit appeared with G. V. Brooke 
 production of " Antigone." 
 
 1847. 
 
 February 9th. Madame Anna Bishop (first appear- 
 ance), Mr. P. Corri, Mr. T. Bishop, Mr. H. Corri, appeared 
 in Balfe's " Maid of Artois." (Madame became soon- 
 afterwards Lady Bishop, by the elevation of her husband, 
 Sir Henry Bishop, to knighthood). 
 
 <: The Light of other Days," from the Opera, was the 
 song of the day. Mr. Levey had to visit Clonmel pro- 
 fessionally at the end of this month, and at the request of 
 a pupil (a captain of a company on the station), brought 
 down a copy of "The Light of other Days." On a fine 
 summer evening, after dinner at the captain's lodgings, 
 the pupil requested the master to give an idea of how the 
 song should be interpreted. The parlour-window was 
 open and " gave " to the street. The professor repaired 
 to the pianoforte and illustrated to the best of his ability
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 39 
 
 '' The Light of other Days," according to the intention 
 of the composer. The captain was quite delighted, 
 lauding highly the vocal efforts of the professor, remark- 
 ing, " I had no idea you could sing so well ; really I 
 never heard anything I liked better," &c., &c. And he 
 was proceeding in this most flattering strain, when a fellow 
 appeared at the open window, popped in his head, and 
 exclaimed, " Well, Captain James, be gorra, you're aisily 
 plaised ! " This severe critic was a " boy " who did the 
 captain's messages. 
 
 April 8th. Herr Pischek appeared at Jullien's Con- 
 certs, Music Hall, Abbey-street. 
 
 April 1 4th. Master William Levey played for his 
 father's benefit for the first time. He is now (1880) 
 Musical Director of the Adelphi Theatre, London, and 
 Member of the Society of Artists and Musicians of Paris. 
 
 April 28th. Madame Anna Bishop played in " Linda 
 di Chamouni," and in the last scene of " Tancredi," for 
 Mr. Stapleton's benefit. Mr. Stapleton was Treasurer to 
 the Theatre Royal from the opening to 1850; he was 
 much respected, and his annual benefit filled the house. 
 
 1848. 
 
 January 29th. Miss Rainsfonh, Mr. Travers, Mr. 
 Stretton, and Mr. Henry Corri commenced an operatic 
 engagement. 
 
 March. Mr. Allen and Miss Julia Harland re-engaged. 
 
 June r 2th. Mr. Donald King and Miss Poole ap- 
 peared in English Opera. One of the most remarkable 
 successes in the annals of the " Royal" was obtained by
 
 40 ANNALS OF THR 
 
 Miss Poole's singing of " Pray, Goody," in " Midas." 
 She received encores nightly. 
 
 August i st. Madame Wharton and troupe showed forth 
 in an entertainment entitled " Poses Plastiques." Very 
 classical, but not successful ; as the paucity of drapery on 
 the goddesses was strongly objected to. 
 
 August 2nd. Madame Persian! and Signor Bottesini 
 appeared at Jullien's Concerts in the Rotundo. Persia ni 
 was one of the most perfect of Italian vocalists, and 
 Signor Bottesini the Paganini of double-bass players. 
 
 1349. 
 
 October zoth. English Opera Company Mr. Sims 
 Reeves, Mr. Whitworth, Mr. Delevanti, Mr. H. Horn- 
 castle, Miss Lanza, and Miss Luscombe. Conductor, Mr. 
 Lavenu; Leader, Mr. Levey. Operas: "Lucia," "Sonnam- 
 bula," "Puritani," "Ernani" (first time). Miss Luscombe, 
 a favourite soprano, became Mrs. Sims Reeves, and 
 still remains the happy partner of his fame and fortune. 
 Miss Lanza afterwards joined the Stock Company. Mr. 
 H. Horncastle was a brother of George Horncastle, a 
 great stock favourite, whose singing of the charming song 
 (in " No Song, no Supper"), " I Locked up all my Trea- 
 sure," was greatly admired. Mr. H. Horncastle pub- 
 lished an excellent collection of Irish Melodies, now 
 difficult to be obtained. 
 
 December xyth. An engagement with the same Com- 
 pany commenced.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUIU.l.Y. 4! 
 
 1850. 
 
 January. Macready's farewell visit. 
 
 April 2 2nd. The French Opera Comique, under the 
 management of Mr. Mitchell, commenced an engagement, 
 with the following artistes M. Chateaufort, M. Soyer, 
 M. Lac, M. Buguet, Mdlle. Guichard, Mdlle. Danhausser, 
 Mdlle. Mincini, Mdlle. Vigny, and Mdlle. Charton. 
 Operas " Le Domino Noir," " Les Diamans de la Cou- 
 ronne," " La Dame Blanche," " Fra Diavolo." Con- 
 ductor: M. C. Hansenns; Leader, Mr. Levey. This was 
 indeed a musical treat the artistes individually excel- 
 lent and the ensemble perfect. The very highest finish of the 
 French school was displayed in the singing of Mdlle. 
 Charton. It would be difficult to 'decide in which of the 
 qualities of actor or vocalist M. Lac (tenor) excelled. 
 As usual in the French school, all the small parts were 
 performed by first-class artistes in their line, and the 
 natural, satisfactory artistic effect followed, but pecu- 
 niary failure ! We have yet to learn to appreciate the 
 efforts of French entrepreneurs. Mr. Mitchell proceeded 
 to Belfast with this Company, with an unfavourable re- 
 sult. Some of the Dublin instrumentalists were engaged, 
 amongst whom were Mr. Pigott, the eminent violoncellist, 
 and Mr. Harrington, the principal contra-basso. These 
 two stayed at the Temperance Hotel. Mr. Mitchell, who 
 was very kind, and always looked after "his people," 
 called at the hotel, entered the coffee-room, and rang the 
 bell. After some delay, a waiter staggered in, maintaining 
 his equilibrium with difficulty. Mr. Mitchell, astonished 
 at seeing a drunken waiter, asked doubtingly : " Is this
 
 42 ANXALS OF THE 
 
 the Temperance Hotel?" " Oh, yesh, shir; but we had 
 a temperance prochesshion to-day, and I took a little 
 drop." Mr. Mitchell remembered and told this incident 
 with great gusto. 
 
 June nth. Miss Louisa Pyne, Mr. W. Harrison, Mr. 
 and Mrs. Weiss, and Mr. H. Corn appeared in English 
 Opera. This was Miss Pyne's debut in Dublin. 
 
 October i4th. Mrs. Wood appeared in the Rotundo 
 (Concerts). Mrs. Wood had previously abandoned the 
 profession and retired to a convent in Yorkshire, but tired 
 of the seclusion, she left, and resumed her profession. 
 
 December lyth. Madame Anna Thillon appeared. 
 Madame Thillon (a very beautiful and accomplished French 
 vocalist) gave a most successful entertainment, in which 
 she was assisted by Mr. Hudson, a former favourite actor 
 in the Stock Company, who afterwards adopted Irish 
 characters with success, but the recollection of Power 
 lessened his chance. During his performance of ' : Rory 
 O'More" (in which Power excelled), one evening a 
 voice from the gallery called out " Very fair, Hudson, and 
 more Power to you !" 
 
 1851-52. 
 
 June 4th. Mrs. Harris took her farewell benefit at the 
 Queen's Theatre, Mr. Harris ceasing to be lessee. " All 
 that Glitters is not Gold " was given for the first time in 
 Dublin. Mrs. Harris appearing as Martha Gibbs. 
 
 June 1 4th. Mr. Harris's benefit at the Queen's, and 
 last night of his Lesseeship. " Time Tries all," and the 
 farce of " Apartments " were performed.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 43 
 
 December. The Theatre Royal opened, under the pro- 
 prietorship of Mr. John Harris, with " Love in a Maze," 
 and the pantomime of " Bluff King Hal." Amongst the 
 Company were Mr. T. C. King, Mrs. Hudson Kirby, Mr. 
 John Webster, Mr. F. Robson, Mr. Granby, and many others, 
 forming such a stock troupe as would now be difficult to col- 
 lect together. The greater number became stars, and re- 
 turned to Dublin as such. Robson's fame still lives through- 
 out the dramatic profession. He left Dublin because he 
 was refused a small increase (say of one pound), to his salary, 
 and soon returned as a London " star," on sharing terms, 
 receiving a large sum nightly. Whilst in the " team " he 
 has played in Dublin to empty benches when acting in a 
 farce after the first piece the very same pitites crowding 
 to see him when crowned with his London laurels. Un- 
 fortunately this is not new in Dublin, many similar cases 
 could be quoted Miss O'Neill, Richard Jones, Hudson r 
 Davy Rees, Power, Catherine Hayes, and numerous 
 others in the olden as well as in more recent times. 
 When shall we judge for ourselves in dramatic matters ? 
 Up to the present we have waited for the London verdict. 
 During the first few years of Mr. Harris's management he 
 struggled hard against the starring system, and succeeded 
 in keeping the Theatre open for upwards of three years 
 without a night's interruption, by the production of 
 Shaksperian revivals, amongst which were " The Mid- 
 summer's Night Dream," with Mendelssohn's music 
 " The Tempest." There were also some English Operas, 
 in which Messrs. Haigh, Durand, Miss Lanza, the Misses 
 Cruise (then all in the Stock Company), performed. The
 
 44 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 musical burlesques "The Good Woman in the Wood," 
 and " Once upon a time there were Two Kings " were 
 also successful. The struggle was a bold and hard one, 
 and sustained with much energy ; Mr. Harris receiving at 
 the end of an unprecedented season of more than three 
 years, a splendid testimonial publicly presented by the 
 Company on the stage. However, the " houses " com- 
 menced to droop, and " pressure from without " forced 
 the manager back, cruelly against his will, to the " starring 
 system," to which he was compelled to cling up to the 
 period of his lamented death. 
 
 1853. 
 
 July. The Misses Kate and Ellen Bateman made their 
 first appearance in " The Young Couple," after which 
 they danced the " Minuet de la Cour." These wonderful 
 children did not follow the usual course of premature 
 dramatic precocity, but by severe and careful stud}', con- 
 tinued to progress from year to year, and are now amongst 
 the ornaments of their profession. 
 
 1854. 
 
 During this year were given Shaksperian revivals 
 "Hamlet," "Othello," "Tempest," "King Lear," with 
 T. C. King as the principal actor. Dramas " The 
 Courier of Lyons," " Les Cceurs d'Or," " The Old 
 Chateau;" also the Operas "Bohemian Girl," "Love 
 Spell," by the Operatic Stock Company, including Messrs. 
 Haigh, Durand, E. Corri, Miss Lanza, Mrs. Bromley, 
 the Misses Cruise, &c., &c.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 45 
 
 1855. 
 
 April Qth. Engagement of Miss Helen Faucit (Juliet). 
 
 May 29111. Engagement of Mr. Phelps, who opened 
 in " Macbeth." He also gave his wonderful impersona- 
 tion of Sir Pertinax MacSycophant. 
 
 June i8th. First appearance of Miss Glyn. "Cleo- 
 patra." 
 
 1856. 
 
 March. First appearance of Miss Seamen (now Mrs. 
 Chippendale), Miss Vandenhoff, Miss Rebecca Isaacs. 
 
 1857. 
 
 October 26th. Farewell engagement of Mr. and Mrs. 
 Barney Williams. 
 
 1858. 
 
 April 5th. Opening of summer season. Theatre 
 newly decorated, with new act drop by Telbin. Subject : 
 "The Origin of the Drama," and "The Feast of the 
 Vintage of Greece." 
 
 First appearance of Walter Montgomery in " Faust and 
 Marguerite." Walter Montgomery, one of the most pro- 
 mising actors of the day, and an excellent Shaksperian 
 reader, in the midst of a successful career, committed 
 suicide in London, during a fit of temporary insanity, on 
 the day of his marriage. Over-study was the supposed 
 cause of the desperate act. 
 
 1859. 
 
 February i6th. Engagement of Miss Marriott, the 
 eminent tragic actress. 
 
 Nov. 1 9th. Appearance of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Kean.
 
 46 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 1860. 
 
 May 23rd. Production of " A Tale of Two Cities," 
 with Madame Celeste's Company." 
 
 October ist. Dramatic season commenced with 
 "Hamlet." In the cast appears Francisco (a Soldier), 
 Mr. Irving, from the Strand Theatre, London. Henry 
 Irving was therefore a humble member of the Stock Com- 
 pany a strong proof that he has not had " greatness 
 thrust upon him," but has " become great " from the 
 result of intense and conscientious study in his art, by 
 which means only could he have arrived at his present 
 high position. Differences of opinion may and will exist 
 as to some of his readings, &c. : this is always the penalty 
 of greatness ; but the public, " the many-headed monster," 
 have given their verdict, which verdict, in the long run, 
 is always right. 
 
 October 8th. Appearance of ",The Zouave Artistes," 
 announced as " The original Founders of the Theatre at 
 Inkermann, during the Crimean War, where, under the 
 enemy's fire, they gained such renown, and have since 
 performed in all the principal cities in Europe." 
 
 NOTE " The military papers proving the authority of 
 the Zouaves may be seen at the Box Office." 
 
 The Zouaves acted and sang capitally, the female parts 
 being performed by men. 
 
 October 22nd. First appearance of John Drew in the 
 " Irish Ambassador," and " Handy Andy," one of the 
 best representatives of Irish character who ever per- 
 formed in Dublin. " Handy Andy " was nature itself.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 47 
 
 1861. 
 
 April ist. Production of "Colleen Bawn,' with Mr. 
 and Mrs. Boucicault. 
 
 May 2nd. Alfred Mellon's Opera of " Victorine" pre- 
 sented or first time by the Pyne and Harrison Company. 
 Mr. Watkins Burrowes was boxkeeper at this period. 
 He had been a theatrical manager of great repute, while 
 in possession of the Belfast Theatre several years before. 
 Alfred Mellon was his leader. A strong feeling of friend- 
 ship naturally existed between the old manager and his 
 former ckcf. At the conclusion of " Victorine " (which 
 was a great success), Burrowes rushed round from the 
 front to the manager's room (where, at that time, the 
 principal artistes repaired after the opera for refreshments). 
 Burrowes was very demonstrative, and proceeded in the 
 most glowing terms to congratulate the composer on his 
 work. " Yes, Alfred," said he, " that's the sort of music 
 /like. That's the music to please the public, so like 
 everything they have heard before." A roar of laughter 
 of course followed, in which the composer heartily joined. 
 Poor Burrowes "meant well." 
 
 October yth. First appearance of G. V. Brooke since 
 his return from Australia, after an absence of seven years. 
 October 26th. First appearance of Adelina Patti. 
 November nth. Engagement of Mr. and Mrs. W. 
 Florence. Mrs. Florence is sister to Mrs. Barney Wil- 
 liams. Two more popular favourites than "Billy" 
 Florence and his nice wife, both in and outside their pro- 
 fession, do not exist.
 
 48 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 1862. 
 
 February lyth. Engagement of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred 
 Wigan "A Scrap of Paper" and "First Night." The 
 English stage has produced few artistes superior to Alfred 
 Wigan. His performance of a Frenchman was matchless. 
 He was a perfect master of the French language, and 
 therefore gave his broken English correctly (so to speak) ; 
 for to properly represent a native of any given country on 
 the English stage a good knowledge of the language of 
 such nation is absolutely necessary. 
 
 April 2 1 st. Production of Benedict's "Lily of Kil- 
 larney " Pyne and Harrison Company. A great success,, 
 adding still to the already high reputation of the composer. 
 
 April 26th. First appearance of Mdlle. Guerabella as 
 Mary Wolfe in Balfe's "Puritan's Daughter." Mdlle. 
 Guerabella, then an excellent soprano, both on the Italian 
 and English stage, is now known as Miss Genevieve 
 Ward, the eminent actress. 
 
 November 6th. First appearance of Mr. and Mrs. 
 Frank Mathews (with Charles Mathews). 
 
 November igth. Mr. and Mrs. C. Kean. 
 
 November 22nd. "Courier of Lyons" produced. 
 
 1863. 
 
 April 22nd. Engagement of Mr. G. V. Brooke. 
 May i8th. First appearance of Lady Don in " Lady 
 Audley's Secret." 
 
 August 29th. " Peep o' Day" first produced. 
 November 9th. First appearance of Mr. Sothern as 
 Lord Dundreary."
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 49 
 
 1864. 
 
 May 6th. Operetta of "Fanchette," by W. C. Levey, 
 produced by the Pyne and Harrison Company. 
 
 October 28th. First appearance of Miss Bateman in 
 " Leah." 
 
 November 2nd. First production on any stage of 
 " Arrah-na-pogue," with Mr. and Mrs. Boucicault. 
 
 1865. 
 
 April 1 7th. First appearance of Mr. John Collins, 
 after eighteen years' absence in America (" Irish Ambas- 
 sador" and " Rory O'More"). Mr. John Collins was 
 son of a former proprietor of the Lucan Spa Hotel at one 
 time a favourite resort of Dublin citizens. John's ambition 
 was to grace the operatic stage as a tenor, and he made a 
 fair success ; but, like many others, he changed his mind, 
 and "took to " the Irish characters, visiting all the cities 
 in America and Great Britain, and realizing a sufficient 
 fortune to retire. 
 
 August 28th. First visit of the Haymarket Company, 
 under the direction of Mr. J. B. Buckstone " School for 
 Scandal." 
 
 Nov. 2oth. Engagement of Mr. Toole. 
 
 1866. 
 
 First engagement of Mdlle. Beatrice production of 
 " Mary Stuart." In the scene between Queen Elizabeth and 
 Mary Stuart, in which Mdlle. Beatrice so powerfully 
 denounced the Virgin Queen, she was much encouraged 
 by an enthusiastic pit-goer, who exclaimed at intervals 
 
 D
 
 50 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 " Ah, that's it ! give it to her well ! don't spare her ! " 
 and when Beatrice gave expression to the name of Anne 
 Boleyn, as Elizabeth's mother, he called out "Ah, there 
 you have her ; a nice Virgin Queen, ha ! ha ! ha !" The 
 enthusiast had to be silenced by a gentle remonstrance 
 from a policeman. 
 
 March. Performance of " The Strollers," " Corsican 
 Brothers," and " The Happy Man." 
 
 1867. 
 
 April. Mr. Felix Rogers and Miss Jenny Wilmore. 
 
 August 26th. Miss Herbert and Company, from St. 
 James' Theatre. 
 
 1868. 
 
 March 23rd. T. C. King, with Miss Evelyn, for a 
 short engagement. 
 
 March 3ist. Amateur Italian Opera, " II Trovatore." 
 Leonora, Miss Annie Doyle ; Azucena, Mrs. Shaw ; Inez, 
 Miss Levey; Count di Luna, Mr. J. J. Marlowe; Fer- 
 nando, Mr. P. Hayes ; Manrico, Mr. C. Cummins. Con- 
 ductor, Mr. George Lee. 
 
 April loth. Miss Amy Sedgwick and Mr. John 
 Nelson. Engagement for twelve nights. Opened with 
 " The Lady of Lyons." 
 
 . May i st. Miss Catherine Rogers and Mr. J. F. Cath- 
 cart. Opened with " The Honeymoon." Twelve nights. 
 
 May gth. Performance of "The Strollers," "Guy 
 Mannering," and " Teddy the Tiler." 
 
 May nth. Mr. Phelps, for six nights. " Man of the 
 World."
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 51 
 
 May 1 8th. Mr. and Mrs. Herman Vezin commenced 
 in a new drama, " The Man o' Airlie," by Wills. This 
 engagement concluded the season. 
 
 Monday, August 24th. Theatre opened by Mr. J. L. 
 Toole, assisted by Mr. Eldred. 
 
 August 3ist. First night of "Dearer than Life," by 
 Byron. 
 
 October 5th. Mdlle. Beatrice. " Mary Stuart." 
 
 October iQth. Mr. Sothern and Miss Ada Cavendish. 
 " A Hero of Romance." 
 
 November 2nd. Mr. and Mrs. Boucicault. New ver- 
 sion of " Arrah-na-pogue." 
 
 November 3oth. Charles Mathews. 
 
 December i4th. Miss Neilson. 
 
 1869. 
 
 March 29th. Miss Bateman and Mr. Swinbourne. 
 -" Leah." Twelve nights. 
 
 April 1 2th. Mr. Bandmann and Miss Millie Palmer 
 " Hamlet." Twelve nights. 
 
 April 26th. Lady Don. " Daughter of the Regiment.'' 
 
 May loth. First performance of " The Grand Duchess " 
 in Dublin. Miss Julia Mathews, Mdlle. Albertazzi. J. 
 Stoyle, Aynsley Cook, Mr. Odell, W. H. Norton, W. H. 
 Payne, Harvey Payne, Fred Payne, Mdlle. Esta, and 
 Mr. Wilford Morgan. Conductor, Mr. Charles Hall. 
 
 Up to May 29th, closed season. 
 
 The very excellent interpretation given to the work on 
 this occasion left a lasting impression in Dublin, and was 
 preferred by many to the version of the Opera as per-
 
 52 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 formed by the French Company some time after, with 
 Mdlle. Schneider as the star. 
 
 Monday, August 23rd. Season opened with " Dearer 
 than Life." J. L. Toole. 
 
 Monday, October nth. Beatrice. 
 
 October 251!]. Mr. Creswick. " Macbeth." 
 
 Monday, November 8th. Mr. Fechter. " Hamlet.'* 
 Ophelia, Miss Charlotte Le Clerg. 
 
 November 22nd. Mr. Sothern. "American Cousin." 
 Twelve nights. 
 
 November 2Qth. Mr. T. C. King (up to Pantomime). 
 
 1870. 
 
 Monday, March 14111. French Company (twelve 
 nights), under the direction of Mons. Raphael Felix. 
 Three of Offenbach's Opera Bouffes " La Grande 
 Duchesse," " Barbe bleu," and " Orphee aux Enfers." 
 Principal artiste, Mdlle. Schneider. (The manager, since 
 deceased, was brother of the celebrated French trage- 
 dienne, Mdlle. Raphael.) 
 
 Monday, March i6th. Mr. Frederick Young's London 
 Comedy Company commenced with " Caste " (first time 
 in Dublin). Hon. George D'Alroy, W. F. Young; 
 Esther, Miss Ada Dyas ; Polly, Miss Brunton ; Captain 
 Hawtree, Mr. Craven Robertson ; Eccles, Mr. J. W. Ray ; 
 Marquise de St. Maur, Miss Benyon ; Sam Gerridge, 
 Mr. Cannidge. 
 
 Monday, March 28th. Mr. Moreton Tavarez appeared 
 for a short engagement. " Hamlet," " Stranger," 
 "Richelieu," &c.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 53 
 
 On the 6th of April, 1870, the first appearance of Barry 
 Sullivan was announced as " the leading legitimate Actor 
 of the British Stage." 
 
 The result fully justified the announcement ; for it was true then, 
 and remains so to the present time. Nearly eleven years have passed, 
 and the great tragedian has appeared with increased success every 
 season, except during the season of his wonderfully prosperous Austra- 
 lian engagement. Like all accomplished Shakesperian students, Mr. 
 Sullivan seems never content to remain stationary in his art, for at 
 each successive appearance every character is, if possible, more 
 matured and highly finished. Circumstances will not admit in this 
 limited work of the too extended notice which the subject prompts 
 and would demand, more particularly as the great artist is still in his 
 zenith, and we may hope, will yet live many years to visit the land 
 of his birth, and delight his fellow-countrymen, who feel so proud 
 that Ireland can boast of having produced "the leading legitimate 
 Actor of the British^Stage." 
 
 Saturday, April gth. Amateur Italian Opera, " Faust." 
 Monday, April 1 8th. Barry Sullivan. "Hamlet." 
 Monday, May 2nd. Shiel Barry. Short engagement. 
 
 " Handy Andy," " Barney the Baron," &c., &c. 
 
 Shiel Barry is still another artist whom the Dublin 
 
 public left for a London audience to " find out." 
 
 Monday, August 22nd. Mr. J. L. Toole. " Oliver 
 
 Twist." 
 
 Monday, October 3rd. Mr. Buckstone and Haymarket 
 
 Company. " School for Scandal," &c., as before. 
 
 October i yth. Frederick Young's Company. " School." 
 November yth. Mr. and Mrs. Wybert Rousby. 
 
 " Romeo and Juliet." Twelve nights. 
 Nov. 2ist. Miss Bateman, with Miss Isabel Frances 
 
 and Mr. \V. H. Vernon. " Leah " and " Mary Warner." 
 December 5th. Mr. Barry Sullivan. " Hamlet." 
 December igth. Mr. Sothern and Miss Amy Roselle. 
 
 " David Garrick," " Home," and " Birth."
 
 54 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 1871. 
 
 March nth. Amateur Italian Opera, "Marta" (for 
 Mr. Levey's benefit). Mr. and Mrs. C. Cummins, Mrs. 
 J. Doyle, Mr. P. Charles, &c. 
 
 Monday, March 1 3th. Mr.Compton. "TonyLumpkin." 
 
 April i3th. Amateur Italian Opera. Second Act of 
 " II Trovatore ;" concluding with " Don Giovanni." 
 
 Monday, May 3rd. Joseph Eldred, Miss Lizzie Wil- 
 more. " Little Em'ly." 
 
 Monday, May isth. " The Two Roses " (first time). 
 Messrs. H. J. Montague, H. Irving, George Honey, W, H. 
 Stephens, Miss Amy Fausitt, Miss Louise Claire, c. 
 
 It is unnecessary here to recall the sensation created by the " Digby 
 Grand " of Henry Irving, still fresh in the memory of Dublin play- 
 goers, and never to be forgotten. 
 
 July 3'ist. Season opened with Mr. J. L. Toole. 
 " Uncle Dick's Darling." 
 
 Monday, August 28th. Mr. Richard Young's Com- 
 pany for twelve nights. " M.P." (first time.) 
 
 Poor Fred Young having met an untimely death by a railway acci- 
 dent in England, his brother, Mr. Richard Young, became manager. 
 
 Monday, October 2nd. Re-engagement of the Young 
 Company for six nights. Production of " Ours." 
 
 Monday, October 23rd. Barry Sullivan. " Hamlet." 
 
 November 6th. Mr. and Mrs. Boucicauh% Shiel Barry. 
 " Colleen Bawn." 
 
 Monday, November 2oth. " Amy Robsart." Drury- 
 lane Company, under the direction of Mr. Chatterton. 
 Miss Louisa Moore, Miss Annie Ness, Mr. G. F. Rowe, 
 and Mr. S. Emery. 
 
 Monday, Dec. i ith. Joseph Eldred. " The Great City."
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN'. 55 
 
 1872. 
 
 Saturday, March 2nd. " Maritana " (by the Strollers). 
 Blanche Cole specially engaged. 
 
 March 23rd. Amateur Italian Opera " Marta." 
 
 April i st. Mr. and Mrs. Boucicault, Shiel Barry, &c. 
 First production of " The Streets of London." 
 
 April i6th. Mr. Vining's Comedy Company. "The 
 Woman in White." Miss Ada Dyas, Mrs. C. Viner, Mr. 
 Reginald Moore, Mr. Peveril, c., to end of season. 
 
 Monday, July 22nd. Mr. Buckstone and the Hay- 
 market Company. Messrs. Chippendale, Howe, Kendal, 
 Arnott, Gordon, Rogers, Buckstone, junior, Clark, 
 Osborne, Braid, Weatherby, James, Everel ; Miss Robert- 
 son, Mrs. Chippendale, Miss Fanny Wright, Mrs. E. Fitz- 
 william, &c., c. Production of " Pigmalion and Galatea." 
 
 On Thursday, August ist, " The Palace of Truth." 
 
 Monday, August i2th. Mdlle. Beatrice. " Nos 
 Intimes." 
 
 Monday, August 26th. " Peep o' Day." Mr. Chat- 
 terton and Drury-lane Company. 
 
 Monday, September Qth. Barry Sullivan. "Richelieu." 
 
 Monday, October 2ist. Miss Bateman. "Leah." 
 " Medea " (on her benefit night). 
 
 Monday, November 4th. J. L. Toole. " Paul Pry." 
 During this engagement Mr. Toole kindly gave an after- 
 noon performance of " Paul Pry " at the Glencree Re- 
 formatory, to the great delight of the inmates. 
 
 Monday, November 2 5th. Mr. and Mrs. Bandmann.
 
 56 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Monday, December gth. Mr. George Vining. Pro- 
 duction of " Marlborough " (four Act Drama.) 
 
 1873. 
 
 March 3rd. Mr. T. C. King. " Ingomar." 
 
 March 2 2nd. Performance of " The Strollers," "The 
 Brigand," and " Grimshaw, Bagshaw, and Bradshaw." 
 
 March 24th. Revival of " The Warden of Gahvay," 
 first time for forty-two years. Walter Lynch, T. C. King. 
 
 Monday, March 3ist. Amateur Italian Opera. Joint 
 benefit of Mr. R. M. Levey and G. V. Lee. Two Acts 
 of " Sonnambula " and "Lucrezia Borgia" (compressed). 
 The Amina was Miss Lucy Shaw ; Count Rodolpho, J. J. 
 Marlowe, Esq. ; and Elvino, R. W. MacDonnell, Esq. 
 The three principal parts were very successfully performed. 
 
 April 4th. Amateur Italian Opera. " II Trovatore." 
 
 April yth. Charles Mathews. Twelve nights. " Mar- 
 ried for Money," and " Mr. Gatherwood ; or, Out of Sight 
 out of Mind." 
 
 Monday, April 28th. Mr. and Mrs. Barney Williams, 
 for a limited number of nights. " Fairy Circle " and 
 " Yankee Help." 
 
 August 1 8th. Season opened with Haymarket Com- 
 pany. " Blue Devils," The Wicked World," " Uncle 
 Foozle." 
 
 September 8th. Mr. Craven Robertson's " Caste " 
 Company. 
 
 October 6th. Mr. Barry Sullivan. " Hamlet." 
 
 November 3rd. Mr. Toolc's farewell engagement,
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DU13LIX. 57 
 
 previous to his departure for America. " The Weavers," 
 "Off the Line," and " Oliver Twist." 
 
 November 171)1. Miss Genevieve Ward. " Lucrezia 
 Borgia." (Drama, English version.) 
 
 December ist. Carl Rosa's Opera Company. Miss 
 Blanche Cole, Miss Lucy Franklin, Mrs. Aynsley Cook, 
 Miss Rose Hersee, Mr. Campbell, &c. Opened with 
 " Maritana." 
 
 1874. 
 
 March 28th. " Guy Mannering,'' by lady and gentle- 
 men amateurs, with a varied programme of musical selec- 
 tions, for Mr. Levey's benefit. 
 
 April 6th. The Theatre Royal opened under the 
 direction of Messrs. John and Michael Gunn, for the first 
 time guided by native proprietors. It is almost superfluous 
 here to notice the ability displayed by those enterprising 
 brothers and partners. The " Gaiety " proving a great suc- 
 cess, they had the boldness to purchase the " Old Royal," 
 and whatever difference of opinion may exist (for what 
 manager can please all ?), it must be admitted that the 
 Theatre Royal has been governed with all the energy, 
 tact, and capacity necessary for the conduct of a great 
 establishment. All eminent artistes available, dramatic 
 and musical, have successively and successfully appeared, 
 and what might be termed " a failure " cannot with 
 justice be recorded. The premature and much regretted 
 death of Mr. John Gunn was a sad episode. Endowed 
 with intellect which seemed to grasp all subjects, John
 
 58 AXXALS OF THE 
 
 Gunn was a remarkable man. Only those who were in 
 close and intimate relationship with him could appreciate 
 his capabilities. A good practical musician, he could 
 well judge of everything relative to that art. Of scene- 
 painting he seemed to possess a naturally acute know- 
 ledge and appreciation. Indeed, he possessed all the 
 attributes necessary for a theatrical manager. But in 
 whatever position Mr. John Gunn may have been placed, 
 he must have distinguished himself. All the weight and 
 responsibility of the management of two theatres (a great 
 task in any city a fearful one in Dublin) have fallen on 
 the younger brother, Mr. Michael Gunn, of whom cir- 
 cumstances will not here permit many words. It only 
 remains to say, that the mantle has descended to one 
 inheriting, in many respects in an increased degree, all 
 the remarkable qualities of his brother John. 
 
 April 6th. (First engagement at the Royal under the 
 management of the Messrs. Gunn.) Miss Charlotte 
 Saunders, Mdlle. Annetta Scasi, Miss Blanche Sabine, 
 Miss Edith Wilson, Miss Eugenie Valckenaire, Miss 
 Page, Mr. J.' Birchenough, Mr. Harding, Mr. Thurlow, 
 and Mr. E. W. Royce. Revival of " The Good Woman 
 in the Wood," preceded by Byron's drama, " The Lan- 
 cashire Lass," in which Miss Louisa Wills appeared. 
 
 April 2oth. Mrs. Dion Boucicault, Mr. George Bel- 
 more, Mr. Barry Aylmer, &c. "The Colleen Bawn." 
 
 May 4th. (Last week of season.) Miss Wallis, ac- 
 companied by Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Howard. " Romeo 
 and Juliet." 
 
 May 8th. "The Strollers," "The Wonder," and
 
 THEATRE ROYAL. DUBLIN. 59 
 
 " Bulliondust's Bargain," written expressly for the 
 occasion. 
 
 September 1 4th. Mr. Sothern, for six nights. "Area 
 Belle " and " Our American Cousin." 
 
 October I2th. The American and Australian Actress, 
 Miss Mary Gladstane, Mr. John Dewh'urst, and a power- 
 ful Company, opened with " Marie Antoinette." 
 
 November 2nd. Miss Bateman, for six nights. 
 
 November gth. Barry Sullivan. "Richard III." 
 {Farewell engagement, previous to departure for America.) 
 
 1875. 
 
 March 8th. " Rob Roy." Mr. Levey's benefit, in 
 which Miss Bessie Herbert, Miss Agnes Markham, Mr. 
 Granby, &c., performed. 
 
 June 2ist. A series of Promenade Concerts com- 
 menced, under the direction of Herr Karl Meyder. A 
 complete orchestra of first-rate artistes. Pit boarded, and 
 Theatre fitted up on the Covent Garden plan. In addi- 
 tion to the efficient band, instrumental soloists of 
 European reputation performed nightly. First-rate vo- 
 calists also lent their aid. The works of the great 
 masters were given faultlessly, as all who came admitted. 
 Result disastrous failure ! Another instance which ren- 
 ders it difficult to deny the assertion of Karl Meyder, the 
 late Alfred Mellon, and others who have essayed the like 
 experiment, that Dublin is not a musical city in the true 
 sense. . 
 
 July 26th. Mons. Coulon's French Opera Company. 
 Messrs. Fairvat, Herbert, Trillet, Barres, Preys, Martin,
 
 60 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Dauphin, Joinnesse, Pennequin ; Madame Naddi, Mdlle. 
 Cordier; Mdlle. Marie Albert, Madame Pennequin, 
 &c. Chef d'Orchestra, Mons. Hasselmans. Orchestra 
 and Chorus, seventy performers. Operas performed 
 " Les Mousquetaires de la Reine," " Zampa," " La 
 Dame Blanche," "Lucia," "Les Diamans de la 
 Couronne," " Guillaume Tell," " La Fille du Regi- 
 ment." All admitted the perfection of ensemble with 
 which all the performances of this Company were 
 marked ; but the usual result, when a great star is absent 
 from the list, followed, viz., great pecuniary loss. A more 
 accomplished conductor never wielded a baton than 
 Mons. Hasselmans. He had made a marked impression 
 in London among the English instrumentalists by the 
 intelligence as well as decision of his beat. He had his 
 forces in the most perfect command at all points, and it 
 is much to be regretted that the receipts were not such 
 as to encourage the entrepreneurs to risk a repetition of 
 the engagement. 
 
 August pth. Mr. Charles Dillon, for six nights, ac- 
 companied by Miss Bella Mortimer. Opened with 
 " Virginius." 
 
 August 1 6th. Mr. Shiel Barry. Opened with Bouci- 
 cault's new Comedy, " Daddy O'Dowd." 
 
 August 23rd. Mr. and Mrs. Bandmann. " Hamlet."' 
 Twelve nights. 
 
 September 6th. Mr. J. L. Toole. First appearance 
 for two years. " Uncle Dick's Darling," " Wig and 
 Gown," played for first time. 
 
 September 20th. Mr. Edward Saker and Company.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 6 1 
 
 " Round the Globe in Eighty Days," one of Mr. Saker's- 
 numerous and successful Liverpool productions. 
 
 October 25th. Mr. Charles Calvert. " Sardanapalus," 
 produced with great magnificence and perfection. 
 
 The death of Mr. Calvert has left a blank in the 
 dramatic world, in which he was recognised as a con- 
 scientious student and successful organizer of what i& 
 familiarly termed the " Legitimate." 
 
 November 22nd. Mr. Sothern and J. B. Buckstone. 
 " Our American Cousin," " Home," by Robertson. 
 
 December 6th. Carl Rosa's English Opera Company. 
 Mdlle. Torranni, Miss Josephine Yorke (first appear- 
 ance), Miss Laura Hyde, Mr. F. Packard, Mr. Ludwig, 
 Mr. Santley. " Marriage of Figaro," " Maritana," " Siege 
 of Rochelle," " Fra Diavolo " (Santley), " Bohemian 
 Girl,". " Zampa " (Santley), " Faust." 
 
 1876. 
 
 Monday, April i7th. Engagement of Signer Salvini r 
 the great Italian tragedian. " Othello," in which the 
 great artiste created a profound sensation. 
 
 Friday. " Macbeth." 
 
 Saturday. " Hamlet." 
 
 Thursday, 2oth April. Benefit and presentation ta 
 Mr. Levey on the fiftieth anniversary of his connection 
 with the " Royal." 
 
 Saturday, May 6th. First benefit of Mr. Michael Gunn, 
 on which occasion was performed an original Comic 
 Opera, entitled " Rhampsinitus," composed by Signer 
 Cellini. Libretto by Edwin Hamilton.
 
 6 2 AXXALS OF THE 
 
 August 28th. The Theatre opened with Mr. Charles 
 Collette and Company, consisting of Mr. Alfred Maltby, 
 Mr. Flocton, Miss Kate Harfleur, &c. New farcical 
 Comedy, in three Acts, written by A. Maltby, entitled 
 " Bounce," in which Mr. Collette assumed several charac- 
 ters. Concluding with Collette's patter Farce, " Crypto- 
 conchoidsyphonostomata." Mr. Collette is one of the 
 most rising young artists of the day, and should arrive at 
 the foremost place in eccentric comedy. 
 
 Monday, September 4th. The celebrated Vokes 
 Family, for twelve nights. " The Belles of the 
 Kitchen/"' 
 
 Monday, September i8th. George Honey, for six 
 nights (first appearance since his return from America). 
 " Illustrious Stranger," " For Love of Money." The 
 " genial George " has since gone to the majority. . Who 
 can forget his quaint turn of the head ; his comic ex- 
 pression of eye ; his " basso promndo ?" It may be 
 some time ere we " look upon his like again." 
 
 Monday, October Qth. Shaksperian revival. " The 
 Winter's Tale," under the direction of Mr. Edward 
 Saker, as produced by him in Liverpool. Mr. F. Clements, 
 Mr. E. W. Lewis, Mr. E. Saker, Mrs. H. J. Loveday, 
 Miss Rose Leclerg, &c. The music composed and 
 arranged by Mr. H. J. Loveday. 
 
 Monday, October 23rd. Miss Bateman. Twelve 
 nights. " Leah." 
 
 Monday, November 6th. Mr. Charles Calvert. 
 Twelve nights. Opened with "Much Ado about No- 
 thing." Mr. Calvert was seized with illness during the
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 63 
 
 engagement ; but on his recovery, performed Shylock, 
 Louis XL, &c. 
 
 Monday, November 2oth. Mr. Charles Mathewr. 
 Six nights. " My Awful Dad." 
 
 Monday, November zyth. Engagement of Mr. Henry 
 Irving, accompanied by Miss Isabel Bateman and Mr. 
 T. Swinbourne. " Hamlet," " The Bells," " Charles I." 
 
 The reports of Mr. living's wonderful success in 
 " Hamlet " had, of course, reached Dublin. His bold 
 innovations and original readings startled some, puzzled 
 many, but set all a-thinking. Mr. Irving has passed 
 through the ordeal of all great thinkers who are before 
 their time, viz., not at first being understood by the many ; 
 but all now admire the courage which prompted him to 
 lay out a new course for himself, independent of all old- 
 fashioned conventionalism. He now has the satisfaction 
 to feel that he has " educated up " his audience to his 
 school. For the first time in the dramatic annals an 
 actor has been forced to request his too numerous ad- 
 mirers to " aid him in bringing out new plays by staying 
 away." 
 
 December nth. Engagement of Miss Bella Pateman, 
 the celebrated American actress, for six nights. " Romeo 
 and Juliet," " Katherine and Petruchio," &c., and a new 
 poetical Play by James Mortimer, entitled "Charlotte 
 Corday." 
 
 1877. 
 
 Monday, March i2th. Dublin Operatic Society. Four 
 performances. " Trovatore " (in Italian). Leonora, 
 Madame Tonnelier (specially engaged) ; Azucena, Miss
 
 64 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Bessie Craig (first appearance in Opera) ; Manrico, Mr. 
 R. Sydney ; Ruiz, Mr. Ernest Alford ; Ferrando, Mr. 
 Vincent ; II Conte de Luna, Mr. Leslie Crotty. " Bohe- 
 mian Girl " (in English). Arline, Miss Craig ; Queen, 
 Madame Tonnelier ; Devilshoof, Mr. Richard Temple ; 
 Count Arnheirn, Mr. Leslie Crotty. Each Opera re- 
 peated. 
 
 Monday, April i3th. Benefit of Mr. Levey. Second 
 and third Acts of " Bohemian Girl," and " Trial by Jury ;" 
 the Plaintiff by Mrs. Michael Gunn. 
 
 Monday, April i6th. Shaughraun Company. Twelve 
 nights, as before. 
 
 September lyth. Theatre opened for the season with 
 Miss Heath, supported by Mr. Wilson Barrett's Company 
 " Jane Shore." 
 
 Monday, October 22nd. Mr. and Mrs. Bandmann. 
 Six nights. " Hamlet." 
 
 October 291!!. Charles Mathews. Six nights. " My 
 Awful Dad." 
 
 November 5th. Barry Sullivan. Twelve nights. Mr. 
 W. Hallows, Mr. J. Amory, Miss Caroline Hope, Miss 
 Adeline Stanhope. " Hamlet " (first night). 
 
 November iglh. Mr. Henry Irving and the Lyceum 
 Company, for twelve nights. " Hamlet," " The Bells," 
 " Richard III.," "Lyons Mail." 
 
 Monday, December lyth. Two special performances, 
 being the last before Christmas. Robertson's Play of 
 " David Garrick," the principal part by the well-known 
 and talented amateur, Mr. Wright, whose performance 
 was marked by all the repose and grace attending the
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 65 
 
 school of Sothern and Charles Mathews. Ada Ingot by 
 Miss Fanny Lee (sister of Mrs. Michael Gunn). 
 
 December 23rd. Mr. Phelps, for twelve nights. 
 " Henry VIII.," " School for Scandal," " The Man of the 
 World," &c., &c. 
 
 1878. 
 
 March iQth. Grand amateur performance for the 
 benefit of the Drummond Institution, under the patron- 
 age of the Lord Lieutenant and the Duchess of Marl- 
 borough, &c., &c. "The Two Roses;" characters by 
 R. Martin, Esq., Viscount Newry, Somerset Maxwell, 
 Esq., Captain M'Calmont, A.D.C., Captain Farrar, 
 A.D.C., W. Knox, Esq., Mrs. Michael Gunn, Miss Fanny 
 Lee. Concluding with " The Happy Man." 
 
 Saturday, March 23rd. Original Comic Opera, in three 
 Acts, entitled "The Rose and the Ring ;" words by Miss 
 Mary Heyne, music by Miss Elena Norton. Conducted 
 by Sir Robert Stewart : benefit of Mr. Levey. The 
 Dublin public have since to regret the early death of 
 Miss Ellen O'Hea, composer of the above work, who 
 gave much promise of future excellence in the art of 
 which she was so enthusiastic a student. Her great 
 musical abilities were accompanied with a manner and 
 bearing so gentle and unpretending as to render her a 
 special favourite in all circles. 
 
 Monday, 2 and April. Carl Rosa Opera Company, for 
 three weeks. Miss Julia Gaylord, Miss Georgina Burns 
 (first appearance), Miss Josephine Yorke, Mrs. Aynsley 
 Cooke, Miss Blanche Cole, Mr. Joseph Maas (first ap-
 
 66 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 pearance), Mr. C. Lyall, Mr. Ludwig, Mr. Leslie Crotty, 
 Mr. Snazelle, Mr. W. H. Dodd, Mr. Aynsley Cooke, 
 Mr. Fred. Packard. Conductor, Mr. Carl Rosa. Opened 
 with " The Bohemian Girl." During the engagement, 
 "The Flying Dutchman" (Wagner), "The Golden Cross" 
 (Ignace Brull), and " The Merry Wives of Windsor " 
 (Nicolai) were produced with success. 
 
 Monday, September i6th. Mr. J. L. Toole. 
 September 23rd. Mr. Henry Irving and Lyceum Com- 
 pany, commencing with "The Bells." Mr. Irving, during 
 this engagement, performed "Richelieu" and " Louis XL" 
 for the first time in Dublin. 
 
 Monday, October yth. Mr. and Mrs. Sullivan, Mr. 
 Thomas Nerney, &c. " Arrah na Pogue," " The Shaugh- 
 raun," " The Colleen Bawn." 
 
 Monday, October 1 25111. Engagement of Mrs. Dion 
 Boucicault, Mr. Edmund Falconer, Mr. Leonard Boyne, 
 &c., &c. Production of Falconer's Irish Drama, " The 
 O'Donoghue's Warning ; or, the Banshee." Grace 
 O'Malley, Mrs. Boucicault. Poor Falconer died not 
 very long after this engagement. His real name was 
 O'Rorke ; he was a Dublin boy, and frequently boasted 
 of having made a speech, as a youth, at the Corn 
 Exchange, on the occasion of the presentation of 
 an address to Daniel O'Connell from O'Rorke's fellow- 
 pupils. 
 
 November 4th. Engagement of Mr. Barry Sullivan and 
 Company. During this engagement, " The School for 
 Scandal" was performed, in which Mr. J. F. Warden, of 
 Belfast, played Sir Peter Teazle, and Mrs. M. Gunn, Lady
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 67 
 
 Teazle, with great success; Mr. Barry Sullivan sustaining his 
 popular and unequalled representation of Charles Surface. 
 Monday, November 25th. Revival of Shakspere's 
 " Tempest," with original music, by Arthur Sullivan (first 
 time in Dublin). On this occasion Mrs. Michael Gunn 
 gave another proof of her remarkable versatility as a dra- 
 matic artist and vocalist, by her admirable performance 
 in one of Shakspere's most difficult characters Ariel. 
 Monday, December 2nd. Mr. Sothern, for six nights, 
 Monday, December gth. Jarrett and Palmer's great 
 New York Combination Company, in " Uncle Tom's 
 Cabin." 
 
 1879. 
 
 Saturday, February 22nd. Benefit of Mr. R. M. Levey, 
 " Maritana." * Messrs. Vyvyan, 2 S. Vincent^ Fullar, 
 Waters, Campbell, Byng ; Madame Nina Castelli, Miss 
 Kate Chard. Conductor, Sir Robert Stewart. 
 
 Monday, March 1 8th. Grand amateur performance for 
 the Drummond Institution. Byron's Comedy, " Partners 
 for Life," and the Burlesque of " JLord Lovell." Per- 
 formers Viscount Newry, Mr. R. Martin, Mr. Somerset 
 Maxwell, Captain M'Calmont, Captain Litton, Mr. Galla- 
 tin, 23rd Fusiliers ; Mr. Blyth, 23rd Fusiliers ; Mr Schuyler, 
 77th Regiment; Mr. Banbury, 77th Regiment ; Mr. Arch- 
 dale, 1 2th Lancers ; Miss Castleton and Miss Pearson. 
 
 Monday, May i2th. Mr. Sothern (farewell engage- 
 ment), accompanied by Mr. E. Saker. " Our American 
 Cousin " and " David Garrick." 
 
 1 This was a most successful performance. 
 
 2 Mr. Frank Smyth. 3 Mr. J. F. Jones.
 
 68 ANNALS ;OF THE^ THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 
 
 On Monday, November 3rd, commenced the last sea- 
 son of the " Old Royal," with Mr. Charles Dillon, sup- 
 ported by Miss Bella Mortimer, in a new drama, written 
 for Mr. Dillon by W. G. Wills, Esq., entitled "Bolivar ; 
 or, Life for Love." 
 
 Monday, November lyth. Miss Bateman, for twelve 
 nights. 
 
 Monday, December ist. Miss Genevieve Ward, for 
 six nights. " Forget-me-Not " (first time in Dublin). The 
 great success of Miss Ward in this drama is proved by the 
 large audience still attracted in every important town in 
 the United Kingdom. 
 
 Monday, December 8th. Engagement of Mr. John 
 Coleman for twelve nights. The new dramatic Romance 
 by Algernon Willoughby, " Valjean " (founded on Victor 
 Hugo's work, " Les Miserables "), in which Mr. Coleman 
 assumed four characters : Jean Valjean, M. Madeline, 
 The Fugitive, and Urban Le Blanc. The rapid change 
 of dress accomplished by Mr. Coleman, and his marked 
 difference of appearance in this drama, made it difficult to 
 believe that it could be the same individual who appeared 
 in each separate part. 
 
 On December 26th was produced the last Pantomime, 
 " Ali Baba " (see List). 
 
 1880. 
 
 On Monday, February Qth, the "Old Royal" was 
 destroyed by Fire ! 
 
 " THUS ENDS IT."
 
 iList of pantomimes from 1820* 
 
 1820. October Rotunda. Cinderella, with scenes from 
 
 Gulliver. 
 
 November i6th. Scenes from Mother Goose 
 Clown Grimaldi. 
 
 1821. April 23rd Hawkins-street. Harlequin and the 
 
 Magic Pipe. Clown Norman. 
 October. Harlequin Friar Bacon. Clown 
 
 Grimaldi. 
 December. Whittington and his Cat. Clown 
 
 Bradbury. 
 
 ' No Pantomime - 
 
 1824. February lyth. Harlequin and the Flying Chest. 
 
 Clown Paulo. 
 April i Qth. Harlequin Mother Goose. Clown 
 
 Bradbury. 
 1825.^1 
 1826. 
 
 1827. j-No Pantomime. 
 
 1828. I 
 
 I82 9 .J 
 
 1830. Harlequin Cock Robin (produced in March). 
 Clown Paulo.
 
 70 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 1831. No Pantomime. 
 
 1832. Serious Pantomine "Perouse, or the Desolate 
 
 Island." 
 
 1833. Puss in Boots. Clown Hogg. 
 
 1834. St. Patrick; or, Harlequin and the Sleeping Beauty. 
 
 Clown Usher. 
 
 *8 6 I k T Pantomime. 
 
 1837. Harlequin and the Ocean Queen. Clown 
 
 Elsgood. 
 
 1838. The Goblin Dwarf. Clown Elsgood. 
 
 1839. Harlequin Peeping Tom. Clown Elsgood. 
 
 1840. O'Donohue of the Lakes. Boleno Family. 
 
 1841. Darby O'Donohue. Boleno Family. 
 
 1842. Harlequin and the Merry Devil of Edmonton; or r 
 
 The Great Bed of Ware. Boleno Family. 
 
 1843. Baron Munchausen. Boleno Family. 
 
 1844. Harlequin Shaun a Lanthero ; or, Fin M'Coul and 
 
 the Fairies of Lough Neagh. Boleno Family. 
 
 1845. Harlequin Blunderbore ; or, the Enchanted Fawn, 
 
 Boleno Family. 
 
 1846. Harlequin and the Wizard of the Steel Castle. 
 
 Boleno Family. 
 
 1847. Harlequin Sulpherino. Boleno Family. 
 
 1848. Harlequin Hurlo Thrumleo. Boleno Family. 
 
 1 849. Harlequin Queen Tartanna. Boleno Family. 
 
 1850. Yellow Dwarf. Lauri Family Herring. 
 
 1851. Bluff King Hal. Clown Seymour. 
 
 1852. Gulliver. Clown Seymour. 
 
 1853 Battledoor and Shuttlecock. Clown Seymour.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 71 
 
 1854. Whittington and his Cat. Clown Seymour. 
 
 1855. Bluebeard. Clown Stilt. 
 
 1856. Little Bopeep. Le Clerq Family. 
 
 1857. Babes in the Wood. Clown Seymour. 
 
 1858. Sleeping' Beauty. Clown Deani. 
 
 1859. King of the Castle. Clown Deani. 
 
 1860. Jack the Giant Killer. m Clown Buck. 
 
 1 86 1. Aladdin. Clown Buck. 
 
 1862. Cinderella. Clown Buck. 
 
 1863. Puss in Boots. Clown Hildyar. 
 
 1864. House that Jack Built. Clown Morelli. 
 
 1865. Beauty and the Beast. Clown Tanner. 
 
 1866. Sinbad the Sailor. Clown C. Laurie. 
 
 1867. AH Baba and the Forty Thieves. Clown Huline. 
 
 1868. Red Riding Hood. Clown Leopold. 
 
 1869. Robinson Crusoe. Clown Huline. 
 
 1870. The White Cat. Clown Hemming. 
 
 1871. Fee Faw Fum. Clown Hemming. 
 
 1872. Bluebeard. Brothers Paulo. 
 
 1873. Valentine and Orson. Brothers Paulo. 
 
 1874. Yellow Dwarf. Clown Robert Power. 
 
 1875. Whittington and his Cat. Clown Laurie. 
 
 1876. Aladdin. Clown Persiviani. 
 
 1877. Cinderella. Clown Newham. 
 
 1878. Gulliver. Clown Newham. 
 
 1879. Forty Thieves. Clown Allnutt.
 
 The following Copies of original Letters may prove 
 interesting: 
 
 From J. HARRIS, Esq. 
 
 March 7th, 1874. 
 My dear Levey, 
 
 This is too bad ; not a man but has deserted the ex-Manager. 
 I did hope for something better from the Fiddler. Well, I must 
 bear it, I suppose. I am better to-day. I suppose you would come 
 despite this grumblelation as a plague upon you. No one for the 
 dinner.* 
 
 Yours truly, 
 
 J. HARRIS. 
 R. M. Levey, Esq. 
 
 * Mr. Harris had some friends at dinner every Saturday. 
 
 From CHARLES MATTHEWS, Esq. 
 
 Jury's Hotel, 
 
 April I4th, 1874. 
 My dear Levey, 
 
 There are few things I wouldn't do to please you ; but sit for 
 my photograph, never more. It is just the one thing that I wouldn't 
 do even to please you, though I am always 
 
 Faithfully yours, 
 
 C. J. MATHEWS. 
 I'll see you to-morrow night, and then I won't. 
 
 From J. B. BUCKSTONE. 
 
 Theatre Royal, Haymarket, 
 
 i8th January, 1876. 
 My dear O'Shaughnessey Lavey, 
 
 I send you my likeness as promised. I hope you will not 
 think it too flattering. I send it with pleasure, as I do not know 
 when I may see dear old Dublin again ; still I cannot forget the many 
 happy days I have passed in that city. 
 
 Faithfully yours, 
 
 JOHN B. BUCKSTONE. 
 
 From SIR JULIUS BENEDICT. 
 
 February 2oth, 1872. 
 My dear Mr. Levey, 
 
 I hasten to inform you that the Norwich Festival will begin 
 on Monday, September 23rd, terminating on the Friday in the same
 
 week. I am always glad to see your handwriting, and should be 
 happy to shake hands with you once more at Dublin, though my poor 
 music seems to be tabooed by all your authorities ; but what cannot 
 be cured must be endured. 
 
 Ever, my dear Mr. Levey, 
 
 Your old friend, 
 
 JULIUS BENEDICT. 
 R. M. Levey, Esq. 
 
 From SIMS REEVES, Esq. 
 
 Grange Mount, Upper Norwood, 
 
 May 13th, 1877. 
 My dear Levey, 
 
 A few lines before leaving your musical city, to thank you 
 warmly for your very great kindness in carrying out, under somewhat 
 trying circumstances, my wishes. I hope shortly to have again the 
 pleasure of singing with you. And with our united kind regards, and 
 every good wish for your continued health and prosperity, 
 
 Believe me 
 
 Yours sincerely, 
 
 J. SIMS REEVES. 
 
 From J. W. CALCRAFT (COLE), Esq. 
 
 The Dutch House, 
 
 March Qth, 1869. 
 My dear Levey, 
 
 I have received both your letters and newspapers you were so 
 kind as to send me. I should have written an acknowledgment 
 sooner, but I have been assailed during the last week by a sharp 
 attack of gout in my right hand, so that I was disabled from writing, 
 and can only now with some difficulty hold a pen. I have been much 
 interested by the account you gave me of your own family affairs. 
 Taking the vicissitudes of life as they usually run their course, I think 
 you may consider yourself, as Macbeth says of his predecessor, the 
 Thane of Cawdor, "a prosperous gentlemen," and I hope you will 
 
 long continue so. Poor old ! It was strange enough that 
 
 his death should occur so immediately you were asking about him. I 
 am sorry he got under a cloud in his latter days ; but it was all his 
 own fault. I do not think he could have been 84, as the papers 
 state, or even 80 about 76, according to what he always told me ; 
 but people, even when very ancient^ have a strange propensity to 
 reduce their real anno domini. 
 
 Believe me yours very truly, 
 
 Although almost illegibly, 
 
 JOHN W. COLE.
 
 PART II 
 
 Italian pera in 
 
 THE Italian Opera proper commenced at Hawkins-street 
 in the year 1829. Many old playgoers will insist that the 
 " Don Giovanni" at Crow-street might claim the priority ; 
 but the cast was not complete, the troupe not perfect, 
 nor was the Opera produced in its integrity. Much mis- 
 apprehension also exists with reference to the number of 
 nights of the " run." It has been seriously asserted that 
 it amounted to "hundreds of nights ;" but facts are stub- 
 born things, and in referring to the bills of the day, it is 
 found that twelve or fifteen nights make up the whole 
 amount. 
 
 Were it not for the name of Ambrogetti, whose great 
 performance of the Don created such a. furore, all recollec- 
 tion of the event might have passed away. It may not 
 be out of place to repeat here the legend with reference 
 to Signer Ambrogetti. It is recorded that during the 
 performance of the last scene, when the Don descends to 
 " Hades," one demon more than the regulation number 
 appeared on the stage. Ambrogetti referred to the 
 prompter, who told him there should be six. The Signer
 
 74 ANXALS OF THE 
 
 saw seven. This occurred night after night. The event 
 so worked on his imagination, that he retired to the con- 
 vent of La Trappe, where he ended his days. 
 
 The engagement of Pasta, in August, 1827, may also 
 be passed over, as only detached scenes were given, and 
 one Act of " Romeo e Giuletta." 
 
 A "scratch" Company appeared when "Don Gio- 
 vanni" was produced, on January 7th, 1828. Madame 
 Cornega and Signer Begrez were the principals, the other 
 characters having been filled by members of the Stock 
 Company Messrs. Latham, Brough, c., &c. except 
 Masetto, by Signor Giovanolo, from the " King's Theatre." 
 On this occasion the pronunciation was certainly not la 
 lingua Toscano in Bocca Romana, but a strange mix- 
 ture. The bills of the next day announced that " ' Don 
 Giovanni ' was received on its production last evening by 
 a brilliant and fashionable audience, with a degree of en- 
 thusiasm not surpassed by any previous musical per- 
 formance in the metropolis." But after the third night, 
 the following appeared in the bills : " Mozart's chef 
 tFauvre, ' II Don Giovanni,' has been received with the 
 utmost favour, and admitted by the professors of Dublin 
 to be the most perfect musical production ever repre- 
 sented in this metropolis ; but having nevertheless totally 
 failed in attraction, it will be represented for the two last 
 nights, this evening and Thursday." 
 
 Madame Catalani commenced an engagement on the 
 i4th March, 1829, concluding April nth. She was the 
 sole musical attraction, and sang "Rode's Air," and other 
 morceaux, during the interval between play and farce.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 75 
 
 Her great piece de resistance was " Rule Britannia," the 
 first word of which she always made two syllables, "ru-le." 
 The first properly organized Italian Opera Company 
 in Dublin commenced then on the i4th October, 1829, 
 under the management of Signor de Begnis ; and many 
 will doubtless learn for the first time of the production of 
 such Operas in Dublin as Paer's t: Agnese," Rossini's " II 
 Turco in Italia," " Tancredi," " Italiani in Algiere," 
 "Otello," " La Gazza Ladra." The Company consisted 
 of Madame Blasis (prima-donna), Castelle (seconda), 
 Signor Curioni (tenor), Signor de Angeli (baritone), 
 Signor Giubilei (basso), Signor de Begnis (buffo). Leader, 
 Signor Spagnoletto ; Prompter, Signor Rubbi. The cam- 
 paign commenced with " II Barbiere," then at the height 
 of its popularity. Rosina, Blasis ; Beita, Castelli ; Alma- 
 viva, Curioni ; Figaro, De Begnis ; Bartolo, De Angeli ; 
 Basilio, Giubilei; Fiorello, Rubbi, who retired to his 
 prompt-box after the first scene. The upper gallery, 
 although not so boisterous as now, would have their joke, 
 and the very commencement of the Opera offered an op- 
 portunity. Signor Rubbi possessed a nasal organ of 
 great dimensions, and the colour was indeed rubicund. 
 It fell to his lot to sing the first note, and when he had 
 chanted, "'Piano, pianissimo" a voice called aloud from 
 the gallery : " Misther Ruby ! " The latter, unaccus- 
 tomed to such an interruption, ceased for a moment and 
 looked up, but soon recommenced : " Piano, pianissimo" 
 Again, " Misther Ruby !" still louder from above. The 
 poor artist was completely at a loss, looked up again, 
 looked at Spagnoletti, and muttered : "Perchc 'Idiavolo si
 
 76 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 ihiama cost?" He was about to proceed the third time, 
 when the voice called out : " Bedad, Misther Ruby, the 
 full of your nose of snuff would be worth sixpence." The 
 effect may be easily imagined. 
 
 Signer de Begnis was considered the best Figaro in the 
 world. His " Largo al factotum " was, indeed, a most 
 artistic effort, not alone vocally, but in a dramatic point 
 of view. He possessed the vis conrica to an extraordinary 
 degree ; and the rapidity of his pronunciation in the "Ah, 
 bravo, Figaro; bravo, bravissimo," while dancing from one 
 end of the stage to another, was very remarkable, every 
 syllable telling. De Begnis was deeply marked from the 
 effects of small-pox, but on the stage this did not show, 
 or dimmish the effect of his otherwise favourable appear- 
 ance and most telling eye. Although very active in his 
 professional capacity, he was otherwise indolent. He 
 lived in D'Olier-street, but should have a car to drive 
 round the corner to the stage-door. He was frequently 
 remonstrated with on this unnecessary proceeding, but 
 without effect. 
 
 Madame Blasis was a finished artiste, and had made a suc- 
 cess at His Majesty's Theatre, where the troupe had been 
 performing. Curioni was a careful tenor, with a sweet 
 voice, of no great compass. (The music of Sonnambula 
 "ivould have astonished him.) De Angeli was an excel- 
 lent musician, and had a daughter (also his pupil), whom 
 we shall find later on a prima-donna, Giubilei was a 
 good basso : so the " cast " was strong. Signor 
 Spagnoletti led with his bow, playing his violin at intervals 
 (the conductor's baton had not as yet been introduced).
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 77 
 
 He was a great master of his instrument, and for years had 
 kept together with a firm and powerful hand the fine band- 
 chorus and principals of the Italian Opera House in 
 London. He had, however, two great lieutenants, Lindley 
 (violoncello), and Dragonetti (double bass). Signer 
 Spagnoletti, in addition to his great musical genius, had a 
 keen sense of the ridiculous, and frequently amused the 
 members of his orchestra with some witty observation or 
 droll action. On one occasion, after rehearsal, he de- 
 scended from his elevated seat, stooped, and was observed 
 to search closely as if under the music-stand of the violin 
 players. W. Vincent Wallace (who, at this time, played 
 from the same desk as Spagnoletti) asked him what he was 
 looking for; when the Signor replied "Ah, for a great 
 many notes which I missed from some of the violin parts. 
 I suppose I shall find them after two or three nights 
 more." He added, at the same time, addressing Wallace 
 " You did't drop any." The future eminent composer 
 was a most accomplished violinist, and received much 
 praise, and a souvenir from Signor Spagnoletti at the ter- 
 mination of the season. It will be new to many to learn 
 that Rossini's " II Turco in Italia," and " La Gazza 
 Ladra " were produced during this engagement ; also " II 
 Fanatico per la Musica," in which De Begnis seemed to 
 revel. 
 
 On the 8th of December, 1831, we find the Italian 
 troupe again with De Begnis, who reigned as manager for 
 many years. Curioni, Giubilei and Rubbi continued 
 Signor Albertini, Signor Masi and Miss Waters were the 
 soprani ; and the novelties in the male department were
 
 78 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Signer Deboccini and Antonio Sapio. The latter after- 
 wards settled in Dublin. Catherine Hayes became his 
 pupil, and under his auspices appeared at the Anacreontic 
 Society, getting at first five guineas, and after some time 
 seven, eight, and perhaps ten guineas. She boldly took 
 her flight from Ireland, having first, as she herself inti- 
 mated, secured all her money in the lining of her corset, 
 and was shortly after in the receipt of ^50, 60, and 
 sometimes 100 per night. "II Barbiere," as usual, 
 opened the season. Rosini, Masi ; Bartolo, Sapio the 
 others as before. On the lyth of December was produced 
 " Agnese," by Paer, which was then announced " Agnese 
 di FitzHenry ; or, the Father and Daughter," taken 
 from Mrs. Opie's celebrated tale of the same name. The 
 following explanatory notice appeared in the bills : 
 " The deeply interesting tale by Mrs. Opie, ' The Father 
 and Daughter,' proved too powerful to be confined within 
 the limits of one country and one language. It forced its 
 way shortly after publication into various parts of Europe, 
 and in Italy was converted into a semi-seria drama in 
 prose, by Filippo Casari, under the title of ' Agnese di 
 FitzHenry.' This becoming extremely popular, was 
 adopted for the lyric stage by Lttigi Burnavogha, who, 
 omitting some characters and scenes, in order to facilitate 
 the musical performance, and shorten the representation, 
 delivered it into the hands of Paer, the celebrated com- 
 poser, and this joint production, which has met with the 
 most distinguished success abroad, is now introduced 
 into this country." 
 
 The audience discovered an old friend in the overture,
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN 1 . 79 
 
 as it had often been played as an " Occasional," or 
 between the acts, also at the Society's Concerts. The 
 music of the Opera is full of merit, good sterling stuff, in 
 the composer's best vein, but not calculated to make a 
 lasting impression on the public. 
 
 The cast was as follows : Conte Alberto (Father of 
 Agnese), Signer De Begnis ; Agnese (his daughter), 
 Signora Albertini (her first appearance) ; Ernesto (Lover 
 of Agnese), Signor Curioni ; Don Pasquaie (Governor of 
 the Hospital for Lunatici), Signor Giubilei ; Don 
 Givolamo (Chief Physician), Signor Sapio ; Vergina, 
 Mdlle. Waters; Keeper of the Hospital, Signor de Boccini. 
 Agnese met with a succes d'estime, and was not repeated. 
 
 On Saturday, September 24th, 1834, Signor De Begnis 
 commenced the season with his Italian troupe, with 
 Signora Kintherland as prima-donna the other artistes 
 nearly as before. Maestro al Piano, Signor Aldobrande ; 
 Leader of the Orchestra, Mr. Geo. Stansbury. The last- 
 named gentleman had succeeded Mr. William Penson as 
 leader and director of music. He was a most versatile 
 musician, a good vocalist, excellent pianist, fair violinist, 
 and frequently ascended from the orchestra to the stage, 
 fulfilling a part in Opera with great effect. On such 
 occasions he entrusted the baton to the care of Mr. 
 Levey, whom, at the termination of his engagement, 
 Mr. Calcraft placed in the position of leader. 
 
 As a matter of course De Begnis commenced with the 
 eternal " Barbiere." Kintherland, Rosina ; Destri, Fiori- 
 ello rest as before. The bills announced : " A Complete 
 Italian Chorus are engaged for the occasion." At the end
 
 So AXXALS OF THE 
 
 of the Opera the Italian Company will sing the National 
 Anthem of " God Save the King." 
 
 On Tuesday, September 23rd, 1834, was produced 
 Rossini's Grand Opera of " Otello." Otello, Curioni ; 
 Rodrigo, Arrigotti (his first appearance) ; Desdemona, 
 Kintherland. The Opera was fairly successful ; the duet 
 between Otello and Rodrigo (two tenors) making a good 
 effect. On Thursday, September 25th, the " Barbiere '" 
 was repeated ; and on Saturday, September 27th, 1834, 
 was produced, for the first time, Rossini's Grand Opera 
 Seria of " Tancredi." Tancredi, Signora Cesari (from the 
 Scala, her first appearance) ; Amenaide, Signora Kinther- 
 land ; Argirio, Signer Curioni ; Orbasano, Signer Giubilei; 
 Isaura, Signor Crampini. Signora Cesari was an immense 
 success. She looked the part to perfection, possessed a 
 fine and flexible contralto voice, and produced a wonderful 
 effect in the opening recitative, " Oh ! Patria ;" and at the 
 enthusiastic demand of the entire audience, she had to sing 
 the aria, " Di tanti palpiti " three times every night. 
 
 The name of Cesari still lives in the recollections of 
 many surviving opera-goers of old Hawkins-street. 
 
 "Otello" was repeated on Monday, September 29th; 
 also repeated on Wednesday, October ist. 
 
 On Thursday, October 2nd, 1834, were given the firs.t 
 Act of " II Barbiere," the second Act of " Tancredi," and 
 the third Act of " Otello." 
 
 On Saturday, October 4th, 1834, '-'II Fanatico per la 
 Musica." Cast as before, except Donna Aristia, Signora 
 Cesari. 
 
 The same bill on Monday, 6th October.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 8 1 
 
 On Tuesday, October 7th, 1834, was produced for the 
 first time, Rossini's Comic Opera, " II Turco in Italia." 
 Selim, Signer Sapio ; Donna Fiorilla, Signora Kinther- 
 land ; Don Geronio, Signor De Begnis ; Don Narciso, 
 Signor Arrigotti ; Prosdecimo, Signor Destri ; Zaida, 
 Mdlle. Waters ; Albazon, Signor Troyano. " II Turco " 
 (possessing no special pieces of interest to the audience) 
 created no sensation ; it was announced for repetition on 
 the following Saturday, but has never since been given. 
 The first performance in Dublin of " Semiramide " took 
 place on Thursday, October Qth, 1834. The bills were 
 headed thus : " Signora Cesari returns her best thanks 
 to the public for the flattering reception she has met with 
 in Dublin, and begs to inform the nobility, gentry, the 
 military, and the public generally, that her benefit and 
 last appearance will take place on Thursday, October 9th, 
 1834, when will be performed for the first time the Opera 
 of ' Semiramide.' (This Opera is the chef d'ceuvre of the 
 celebrated Rossini.) Semiramide, Madame Kintherland ; 
 Arsace, Signora Cesari ; Assur, Signor Sapio ; Idreno, 
 Signor Arrigotti ; Oroe, Signor Giubilei ; Ghost of Ninus, 
 Signor Cevallos." The overture to "Semiramide" had 
 already been popular, having been frequently heard at the 
 Anacreontic and Philharmonic Societies. It was, however, 
 encored on this occasion. The orchestra was strengthened 
 by the addition of Signor Cavallini, the celebrated per- 
 former on the clarionet, who was bandmaster of the 
 1 8th Royal Irish, then stationed in Dublin. He per- 
 formed a solo of his own composition, accompanied by 
 Signor Aldobrandi, between the acts of the Opera. The 
 
 F
 
 82 AXNALS OF THE 
 
 services of Mr. S. J. Pigott, the eminent violoncellist, were 
 also secured, whose exquisite tone, faultless execution, 
 and classic style must still linger in the memory of the 
 few surviving lovers of really good music, now becoming 
 small by degrees and beautifully less. In the good old 
 time a complete ensemble attracted ; now-a-days, a com- 
 bination of angels would be useless without one great 
 name " a star !" 
 
 The cast of the Opera was excellent, although not in- 
 cluding a f/ar-tling name : Semiramide, Madame Kinther- 
 land; Arsace, Madame Cesari: Assur, Signer Sapio; 
 Idreno, Signer Arrigotte ; Oroe, Signor Giubilei ; Ghost 
 of Ninus, Signor Cevallos. It would be no exaggeration to 
 say that the music of Rossini's chef d'oeuvre was per- 
 haps as well interpreted on this occasion as on any other 
 to the present time. Madame Kintherland was a well- 
 taught and accomplished soprano, voice a little hard ; 
 but in the " Bel Raggio " the scales and passages were 
 faultless. In the celebrated duet she also displayed 
 a thorough knowledge of the composer, and in those 
 passages in Rossini's music which, on repetition, admit of 
 change, her variations were judicious and musician-like. 
 
 It may also be stated with confidence that, until the 
 advent of Madame Alboni and Trebelli-Bettini, no con- 
 tralto produced so great a sensation in Dublin as Cesari. 
 A fair estimate may therefore be formed of her Arsace. 
 
 On Saturday, October nth, and on Tuesday, October 
 1 4th, "Tancredi" was repeated, with the first Act of 
 " II Fanatico." On the latter evening was the benefit of 
 Signora Kintherland. On Thursday, i6th, " Semiramide "
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 83 
 
 was given, after which the third Act of the cele- 
 brated Opera Seria of " Anna Bolena." Anna, Signora 
 Kintherland. Signora Kintherland gave still further proof 
 of her high artistic qualities, both in her performance and 
 interpretation of the beautiful music which the composer 
 has given to Anna in the third Act. 
 
 The last night of the season (moderately successful) 
 took place on Saturday, the i8th of October, " Under the 
 Patronage of their Excellencies the Lord Lieutenant and 
 the Marchioness Wellesley," when were performed the 
 first Act of v " II Barbiere," the second Act of " Tancredi," 
 and the second Act of " II Fanatico/' , 
 
 The year 1835 passed without an Italian Opera. How- 
 ever Signer de Begnis gave some Concerts at the Rotundo, 
 assisted by Miss Waters (his pupil) ; Signer Arrigotti 
 (tenor) ; Signor A. Sapio (baritone) ; the leader being 
 Signor Chaves, a Spanish violinist then resident in 
 Dublin. Principal violoncello, Mr. Pigott; principal 
 second violin, Mr. Robert Barton : double bass, Mr. 
 Harrington ; flute, Mr. Richard Powell ; oboe, Mr. 
 Mazzocchi, and viola, Mr. Ford ; pianoforte, Mr. W. S. 
 Conran. Signor Chaves was an accomplished violinist. 
 Mr. Pigott, who ranked with Lindley (then the greatest 
 of English violoncellists), has been before alluded to. 
 Robert Barton held for years the post of rcpditeur or 
 deputy-leader at the Theatre Royal, under his brother, 
 James Barton, who commenced at Crow-street, continued 
 at Hawkins-street, and held the post of leader up to about 
 the year 1825 or 1826, with credit to himself and advan- 
 tage to the public. " Bob,' 5 as he was familiarly called by
 
 4 . ANNALS OF THE 
 
 the gods, was very popular. In addition to music he cul- 
 tivated what was then entitled the " noble art of self- 
 defence ;" most unobtrusive and inoffensive by nature, he 
 still, on some occasions, was called on to display his accom- 
 plishment. An athletic, powerfully-built frame favoured 
 his studies " under the best masters/' Tom Reynolds, 
 the then celebrated champion of "light weights," 
 had a tavern in Abbey-street, near Sackville-street, and 
 contributed to Bob's education by careful training. As 
 already remarked, although most peaceful in disposition, 
 he had (many times in the cause of others) defeated 
 sturdy opponents. He therefore obtained the sobriquet 
 of " Boxing Bob," by which title he was frequently 
 greeted when he made his appearance in the orchestra. 
 It must be recorded that at this period the art of self- 
 defence was not in such bad odour as at present, but was 
 cultivated generally by almost all classes, even the " upper 
 ten," as a necessary accomplishment. Pierce Egan's 
 drama of " Tom and Jerry ; or, Life in London," gave 
 a still greater impetus to the study of the art. One of 
 the scenes represented the establishment of a celebrated 
 " champion," and a regular " set-to " took place very often 
 between two of the most renowned professors, to the great 
 delight of all parts of the house ; so that Bob only followed 
 the prevailing fashion. It may be added that he instilled 
 some of the power of his pugilism into his violinism, for 
 he had indeed a powerful tone. Mr. Harrington had 
 been a student in the Royal Academy of Music, London, 
 an excellent double-bass player. His wife (also an acade- 
 mician), was a good harpist, and taught the instrument in
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 85 
 
 Dublin with success. Richard Powell was well-known as a 
 flautist of first-rate capabilities. He was, indeed, the best 
 local performer on the flute that Dublin, to that period, 
 had " turned out " a diligent and conscientious student. 
 He possessed a beautiful tone, perfect intonation, and 
 finished execution. He frequently practised from eight 
 to ten hours a-day, never allowing a difficulty to conquer 
 him. He would persevere at a few bars for weeks, to 
 make them perfect. He was the first to perform in 
 Dublin the beautiful flute obligato in the charming three- 
 eight " Ranz de Vache " movement in the overture to 
 " William Tell " at the Anacreontic Society. He served 
 his apprenticeship to a well-known musician in Dublin, 
 familiarly called " Tommy Robinson," and sometimes 
 " The Doctor ;" for although he had never obtained the 
 degree of Mus. Doc., his friends considered him worthy 
 of the title, 
 
 Richard Powell was also a fair organist, having ob- 
 tained his knowledge of the king of instruments from 
 " The Doctor," who was organist of Bride's Church. 
 Powell was also a perfect French scholar, speaking the 
 language with fluency. He was professor of that language 
 in Edinburgh. Mazzocchi was oboist of the Theatre 
 Royal a thorough master of his difficult instrument. 
 
 Edward Ford (tenor) will be remembered by Hawkins- 
 street playgoers as the most respectable member of 
 the orchestra, where he was principal viola, from about 
 1823 until his death, only a few years since. He 
 was brother to Miss Ford, the original Agnes in " Der 
 Freischutz," in Hawkins-street. This lady possessed a
 
 86 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 magnificent soprano voice, was an excellent actress ; her 
 appearance was most prepossessing, and her manner was 
 simple and fascinating. She was a particular favourite, 
 and " moved " amongst the elite of Dublin society. She 
 joined the Haymarket Company in October, 1827, and 
 remained in London. The other members of the Dublin 
 Theatre who were engaged with her at the Haymarket on 
 this occasion were Mr. James Barton, leader ; Mr. John 
 Fallen, violin ; Mr. R. M. Levey, violin ; Mr. E. Ford, 
 Mr. Robert Barton. Mr. John Mulligan, horn. Mr. John 
 Mackintosh, also a " Dublin Boy," was second leader, 
 having been engaged sometime previously for Drury-lane, 
 by Tom Cooke (one of the writer's illustrious predeces- 
 sors). The Haymarket Theatre was then under the pro- 
 prietorship of Mr. Morris, and the duration of the season 
 was only four months, from about the isth of June to the 
 1 5th of October, which allowed the members of the 
 Dublin Company to return in time for the winter season. 
 
 This digression from the regular Italian Opera chronicle 
 will, under the circumstances, be excused, also what fol- 
 lows with relation to one of the greatest of lyric artistes 
 Madame Malibran De Beriot. On the i3th of Septem- 
 ber, 1836, the following announcement appeared : 
 
 "Mr. Calcraft begs respectfully to announce that he 
 has, with great difficulty and at a most unprecedented 
 expense, effected an engagement with that unrivalled 
 artiste, Madame Malibran De Beriot, for six nights only, 
 to commence on Tuesday, September 2oth, 1836. In 
 consequence of the very heavy expense attending the 
 engagement, the prices on this occasion will be as
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 87 
 
 follows : Boxes, 6s. ; pit, 43. ; first gallery, 25. ; second 
 gallery, is. 6d. ; no half-price. Mr. Templeton, first 
 singer of the Theatre Royal, Drury-lane, is expressly en- 
 gaged to support Madame Malibran. On Tuesday even- 
 ing, 2oth September, will be performed the Opera of ' La 
 Sonnambula.' Amina, Madame Malibran ; Elvino, Mr. 
 Templeton. Further particulars in future announcements." 
 
 On the zoth September the following advertisement 
 appeared : 
 
 " Theatre Royal, Dublin. 
 
 ' : Mr. Calcraft regrets extremely to be under the pain- 
 ful necessity of stating to the public that having on 
 Thursday received a letter from Manchester, informing 
 him that Madame Malibran De Beriot has been suddenly 
 seized with alarming illness, was unable either to finish 
 her engagement there or come to Dublin, he immediately 
 repaired to Manchester, where the accompanying certifi- 
 cate was placed in his hands by the medical gentlemen 
 whose names are signed to it. 
 
 " ' CERTIFICATE. 
 
 " ' Manchester, 10 o'clock, 
 
 " ' i6th September, 1836. 
 
 " 'Madame Malibran De Beriot has passed a very restless and 
 distressing night, and the symptoms of her complaint require con- 
 finement to her room. It is our decided opinion that Madame 
 Malibran De Beriot cannot undertake the voyage to Dublin without 
 danger to her life. We think it necessary to add that from the 
 nature of her complaint there is no probability of her being able for 
 some considerable time to resume the duties of her profession. 
 
 "'T. A. BARDSLEY, M.D. 
 
 "'JOHN HULL, M.D. 
 
 " ' HENRY THOMAS WORTHINGTON, Surgeon
 
 88 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 " Mr. Calcraft regrets still farther to add that, in conse- 
 quence of the very precarious state of Madame Malibran's 
 health, he is at present quite unable to say when her en- 
 gagement in Dublin can be resumed." 
 
 The Saunders of the ist October contained the follow- 
 ing notice : 
 
 "Madame Malibran De Beriot is to be interred this day in the 
 cemetery of the principal Roman Catholic chapel in Manchester. 
 The mournful procession was to leave the ' Mosley Arms ' at ten 
 o'clock, a.m. Several noblemen and gentlemen notified their in- 
 tention of attending the obsequies of this unrivalled artiste." 
 
 It was during the Manchester Festival (at which the 
 writer was also engaged) that this sad event took place. 
 Nothing could equal the consternation it caused in the 
 town. She sang a duet with Caradori in magnificent 
 style, and on her return to the hotel was seized with her 
 fatal illness. The writer was to have returned with De 
 Beriot and his distinguished wife. All was arranged for 
 a pleasant journey : but what a change ! Poor Mr. Cal- 
 craft was met near the " Mosley Arms " without his hat, 
 which, in his distraction, he had forgotten. When he 
 was convinced of the truth of the melancholy affair, he 
 hastened back to Dublin, and was obliged to return nearly 
 one thousand pounds at the box-door ; and it may safely 
 be stated that he never financially recovered the shock. 
 
 On the 3rd of January, 1837, an Italian Opera Company 
 commenced an engagement. The artistes were La 
 Signora Contessa Degli Antonj, Mdlle. d'Angioli, Signer 
 Antonio de Val, Signer Berrettoni, Signer de Angioli, 
 Signer Galle, Signor Paltoni, and Signor De Begnis.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 89 
 
 Conductor, Signor Gabussi; Leader, Mr. Levey. De 
 Begnis still continued impresario. A Dramatic Company 
 was " on " the establishment at the same time, which 
 would naturally increase expenses considerably. Much 
 curiosity was excited by the announcement of a " Real 
 Countess " as prima-donna. The usual rumour of the 
 Count, her husband, having been addicted to gambling, 
 losing all his fortune, and ever encroaching on the profes- 
 sional earnings of the Countess, was widely spread, and 
 that she was obliged to resort to all sorts of stratagem to 
 secure even sufficient to pay her way. The report may 
 or may not have possessed a particle of truth, for a mania 
 for play has often been attributed to vocalists and actors, 
 most unjustly, and without the slightest foundation. The 
 same remark applies to the vice of intemperance, for 
 which, in the writer's experience, many distinguished 
 vocalists, one in particular, received a reputation without 
 the most remote cause. The Countess was an excellent 
 mezzo-soprano, nearly contralto, and made a marked 
 impression during the engagement. This lady afterwards 
 became Duchess of Cannizaro. 
 
 On January 3rd was performed " La Cenerentola." 
 Prince Ramin, Signor De Val ; Don Magnifico, Signor 
 De Begnis ; Aliano, Signor D'Angioli ; Dandini, Signor 
 Berrettoni ; Cenerentola, Signora Contessa Degli Antonj ; 
 Clorinda, Miss M. Hamilton ; Tisbe, Miss A. Hyland. 
 Miss M. Hamilton was a member of the Stock Company, 
 an excellent soprano, and a great favourite with the 
 Dublin audience. She left the stage on her marriage with 
 Hugh Maguire, a gentleman of very handsome appearance
 
 QO ANNALS OF THE 
 
 and good property. Miss A. (familiarly called Alley) 
 Hyland was also an especial favourite, an accomplished 
 artiste (soprano), and good musician. She performed all 
 the principal soprano parts with Braham, with great suc- 
 cess, in an English Operatic engagement on the occasion 
 of his farewell visit to Dublin in 1839. The Hylands 
 were a most gifted family. The eldest Miss Hyland will 
 be remembered by old stagegoers as a highly accom- 
 plished vocal and histrionic artiste, with a most attractive 
 appearance. She possessed a cultivated soprano voice, 
 and as an actress alone, could have commanded high terms 
 in London. She made a successful appearance at Covent 
 Garden, under the auspices of the late John Barton (then 
 an eminent singing-master in Dublin). Miss Hyland 
 shortly after retired, on her marriage with Thomas Hayes, 
 the well-known and much-respected stockbroker of 
 Westmoreland-street. The stage, indeed, experienced a 
 loss from the retirement of this lady. The youngest 
 sister, Jane, was also exceedingly clever : indeed a versatile 
 genius. With her sister "Alley" she sang duets, which, 
 from relationship of voice and careful practice, were ren- 
 dered with great perfection. She also performed Doctor 
 O'Toole in the " Irish Tutor," dancing the Irish jig in 
 capital style. 
 
 To return to " Cenerentola," the Clorinda and Tisbe 
 of the above-mentioned young ladies received great 
 encomiums in the press, and the strongest expressions of 
 praise from the Countess Degli Antonj. 
 
 On Thursday, January 5th, the Opera was " La Gazza 
 Ladra." The Podesta, Signer De Begnis ; Fernando,
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 9 1 
 
 Signer Berrettoni ; Fabrizzio, Signer D'Angioli ; Isacco, 
 Signer Galli; Giannetta, Signer Antonio De Val ; Ninetta, 
 Mdlle. D'Angioli ; Pippo, Miss Jane Hyland ; Lucea, 
 Miss E. Hamilton. The performance of Pippo, a most 
 important role, will sufficiently prove the extraordinary ver- 
 satility of Miss Jane (popularly called " Jenny ") Hyland. 
 Pippo is concerned in some of the most important music 
 of the Opera, and the part was, in every particular, up 
 to the mark. 
 
 On Tuesday, January loth, "La Sonnambula" was to 
 have been given, but in consequence of the illness of 
 Signor Berrettoni, the " Barbiere " was substituted, with 
 De Begnis, Figaro; De Val, Count; Galli (Bazilio); 
 Mdlle. D'Angioli, Rosina ; Miss E. Hamilton, Berta ; 
 and Mr. Eaton, Fiorello. Mr. Eaton was chorus-master 
 to the Theatre. 
 
 On Friday, the i3th January, 1837, the Opera was 
 " Tancredi." Tancredi, Signora Contessa Degli Antonj ; 
 Argirio, Signor Antonio De Val ; Orbazzano, Signor 
 Berrettoni ; Amenaide, Mdlle. D'Angioli ; Isaura, Miss 
 M. Hamilton ; Ruggiero, Signora Galli. 
 
 On Tuesday, January i;th, " Sonnambula " was given. 
 Amina, Mdlle. D'Angioli ; Lisa, Miss M. Hamilton ; 
 Elvino, De Val ; and Rodolpo, Berrettoni. 
 
 On Friday, the 2oth, " Cenerentola," as before. 
 
 On Tuesday, 24th January, 1837, was produced Rossini's 
 grand Melodramatic Opera," La Donna del Lago," founded 
 on Scott's celebrated poem of "The Lady of the Lake." 
 James (King of Scotland), Signor De Val ; Roderic Dhti, 
 Mr. Barker (his first appeaaance in Italian Opera) ;
 
 92 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Douglas, Signer Berrettoni; Ellen (The Lady of the Lake), 
 Mdlle. D'Angioli; Malcolm Graeme, Signora Contessa 
 Degli Antonj ; Albina, Miss A. Hyland ; Serino, Signer 
 Galli. The band of the 71 st Highlanders assisted, "by 
 permission of the Hon. Lieut.-Col. Grey." Much effect 
 was produced in the finale of the ist Act by the combina- 
 tion of orchestra and military band, more especially at the 
 end, where the two subjects are so well worked together 
 one a pompous march, the other a quick movement in 
 two-four time. 
 
 Mr. Barker, who performed " Roderick Dhu," was a 
 member of the Stock Company, a very sweet ballad-singer, 
 and composer of some popular songs. Without his aid 
 the Opera could not have been produced ; at least without 
 sending to London for a second tenor, as Roderick is 
 nearly as important as James the duet in the second 
 Act for the two tenors forming one of the most important 
 features of the work. Barker was quite capable in the 
 part, and received congratulations on his first effort in 
 Italian Opera. 
 
 In social life " Little Barker," as he was called, was 
 a great favourite. He " dressed " to perfection (in his 
 daily life). Indeed he was regarded something like the 
 Count D'Orsay.. As a model in that particular, it was said 
 he changed his dress three or four times a day. He wore 
 patent leather boots in all weathers, by which he obtained 
 the friendly sobriquet of " Polish Barker." 
 
 On Friday, the 27th, " La Gazza Ladra" was repeated. 
 
 On Saturday, January 28th, 1 837, was produced Bellini's 
 Grand Opera Seria of " I Capuletti e Montecchi," founded
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 93 
 
 on Shakspeare's Tragedy, " Romeo and Juliet." Capulet, 
 Signer Berrettoni ; Juliet, Mdlle. D'Angioli ; Romeo, 
 Contessa Degli Antonj ; Tybalt, Signer De Val ; Lorenzo, 
 Signer D'Angioli. 
 
 The Contessa gave a thoroughly Shaksperian reading 
 to Romeo, displaying tragic powers of great force. She 
 was much applauded, and repeatedly " called out " during 
 the performance. Mdlle. D'Angioli, in Juliet, made 
 also a most favourable impression, in a histrionic point of 
 view ; her graceful figure and beautiful face according well 
 with the idea of what Juliet might have been. The 
 Opera, musically, was a success ; Berrettoni's fine, deep 
 basso-profondo contributing much to the very excel- 
 lent ensemble. 
 
 On Tuesday, January 3ist, "La Sonnambula" was 
 given in lieu of "La Donna del Lago," originally an- 
 nounced ; the change taking place in consequence of the 
 illness of the Countess. 
 
 On Friday, February 3rd, " La Donna del Lago " was 
 repeated. 
 
 On Saturday, February 4th, 1837, was produced, for 
 the first time in Dublin, Bellini's Grand Opera, " I Puri- 
 tani," with the following cast: Lord Walton, Signer 
 D'Angioli ; Sir George, Signer De Begnis (who has oblig- 
 ingly undertaken the part on this occasion) ; Lord Arthur 
 Talbot, Signor A. De Val; Sir Richard Forth, Signer 
 Berrettoni; Sir Bruno Robertson, Signor Galli ; Henrietta 
 of France, Miss M. Hamilton ; Elvira, Mdlle. 
 D'Angioli. 
 
 It will be perceived that the names of the characters
 
 94 AXNALS OF THE 
 
 are in English. Signer De Begnis and Mr. Calcraft, with 
 their " heads together " in council, decided on this course, 
 and also added a description of each for example, Lord 
 Walter Walton was Governor-General, a Puritan; Lord 
 Arthur Talbot, a Cavalier, and partisan of the Stuarts, &c., 
 &c. The performance of " I Puritani," although not 
 equal to what was witnessed in Dublin many years after, 
 with such wonderful casts, deserved and received much 
 praise. Mdlle. D'Angioli giving her "Son Vergin 
 Verzozza" with much elegance and finish, singing the 
 chromatic passages to great perfection. She was a pupil 
 of her father (Lord Walton in the cast), Signor 
 Angioli, who was an experienced musician and a most 
 competent singing-master. 
 
 The now well-known duet, " Suoni la Tromba," then 
 heard for the first time on the stage, created quite a sen- 
 sation. De Begnis' voice was sufficiently heavy ; that of 
 Berrettoni still more so, and when they both joined in 
 unison, \\\e fortissimo \va.$ indeed tremendous the brassy 
 tone of two trumpets playing the melody adding much to 
 the effect. For it must here be noticed that the cornet 
 had not then come into so much use. It is a great addi- 
 tion to the modern orchestra, but is often substituted for 
 the trumpet, when the latter would be much more in 
 place. Balfe deserves the credit (indeed he boasted) of 
 having "brought out " the " cornet-a-piston " in his cele- 
 brated, song " The Light of other Days," belonging to 
 the Opera of " The Maid of Artois." 
 
 On Thursday, February gth, repetition of " I Capu- 
 lette e Montecchi," after which " Ole Bull," the celebrated
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 95 
 
 Norwegian violinist, performed three of his most cele- 
 brated compositions. 
 
 On Friday, February loth, repetition of " Puritani." 
 
 On Saturday, February nth, 1837, was produced, for 
 the first time in Dublin, Rossini's Grand Opera Seria of 
 "Otello" (for the benefit of Signer De Val). Otello, 
 Signer De Val ; Rodrigo, Mr. H. Bedford (his first ap- 
 pearance in Italian Opera) ; lago, Signer Berrettoni ; 
 Elmiro, Signor Berrettoni (who had undertaken the two 
 characters on this occasion) ; the Doge, Signor Galli ; 
 Emilia, Miss A. Hyland ; Desdemona, Mdlle. D'Angioli. 
 
 Mr. H. Bedford, who came into the breach for Rodrigo, 
 was the " Stock " tenor, and a most useful member of the 
 Company. He was brother of the celebrated N Paul Bed- 
 ford, and father of the well-known low comedian, Harry 
 Bedford, who, after a successful engagement at the Hay- 
 market, returned to Dublin, and died in the midst of a 
 most promising career. H. Bedford (pere) had a good 
 tenor voice and was an excellent musician, having com- 
 menced his career as a violinist. He possessed much of 
 the natural humour which prevailed in the family. He 
 would frequently, by some twitch of the eye, or a peculiar 
 movement of the shoulder, set the members of the 
 orchestra in a roar in the midst of their duties. Signor 
 De Val's performance of Otello, although not equal to 
 what we have seen since, was a well-studied and praise- 
 worthy effort. The same remark will apply to Mdlle. 
 D'Angioli's interpretation of Desdemona. 
 
 " Tancredi " Avas repeated on Tuesday, the i4th : Mr. 
 Ole Bull again performing on the violin.
 
 96 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 On Friday, February lyth, "La Donna del Lago" as 
 before. 
 
 On Tuesday, 2ist, " La Gazza Ladra" was given; as 
 also on Friday, 24th February, 1837, the last night of the 
 engagement, when the second Act of " Cenerentola," and 
 the Opera of " Puritani " were performed for the benefit 
 of Signor de Begnis. Mr. Macready, the great tragedian, 
 was fulfilling an engagement at the same time, and per- 
 formed on the non-opera nights. His benefit took place 
 on Monday, February 27th, when Signor De Begnis 
 sang his celebrated scena from " II Fanatico per la 
 Musica." 
 
 On Tuesday, February 27th, 1838, an Italian Opera 
 Company, under the management of Mr. Mitchell, com- 
 menced an engagement, announced thus : " Mr. Mitchell, 
 Manager of the Opera Buffa, London, begs respectfully 
 to announce that he has made arrangements with Mr. 
 Calcraft for a series of twelve representations, at this 
 Theatre, of the most popular Italian Operas recently per- 
 formed in London." Accordingly, on Tuesday, February 
 27th, was produced, for the first time in Dublin, Doni- 
 zetti's Opera BufTa, " L'Elisire d'Amore." Nemorino, 
 Signor Catone ; Belcore, Signor Bellini ; Dulcamara, 
 Signor F. Lablache ; Adina, Madame Franceschini ; 
 Giannetta, Mdlle. Vermani ; Conductor, Signor Negri ; 
 Leader, Mr. Levey. The representations will be selected 
 from the following Operas : " L'Elisire d'Amore," Doni- 
 zetti ; " Eliza e Claudio," Mercadante ; " Le Nozze de 
 Figaro," Mozart ; " L'ltaliani in Algieri," Rossini ; 
 " Betly," Donizetti; " 11 Campanelli," Donizetti; " Nina,"
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 97 
 
 " Pazza per Amore," Copola; "Un 'Aventura di Scara- 
 muccia," Ricci. Mr. Mitchell, of Bond-street, was 
 the enterprising theatrical agent and publisher. This 
 was his first effort as an impresario, and the pecuniary 
 success was not equal to the merits of the produc- 
 tions. The season of Lent interfered, to some ex- 
 tent. A more perfect quartet of voices has seldom 
 come together, even in later times, than on this occasion. 
 Mdlle. Schieroni (who appeared on the second night) 
 was a charming vocalist, very youthful and fascinating in 
 appearance. Some old opera " goers " (unfortunately 
 not many) will remember the lovely, pure tenor of Catone. 
 His delivery of the "Una furtiva Lagrima," really 
 enchanted his hearers. Indeed all through the work he 
 carried the audience by storm. It may safely be recorded 
 that, with the exception of Mario, Rubini, and Giuglini, 
 no tenor ever created such an effect as Catone on the 
 Dublin stage. Unfortunately, this was his first and last 
 engagement, as he was killed some time after by a fall 
 from a window in Naples. F. Lablache, son to the 
 giant (in talent and person) of the same name, was, and 
 happily is well known as a first-rate vocalist and musi- 
 cian. Signer Bellini, an artist of perhaps the very 
 highest class, completed the excellent quartet. This 
 was the first occasion of augmenting the prices for Italian 
 Opera. The prices of admission were announced thus : 
 " Reserved stalls (dress boxes), IDS. 6d. ; reserved stalls 
 for twelve representations, 5 guineas j dress circle, 75. ; and 
 notwithstanding the great expense incurred, there will be 
 no advance to the other parts of the Theatre."
 
 98 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 On Saturday, March 3rd, an Operetta in one Act, by 
 Donizetti, was produced, entitled "II Campanello.'' 
 Seraphina, Madame Franceschini ; Madame Rosa, Mdlle. 
 Vermani; Henry, Signor F. Lablache; Don Hannibal, 
 Signer Sanquirico ; Spiridione, Signer Bellini ; after which 
 Donizetti's admired Opera of " Betly." Daniel, Signor 
 Catone ; Max, Signor F. Lablache ; Betly, Mdlle. Schieroni, 
 This charming Avork was most successful, the only fault 
 being its brevity. The very pretty sleeping duet, at the 
 end of the first Act, between Daniel and Betly, was given 
 with such true artistic skill by Catone and Scheroni, 
 that it produced quite an agreeably somnolent effect on 
 the audience. An English version of this work was pro- 
 duced by Madame Vestris, under the title of " Why 
 don't she Marry ?" 
 
 On Tuesday, March 6th, 1838, was presented, for the 
 first time in Dublin, in Italian, Mozart's Opera " Le 
 Nozze di Figaro." Count Almaviva, Signor Lablache ; 
 The Countess, Madame Franceschini ; Susanna, Mdlle. 
 Schieroni ; Figaro, Signor Bellini ; Cherubino, Mrs. 
 Fitzwilliam (her first appearance in that character) ; 
 Basilio, Signor Catone ; Bartolo, Signor Sanquirico ; 
 Marcellina, Mdlle. Vermani ; Antonio, Mr. Eaton. Mrs. 
 Fitzwilliam, then one of the most popular of English 
 artistes, was playing a "starring" engagement, acting 
 on the three non-opera nights during the week. It will be 
 sufficient evidence of her talent and versatility to record 
 her perfect success in " Cherubino." By a curious coinci- 
 dence, the same part was performed by Madame Vestris 
 at the Italian Opera House, London, some time before.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 99 
 
 N.B. Bishop's version of "The Marriage of Figaro" 
 had been performed in Dublin, but it is, as all amateurs 
 are aware, only a mere sketch. 
 
 On Thursday, March 8th, repetition of " Le Nozze." 
 Saturday, March loth, "L'Elisire d'Amore." 
 Tuesday, March 13111, " Campanello " and " Betly." 
 Thursday, March 15*, " Le Nozze " and " Betly." This 
 night was extra, not included in the subscription ; an 
 attempt to increase the rather limited exchequer. 
 
 On Saturday, March iyth, 1838, was produced, for 
 the first time, Copola's Opera Semi Seria, in two acts, 
 called "Nina." Count Rodolph, Signer Bellini; Nina, 
 Mdlle. Schieroni ; Henry (in love with Nina), Signer 
 Catone ; Doctor Simplicio, Signor Sanquirico ; Mariana, 
 Mdlle. Vermani ; George, Mr. Eaton. Although some of 
 the music of " Nina " had been popularized by pianoforte 
 arrangements of Henri Herz, then the most favourite of 
 pianists, still the Opera produced no lasting impression. 
 Auber's overture to " Fra Diavolo " was performed by the 
 band between the acts of the Opera, but the "gods" insisted 
 on " Patrick's Day," which request was complied with, 
 as it was the festival day. 
 
 On Tuesday, March 2oth, 1838, another new work was 
 presented to the Dublin public, viz. : Ricci's Opera 
 Buffa, in two acts " Un 'Aventura de Scaramuccia." 
 Scaramuccia, Signor F. Lablache ; Selio, Signor Catone ; 
 Domenico, Signor Sanquirico ; Tomaso, Signor Bellini ; 
 Count de Pontigny, Mdlle. Parigiani (her first appear- 
 ance) ; Sandrina, Mdlle. Schieroni ; Elena Mdlle. 
 Vermani.
 
 100 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 The plot of this Opera turns on the adventures and 
 vicissitudes of a poet and director of an Italian Company 
 (Scaramuccia). He engages two performers, Lelio and 
 Domenico, who give him all sorts of annoyance, and 
 make love to his servant, Sandrina, a country girl 
 (Schieroni), she in her turn becoming bitten with the 
 mania for acting. It is amusingly worked out. The 
 light and sparkling music is well adapted to the sub- 
 ject, and is the joint production of two brothers (Ricci), 
 who " collaborated " with much success, and whose 
 works are still popular in some parts of Italy. One duet 
 in particular became very popular in Dublin. 
 
 Mdlle. Parigiani was a good contralto, created a most 
 favourable impression, and contributed much to the com- 
 pleteness of this very efficient Italian Company. 
 
 On Thursday, March 22nd, "Scaramuccia" was re- 
 peated, " in consequence," as the bills announced, " of 
 the very general demand for its repetition." 
 
 On Saturday, March 24th, 1838, was performed a 
 selection from " II Barbiere," after which, for the first 
 time in Dublin, Rossini's admired Opera, " L'ltaliani in 
 Algieri." Mustapha (Dey of Algiers), Signor Bellini j 
 Isabella (an Italian Lady), Mdlle. Schieroni ; Zulma, 
 Mdlle. Vermani ; Taddeo, Signor Sanquirico ; Lindor (a 
 young Italian), Signor Catone. 
 
 The overture to " L'ltaliani" has been made familiar 
 by frequent performance at the Concerts and in the 
 Theatre. The music of the Opera cannot, however, be 
 recorded as a success. The celebrated trio, " Papa 
 taci," being perhaps the only feature which created much
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 101 
 
 notice. Catone, however, introduced a cavatina, " Lan- 
 giiir per una bella," accompanied on the violoncello by 
 Mr. Pigott, which was much admired. 
 
 On Tuesday, March 27th, Copola's Opera of "Nina" 
 was repeated. On Wednesday " L'ltaliani" and " L'Elisire" 
 for Catone's benefit. On.Thursday, March 29th, " Betly." 
 
 On Saturday, March 3ist, 1838, was produced, for the 
 first time in this country, Mercadante's Opera Seria in two 
 acts, entitled " Eliza e Claudio," with the following 
 cast : Eliza, Mdlle. Schieroni ; Carlotta, Mdlle. Pari- 
 giani ; Claudio, Signer Catone ; Count Arnaldo, Signor 
 F. Lablache ; the Marquis Fritstzio, Signor Sanquirico ; 
 Lucca, Signor Bellini ; Silvia, Mdlle. Vermani ; Celso, Mr. 
 Eaton. 
 
 From the rapid production of so many new works, it 
 may well be supposed that the performances would be 
 far from perfect ; but under the circumstances, they were 
 most creditable, Signor Negri and Mr. Mitchell bearing 
 frequent testimony to the fact. The* principal instru- 
 ments in the orchestra were in the hands of very 
 excellent (some first-rate) artistes. Mr. Pigott was 
 a host in himself. Mr. Powell (flute), Harrington 
 (double bass), Tighe (clarionet), Mulligan (horn), &c., 
 c. : all expert " readers at sight." No more than 
 one, or at most two, rehearsals could possibly be devoted 
 to each work, to which in London, or on the Continent, 
 weeks are sometimes allowed. If this fact, which some- 
 times prevails at the present day, were considered, it 
 might considerably lessen the sting of hasty or hostile 
 criticism. The Opera, " Eliza e Claudio," contains some
 
 102 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 of Mercadante's original and beautiful conceptions, but 
 did not make any great furore. 
 
 Mdlle. Schieroni's benefit took place on Monday, 
 April 2nd, 1838, when " Scaramuccia " was repeated, 
 and " Eliza e Claudio." 
 
 On Tuesday, April 3rd, for the benefit of Signor F. 
 Lablache, was performed, " Eliza e Claudio," with some 
 detached pieces, which included Moore's melody, " Oft 
 in the Stilly Night," sung by Signor Catone and Signor 
 Lablache,"as a duet, and which received a tremendous 
 encore. The voices blended exquisitely, and the slightly 
 broken English seemed to lend additional interest to the 
 music. 
 
 On Thursday, April 5th, 1838, Mr. Mitchell had his 
 benefit, when were performed a selection from " Le Nozze 
 di Figaro " and the first Act of " L'Elisire d'Amore," and 
 " by particular desire," a repetition of " Oft in the Stilly 
 Night," concluding with " Betly." 
 
 The last performance took place on Saturday, April 7th. 
 By command of His Excellency the Lord Lieutenant and 
 the Countess of Mul grave, " God Save the Queen " was 
 sung by the Company, after which " La Sonnambula,' 
 the duet, " Oft in the Stilly Night," and other pieces ; and 
 Signori Catone and Lablache again repeated their duet 
 on Monday, April i6th, after the Drama of " Therese, 
 the Orphan of Geneva." 
 
 On Tuesday, April lyth, 1838, the following announce- 
 ment appeared : " Mr. Calcraft has the honour to an- 
 nounce that, in compliance with the wishes of numerous 
 parties of distinction, and the general desire of the public,
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 103 
 
 he has made an arrangement with Mr. Mitchell and the 
 Italian Opera Buffa for four nights only." 
 
 On Tuesday, April i yth, was performed " La Sonnam- 
 bula " (as before). 
 
 On Thursday, April igth, was produced for the first 
 time a new Opera, by Donizetti, called "Torquato 
 Tasso," with the following " Argument," on the bills : 
 " The illustrious name of Torquato Tasso and his mis- 
 fortunes are too well known to require any comment ; 
 still it is necessary to say thus much for the illustration of 
 this drama, that he lived in the sixteenth century, and 
 that he arrived at the highest degree of honour and re- 
 putation as a literary man, a poet, and a politician. , His 
 immortal poem, 'Jerusalem Delivered,' raised the envy of 
 his enemies, and the favour which he enjoyed at the 
 Court of Ferrara, incited them to annoy and persecute 
 him whenever they could. Unfortunately for Tasso, they 
 succeeded in discovering the secret of an attachment which 
 he had conceived for the Duke of Ferrara's sister, Countess 
 Eleonora, who distinguished him and gave him unequivocal 
 marks of her affection and highest esteem. He was 
 banished the Court and City of Ferrara, exiled from the 
 States, and even imprisoned as a man whose mind 
 was out of order ; but some powerful and influential 
 friends of Tasso obtained at last that he should be re- 
 leased. He went to Rome at the invitation of his 
 numerous and noble friends, who gave him that reception 
 which his high reputation deserved, and decreed him the 
 same honours which were paid to Petrarch, by crowning 
 him as the prince of poets on the Capitol ; but the illus-
 
 104 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 trious poet, consumed by an ardent passion which his 
 heart could not stifle, and broken-hearted through the 
 unjust treatment he met at the hands of persons whom he 
 had never injured, but who were jealous of his merits, 
 expired on the eve of his coronation, April 25th, 1595." 
 The cast was thus : Alfonso (Duke of Ferrara), Signer 
 Bellini; Eleonora(his Sister), Signora Schieroni ; Countess 
 of Scandinavia, Mdlle. Vermani ; Torquato Tasso, Signer 
 F. Lablache ; Roberto Geraldini (Secretary to the Duke), 
 Signer Catone ; Don Gherardo (a Courtier), Signer San- 
 quirico ; Ambrozzio (Servant to Tasso), Mr. Eaton. 
 
 One Act of "Eliza e Claudio" was performed on 
 Thursday, with " Betly ;" and a repetition of " Torquato 
 Tasso" on Saturday, April 2ist, 1838, concluded the four 
 nights of this re-engagement. The repetition of the latter 
 Opera was given in consequence of its eminent success ; 
 but, with the exception of two or three pieces, no great 
 effect resulted, and the Opera has not held possession of 
 the stage like the immortal " Favorita," "Lucia," 
 " L'Elisire," &c., &c. 
 
 Mr. Mitchell then visited Belfast with his Company, 
 taking several members of the Dublin orchestra : Mr. 
 Pigott, Mr. Levey, Mr. Harrington, Mr. Powell, &c., &c., 
 in his suite. A rather strange incident occurred on the 
 occasion. Mr. Mitchell was the last to arrive in Belfast ; 
 he was always solicitous as to the personal comforts of his 
 Company, and he visited the different residences where 
 they were located, to make sure they were " all right." 
 He found out all but Mr. Pigott, and as he was an especial 
 favourite, he should see him. On inquiry, Mr. Mitchell.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 105 
 
 learned that Mr. Pigott had gone to the " Temperance 
 Hotel," whence Mr. Mitchell repaired. He entered a 
 rather dingy parlour, rang the bell, no answer ; rang again, 
 with like result. He proceeded to the drawing-room (it 
 was Sunday evening), rang three times, some minutes in- 
 tervening between each sound. At length a very ruddy- 
 visaged waiter staggered in, saying, in broken accents 
 " D-d-id you r-r-ing, sir ? wh-wh-who d-d-d-i-u want ?" and 
 fell right down on Mr. Mitchell's arm in a glorious state. 
 Mr. Mitchell, who was rather slow and formal in ex- 
 pression, was naturally surprised, and asked, " Is not this 
 the * Temperance Hotel ? ' " " O-o-f c-u-u-r-se it is," 
 was the reply. The impresario made the best of 
 his way out, and never forgot the event, as he renewed 
 the recollection at a dinner-party at Mr. Bussell's table on 
 his last visit to Dublin, about 1865. 
 
 The next Italian engagement occurred in September, 
 1838, when Signor De Angioli announced that, " in com- 
 pliance with many applications from distinguished parties, 
 and the general accommodation of the public, he has en- 
 gaged the Theatre Royal from Mr. Calcraft for one night 
 only, this present Thursday, 6th September, 1838, on 
 which occasion the performance will include an unprece- 
 dented combination of musical talent Madame Persian! 
 (Cantante di Camera di S. M. I. e R. LTmperatore di 
 Austria), and Signor Rubini (being his last season pre- 
 vious to his retirement from the stage), Signor Nigri 
 (Basso Cantante from Naples), and the violinist, Signor 
 Emiliani." 
 
 A grand vocal and instrumental Concert commenced
 
 106 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 the musical entertainment, which concluded with the first 
 and third Acts of Donizetti's new Opera of "Lucia di 
 Lammermoor/' described as never represented in this 
 country, and founded on Walter Scott's celebrated 
 romance of " The Bride of Lammermoor." Lucia, Mdlle. 
 Persiani ; Edgardo, Signer Rubini ; Enrico, Signer Nigri. 
 Madame Persiani was, perhaps, one of the most acom- 
 plished' vocalists who ever appeared on the lyric stage. 
 No second opinion existed as to the perfection of her 
 scale singing, diatonic and chromatic ; and it is not too 
 much to assert that her performance of Lucia has seldom 
 been equalled and never excelled. Rubini was up to 
 that period the most wonderful of tenors. His voice was 
 of most extraordinary compass, with flexibility equalling 
 that of a soprano. The ordinary " break " did not occur 
 (at least apparently) in passing from one register to 
 another, and his delivery of the now well-known " Fra 
 poco " was surpassingly touching and beautiful ; the effect 
 on those who heard it for the first time, under such cir- 
 cumstances, may be well imagined. The " tremolo," 
 now so often abused, he used judiciously and in the right 
 places. The " Tu Vedrai " (" Pirata "), which he sang in 
 the Concert, gave ample opportunity for the display of his 
 marvellous qualities, the opening cantabile showing the 
 extreme power of sostenuto and wondrous pathos, while, 
 in the second movement, the most florid passages came 
 forth with the precision of a flute or violin played to per- 
 fection. Truly Rubini was a wonder ; but there was one 
 just then beginning a career which would equal, if not 
 excel, this great star, whose name will appear by-and-by.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. IO7 
 
 Signer Emiliani's violin-playing was chiefly remarkable 
 for power and purity of tone. He possessed a superb 
 " Cremona," which, it is needless to say, lent additional 
 charm to his performances. 
 
 The Company performed a second night, " in conse- 
 quence of the brilliant success which attended the repre- 
 sentation on Thursday, and of many applications from 
 parties who were prevented from attending on that occa- 
 sion ;" therefore, on Saturday, 8th September, 1838, a 
 repetition of the Concert and the first and third Acts of 
 " Lucia " took place. 
 
 No Italian Opera Company appeared in the year 1839, 
 which was remarkable by the farewell appearance of 
 Braham, the celebrated veteran English tenor, who com- 
 menced an engagement of six nights on Monday, July 
 22nd, 1839. 
 
 Thalberg performed at the Theatre Royal on the i4th 
 and 1 5th October, 1839, at which Mrs. and Mr. Balfe 
 appeared. 
 
 In 1840 commenced what may be styled the Augustan 
 period of Italian Opera in Dublin. The first troupe, 
 under the auspices of the celebrated house of Beale and 
 Co., Regent-street, London, and managed by Mr. Willert 
 Beale, who, at an early age, displayed remarkable qualities 
 as an impresario, combining with a thorough know- 
 ledge of music and a keen appreciation of artistes, all the 
 coolness and judgment necessary for such a part. Willert, 
 as his numerous friends in Ireland called, and still con- 
 tinue to call him, accompanied his troupe here for many 
 years. He was, indeed, the " right man in the right
 
 108 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 place." Never was there a more efficient manager. An 
 excellent linguist, he possessed the power of arranging 
 any little differences which might and will occur with the 
 best regulated companies, in a decided but quiet manner ; 
 all submitting to his decree, which they felt was always 
 just. In his social capacity he was a universal favourite, 
 and his society was much sought for. Great regret was 
 felt when he discontinued his operatic speculations in 
 Dublin ; but his " troops of friends " have the satisfac- 
 tion of knowing that " Walter Maynard" is still well and 
 flourishing, and that they may, at intervals, have the plea- 
 sure of seeing their old friend, the impresario, for 
 many years to come. 
 
 An engagement for three nights only commenced on 
 September, 8th, 1840, with the following artistes : Madame 
 Grisi, Signer Tamburini, Signora Ernesta Grisi, Signer 
 Brizzi. Mr. Benedict, conductor. The " charming, the 
 incomparable Guila Grisi," as the London Times styled 
 her, made her first appearance in Dublin on Tuesday, 
 September 8th, 1840, Mr. Calcraft having announced that 
 he had made the engagement "at an enormous expense." 
 It is almost unnecessary to record the sensation created 
 by this wonderful artiste, whose efforts of genius are still 
 fresh in the memory of the Dublin audience, before whom 
 she appeared for so many successive years, and whose due 
 appreciation of her great talent created a lively impression, 
 as she always looked forward to her visit to Ireland with 
 the greatest pleasure. Tamburini was the prince of 
 baritones. To a magnificent voice, possessing the finest 
 quality and great compass, he added the highest cultiva-
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 109 
 
 tion, which displayed itself in a remarkable manner in the 
 opening scene of the Opera, " Semiramide." His singing 
 in Assur forming a model for all future aspirants to 
 the part. His perfect execution of the very difficult and 
 florid passages written by Rossini for a baritone, was in- 
 deed something to remember. Signer Brizzi was a nice 
 tenor, and Signora Ernesta Grisi a good scconda donna. 
 
 On Thursday, September 8th, 1840, was performed, in 
 two Acts, "Semiramide." Arsace, Signora Ernesta Grisi; 
 Assur, Signer Tamburini; Semiramide, Madame Grisi. 
 Pasta had made Semiramide " her own" until the advent 
 of Grisi, who continued to hold the crown until near her 
 retirement, when one worthy successor appeared in _ the 
 person of Teresa Tietjens. This was Mr. Benedict's 
 first appearance in Dublin. Happily Sir Julius Benedict 
 still lives to enjoy his well-earned title. 
 
 On Wednesday, September Qth, 1840, was performed 
 " La Sonnambula." Count Rodolpho, Signer Tamburini ; 
 Amina, Madame Grisi ; Elvino, Signor Brizzi ; Lisa, 
 Signora Ernesta Grisi ; Allessio, Mr. J. Penson ; Teresa, 
 Miss M. Hamilton ; Notario, Mr. Shean. Of course the 
 quartet was perfection. Mr. J. Penson, who performed 
 Allessio, was brother to William Penson, formerly leader 
 of the orchestra. J. Penson was "stock" low comedian, 
 a fair musician and good actor. Miss M. Hamilton, 
 before alluded to, was efficient in everything she under- 
 took. Mr. Shean (the immortal " Dan "), when cast for 
 the Italian part of Notario, expressed great surprise, and 
 made a strong appeal that he might be permitted to sing 
 his part in English ; this was, of course, refused, on the
 
 110 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 grounds that when the notary came to ask Elvino with 
 what worldly goods he would endow Amina, Elvino 
 would not understand him. "Well," Dan replied, 
 " That will occur, in any case : for if I try the Italian, I'll 
 puzzle him a great deal more. I cannot get over their 
 cheese." Dan alluded to the Italian pronunciation of the 
 letter c. Dan, however, " got through " the notary 
 without damage. 
 
 On Thursday, September loth, was performed " Semi- 
 ramide," with cast as before ; and on Friday, September 
 i tth, 1840, was produced, for the first time in this country, 
 Donizetti's Grand Opera Seria of "Anna Bolena." King 
 Henry VIII., Signor Tamburini ; Lord Richard Percy, 
 Signor Brizzi ; Smeaton, Signora Ernesta Grisi ; Anna 
 Bolena, Madame Grisi ; concluding with " II Barbiefe," 
 compressed into one act. Mr. Benedict performed a piano- 
 forte fantasia on popular national airs between the Operas. 
 
 Grisi's performance of "Anna Bolena" was indeed 
 something never to be forgotten. It brought the historic 
 description of the beautiful and unfortunate queen to 
 life. Indeed, if the reality was equal to the " counterfeit 
 presentment," Henry's infatuation was not to be wondered 
 at; and all this, without the additional charm of the 
 singing, which, it is unnecessary to say, was perfection 
 itself. Tamburini's representation of the Bluff King Hal 
 was also a study. From the wonderful " make-up " one 
 could see him " in his habit as he lived." 
 
 The last night of the engagement was that of Saturday, 
 September i2th, 1840, with "La Sonnambula" (as 
 before), and a Concert.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. Ill 
 
 On Monday, August 3oth, 1841, the following an- 
 nouncement appeared : 
 
 " Mr. Calcraft begs respectfully to announce that he has 
 (at an unprecedented expense, considerably exceeding 
 two thousand pounds) been enabled to effect an engage- 
 ment for the production of Italian Operas on a scale 
 superior to any which has hitherto been attempted in this 
 country. The Company includes the following artistes : 
 Madame Grisi, Signor Lablache (the far-famed bass singer, 
 his first appearance here), Signor Mario (first tenor of 
 the Queen's Theatre, the undoubted successor of Rubini), 
 Signor F. Lablache, Signora Ernesta Grisi, and Signor 
 Puzzi (the celebrated horn-player). Conductor, Mons. 
 Benedict ; Leader. Mr. Levey. No alteration or pro- 
 longation can possibly take place, in consequence of the 
 previous arrangements of the parties engaged.'"' 
 
 On Monday, August 3oth, 1841, " I Puritani." Sir 
 George, Signor Lablache ; Lord A. Talbot, Signor Mario ; 
 Sir Richard Forth, Signor F. Lablache ; Henrietta, 
 Signora Ernesta Grisi ; Elvira, Madame Grisi. 
 
 This should be a memorable date in our musical 
 annals the first appearance of perhaps the greatest tenor 
 the world has yet seen or heard. " The undoubted suc- 
 cessor of Rubini," Mario, in some points alike, possessed 
 qualities in many respects superior. It would require a 
 musical Plutarch to give a parallel description of the two 
 wonders. Rubini, as before alluded to, possessed' a 
 marvellous range of voice, without a break, making con- 
 stant use of what Italian singing-masters term the voce 
 di testa head voice. In the "Ah perche," in "Son-
 
 112 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 nambula," he reached F sharp in alt with great ease, 
 singing the scena in D natural as written by Bellini. 
 The voice was also capable of much dramatic power ; 
 indeed the general impression prevailed that Rubini was 
 matchless, and that years might elapse before another 
 could approach him. The star, however, appeared, and 
 only those who then heard Mario, and witnessed 
 the occasion, can judge of the effect. There is possibly 
 no position in the lyric world which requires so many 
 ' qualities combined in a single individual as a perfect 
 Italian tenor. Of course the same will apply to an 
 English artist ; but it cannot be denied that the language 
 of Italy is peculiarly adapted to musical sounds. Well, 
 all the various talents necessary to make perfection were 
 concentrated in Mario, with one trifling exception 
 (which he always tried to overcome by high-heeled boots), 
 he was slightly below the standard in stature. In every 
 other respect perfection is not too strong a word to apply 
 to him. With an appearance of the most manly beauty, 
 he possessed a grace of form and a fascination of manner 
 which made him the " observed of all observers." An 
 artist as well as a nobleman by nature, he studied costume 
 to a degree, and in all his characters was most exact in 
 this particular, to the very " buckle of his shoe." The 
 sound of his marvellous voice (he used the chest-voice more 
 than Rubini) still lingers in our ears. The quality, the high 
 training, the exquisite timbre shall we ever hear the 
 like again ? And as an actor, fortunately many well re- 
 member his Raoul in "The Huguenots," in which it 
 would be difficult to say which was the better, the acting
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 1 13 
 
 or the singing. Few are aware that he performed (once 
 only) in Dublin in Rossini's " Otello," which was, inde- 
 pendent of the vocalism, a magnificent display of his- 
 trionic power, and parts of which were compared with 
 the impersonation of the great Edmund Kean. In 1841, 
 the date of this engagement, Mario was in his zenith ; it 
 will therefore be understood that his very appearance at 
 the end of the first Act of " Puritani " created a sensation ; 
 but when the first liquid notes of the "A te o Cara " 
 commenced, a death-like stillness (without the slightest 
 exaggeration) prevailed, and at the conclusion of the 
 movement there was a " shout " (for this is the word) of 
 delight, the like of which it is difficult to hear out of Dublin; 
 No words could give an adequate idea of his u Crede a 
 misera," in which he reached the F in alt, thus equalling 
 his great predecessor in range of voice, while exceeding 
 him in power. The duet, also, " Vieni," with Grisi in the 
 third Act, enraptured the audience. Thus commenced 
 the Grisi and Mario era of Opera in Dublin, which con- 
 tinued for so many years to the delight of the Dublin 
 public. Well might Sheridan's beautiful words from the 
 " Duenna " be applied to the two : 
 
 " Ah, sure a pair were never seen 
 So justly formed to meet by nature." 
 
 This was also the first appearance of The Lablache, enor- 
 mous in size as in talent. His voice came forth " as from 
 a mountain." The death of this wonderful artiste left a 
 blank which has never been filled up. Although of such 
 immense dimensions, his every movement was a model 
 
 H
 
 114 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 for students of the art. He was an exception to the 
 general rule of Italian vocalists, who, for the most part, 
 devote (perhaps wisely) their whole time and attention 
 to the cultivation of the voice, without giving much 
 trouble to the study of music as a science. Lablache 
 was an excellent musician, a good double bass player, 
 and would sometimes, for a change, come to the orchestra 
 and take a part on that instrument. So consummate 
 an artiste was Lablache on the stage that his perform- 
 ance of even a second-rate part (to which he sometimes 
 descended) would make it unusually prominent and 
 important, as all who remember his " Doctor Bartolo " 
 will bear witness to. He also "essayed" Figaro, a 
 grand performance, in which he danced about the stage 
 as lightly as a gossamer, although his reputed weight 
 was twenty-five stone. Lablache indeed "astonished 
 the natives " with his wondrous combined powers. When 
 the voice rolled out in the " Suoni la Tromba," the 
 comparatively weak organ of his son Fred, even com 
 bined with the whole power of the orchestra, was 
 "nowhere !" The same effect is recorded of one of the 
 musical festivals in England, in which, during the com- 
 bined efforts of an enormous chorus and band of perhaps 
 1,000 performers, Lablache's D thundered prominently 
 over all. This great artiste's face was, as it were, 
 " chiselled " in the highest classic form, and is said to 
 have been taken as a model by several great sculptors. In 
 social life he sometimes delighted his friends by kneeling at 
 the end of a table, placing his head between two lights, and 
 depicting the passions rage, envy, despair, love, revenge,
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 115 
 
 pity, &c. a really magnificent exhibition of facial 
 expression and refined art 
 
 Signer Puzzi, who performed fantasies on the horn in 
 the course of the evenings during this engagement, was 
 an eminent performer and principal horn-player at all the 
 English musical festivals. He played on the simple horn. 
 the valve horn had not as yet come into general use ; and 
 it is still doubtful if the application of the valve, while it 
 has the effect of equalizing the scale, has not taken from 
 the effect of the natural pure horn notes. 
 
 Mr. William Murphy, announced as " Assistant- 
 Chorus-master," was then a most promising young student 
 (of composition and orchestral scoring), and lent much 
 aid in the preparation of the Operas, which at the time 
 demanded several weeks of preliminary rehearsals ; the 
 chorus and band being supplied from local resources. 
 Air, Murphy gained his degree of Musical Bachelor in 
 Trinity College some years afterwards, for which degree 
 he passed a most creditable examination, and on which 
 occasion a choral and orchestral work of great merit was 
 performed. 
 
 On Tuesday, August 315:, 1841, "Norma." Pollione, 
 Mario ; Oroveso, Lablache ; Adalgisa, Ernesta Grisi ; 
 Norma, G. Grisi. 
 
 This was Grisi's first appearance here in the great 
 role, the wonderful performance of which bestowed 
 on her the title of " Queen of Song." Her majestic 
 form and commanding expression of feature were suffi- 
 ciently impressive as she entered, with the measured and 
 dignified step to which we became so well accustomed
 
 Il6 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 The recitative "Sediziose Voce" followed, and at the 
 long-sustained A flat on the first syllable of the last word 
 " mieto " (which appeared endless), the house, of course, 
 " came down." Her delivery of " Oh non tremare " was 
 fittingly described as " terrible " by a listener in the pit. 
 It was supposed that "Norma" would die with Grisi. 
 
 Pollione is not a favourite part with tenors in general, 
 the music is ungraceful, and the character not calculated 
 to impress the audience favourably. Mario only per- 
 formed it with Grisi, and it is unnecessary to say that he 
 made the most of a weak part. 
 
 The Oroveso of Lablache was simply grand. In the 
 third bar of the . opening recitative " Ite sul colle 
 o Druide " he had the chance of thundering out that 
 wonderful D of his; also in the "Si parlera," and 
 " Tremendo," the last word was, indeed, appropriate to 
 the tremendous tone of the voice. A " roaring " encore 
 was the result, which rarely occurs with the opening chorus 
 of Norma. 
 
 On Thursday, September 2nd, 1841 " La Sonnam- 
 bula." Count Rodolpho, Signor F. Lablache j Amina, 
 Madame Grisi ; Elvino, Mario ; Lisa, Signora Ernesta 
 Grisi ; Teresa, Mrs. T. Hill ; Alessio, Mr. J. Penson ; 
 Notary, Mr. Shean. 
 
 Of late years Mario has " given up " Elvino, but his 
 singing of the music at this period was superb. Grisi 
 was, as usual, perfection. It will be perceived that 
 "Dan" held possession of "II Notario," until a 
 season or two afterwards, when it was filled by a 
 Frenchman, whom Dan regarded with sovereign contempt,
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 117 
 
 remarking, " Well, come, my Irish-Italian is as good as 
 that fellow's French-Italian any day." Mrs. T. Hill 
 (Teresa) was one of the " Stock " Company an excellent 
 actress, who had received a good musical education. 
 
 " La Prova d'un Opera Seria " concluded the enter- 
 tainment, in which Lablache gave his most amusing re- 
 presentation of " Campanone." 
 
 On Saturday, September 4th, " Puritani " was repeated. 
 
 On Monday, September 6th, " Norma." 
 
 On Tuesday, September 7th, " Sonnambula." 
 
 On Thursday, September gth, " La Gazza Ladra," 
 compressed into one Act, after which a Concert, conclud- 
 ing with the second Act of " I Puritani." 
 
 During the concert a pianoforte duet was performed by 
 Mr. Benedict and Mr. W. S. Conran. William Conran 
 was a most brilliant pianist, almost attaining to greatness. 
 Had he proceeded to the Continent, as was intended, 
 and devoted his exclusive time to his instrument, he 
 would probably have obtained a world-wide reputation, 
 as he possessed all the qualities for a great performer ; 
 bj.it he marred his hopes, like many young artistes, by 
 marrying too early, and had to devote his whole time to 
 the slavery of giving lessons from one week's end to 
 another, often devoting the nights, after a hard day's 
 work, to severe practice. Mr. Conran had a large and 
 talented family, one of whom (Mdlle. Conrani) is a dis- 
 tinguished lyric artiste of European fame. It is sufficient 
 proof of Conran's merit that Benedict and Thalberg 
 looked upon him as a worthy coadjutor. 
 
 An extra night was given on Friday, September loth,
 
 Il8 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 with "II Barbiere," Mario giving his unrivalled imper- 
 sonation, Count Almaviva. Who that heard the " Ecco 
 ridente," could ever forget it ? Grisi introduced " Rode's 
 Air and Variations," first written for the violin, and adapted 
 for the voice by Bochsa. 
 
 The Operatic season closed with "I Puritani," for 
 Grisi's benefit, and " God save the Queen," sung by all 
 the artistes. 
 
 The next Italian Opera engagement commenced on 
 September 5th, 1842, the expenses still increasing. The 
 following announcement appeared : " Mr. Calcraft begs 
 respectfully to announce that he has (at an unprecedented 
 expense, nearly amounting to three thousand pounds), 
 been enabled to effect an engagement for the production 
 of Italian Operas on a scale fully superior to those which 
 gave so much satisfaction last year." The Company con- 
 sisted of Madame Grisi, Signer Lablache, Signer Mario, 
 Signer F. Lablache, Signora Ernesta Grisi, '' with various 
 competent auxiliaries/' Leader, Mr. Levey ; Prompter, 
 Signer Salabert (of Her Majesty's Theatre) ; Assistant 
 Chorus Master, Mr. William Murphy ; Conductor, Signor 
 Costa (Musical Director of Her Majesty's Theatre). 
 This was the first and only appearance of Signor Costa in 
 Dublin. It is unnecessary to record that it is due to the 
 skill and tact of this eminent musician that the London 
 Italian Opera Band, from his powers of selection and 
 organization, has arrived at a perfection unsurpassed, 
 perhaps unequalled, in the world. Amidst all the changes 
 which have taken place in the musical world within the 
 last quarter of a century, Sir Michael Costa still holds his
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 119 
 
 position as first of conductors ; and the universal feeling 
 of all members of the profession who have come in con- 
 tact with him, and who judge justly and without prejudice, 
 is that Sir Michael may live long to enjoy his well- 
 deserved dignity. Should he again visit Ireland, he will 
 meet with the reception to which his merits fully entitle 
 him. 
 
 On Monday, September 5th, 1842, was given "I 
 Puritani," with the same cast as in 1841, which, there- 
 fore, will demand no further remarks. Unfortunately 
 Madame Grisi was seized with severe illness from affection 
 of the throat, and on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 
 Friday, and Saturday, Concerts were given ; but the ab- 
 sence of the great prima-donna made a serious difference 
 in the receipts, although all the other artistes assisted. 
 
 Madame Grisi, having recovered from her severe indis- 
 position, made her re-appearance on Monday, September 
 1 2th, 1842, in " Norma" (cast as before, with the same 
 artistes). 
 
 On Wednesday, September i4th, "Anna Bolena" was 
 given, announced, through mistake, as " for the first time 
 in Dublin." Lablache's representation of Henry VIII. 
 was quite in keeping with every character undertaken by 
 that consummate artiste. Mario was Lord Richard 
 Percy ; Grisi, Anna Bolena; Smeaton, Miss A. Hyland ; 
 Lord Rochfort, Signor Salabert ; Sir Harry, Mr. Sala. 
 Mr. Sala was a member of the Stock Company, and an 
 artiste of much promise. He inherited much of the 
 musical talent of his distinguished mother, Madame Sala, 
 possessed dramatic ability of a high degree, with great
 
 120 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 imitative capacity, often excited in the green-room to the 
 great delight of his hearers. On one occasion, whilst 
 giving a life-like imitation of Charles Kean (during one of 
 his engagements), the tragedian suddenly and quietly 
 entered the green-room. The mimic having his back 
 towards the door, still proceeded, and the effect may be 
 imagined when he suddenly turned and met the original 
 face to face. Sala, who died young, was a relative of the 
 immortal George Augustus. 
 
 Signor Salabert ascended from his prompt box for Sir 
 Harry. Salabert was indeed most useful. In figure, 
 however, he was very short and stout. His sword went 
 awkwardly between his legs on one occasion, and some 
 one called out from the gallery " Bravo, ould Slaber- 
 tashe ! " Of course he retained the sobriquet. 
 
 On Thursday, "I Puritani " was given as before ; on 
 Friday, " II Barbiere," and on Saturday, " Anna Bolena." 
 
 On Monday, September iQth, 1842, " La Sonnambula" 
 was announced for the benefit of Mario, and last night of 
 the engagement, ending with " God Save the Queen." 
 The illness of the great prima-donna was a sad blow 
 to this engagement, causing a loss of perhaps thousands 
 of pounds in the receipts, and was one of those unforeseen 
 strokes of " bad luck " which Mr. Calcraft had unfor- 
 tunately so often to encounter. 
 
 No Italian Opera engagement took place in 1843. Mr. 
 Calcraft issued the following notice at the foot of the bills, 
 dated August roth of that year : " In answer to many 
 inquiries, the public is respectfully informed that the 
 engagement with the Italian Opera Company has been
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 121 
 
 abandoned, from various unexpected difficulties, and will 
 not take place this season. 
 
 The next Italian Opera Company commenced an en- 
 gagement of ten nights on the gth September, 1844. 
 Artistes : Madame Grisi, Signora Favanti (her first appear- 
 ance), Signer Mario, Signer Carelli (his first appearance), 
 Signer Pultoni (his first appearance), Signor F. Lablache ; 
 Conductor, Signor Schira ; Leader, Mr. Levey ; 
 Prompter, Signor Salabert. 
 
 The chief novelty in this troupe was Signora Favanti, 
 an English lady, who had studied for some time in Italy, 
 and who had created an impression in London. Her 
 voice was supposed to be contralto, and had great scope, 
 ranging from F below to D in alt. Much difference of 
 opinion existed, however, as to her artistic powers. The 
 higher and lower portions of the voice possessed much 
 power and brilliancy ; but the middle range, if it ever 
 existed, had been sacrificed. Sometimes a dash of genius 
 would display itself, and then a feeling ot disappointment 
 ensue. It was really a case which puzzled the critics, 
 who were relieved of their anxiety by the early death of 
 Mdlle. Favanti, whose splendid appearance and great 
 extent of voice made a sensation for the time. 
 
 Some friend asked Tom Cooke his opinion with refe- 
 rence to Favanti. Tom was silent and shook his head 
 " Well (said the friend), but has she not a wonderful 
 voice ? " Cooke looked doubtful. " Is it not very high?" 
 " H-m-m," muttered Tom " and very low?" continued 
 the friend. " Yes (said Cooke), and very middling !" 
 
 On Monday, September gth, 1844, was given " La
 
 122 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Sonnambula;" and on Tuesday, September loth, " Semira- 
 mide." Arsace, Signora Favanti ; Semiramide, Grisi ; 
 Idreno, Corelli ; Assur, F. Lablache ; Oroe, Paltoni. 
 
 Favanti met with a favourable reception, looking well 
 in male attire, and getting through the music satisfac- 
 torily, with periodical flights of talent. 
 
 On Thursday, September i2th, " Don Pasquale " was 
 performed for the first time in Dublin. Don Pasquale, 
 Signer Paltoni; Malatesta, Signer F. Lablache; Ernesto, 
 Signer Mario ; Norina, Madame Grisi. 
 
 Of Grisi's singing the music of this charming work it is 
 quite unnecessary to write, but her acting proved her a 
 light and " eccentric " comedienne of the very first order. 
 Her by-play in the scenes with Pasquale set the audience 
 in a roar. The Opera was, indeed, a " hit " Mario's 
 " Com' e Gentil." " We shall never hear the like again." 
 
 The bills announced, " To-morrow, Friday, there will 
 be no dramatic performance whatever. The entertain- 
 ment will consist of Rossini's Grand Oratorio, entitled 
 ' The Stabat Mater,' which most certainly cannot be re- 
 peated." The announcement of " The Stabat Mater " to 
 be performed in a theatre created a great sensation 
 amongst the religious portion of the public. Mr. O'Con- 
 nell, then a political prisoner in Richmond Bridewell, 
 after reading the advertisement, wrote a letter to Mr. 
 Calcraft, protesting strongly against the performance of so 
 solemn a work in a dramatic temple, and requesting that 
 it should be abandoned. Places had been taken, and a 
 change would have entailed a severe loss. An embassy, 
 consisting of the musical director and other officers of the
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 1 23 
 
 Theatre, was despatched in all haste to Richmond with 
 the view to set matters right. It was explained to the 
 " Liberator " that no dramatic performance whatever 
 would take place on the same evening ; also that the 
 Theatre had been used for the performance of " The 
 Messiah," "The Triumph of Faith," and other sacred 
 works, on the occasion of the Dublin Musical Festival. 
 These statements prevailed to some extent; but when 
 Mr. O'Connell was told that Mr. Calcraft (for whom he 
 had a great respect) would be a severe loser by any 
 change, he yielded, kindly remarking that he was sure 
 Mr. Calcraft would not sanction any performance in his 
 establishment contrary to public morality. Accordingly, 
 on Friday, September 1310, 1844, Rossini's " Stabat 
 Mater" was given, in which Grisi, Favanti, Mario, 
 Corelli, Paltoni, and Fred Lablache took parts. The 
 overture to Mendelssohn's " Hymn of Praise " was per- 
 formed by the band in the course of the evening. 
 
 On Saturday, September i4th, 1844, was performed 
 Rossini's Grand Opera of " Otello." Otello, Signer 
 Mario (his first appearance in this part) ; Elmiro, Signer 
 Paltoni; Rodrigo, Signor Corelli; lago, Signer F. La- 
 blache. This was Mario's first and only appearance in 
 Otello, a performance which might well be termed 
 wonderful in every particular. Nothing could exceed 
 the powerful tragic force displayed in the impassioned 
 scenes with lago. As before stated, they were compared 
 by some old play-goers to Edmund Kean's extraordinary 
 efforts in the same scenes. A more Shaksperian reading 
 (as far as an Opera would allow) of the part was perhaps
 
 124 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 never witnessed. Grisi was a worthy Desdemona. In- 
 deed, only one opinion existed as to the unqualified 
 success of the two great artistes ; but those who remember 
 Mario's Otello can never forget it, and it has always 
 remained a mystery that he never again essayed the part 
 in Dublin. 
 
 On Monday, September i6th, " Norma" was given. 
 
 On Tuesday, September lyth, " Semiramide " and the 
 last Act of "Lucia," with Mario's Edgardo; and on 
 Wednesday, September iSth, " Cenerentola," with the 
 following cast : Cenerentola, Favanti ; Ranviro, Corelli ; 
 Don Magnifico, F. Lablache ; Tisbe, Miss Fitzgerald; 
 Clorinda, Signora Corri. Favanti had sufficient op- 
 portunity of displaying the high and low portions 
 of her voice in the " Non piu jnesta," of which 
 she took full advantage, dashing through brilliantly 
 enough, but without much regard for the perfection 
 of scale-singing, which is so essential in this finale. The 
 majority of the audience, however, let this pass and 
 applauded. Signora Corri (Clorinda) was a daughter of 
 Haydn Corri (before alluded to), a popular singing-master, 
 and organist for many years of the Metropolitan Roman 
 Catholic Church. Miss Fitzgerald (Tisbe) was one of the 
 local choristers, and was soon afterwards engaged to lead 
 the soprani in one of the Italian Opera Houses, proving 
 most useful in the performance of " small parts " when 
 required. It would surprise many to be aware of the 
 many members of the choral and orchestral department 
 Dublin has contributed to the London musical forces. 
 To the present day we frequently discover the home
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 125 
 
 accent in perhaps the leader of the Italian bassi, or one 
 of the principal instrumentalists (bassoon, for example), 
 in the orchestra who, not very long ago, belonged to the 
 staff of the "Old Royal." 
 
 On Friday, March 2oth, 1844, " Don Pasquale," and 
 one Act of " Ceneremola," were given for Mario's 
 benefit ; and on Saturday, 2ist September, 1844, the pro- 
 gramme included " Norma," a Scena from " Roberto 
 Devereux," " Largo al factotum," by Paltoni, and the 
 last Act of " Lucia ;" concluding with " God save the 
 Queen." The performance was for the benefit of Madame 
 Grisi. This was the last night of a very successful 
 season. 
 
 The year 1845 passed without an Italian Opera, but 
 was remarkable by the appearance of Mons. Duprez, the 
 celebrated French tenor, who, with Madame E. Garcia, 
 appeared at the Theatre Royal on two nights, Thursday, 
 May 22nd, and Saturday, May 24th ; on the first night 
 in two Acts of " Lucia," and on the second night in the 
 third Act of " Lucia," the third Act of " Sonnambula," 
 and the last scene of " Guillaume Tell." This year was 
 also remarkable by the appearance in October of Mr. 
 Sims Reeves, who, with Mr. and Mrs. Alban Croft, ful- 
 filled an operatic engagement; the Operas performed 
 being " Lucia " (in English), " Sonnambula," " Love in 
 a Village," "Fra Diavolo," " Bohemian Girl/' " Beggar's 
 Opera," " Der Freischutz," and " Guy Mannering." 
 
 On Monday, August 3ist, 1846, the following Com- 
 pany commenced an engagement : Madame Castellan, 
 Signora Corbari, Signer Marras, Signer Ciabatta, and
 
 126 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Signer Fornisari. Conductor, Signor Orsini. Leader, 
 Mr. Levey. Prompter, Signor Salabert. 
 
 Madame Castellan was a good and successful prima- 
 donna; Signora Corbari, a competent and artistic con- 
 tralto. Signor Marras, who had established himself as a 
 singing-master in London, was possessed of a light, sweet 
 tenor voice, but (as sportsmen say) it could not " stay." 
 During the first, or sometimes as far as the second Act of an 
 Opera, if not very trying, Marras contrived to please his 
 audience, but towards the conclusion the weakness would 
 sometimes display itself lamentably. On one occasion, in 
 the " Ah perche non posso " (" Sonnambula "), in which, 
 when sung in D flat, the singer must ascend suddenly to 
 the F above, Marras missed the note, but raised his 
 first finger very much above his head, evidently under 
 the impression that the audience would either hear the 
 note or be compensated for its absence. This weakness 
 of voice was a misfortune, not a fault, for Signor Marras 
 was an experienced musician and most pleasing concert 
 singer. Ciabatta was a fair baritone, of handsome 
 appearance. The criticisms of Signor Fornasari were 
 conflicting; some indicating that he was the greatest artiste 
 that had ever appeared in London ; other reports were of a 
 nature directly the contrary. He had certainly made a 
 sensation in " Belisario," his success in which was 
 attributable to his acting more than to his singing in- 
 deed, like "Single-speech Hamilton," Fornasari might 
 have been entitled " One-part Fornasari," for in no 
 other character did he produce any particular effect. To 
 the title of "vocalist" he could have no pretension, for
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 127 
 
 it was a good extensive voice " gone mad," showing no 
 cultivation or careful training. His was a somewhat 
 parallel case to the Signora Favanti before mentioned 
 a short, flashy career, and then " heard no more." 
 
 On Monday, August 3ist, 1846, the engagement opened 
 with " Lucia." Lucia, Castellan ; Edgardo, Marras ; 
 Enrico, Fornasari ; Raimondo, Ciabatta. The perform- 
 ance called for no special notice : Castellan bearing away 
 the palm. Marras, artistic and correct, but as usual 
 weak at the finish. 
 
 On Tuesday, September ist, was performed " Son- 
 nambula," with Castellan as Amina, Marras as Elvino, 
 Fornasari as Rodolpho, and Corbari as Lisa. 
 
 On Thursday, September 3rd, 1846, was presented for 
 the first time in Ireland, Donizetti's grand Opera Seria in 
 three Acts, called ' ; Belisario." Cast Antonia, Madame 
 Castellan ; Irene, Signora Corbari ; Alamiro, Signor 
 Marras ; Giustiniano, Signor Ciabatta ; Belisario, Signor 
 Fornasari. 
 
 In witnessing Fornasari's performance of " Belisario" one 
 could not suppose the artiste could have failed so much in 
 other characters. He represented the blind General 
 most powerfully, and in the last scene, when reduced to 
 beggary, he really displayed remarkable dramatic ability. 
 He seemed inspired even in his interpretation of the 
 music, for his singing in this part (and in this only) was 
 faultless, and, more particularly in the pathetic scenes, 
 his hearers would suppose him a vocalist of the highest 
 cultivation. His appearance was much in his favour ; 
 he looked indeed a " noble Roman." The Opera itself
 
 128 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 is not one of the composer's best efforts, and is seldom 
 performed. It would be, perhaps, correct to say that no 
 other artiste has undertaken the part in England since 
 Fornasari. 
 
 On Saturday, the 5th September, " I Puritani " was 
 given. Sir George, Fornasari ; Lord Arthur, Marras ; 
 Sir Richard, Ciabatta ; Henrietta, Corbari ; Elvira, Cas- 
 tellan. The duet " Suoni la tromba" was about the best 
 feature in the performance. 
 
 On Monday, the yth September, " Norma" was per- 
 formed Norma, Castellan ; Adalgisa, Corbari ; Pollio, 
 Marras ; Oroveso, Fornasari. Norma was not suited to 
 Castellan's powers. Pollio required a tenor e robusto of 
 which Marras was not possessed. Fornasari looked the 
 part of Oroveso well. Adalgisa was the best of the quartet. 
 
 " Belisario" was repeated on Tuesday. 
 
 On Wednesday, September gih, " Sonnambula" was 
 performed by command of the Lord Lieutenant. Cast as 
 before. 
 
 On Friday, nth September, "I Puritani" as before, 
 for the benefit of Signer Marras ; and on Saturday, Sep- 
 tember 1 2th, "Norma," for Madame Castellan's benefit, 
 and last night of the engagement, which did not prove 
 very profitable. 
 
 The year 1847 passed without an Italian Opera. 
 
 On Tuesday, August zgth, 1848, the following Com- 
 pany appeared : Madame Grisi, Signora Vera, Signor 
 Mario, Signor Ciabatta, Signor Galli, Signor Tagliafico. 
 Conductor, Mons. Benedict ; Leader, Mr. Levey ; 
 Prompter, Signor Salabert.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 129 
 
 On Tuesday, 29th, "Norma" was performed, with the 
 following cast : Norma, Grisi ; Adalgisa, Signora Vera ; 
 Pollio, Mario ; Oroveso, Tagliafico ; Flavio, Galli. Grisi 
 and Mario, now at the very pinnacle of their glorious 
 career, were indeed magnificent in each Opera during 
 this engagement. Tagliafico, then prinw-basso at the 
 Royal Italian Opera, displayed all the artistic capabilities 
 which he has sustained through his long and successful 
 career. He is now the efficient stage-manager of the 
 Royal Italian Opera. 
 
 On Wednesday, 3oth August, " Puritani " was given. 
 Elvira, Grisi ; Enrichetta, Vera ; Arturo, Mario ; Ricardo, 
 Ciabatta ; Walton, Galli ; Georgio, Tagliafico. 
 
 On Friday, September ist "La Gazza Ladra." Ni- 
 netta, Grisi ; Pippo, Vera ; Gianetto, Mario ; the Podesta, 
 Tagliafico ; Fernando, Ciabatta. Grisi's Ninetta was 
 something never to be forgotten. On this occasion, 
 when the officers of justice were about to take her to 
 prison for stealing the silver spoons, &c., an occupant of 
 the upper gallery called out, " Ah, sure, it was the magpie 
 that took them ; bring her back !" 
 
 On Saturday, September 2nd, was produced " La Son- 
 nambula." Amina, Grisi ; Lisa, Signora Vera ; Elvino, 
 Mario ; Rodolpho, Tagliafico ; Teresa, Miss Mason ; 
 Allessio, Galli. 
 
 On Monday, September 4th, " Don Pasquale " was 
 the Opera. Norina, Grisi ; Ernesto, Mario ; Malatesta, 
 Ciabatta ; Don Pasquale, Tagliafico ; Notario, Galli. 
 Tagliafico's Pasquale was an excellent performance. 
 Although the "giant" Lablache had created the part and
 
 130 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 made it " his own," still Tagliafico's reading was full of 
 original humour, and the fact of having been chosen to 
 succeed such an original was proof of the confidence re- 
 posed in his capabilities, and, as the result proved, with 
 justice. Mario, on this occasion, had to come on the 
 stage three times to repeat the " Com 5 e gentil," his sing- 
 ing of which never has been, or perhaps never will be, 
 equalled. 
 
 On Tuesday, September 5th, " Norma " was repeated. 
 On Thursday, September yth, " Puritani," and third Act 
 of " Don Pasquale " were given for Mario's benefit ; and 
 on Saturday, September pth, "La Sonnambula" was 
 played for Grisi's benefit, and last night of the season. 
 
 Now succeeded perhaps the most remarkable operatic 
 engagement which has ever taken place in Dublin. Mr. 
 Calcraft, after much difficulty, and with the exertion of 
 great diplomacy, succeeded, after much competition, in 
 forming an engagement for the appearance of " Jenny 
 Lind " at the Theatre Royal. Many tempting offers had 
 been made from local speculators for her appearance in- 
 concerts ; but her managers (for she had many) wisely 
 decided that she should open in Opera. The reports of 
 her wonderful career in London had given rise to great 
 expectations indeed, and never, perhaps, were great ex- 
 pectations so fully realized. Her terms were fabulous 
 ^500 per night. With the addition of vocalists qualified 
 to sing with such an artiste, a corresponding orchestra, 
 chorus, &c., &c., it can with truth be asserted that the 
 nightly expenses were enormous. It was indeed a bold 
 experiment in the year of famine ; but the result proved
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 13! 
 
 most satisfactory to Messrs. Lumley, Knowles, and Cal- 
 craft, each of whom made a considerable sum. After 
 much deliberation, the prices fixed were as follows : 
 Dress Boxes, i los. ; Second Circle, i ; Pit, 125. 6d. ; 
 First Gallery, 75. 6d. ; Second Gallery, 55. 
 
 On Tuesday, October loth, 1848, was announced 
 the first appearance of Jenny Lind, the Company 
 including the following artistes : Mons. Roger, the 
 celebrated tenor from the Grand Opera, Paris, and 
 Italian Opera, Covent Garden ; Signor Belletti, Signor F. 
 Lablache, primi-bassi from Her Majesty's Theatre, Hay- 
 market ; Signora Grimaldi, Signor Bottura, Signor Guidi, 
 and, in addition to the chorus of the establishment, the 
 following also from Her Majesty's Theatre, viz. : First 
 soprano, Miss Renaud, Mdlle. Payne, Mrs. Hughes, and 
 Miss E. Thompson ; contralto, Miss Kennedy and Miss 
 Henly ; i mi> tenori, Signor Benzi, Signor Grimaldi ; 2 d - 
 tenori, Mr. Thompson, Mr. C. Taylor ; bassi, Signor 
 Brigg, Herr Hengler ; principal instrumental performers 
 leaders, Mons. Nadaud (from Her Majesty's Theatre), and 
 Mr. Levey ; first violin and solo, Monsieur Herrmann ; 
 second violin, Mons. Oury; viola, Mr. Hughes; violoncello, 
 Signor Piatti ; contra-basso, Mons. Anglois ; grand flute, 
 Mons. Remusat ; piccolo, Mr. King; oboe, Mons. Lavigne ; 
 clarionet, Signor E. Belletti ; bassoon, Signor Tamplini ; 
 horn, Herr Sleglick; trumpet and cornet, Herr Zeiss; 
 trombone, Mons. Marin ; drums, Mr. R. Hughes ; music 
 librarian, Mr. Mapleson ; prompter, Mons. Crippa all 
 from Her Majesty's Theatre. Conductor, Mr. Balfe. 
 
 The above names, joined ^Yitll the local force, formed
 
 132 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 indeed an attractive and most effective combination. A 
 glance at some of the names cannot fail to prove interest- 
 ing. Mons. Roger had only just started as an Italian 
 vocalist, having been for years the first and favourite 
 tenor at the Grand Opera (French) in Paris. After a suc- 
 cessful career he returned to the French Opera, where he 
 continued to a recent date, delighting his audiences by 
 his pure style of vocalism and excellent acting. Belletti 
 was a highly-finished artiste, and has long since left the 
 stage. Frederick Lablache (son of The Lablache), is now 
 a professor of the London Academy of Music by-the- 
 way, an Irish pupil of his, Miss Landore, has made several 
 most successful appearances in Dublin. Mdlle. Payne, 
 first soprano in the chorus, became the wife of Mr. Aynsley 
 Cook, the favourite vocalist, a most careful student and 
 painstaking artist. Mr. Cook has succeeded in making 
 several parts " his own " Devilshoof amongst the rest. 
 Mrs. Aynsley Cook was soon emancipated from chorus-sing- 
 ing, and became a valuable second soprano, and was the 
 original in Wallace's Opera of " Lurline." In addition to 
 her musical and dramatic capabilities, Mrs. Cook is an 
 accomplished danseusc, and so thoroughly versed in the 
 Terpsichorean art, as to materially assist in the produc- 
 tion of the incidental ballets. That Mrs. Cook and " Old 
 Aynsley," as he is affectionately entitled, may have along 
 and prosperous career, is the wish of all their professional 
 brethren and " sistern ! " Mons. Nadaud was the 
 favourite leader of the ballet, in which department he was 
 without a rival. The ballet at this period formed as great 
 an attraction as the Opera. Indeed, with some, it was
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. ^133 
 
 the feature. Mons. Nadaud was an especial favourite 
 with Taglioni, Fanny Ellsler, and all the great artistes of 
 " La Danse." He possessed the peculiar qualities 
 necessary for his post, unvarying attention to the feet of 
 the performer, having the music always by heart. He 
 never had occasion to look at the book, so that the eye 
 was ever fixed upon the stage, and a perfect sympathy 
 appeared to exist between the artiste and the leader. 
 Young conductors would do well to follow the example 
 of Mons. Nadaud, by so closely studying the music they 
 have in hand as to obviate the necessity of constantly 
 bending the head over the book. Mons. Nadaud was 
 also " Chef d'Attaque " in the Italian Opera. Mons. 
 Herrmann (first violin), was one of the four brothers 
 Herrmann, who so successfully appeared in Dublin as 
 quartet performers. Giving the works of Beethoven, 
 and other classics, with great precision, it might indeed 
 with safety be asserted that those wonderful creations of 
 genius were by them first interpreted in Dublin accord- 
 ing to the intentions of the author. In addition to the 
 instrumental attraction, the Brothers Herrmann also per- 
 formed vocal quartets, and introduced many of the 
 pieces now forming portions of the Orphean collection ; 
 and although not one of the four possessed a solo voice, 
 the effect produced, from constant practice together, and 
 extreme care in amalgamation (so to speak), viz., in the 
 observance of pianos, extreme pianissimos, crescendos, 
 fortes, &c., the effect was indeed wonderful; clearly 
 proving what might be done if those possessing great 
 voices were to bestow as much care and conscientiousness
 
 134 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 in the preparation of their concerted music. One of the 
 four brothers settled afterwards in Dublin, Mr. Lidel 
 Herrmann, better known by the single title " Lidel," and 
 remained for several years fulfilling the post of principal 
 violoncello at all the concerts, and, on special occasions, 
 at the Theatre. He was an admirable soloist, and an 
 especial favourite in private circles. He is still well, and 
 holds a high professional position in London. His place 
 is now worthily rilled in Dublin by Herr Eisner, who fol- 
 lowed closely on Lidel's departure. Mons. Oury (principal 
 second) was an eminent violinist, and husband to Madame 
 Oury, a very popular and accomplished pianist. Signer 
 Piatti is so well known as the Prince of Violoncellists that 
 it is only necessary to give his name. More than thirty 
 years have passed, and he still holds the very first 
 rank against all comers. Lavigne, the great oboe per- 
 former, also still retains his lip, his fingers, and his facul- 
 ties, to the delight of all who hear him. All the other 
 instrumentalists in this list have passed away, except 
 the present writer, who still struggles to " beat time." 
 The music librarian, Mr. Mapleson, was father to Mr. J. 
 H. Mapleson, whose reputation as manager of Italian 
 Opera is world-wide, and to whom the Dublin public are 
 so much indebted for the production of the works, in par- 
 ticulars and in detail, only to be equalled in London. 
 Michael William Balfe was conductor. He filled the 
 same post at Her Majesty's Theatre, and came to Dublin 
 ex officio. " No man is a prophet in his own country." 
 His presence evoked nothing like the enthusiasm he 
 merited. His reception was certainly good, but no more.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 135 
 
 Several eminent composers have failed in wielding the 
 conductor's baton ; but Balfe possessed all the qualities 
 great decision, " an eye to threaten and command," a 
 faultless ear, ready to discover the slightest inaccuracy, 
 and, above all, an intelligible and decisive beat, without 
 which all the other attributes are as nothing ; indeed none 
 but the initiated can have an idea of the importance of the 
 movements of the " small white wand " to those whom it is 
 intended to guide. Much mischief may be done by a mo- 
 ment's distraction on the part of the holder. He may be 
 compared to a skilled " whip." He has not only four, but 
 perhaps forty, yea, one hundred "in hand" (now-a-days the 
 number is illimitable), and even a temporary indecision 
 may do much harm. Perhaps no other occupation demands 
 greater " strain" of brain or steadiness of hand for the 
 time being than that of an operatic conductor. And, as 
 remarked above, many of the greatest composers, from 
 lack of the peculiar talent, have been obliged to " pass 
 the torch " (baton) to another for the conduct of their 
 own works. Balfe was " all there." Every man under 
 his jurisdiction knew what he meant, and at what part of 
 the bar he might be, so that, as far as the numbers would 
 admit, all went well. Before giving the list and cast of 
 Operas in connection with this most remarkable engage- 
 ment, it may not be out of place to record that Jenny 
 Lind stayed at Morrison's Hotel. Mr. Lumley, the then 
 great impresario, the vocalists, and Mr. Balfe also 
 remained at the same hotel. Two " off nights" occurred 
 during the engagement, and on each of those vacant 
 evenings the great " stars " had a reunion amongst
 
 136 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 themselves, the writer receiving a special invitation, 
 as " one of the family." It would be difficult, in- 
 deed, to imagine any unstudied or unrehearsed enter- 
 tainments more delightful and unconventional than those 
 two, of which music formed but a limited portion, danc- 
 ing, forfeits, and cards (for very small stakes) filling 
 nearly all the time. Jenny Lind could dance nearly as 
 well as she could sing. Balfe inherited the art, and was 
 capital on the " light fantastic." A mock ballet was 
 organized, the great soprano fulfilling the role of the 
 Maiden, and the composer and conductor that of the 
 Lover. The " corps de ballet " consisted of the com- 
 pany (Mick, the waiter, being once pressed into the ser- 
 vice when he entered in his professional capacity). Mr. 
 Lumley, a model manager in appearance, was placed on 
 a throne to decide on the merits of the aspirants, and was 
 supposed to offer an engagement to the most accom- 
 plished. The ballet proceeded most seriously, Mons. 
 Nadaud and the writer contributing the music alternately, 
 each, as he passed the " fiddle" to the other, joining the 
 dancing group. At the end a discussion occurred, 
 carried on most gravely, as to the respective merits of the 
 two principal characters. The great manager was unde- 
 cided. His means would only allow the engagement of 
 one. The question was put to the vote (a plebiscite). 
 The votes were equal. What was to be done ? The 
 manager decided that one great trial of skill should take 
 place, each to perform an elaborate solo. Balfe led off, 
 and danced " like an angel." Then " enter Jenny Lind " 
 with all the air and grace of a Taglioni. She proceeds
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 137 
 
 an " adagio" and fascinating allegro, tripping " solo" to 
 follow, astonish all the lookers-on. Rounds of applause, 
 bouquets, &c., &c., and, to conclude, great Jenny " wins 
 the day." The evening concluded with a set of quadrilles, 
 Mdlle. Lind singing the quadrilles, seated in a corner on 
 the music stool. These evenings might well be placed 
 amongst the " Noctes Ambrosiani." 
 
 On Tuesday, the loth of October, 1848, was performed 
 " La Sonnambula." Amina, Jenny Lind ; Lisa, Mdlle. 
 Payne; Teresa, Signora Grimaldi; Elvino, Mons. Roger; 
 Count Rodolpho, Signer Belletti ; Allessio, Signer Guidi ; 
 and Notario, Signer Bottura. 
 
 The receipts on this night reached ^1,600, a sum 
 never equalled before or since in the Theatre Royal, 
 Dublin. The question has often been asked, " Was 
 Jenny Lind so great ?" The simple answer is " Yes." 
 A sort of feeling of disappointment prevailed with some 
 at first. The voice was not what might be termed 
 " great," the personal appearance not startling, still the 
 impression made way that a wonderful artiste was present. 
 The " Come per me" was listened to with breathless 
 silence, and all doubt vanished at the end of the caba- 
 letta, " Sovra il sen." Indeed the success of the whole 
 performance was complete ; but description fails to 
 give an idea of the effect produced in the last Act. In 
 the sleeping scene it is no exaggeration to state that the 
 " Ah non credea" displayed as great an effort of genius 
 as was ever witnessed on any stage. The audience 
 seemed absolutely entranced. It was indeed a singing 
 somnambulist. The whole movement was sotto voce,
 
 138 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 the eyes unconsciously fixed (it was particularly remarked 
 without blinking) on one imaginary object ; the cadenza 
 at the climax, long, most original and wailing, was 
 simply electrifying. A burst of applause about to com- 
 mence was immediately hushed down, lest the " sleeper" 
 should be awakened." 
 
 The other parts were well and efficiently filled, Mons. 
 Roger displaying all the care and finish of the French 
 school, and Belletti creating a deep impression as a most 
 finished artist in every particular. 
 
 On Thursday, October i2th "ITuritani." Elvira, 
 Jenny Lind; Enrichetta, Signora Grimaldi; Arturo, 
 Mons. Roger; Sir Richard Forth, F. Lablache ; Sir 
 George Walton, Signer Belletti ; Lord George Walton, 
 Signer Bottura ; Bruno, Signor Guidi. Although not the 
 most attractive of her impersonations, some preferred the 
 Elvira of Jenny Lind to her other characters ; but Grisi 
 had " created " the part, and her singing of the music was 
 fresh in the recollection of all. However, on this occa- 
 sion, the performance of the celebrated polacca, " Son 
 Vergin verzozza," was particularly fine, the chromatic 
 ascending and descending scales coming out with extra- 
 ordinary precision. The lovely duet, " Vieni " (in the 
 third Act), for soprano and tenor, was also an encore; but 
 nothing could possibly efface the impression produced by 
 Grisi and Mario in the same duet. 
 
 On Saturday, i4th October, was given " La Figlia del 
 Reggimento." Maria, Jenny Lind ; La Marchesa, Signora 
 Grimaldi ; Tonio, Mons. Roger ; Ortenzio, Signor Bot- 
 tura ; II Corporale, Signor Guidi ; II Sergente Salpizio,
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUJJLIN. 139 
 
 Signer F. Lablache. It was in this Opera that the famous 
 songstress made her great "hit" in London. Indeed, 
 the work was, in consequence, magnified to an impor- 
 tance it did not before possess. Wondrous versatility, com- 
 bined with consummate art, rendered Jenny Lind's Maria 
 most fascinating. The " Ciasctm lo dice " and " Egli'e la " 
 were full of life and vivacity. In the " Rataplan " the 
 artiste accompanied herself on her own small " side 
 drum," playing like an experienced " tambouriere," and 
 creating the greatest possible amount of merriment, 
 amounting to enthusiasm, at the marching off with her 
 companions. Then the " Convien partir " (in finale, first 
 Act), when obliged to part from her "Fathers," was 
 given with such exquisite tenderness that white pocket- 
 handkerchiefs came extensively into use. But the climax 
 arrived at the performance of the singing-lesson, opening 
 the second Act, "Sorgera." The instructions in the 
 scene attached to this morceau are thus : " Questo ritor- 
 nello deve eseguirsi con caricatura." And well were the 
 instructions carried out, commencing with the antiquated 
 " motive " for a certain time, then gradually (to the great 
 horror of the ancient relative who accompanies), introduc- 
 ing snatches of " The Song of the Regiment," presently 
 breaking into elaborate variations, and concluding with 
 the most extraordinary vocal feats ever ventured on, and 
 for the performance of which the only term appropriate is 
 " wonderful." All the solfeggi of all the masters seemed 
 heaped into one. In fact, every possible display of 
 which the " human voice divine" is capable, was developed 
 in this effort, never equalled before or since.
 
 140 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 On Monday, i6th October, "Lucia di Lammermoor !> 
 was the opening. Lucia, Jenny Lind ; Alice, Signora 
 Grimaldi ; Edgardo, Mons. Roger ; Enrico, Signer Bel- 
 letti ; Bidebenr, Signer F. Lablache ; Arturo, Signer 
 Guidi ; Normanno, Signor Bottura. The special feature of 
 Mdlle. Lind's " Lucia " was her great interpretation of the 
 mad scene, at the end of the third Act, the cadenza with 
 the flute, concluding the " Alfin son tua," amounting to 
 perfection ; while the exit, at the end of " Spargi d'amor," 
 was worthy of a Siddons. 
 
 A re-engagement for two nights took place, the Opera 
 being " Sonnambula," on the igth, and " La Figlia," on 
 the 24th October, 1848. The prices for those two nights 
 were: Dress Boxes, i ; Second Circle, 153.; Pit, 
 i os. 6d. ; First Gallery, "js. 6d. Second Gallery, 55. 
 
 A Concert took place at the Rotundo on Saturday, the 
 2ist. The receipts of this speculation were something 
 enormous, all the more so taking into consideration that 
 a famine prevailed in the land. The excitement produced 
 at the first announcements was extraordinary, and commu- 
 nications from all quarters of Ireland arrived rapidly to 
 secure places, some only containing the amount necessary, 
 which, as a matter of course, were the only ones attended 
 to ; and many were the disappointments which arose in con- 
 sequence, as some who had not enclosed the money arrived 
 expecting unreasonably that the places were secured; 
 but much inconvenience would have followed such ar- 
 rangement, as many who wrote letters never came. The 
 music-sellers were overwhelmed with commissions ; some 
 anxiously demanding places to be secured for four or
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 14! 
 
 five for every night, the letter containing no remittance. 
 When it is considered that the amount for one family of 
 four would be ^40, it would have required a good 
 capital to have carried out those requests to a large ex- 
 tent. !Many cases of " outrunning the constable " oc- 
 curred ; indeed, a regular " Jenny Lind mania " prevailed 
 for the time. 
 
 The success of this great artist was not obtained with- 
 out the most severe study. Not the music alone, but 
 each character, in its most minute particulars, must have 
 been sedulously and deeply contemplated no one but a 
 close observer of nature could combine the qualities ne- 
 cessary to pourtray the opposite feelings of mirth and 
 grief in the same role. As before observed, the " Convien 
 partir" was sung with such wondrous pathos that the 
 audience were affected even to tears ; then the singing- 
 lesson, when Maria branches suddenly off to " The Song 
 of the Regiment," recalled to mind by the presence of the 
 sergeant one of her " Fathers " evoked roars of laughter. 
 It would be unjust to conclude this hasty sketch of an 
 artist of whom a volume might be written, without record- 
 ing an act of charity performed by her after her departure 
 from the stage. 
 
 About the year 1854 or '55 an application was made 
 that she would come to Dublin and sing at a Concert to 
 be given for the joint benefit of " Mercer's Hospital " and 
 the fi Irish Musical Fund Society." Consent was most 
 kindly and promptly given. The " Messiah " was per- 
 formed at the Antient Concert Rooms. The resident 
 local artists gave their gratuitous services on the occasion ;
 
 142 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Mdlle. Lind singing the principal soprano music with 
 marvellous effect indeed, it is only necessary to state that 
 in sacred music she excelled quite as much as in the 
 dramatic school. " I know that my Redeemer liveth " 
 was indeed a splendid effort, and held the listeners spell- 
 bound; and in the performance of the difficult "Rejoice 
 greatly," the wondrous versatility of the artist shone forth 
 peculiarly, the brilliant passages being given with mar- 
 vellous precision and ease. The London critics held but 
 one opinion of the extraordinary merits of Jenny Lind's 
 singing in Handel's great work. The result of the con- 
 cert was indeed most satisfactory for the two charitable 
 institutions : a sum of about ^"940 remained (after all 
 expenses) to be divided, to the great gratification of all 
 concerned, and to none more than the great artiste herself. 
 
 The next Italian engagement commenced on Thursday, 
 August 1 3th, 1849, witn Mdlle. Alboni, Mdlle. Corbari, 
 Mdlle. A. Corbari, Madame Valle, Mr. Sims Reeves, 
 Signor Bartolini, Signor Galli, Signer Polonini, Signor 
 Tagliafico. Conductor, Mons. Benedict. Leader, Mr. 
 Levey. Prompter, Signor Salabert. 
 
 On Thursday, i3th, was given "La Cenerentola." 
 Cenerentola, Alboni. 
 
 On Friday, i4th, " La Figlia " (ending with the singing- 
 lesson), and the second Act of " Cenerentola." 
 
 On Saturday, i5th, " Don Pasquale," with selections 
 from the first Act of " Linda di Chamouni." 
 
 On Monday, 1 7th, " La Sonnambula." Amina, Alboni. 
 
 On Tuesday, i8th, the first Act of " Linda " and 
 two Acts of " Cenerentola."
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 143. 
 
 On Wednesday, igth, a Concert Avas given, and Selec- 
 tions, in consequence of the illness of Mr. Sims Reeves. 
 
 On Thursday, 2oth, " La Sonnambula " was given, with 
 Alboni as the heroine ; Elvino, Bartolini. 
 
 On Friday, 2ist, "II Barbiere " (compressed into 
 one Act), and two Acts of " Lucia." 
 
 On Saturday, 22nd, the first Act of " La Figlia," after 
 which Alboni sang the brindisi from " Lucrezia Borgia " 
 the second Act of " Cenerentola ;" and the third Act of 
 " Sonnambula," for the benefit of Alboni, and last night 
 of engagement. 
 
 The illness of Mr. Sims Reeves caused considerable 
 changes in the casts during this engagement, However, 
 the singing of Alboni created of course a furore. Enor- 
 mous in size as well as talent, she possessed the most 
 wonderful contralto voice perhaps ever heard up to her 
 advent; it was cultivated to the very highest degree. 
 " Cenerentola" in particular was indeed something to re- 
 member. The andante introducing the finale was en- 
 trancing; and in the "Non piu mesta," the simple 
 melody was sung with wondrous effect, and in the varia- 
 tions no instrument could equal the perfection of the 
 scales, extending, as sung by Alboni, from the C below to 
 C above the equality of timbre being most remarkable. 
 The huge dimensions of this great artiste sometimes 
 called forth some amusing remarks from the "gods," 
 especially when she appeared in her regimental suit in 
 " La Figlia." Her gigantic figure was also scarcely ap- 
 propriate to the part of " La Sonnambula." On one 
 occasion, when getting into the bed in the sleeping scene,,
 
 144 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 an excited beholder called out, " Begorra, that bed '11 
 break down !" The engagement was but moderately 
 successful. 
 
 We now arrive at a rather remarkable epoch in Dublin 
 lyric art, viz., the first appearance of a native artiste in 
 Italian Opera. 
 
 Miss Catherine Hayes, a native of Limerick, who had 
 a few years before left Dublin for Italy, with all her 
 worldly wealth sewn up in her corset, commenced an 
 engagement in company with the following artistes : 
 Herr Damcke, Signer Paglieri (tenor) ; Signer Bardini 
 (basso) ; Signor Galli (baritone) ; Miss Norman (con- 
 tralto). Prompter, Signor Salabert. Leader, Mr. Levey. 
 
 Catherine Hayes came heralded with a great Continental 
 reputation, having created the greatest sensation in all the 
 principal cities of Italy and France. The most flattering 
 and exciting criticisms from the leading journals had been 
 translated and inserted in the " locals," and London hav- 
 ing fiatcd her success, it is no wonder that she fulfilled all 
 the anticipations of her "compatriots," although the 
 voice had been a little " thinned " from extreme study 
 and hard work. She had evidently placed herself with a 
 great vocal master Garcia, it was said, with whom Jenny 
 Lind had also studied ; indeed, the similarity of style in 
 both artistes was evident, clearly proving the importance 
 of finding an experienced and careful teacher ; for many 
 voices have been ruined, even in Italy, by would-be 
 teachers, who knew nothing of the correct placing of the 
 vocal organ. Unfortunately Catherine Hayes on this 
 occasion was not well supported. On the first night of
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 145 
 
 performance (" Lucia ") the tenor broke down in the 
 duet at the end of the first Act, and this event gave rise 
 to a very remarkable occurrence. Mr. Sims Reeves 
 (whose engagement concluded the night previous) was 
 sitting in one of the upper private boxes ; he was, of 
 course, recognised by the audience. The curtain had 
 descended in consequence of the weakness of Edgardo, 
 from cold or nervousness, or perhaps both combined. 
 The audience called out lustily for " Reeves ! Reeves ! ! " 
 and a long delay ensued, the calls still increasing. At 
 last Mr. Calcraft made his appearance, and, after apolo- 
 gizing for Signer Paglieri, and learning the anxiety of the 
 house that Reeves should finish the part of Edgardo, he 
 proceeded to the box in order, if possible, to persuade the 
 great tenor to " come to the breach." However, contrary 
 to the manager's customary diplomatic reserve,he made the 
 request to appear rather as a demand, and Reeves refused 
 point-blank. Still the cry increased. Mr. Calcraft re- 
 appeared, and told the audience that Mr. Reeves had de- 
 clined to comply with their wishes. Almost immediately 
 Mr. Reeves appeared side by side with the manager, and an 
 extraordinary scene was the result. Reeves stated that 
 he had been asked in a most autocratic manner to appear. 
 Mr. Calcraft denied this. Then the tenor replied. The 
 manager of course defended his position, and a dialogue 
 of some minutes' duration continued one asserting, the 
 other denying. Reeves concluding by the observation, 
 " that he would not be browbeaten by Mr. Calcraft, or 
 anyone else." At last, at the instigation of the audience, 
 a reconciliation took place. The two disputants shook 
 
 K
 
 146 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 hands, amid the universal plaudits of the house, and 
 Sims Reeves proceeded to the dressing-room, made up 
 for Edgardo, and finished the Opera, of course to the 
 great delight of all. It should here be mentioned that a 
 report existed about this time that the distinguished tenor 
 and Catherine Hayes were engaged to be married. The 
 success of the native songstress was complete. " Lucia " 
 never received, perhaps, a more poetic impersonation than 
 in the hands of Catherine Hayes. Her acting, particu- 
 larly in the mad scene, reached the highest standard, and 
 her singing equalled any of the Italian artistes in style 
 and finish. 
 
 On Wednesday, November 7th, " Norma " was given. 
 Norma, Miss C. Hayes ; Adalgisa, Miss Poole ; Pollio, 
 Herr Damcke ; Oroveso, Burdini ; Flavio, Galli ; Clotilda, 
 Miss Fitzgerald. 
 
 Poor Herr Damcke was no great improvement on 
 Paglieri, and did not distinguish himself very greatly in 
 the role. The gallery " lads " made sad havoc of the 
 name, parodizing it in all sorts of ways. When singing 
 somewhat out of tune, a voice called out "What 
 damn key are you singing in now ?" Another said 
 "Bravo Coal-quay" (the tenor was of very dark com- 
 plexion). 
 
 On Thursday, November 8th, " Norma " was repeated ; 
 and 
 
 On Friday, " Norma," and the mad scene from 
 "Lucia." Catherine Hayes singing "The Harp that 
 once," in the interval. The poverty of the Company did 
 not admit of an extended repertoire, so Norma had to be
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 147 
 
 repeated on Saturday, the loth, for the benefit of 
 Catherine Hayes. A short Concert concluding, in which 
 she sang " Kathleen Mavourneen " and a ballad entitled 
 "The Return to Erin," composed expressly for her by 
 Mons. Benedict. As may be supposed, the weight of the 
 attraction lay entirely with the soprano during this en- 
 gagement ; but she carried it nobly through, the pecuniary 
 success encouraging the management to form another 
 engagement, which could not arrive for a few months ; 
 accordingly 
 
 On Thursday, February 2ist, 1850, the following 
 Italian Company commenced an engagement : Miss 
 Catherine Hayes, Miss Poole, Mr. Travers (tenor), Signer 
 Polonini (basso), Herr Mengis (baritone). Conductor, 
 Signer Vera. Prompter, Signer Salabert. Leader, Mr. 
 Levey. This was a great improvement on the former 
 Company. Mr. Travers, a young English artiste, who had 
 for years studied in Italy, and appeared there with much 
 success, possessed a pure and well-cultivated tenor voice, 
 and made at once a favourable impression in Dublin. 
 With a good presence and gentlemanly demeanour, he 
 did not depend entirely on his vocal efforts, for he was a 
 capital actor. The contrast from \hzfiasco of the former 
 engagement was much in his favour. Signor Polonini 
 was a thorough artist, and continued for years a reigning 
 favourite in Dublin. Herr Mengis was also a competent 
 and experienced vocalist. So the soprano was fairly 
 supported now by a well-balanced troupe, and relieved of 
 the responsibility of having the weight entirely on her 
 devoted shoulders.
 
 148 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 On Thursday, February 21 st, 1850, "Linda di Cha- 
 mouni" was given. Linda, Miss Hayes ; Pierotto, Miss 
 Poole; Madelina, Miss Norman; Carlo, Mr. Travers; 
 II Marchese, Signer Polonini ; Antonio, Herr Mengis ; 
 II Prefetto, Signor Salabert ; LTntendente, Mr. Hough- 
 ton. Miss Hayes had created a great sensation in the 
 part of Linda during her Continental tour. Indeed the 
 character was peculiarly suited to her capabilities, at once 
 lively and pathetic qualities which her Celtic nature 
 portrayed with admirable effect. All the other parts 
 were efficiently filled, and the performance was a 
 marked success. On Saturday, 23rd, " Linda " was 
 repeated. 
 
 On Monday, February 25th, " Norma"was the Opera. 
 Norma, Miss C. Hayes ; Adalgisa, Miss Poole ; Pollio, 
 Mr. Travers; Oroveso, Polonini ; Flavio, Mr. Houghton. 
 Mr. Travers, whose voice was a tenore robusto, made a 
 hit in the roleot Pollio, the music of which requires much 
 power from beginning to end. 
 
 On Tuesday, February 26th, "La Sonnambula" was 
 given. Amina, Miss C. Hayes ; Lisa, Miss Norman 
 Teresa, Miss Fitzgerald ; Elvino, Mr. Travers ; Rodolpho, 
 Polonini ; Alessio, Mr. Coleman. This was Miss Hayes' 
 first appearance as Amina. " La Sonnambula " was then 
 in the zenith of its popularity. The simplicity of the story, 
 and the complete and happy adaptation of the melodies 
 to the plot, certainly charmed the world for years. 
 Perhaps no other Opera, except " Trovatore," has been so 
 many times given. All the great soprani ambitioned to 
 excel in Amina, and nearly all had been heard in Dublin
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 149 
 
 in the Opera. The climax of perfection seemed to have 
 been reached in Jenny Lind's version. It was, therefore, 
 a trying ordeal for the native soprano, coming so soon 
 after the "Swedish nightingale." Doubts were enter- 
 tained as to the result, but all uncertainty vanished after 
 the first scene. " Care Compagni " was faultless, and the 
 " Sovra il sen " enchanted the audience. The sleeping 
 scene was considered by some equal to that of the fair 
 Swede it certainly did not suffer by comparison and 
 the finale, " Ah, non giunge," was a triumph. There 
 cannot be a doubt but that the performance of Amina 
 alone would have sufficed to establish Catherine Hayes 
 as a great lyric artiste. All the other characters were well 
 filled ; but, unfortunately, at that period the travelling 
 Italian companies were not so complete as at the present 
 day, and we were obliged, as will be perceived by the 
 cast, to " fill up " the small parts. Poor Coleman, who 
 played Alessio on this occasion, has been before alluded 
 to. He was a most useful member of the chorus indeed 
 leader of the basses a good reader, and frequently per- 
 formed small parts in English Opera. Alessio is a comic 
 part, and John was not funny. When he entered, one 
 pit-goer asked another: "Who the d 1 is that?" The 
 other answered : " I know him well he is a fishmonger." 
 And so he was ; at six o'clock in the morning he might 
 be seen in Pill-lane, "knocking down" an immense "lot" 
 of cod or haddock, as the case might be. At twelve he 
 would be at the Theatre, assiduously rehearsing his part, 
 and punctually again at his post in the evening. He was 
 for several years primo basso in the Catholic Cathedral,
 
 150 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Marlborough-street. To return to his Alessio. He danced 
 merrily on with Lisa, and all was smooth until, at Amina's 
 entrance, all turned to greet her. Alessio turned round 
 .with the rest, and at the momenta "lad "called out: 
 " Hallo, Fish, there's a hole in your stockin' ! " Of 
 course, a universal shout of laughter followed, in which 
 Miss Hayes heartily joined. 
 
 On Thursday, February 28th, "in compliance with re- 
 peated applications, and in consequence of the overflow- 
 ing house which witnessed its repetition on Saturday," 
 Linda was repeated. 
 
 On Saturday, March 2nd, "Lucia" was given. Lucia, 
 Miss Hayes ; Edgardo, Travers ; Ashton, Mengis ; 
 Raymond, Polonini ; Norman, Salabert ; Arturo, 
 Houghton. 
 
 Monday, March 4th, there was a repetition of " Son- 
 nambula;" on Tuesday, March 5th, "Norma;" Thurs- 
 day, March 7th, " Linda," after which " Terence's Fare- 
 well to Kathleen," written by Lady DufFerin, was sung by 
 the frima- donna. Friday, " Lucia ; " Saturday, " Son- 
 nambula" last night; but on Thursday, the 2ist, Mr. 
 Calcraft announced that " he had been enabled to effect 
 a re-engagement with Miss Catherine Hayes for two 
 nights only, on her return from the South of Ireland, pre- 
 vious to her appearance at Her Majesty's Theatre in 
 London." On Thursday, 2ist March, "La Sonnambula" 
 (as before), and on Saturday, "Linda "were performed 
 to crammed houses. 
 
 Catherine Hayes visited Cork and Limerick during the 
 interval, where she, as might be expected, received great
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 151 
 
 ovations. In Cork the Theatre was not sufficiently large 
 to accommodate the numbers. But in Limerick the ex- 
 citement was indeed great. It was her native city. At 
 a very early age she displayed rare musical promise, and 
 had been endowed by nature with a wonderful soprano 
 voice. The good Bishop of Limerick (with whom the 
 mother of the artiste resided in the capacity of house- 
 keeper) discovering those qualities, contributed a suffi- 
 cient sum to allow of their cultivation ; and accordingly 
 Catherine proceeded to Dublin, and became a pupil of 
 A. Sapio, under whose auspices she appeared at the Ana- 
 creontic and other musical societies with great success ; 
 and after some time proceeded to Italy. She quickly 
 advanced, and gained a Continental reputation, which, of 
 course, rapidly spread to England, and the most lucrative 
 engagements ensued, managers vying actively to secure 
 her services. 
 
 Naturally the public of Limerick were proud of sending 
 forth the first great Irish prima-donna, and expectation 
 was at the highest pitch when the announcements ap- 
 peared. Places were all secured in advance, and, like 
 that at Cork, the Theatre was not sufficiently large for the 
 demand. "La Sonnambula" was the first Opera. A 
 rather strange scene occurred on the occasion. When 
 the orchestra commenced the introduction to the Opera, 
 the occupants of the pit and gallery called out for 
 '" Garryowen " (their national tune). Of course, no no- 
 tice was taken ; the music proceeded, but the uproar in- 
 creased until it became hopeless to continue, and " Garry- 
 owen ! Garryowen ! " was the cry. The leader turned
 
 152 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 round and remonstrated with some respectable-looking 
 young men in the pit, asked them what they wished. 
 They replied, u We all want ' Garryowen.' " The leader 
 argued and said : " Surely you won't force us to play ' Garry- 
 owen ' as an overture to an Italian Opera ! What will the 
 musical world say of your taste should such an occurrence 
 take place ? " The spokesman seemed to see the force of 
 the argument, and conversed with those around him ; 
 then said : " It's no use, Mr. Levey ; they must have 
 ' Garryowen.' " A long parley ensued between the leader 
 of the band and the leader of the malcontents ; the latter 
 turning first to the orchestra and then towards his friends 
 with the pros and cons, and evidently trying to make 
 peace. At last, after a long diplomatic discussion, a 
 compromise was effected, by which it was conceded, on 
 the part of the management, that " Garryowen " should 
 be played after the first Act. This arrangement was car- 
 ried out amidst the most vehement applause, the tune 
 proceeding while Catherine Hayes was on the stage, 
 having, of course, received a universal " call " after the 
 first Act. 
 
 One of the most agreeable occurrences of the Limerick 
 engagement was a grand pic-nic given to the star by the 
 Messrs. Beale, to which several distinguished citizens of 
 Limerick were invited. Both the Beales were present 
 Fred, as the celebrated and popular impresario was fami- 
 liarly called, and his no less talented son, Willert, every- 
 body's favourite. There were also Dr. Joy, acting mana- 
 ger, who made hosts of friends wherever he went; 
 James Price (then editor of the Evening Packef}, who came
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 153, 
 
 expressly from Dublin to collect materials for a biography 
 of Miss Hayes ; Michael Joseph Barry, then editor of the 
 Cork Southern Reporter; Mr. Calcraft; the present writer, 
 &c., &c. It was, indeed, a day to remember. The 
 " spread " took place al fresco on the banks of the 
 glorious Shannon, at Castleconnell. Mrs. Hayes, the 
 worthy mother of Catherine, was, of course, present. 
 Toasts, songs, glees, orations, &c., &c., were the order of 
 the day. M. J. Barry gave the health of the " star " in 
 his own felicitous style, infusing therein some of the burn- 
 ing thoughts of his writings in the " Spirit of the Nation." 
 Wild hurras followed. Catherine was "a jolly gay 
 fellow ;" she was familiarly associated with " all good 
 lasses/' &c., &c. She responded herself, and gave " The 
 Last Rose of Summer." The " feast of reason and flow 
 of soul " prevailed. J. Price, who had been sitting be- 
 side Mrs. Hayes, said to her: "You should be proud 
 of this scene ; few mothers possess such a daughter. Do 
 you not feel happy ? " Mrs. Hayes replied, with ecstasy : 
 " Oh ! my dear Mr. Price, I'm at the summit of my 
 climax" 
 
 Miss Hayes had a short and successful re-engagement, 
 commencing Monday, October 2ist, 1850. There was a 
 repetition of the usual repertoire. 
 
 " Italian Opera for seven nights only, commencing on 
 Monday, February zoth, 1851,'' was thus announced: 
 " The unrivalled prima-donna, Mdme. Grisi, supported by 
 the two eminent tenors, Mr. Sims Reeves and Signer 
 Ricciardi ; Mdlle. Bassano, Herr Mengis, Signer Pattoni, 
 &c., &c. The first four nights will be Monday, loth,
 
 154 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Tuesday, nth, Thursday, i3th, and Saturday, i5th. In 
 consequence of the unprecedented expense attending this 
 engagement, the prices will be as follows : Dress Circle, 
 3s. ; Second Circle, 53. ; Pit, 33. ; Middle Gallery, 2s. ; 
 Upper Gallery, is. Conductor, Mr. Lavenu ; Leader, 
 Mr. Levey." 
 
 The following notice appeared on Friday, yth : " Mr. 
 Calcraft regrets exceedingly to state that he has most un- 
 expectedly received a medical certificate from Dr. Tyler 
 Smith, Bolton-street, Piccadilly, London, stating that 
 Madame Grisi has been taken suddenly ill, and is totally 
 unable to fulfil any professional engagement. The Italian 
 Opera will commence with Mr. and Mrs. Sims Reeves, 
 Mdlle. Bassano, Herr Mengis, Signor Pattoni, &c., c., 
 on Monday next, as announced, with the favourite Opera 
 of ' Lucia di Lammermoor.' In consequence of the dis- 
 appointment, the following scale of prices will be 
 adopted : Dress Circle, 55. ; Second Circle, 33. ; Pit, 
 2s. ; First Circle, is. ; Upper Gallery, 6d." 
 
 On Monday, the same announcement, but stating the 
 engagement would commence on Wednesday, and Signor 
 Ricciardi's name withdrawn. 
 
 On Friday, the i3th, the following appeared : 
 
 "Theatre Royal, Dublin. 
 
 "The following telegraphic message has been forwarded from 
 Harrowgate, dated Monday evening : ' Mrs. Sims Reeves is ill in 
 bed. The doctor says she cannot leave this until Wednesday morn- 
 ing. Send the libretto.' Mr. Calcraft, in announcing, as he does 
 with much regret, the above additional disappointment, thinks it 
 right to state in the most explicit terms that not the slightest blame
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 155 
 
 can be attached to any person whatever for a casualty which could 
 not possibly be foreseen or provided against. The first Italian 
 Opera is, therefore, unavoidably postponed until Saturday next, the 
 Jth inst., when will be performed 'Lucia di Lammermoor.' The 
 appearance of Mr. and Mrs. Sims Reeves at the Philharmonic Con- 
 cert on Friday will, it is hoped, sufficiently satisfy the public that 
 no further delay will take place. " 
 
 On Friday, i4th, the following appeared : 
 
 " Mr. Calcraft again regrets to be under the necessity of stating 
 that another communication has been received, to the effect that 
 Mrs. Sims Reeves will not be sufficiently recovered to leave Harrow- 
 gate until this day (Friday). The Opera of ' Lucia di Lammer- 
 moor,' announced for to-morrow (Saturday), is therefore unavoidably 
 postponed until Monday next, the iyth inst." 
 
 The next announcement as follows : 
 
 "Theatre Royal, Dublin. 
 
 "Mr. Calcraft has much pleasure in announcing that Mr. and 
 Mrs. Sims Reeves (late Miss Lucombe) have arrived in Dublin. 
 The series of Italian Operas will, therefore, commence this evening 
 (Monday, I7th). The Company includes" (&c., &c., as before). 
 "'Lucia di Lammermoor.' Edgardo, Mr. Sims Reeves; Lucia, 
 Mrs. Sims Reeves ; Colonel Ashton, Herr Mengis ; Raimondo, 
 Signer Pattoni, &c. Tuesday, i8th, La Sonnambula. ' Amina, 
 Mrs. Sims Reeves ; Elvino, Mr. Sims Reeves ; Count Rodolpho, 
 Herr Mengis. Thursday, 2Olh, 'Lucia,' as before. Saturday, 
 22nd, 'I PuritamV Lord Arthur Talbot, Mr. Sims Reeves; 
 Elvira, Mrs. Sims Reeves ; Sir George Walton, Signer Pattoni ; 
 Sir Richard Forth, Herr Mengis. Monday, 24th, 'Ernani.' 
 Ernani, Mr. Sims Reeves ; Elvira, Mrs. Sims Reeves ; Don 
 Carlos, Herr Mengis ; Don Ruy Gomez, Signer Pattoni. 
 Wednesday, 26th, 'I Puritani,' as before. Friday, 28th, 'La Son- 
 nambula.' Cast as before, with the addition of Lisa, Miss Nor- 
 man ; Teresa, Miss Fitzgerald. Saturday, March 1st. Benefit of 
 Mr. and Mrs. Sims Reeves. Commencing with Third Act of
 
 156 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 ' Lucia ; ' after which the Second Act of ' I Puritani.' To conclude 
 with (in two Acts) ' The Beggar's Opera.' Captain Macheath, Mr. 
 Sims Reeves ; Mat of the Mint, Herr Mengis." 
 
 On Friday Evening, September lyth, 1852, the follow- 
 ing Company commenced an engagement, announced for 
 six nights only : Madame Grisi, Mdlle. Bertrandi, 
 Signor Mario, Signer Galvani, Signor F. Lablache, Signer 
 Lusini, Signor Galli, Signor Salabert. Conductor, Mr. 
 F. Mori. Leader, Mr. Levey. The following were the 
 casts : 
 
 Friday, September 1 7th. " Lucrezia Borgia." Lucrezia 
 Borgia, Madame Grisi ; Maffio Orsini, Mdlle. Bertrandi ; 
 Alfonso, F. Lablache ; Gennaro, Mario ; Astolfo, Benelli ; 
 Petrucci, Galli; Gazella, Lavini; Rustighello, Salabert; 
 Liverotto, Casaboni ; Vittellozzo, Fiorini ; Gubetta, 
 Susini. 
 
 Saturday, September 1 8th. " Norma." Norma, Grisi; 
 Adalgisa, Bertrandi ; Pollio, Mario ; Oroveso, Susini ; 
 Clotilda, Miss J. Braun ; Flavio, Galli. 
 
 Monday Evening, September 2oth, " I Puritani." El- 
 vira, Grisi ; Henrietta, Miss J. Braun ; Walton, Galli ; 
 Sir George, Susini ; Talbot, Mario ; Forth, F. Lablache ;. 
 Bueno, Casaboni. 
 
 Tuesday, September 2 1 st. " Don Pasquale." Norina, 
 Grisi ; Ernesto, Mario ; Malatesta, F. Lablache ; Don 
 Pasquale, Susini ; Notary, Galli. Concluding with the 
 last Act of " Lucia." Lucia, Mdlle, Bertrandi ; Edgardo, 
 Signor Galvani ; Bidebent, Susini. 
 
 Friday Evening, September 24th. " Don Giovanni." 
 Don Giovanni, F. Lablache ; Don Ottavio, Mario ; Don
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 157 
 
 Pedro, Galli ; Leporello, Susini ; Masetto, Salabert ; 
 Donna Anna, Grisi ; Zerlina, Bertrandi ; Donna Elvira, 
 Miss Clarke. 
 
 Saturday Evening, September 25th. " Norma " (cast 
 as before) ; concluding with the last Act of " L'Elisire 
 d'Amore." Nina, Mdlle. Bertrandi ; Gianetta, Miss J. 
 Braun ; Nemorino, Galvani ; Doctor Dulcamara, Susini ; 
 Sergeant Belcore, F. Lablache. 
 
 The following announcement appeared the following 
 Monday : " Farewell Engagement of Madame Grisi. 
 Mr. Harris has the honour to announce the re-engage- 
 ment of the Italian Company for three performances 
 only, and begs to state that this is the last opportunity 
 Madame Grisi can possibly have of appearing in Dublin." 
 Accordingly, on Monday evening, October 4th, 1852, was 
 given " Don Giovanni," with cast as before ; after which 
 Signer Mario sang " Com 'e gentil," from " Don Pas- 
 quale." On Tuesday, " I Puritani " was given, as before. 
 On Wednesday, October 6th, the first and second Acts 
 of " Lucrezia Borgia," with cast as before, and the last 
 Act of "Lucia;" the last Act of "La Sonnambula " 
 (Amina, Bertrandi; Lisa, Miss Clarke; Teresa, Miss J. 
 Braun ; Rodolpho, F. Lablache ; Elvino, Mario) ; con- 
 cluding with the last Act of " L'Elisire d'Amore," as 
 before. 
 
 This was the first engagement of Italian Opera under 
 the management of Mr. Harris, and proved a great suc- 
 cess. It was under the special patronage of the Lord 
 Lieutenant and the Countess of Eglinton, and was re- 
 markable for the earliest announcement of the last ap-
 
 158 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 pearance of Grisi. Several others to the same effect sub- 
 sequently took place ; at last repeated too often for the 
 fame of the then acknowledged Queen of Song. Miss 
 Clarke, who performed Donna Elvira in " Don Giovanni," 
 and Lisa in " Sonnambula," was a pupil of Gustavus 
 Geary, the popular tenor vocalist of Dublin, and then a 
 vicar of the Cathedral churches. Miss Clarke's voice was 
 a pure soprano, and well cultivated. She acquitted her- 
 self most creditably, and to the entire satisfaction of the 
 public, although having undertaken the part at a short 
 notice, in consequence of the disappointment of one of 
 the Italian artistes. Miss J. Braun was also a resident of 
 Dublin, daughter of a bandmaster. 
 
 No Italian Opera engagement took place during 1853 ; 
 but on Monday, September nth, 1854, a most attractive 
 Company commenced a series of Operas. The artistes 
 were: Mdlle. Sophie Cruvelli, Mdlle. Marai, Mdlle, 
 Albini, Mdme. Albini, Signer Tamberlik, Signer Taglia- 
 fico, Signor Fortini, Signer Polonini, Signer Luchesi, 
 Signer Santi, Signor Monterosi. Regisseur, Mr. A. Harris; 
 Conductor, Mr. Alfred Mellon (Mr. Benedict's name had 
 been announced, but was withdrawn) ; Leader, Mr. Levey. 
 
 The chorus on this occasion was much strengthened 
 by the addition of several members of the Covent Garden 
 choral department. The dresses were also from the same 
 establishment, and the Operas were consequently pro- 
 duced on a scale of great completeness. They were an- 
 nounced " under the patronage of their Excellencies the 
 Lord Lieutenant and the Countess of St. Germains." 
 The following were the casts :
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. I ^9 
 
 Monday, September nth, 1854. " Norma." Norma, 
 Cruvelli ; Adalgisa, Mdlle. Marai ; Clotilda, Mdme. 
 Albini ;" Pollio, Signor Tamberlik; Oroveso, Signer Tag- 
 liafico ; Flavio, Signor Santi. 
 
 Tuesday, September i2th. " Sonnambula." Amina, 
 Mdlle. Marai ; Teresa, Mdme. Albini ; Lisa, Mdlle. Al- 
 bini ; Rodolpho, Polonini ; Elvino, Signor Luchesi. 
 
 Wednesday, September i3th. " Otello." Otello, Tam- 
 berlik; Desdemona, Mdlle. Cruvelli; Elmiro, Signor 
 Fortini ; Rodrigo, Signor Luchesi ; lago, Signor 
 Tagliafico ; Emilia, Mdlle. Albini ; Doge, Signor 
 Polonini. 
 
 Thursday, September i4th. "Fidelio." Leonora, 
 Mdlle. Cruvelli; Margarita, Mdlle. Marai ; Rocco, Signor 
 Fortini ; Pizarro, Signor Tagliafico ; II Ministro, Signor 
 Polonini ; Jacquino, Signor Santi ; Ferdinando, Signor 
 Tamberlik. 
 
 Friday, September T$th. In consequence of nume- 
 rous inquiries, " II Barbiere di Siviglia." Rosina, Mdlle. 
 Marai ; Bertha, Mdlle, Albini ; Count Almaviva, Signor 
 Luchesi ; Bartolo, Signor Polonini ; Basilio, Signor For- 
 tini ; Fiorello, Signor Santi ; Figaro, Signor Tagliafico. 
 Concluding with one Act of " Massaniello." Massaniello, 
 Signor Tamberlik ; Borella, Polonini ; Pietro, Signor 
 Tagliafico ; Fenella, Mdlle. Ernestine St. Louin. 
 
 Saturday, September 1 6th. " Ernani." Ernani, Signor 
 Tamberlik ; Ruy Gomez, Signor Tagliafico ; Charles V., 
 Signor Fortini ; Riccardo, Signor Santi ; lago, Signor 
 Polonini; Elvira, Mdlle. Cruvelli; Giovanna, Mdlle. 
 Albini.
 
 l6o ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Monday, September i8th. "Norma"was repeated, 
 for the benefit of Mdlle. Cruvelli. 
 
 On Tuesday, ipth, there was a repetition of "Otello," 
 for the benefit of Signor Tamberlik last night of the en- 
 gagement. 
 
 The Operas on this occasion were performed in a style 
 worthy of London. The chorus was more numerous and 
 complete than on former occasions ; and the dresses, from 
 the Covent Garden wardrobe, perfect. Sophie Cruvelli 
 appeared like a brilliant meteor, and during her short and 
 extraordinary career, astonished and delighted the musical 
 world. The impression left on those who had the good 
 fortune to hear and see her could never be obliterated. 
 Her voice a mezzo soprano of great compass seemed 
 to contain all the perfections of every register of the 
 female voice concentrated. It bore no comparison to 
 that of any other artiste. It was rich beyond compare, 
 and the equality " all round " was wonderful, the highest 
 notes never losing in quality. In fact, words must fail in 
 describing the qualities of this great artiste, who too soon 
 disappeared from the lyric stage. Coming after Grisi, 
 Cruvelli had a severe ordeal to undergo, commencing 
 with " Norma ; " but her rendering was so totally 
 diiferent and original, that universal delight took the 
 place of comparison. The career of this great artiste 
 was of short duration, but her many friends had satis- 
 faction in knowing that she had made an exalted 
 marriage. 
 
 On Tuesday, May i5th, appeared an Italian Opera 
 Company, including Mdme. Alboni, Mdlle. Jenny Bauer,
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. l6l 
 
 Herr Reichart, Signer Susini, Signer Lorenzo. Violinist, 
 Herr Ernst ; Conductor, Signor Li Calsi. 
 
 On Tuesday, i5th, was given " II Barbiere." Rosina, 
 Alboni ; Almaviva, Herr Reichart ; Figaro, Signor Lo- 
 renzo ; Bartolo, Signor Susini. 
 
 On Wednesday, i6th, "La Cenerentola " was per- 
 formed. Cenerentola, Alboni ; Dandini, Lorenzo ; Don 
 Magnifico, Susini ; Ramiro, Reichart ; Clorinda, Miss J. 
 Cruise ; Thisbe, Miss F. Cruise. 
 
 The Misses Cruise proved themselves equally capable 
 in Italian as in English music. They were highly com- 
 plimented by Alboni on their finished style ; she re- 
 marked that she had never sung with such good "ill- 
 natured " sisters. The Misses Cruise studied with Mr. 
 Thomas Blanchard, perhaps one of the most careful and 
 efficient vocal masters in existence. Happily he still re- 
 sides in Dublin, to impart the secrets of his art to those 
 who are fortunate enough to place themselves tinder his 
 tuition. 
 
 Then followed, on Thursday, May i;th, "Lucia." 
 Lucia, Mdlle. Bauer ; Aston, Signor Lorenzo ; Edgardo, 
 Herr Reichart ; Raimondo, Signor Susini. On Friday, a 
 repetition of "Cenerentola." On Saturday, "La Son- 
 nambula." Amina, Alboni; Lisa, Miss F. Cruise 
 Teresa, Miss J. Cruise ; Elvino, Herr Reichart ; Conte, 
 Signor Lorenzo ; Alessio, Mr. Stinton. 
 
 This was Signor Li Calsi's first visit to Dublin, when 
 he gave ample proof of the efficiency and experience 
 which have since caused his name to be welcomed in 
 Ireland whenever it appears on a list of Italian artistes. 
 
 L
 
 1 62 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Herr Reichart also appeared for the first time an excel- 
 lent vocalist ; he was, besides, composer of some popular 
 songs "Thou art so near and yet so far," amongst 
 others. It was likewise the debut here of Susini, a first- 
 rate basso frofondo, who won golden opinions during his 
 stay. Mr. Stinton was one of the stock : " Good-natured 
 Jack " was his kindly title amongst his fellows. He had 
 a nice tenor voice, was a fair musician, and could assist 
 with his brush in the scene-painter's room; indeed, a 
 most useful member, as he proved by acquitting himself 
 tolerably in small Italian Opera parts. He married the 
 daughter of the celebrated Pierce Egan (author of " Life 
 in London "), who was the stock " chambermaid " and 
 " soubrette " of the Company, and a favourite with the 
 Dublin public. 
 
 The Opera was each night agreeably and delightfully 
 varied by the performance of Herr Ernst, then the most 
 finished of living violinists, whose wonderful playing was 
 fully appreciated. This great artiste combined with his 
 remarkable musical abilities the most accomplished mind 
 and fascinating manner. He had just returned from a long 
 visit to Sir E. Lytton Bulwer, who was his ardent and 
 enthusiastic friend and admirer. 
 
 The next Italian Company commenced an en- 
 gagement on Monday, August 6th, 1855. The bills 
 were headed " Last performance of Madame Grisi 
 in Dublin." The troupe consisted of Madame Grisi, 
 Madame Gassier, Madame Dediee, Mdlle. Sedlatzek, 
 Madame Heinrich, Signor Mario, Signer Lorini, 
 Signer Gassier, Signor Susini, Signor Galli, Signor Sante.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 163 
 
 Conductor, Signor Li Calsi. The following Operas were 
 given : 
 
 Monday, August 6th. " Norma." Norma, Grisi ; 
 Adalgisa, Mdlle. Sedlatzek ; Clotilda, Madame Heinrich ; 
 Pollio, Signor Lorini ; Flavio, Signor Sante ; Oroveso, 
 Signor Susini. 
 
 Tuesday, August 7th. " La Sonnambula." Amina, 
 Madame Gassier ; Lisa, Mdlle. Sedlatzek ; Teresa, 
 Madame Heinrich ; Elvino, Signor Mario ; Count 
 Rodolpho, Signor Gassier. 
 
 Wednesday, August 8th. " Lucrezia Borgia." Lu- 
 crezia, Grisi ; Orsini, Mdlle. Dedice ; Gennaro, Mario ; 
 Don Alfonso, Susini. 
 
 Thursday, August gth. "Don Pasquale." Norina, 
 Madame Gassier; Ernesto, Signor Mario; Malatesta, 
 Signor Gassier ; Pasquale, Susini. 
 
 On Friday, August loth, "La Sonnambula" was re- 
 peated ; and 
 
 On Saturday, August nth, "Semiramide" was pro- 
 duced. Semiramide, Grisi; Azema, Mdlle. Sedlatzek; 
 Arsace, Mdlle. Dediee ; Idreno, Signor Lorini ; Assur, 
 Signor Gassier ; Oroe, Signor Susini. 
 
 On Monday, August i3th, "Lucrezia Borgia" was re- 
 peated, for the benefit of Signor Mario ; and 
 
 On Saturday, "Norma" (as before), for the benefit of 
 Madame Grisi. 
 
 Grisi and Mario left, and a re-engagement for three 
 nights took place with the remainder of the Company, 
 August aoth, 2ist, and 22nd; but the absence of the 
 great luminaries caused apathy with the public, although
 
 164 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 the prices were lowered, the houses were not up to 
 " concert pitch." Madame Gassier was, however, a most 
 accomplished soprano, with an extraordinary compass of 
 voice, more particularly in the upper register. She fre- 
 quently touched A in alt in her scale-singing, which was 
 very perfect. Her husband was also one of the best 
 of baritones. He had formed himself on the great Tam- 
 burini, and his wonderful flexibility displayed itself re- 
 markably in the difficult music of Assur (Semiramide). 
 He astonished the instrumentalists of the orchestra by 
 the perfection of -a descending scale, which he introduced 
 in the first movement of " Vieni la mia Vendetta " 
 (Lucia). Gassier was most amusing in private circles ; 
 he imitated closely with his voice all instruments, fre- 
 quently causing merry interruptions at the rehearsals by 
 coming over to the orchestra and playing the bassoon on 
 his walking stick, the laughter of the performers causing 
 much delay. He was, of course, " pulled-up " by the 
 stage-manager, but the applause of his auditors fully re- 
 compensed him. One day, after dinner, at the hospitable 
 house of a well-known and much-respected medical gen- 
 tleman, Gassier went to the door of the dining-room 
 ( which opened inwards), stood on a chair, held the door 
 above with his left hand, grasped an imaginary bow with 
 his right hand and scraped away at the door, imitating at 
 the same time the double-bass to perfection. Gassier 
 died a. few years ago in Italy, and was much regretted by 
 the profession, of which he was an ornament, as well as 
 by many personal friends.-
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 165 
 
 First performance of " II Trovatore." 
 
 The next Italian Opera engagement was, indeed, in 
 many ways, one to be remembered. The bills were 
 headed: "Royal Italian- Opera, Covent Garden, under 
 the patronage of his Excellency the Lord Lieutenant. 
 Arrangements having been effected by Mr. Harris and 
 Messrs. Cramer, Beale & Co. with the above great lyric 
 establishment, for the performance of Operas by the 
 same artistes as at the Theatre Royal, Covent Garden, it 
 is respectfully announced that a series of Italian Operas 
 will be given, commencing on Monday, September 3rd, 
 and terminating on Tuesday, September nth, assisted by 
 the following eminent artistes : Madame Viardot Garcia, 
 Mdlle. Marai, Mdlle. Heinrich, Signor Tamberlik, Signor 
 Gardoni, Signor Graziani, Signor Polonine, Signor Taglia- 
 fico, Signor Santi. Conductor, Mr. Alfred Mellon; 
 Prompter, Signor Monterasi ; Regisseur, Mr. A. Harris. 
 There will be an important addition to the orchestra and 
 chorus from the Royal Italian Opera, and the Operas 
 will be produced on a scale of greater magnificence than 
 hitherto attempted." 
 
 On Monday, September 3rd, 1855. "The last new 
 Opera, as produced in London with such brilliant success, 
 ' II Trovatore,' with new scenery, dresses, &c., &c., and 
 the Operas produced with the same completeness as at 
 the Royal Italian Opera, Covent Garden. Leonora, 
 Mdlle. Marai ; Azucena, Madame Viardot Garcia ; 
 Manrico, Signor Tamberlik ; II Conte di Luna, Signor 
 Graziani ; Ferrando, SignorPolonini ; Riuz, Signor Santi." 
 This was, of course, the first performance of " Trovatore "
 
 1 66 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 in Dublin and such a performance ! Although a great 
 number of years have elapsed, many survive who were 
 present, and still bear witness to the extraordinary impres- 
 sion created on this occasion. The music of "Young 
 Italy" had scarcely yet been heard, at least interpreted, as 
 it was in this instance. "Ernani" had been done in 
 English; but Verdi's great work, which, however captious 
 critics may condemn it, still holds its ground, was indeed 
 a novel and startling event in Dublin. Glorious represen- 
 tatives of all the characters have since appeared, but first 
 impressions go a great way. Certainly the Azucena, as 
 an " all round " performance, has never been equalled ; 
 but all the lyric world with one consent submit to the 
 matchless genius of Viardot. The effect produced by 
 Graziani was also extraordinary ; a new era in baritone 
 singing seemed to have commenced the wonderful 
 beauty, extent, and equality of his voice astonished and 
 delighted all. In the " II Balen," which was sung in the 
 original key (B flat), the G above was taken and sustained 
 with extreme accuracy, and in exquisite tune, a note 
 usually heard only from tenors. The remembrance of 
 this first appearance of Graziani is still fresh in the minds 
 of those who were present on the occasion. Marai was 
 an excellent Leonora, and one can imagine Tamberlik, 
 then in his zenith, singing and acting Manrico. Although 
 the " Ut de portrine " had not appeared in the ' Di quella 
 pira," still the performance all through was marked with 
 wonderful force and vigour. Polonini and Santi contri- 
 buted in no small degree to the almost perfect performance. 
 On Tuesday, September 4th, " II Barbiere " was per-
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 167 
 
 formed. Rosina, Viardot ; Berta, Heinrich ; Bartolo, 
 Polonini ; Basilic, Tagliafico ; Fiorello, Santi ; Almaviva, 
 Gardoni ; Figaro, Graziani. This Opera was remarkable 
 for the excellence of the ensemble. 
 
 On Wednesday, September 5th. " Lucia de Lammer- 
 .moor." Lucia, Mdlle. Marai ; Edgardo, Gardoni ; 
 Raimondo, Polonini ; Arturo, Santi ; Normanno, Mattoni. 
 Concluding with second Act of " Massaniello." Massani- 
 - ello, Tamberlik ; Pietro, Tagliafico ; Borello, Polonini. 
 
 On Thursday, September 6th, was produced, for the 
 first time in Dublin, Meyerbeer's grand Opera of " Le 
 Prophete," with the dresses, decorations, suits of armour, 
 and appointments from the Royal Italian Opera. Fides 
 (her original part, being expressly composed for her), 
 Madame Viardot Garcia; Bertha, Mdlle. Marai ; Jean of 
 Leyden, Tamberlik ; Zacharia, Tagliafico ; Jonas, Santi ; 
 Mathisen, Polonini Count D'Oberthal, Graziani. This 
 was, perhaps, the most complete representation which 
 ever took place in the Theatre Royal, not only with re- 
 ference to the artistes engaged, but to the accessories, 
 the wise en scene, &c., &c. It required a vocal and 
 dramatic genius, such as Viardot, to grasp the character of 
 Fides. It cannot give offence to say that all succeeding 
 attempts have been imitations, and the nearer they 
 approached the original " creation " the more successful. 
 The same remarks will apply to Tamberlik's performance 
 of "The Prophet," a rare combination of marvellous 
 power and art. The music was rather " advanced " to 
 please the general public of the day, but all gave willing 
 testimony to the rare merits of the work.
 
 1 68 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 , On Friday, September 7th, " I Puritani." Elvira, 
 Marai ; Henrietta, Madame Heinrich ; Lord Walton, 
 Polonini; Sir George, Tagliafico; Sir Richard Forth, 
 Graziani ; Bruno, Santi ; Lord Talbot, Gardoni. 
 
 On Saturday, September 8th, " Otello." Desdemona, 
 Viardot Garcia ; Emilia, Madame Heinrich ; Elmiro, 
 Tagliafico ; lago, Graziani ; Rodrigo, Gardoni ; II Doge, 
 Polonini ; Otello, Tamberlik. It was in this Opera that 
 Tamberlik startled the musical world by his C sharp from 
 the chest. Duprez had already become celebrated by his 
 wonderful " Ut de portrine " in " William Tell," but Tam- 
 berlik's effort eclipsed that of the great French tenor. 
 The C sharp had a pure metallic ring about it, and the 
 pitites stood up from their seats in wondering amazement. 
 Viardot's Desdemona was a study in every particular. 
 
 On Monday, September roth, "II Trovatore" was re- 
 peated (cast as before) ; and 
 
 On Tuesday, September nth, there was a repetition of 
 ." Le Prophete." 
 
 This brilliant engagement concluded with an extra 
 night, Saturday, September i5th. "Don Giovanni." 
 Donna Anna, Viardot ; Donna Elvira, Madame Marai ; 
 Zerlina, Madame Sedlatzek; Don Giovanni, Graziani; 
 Leporello, Tagliafico ; II Commendatore, Polonini; 
 Ottavio, Tamberlik. A glorious performance of " The 
 Don." 
 
 On Monday, September i5th, 1856, Mr. Harris 
 arranged with the firm of Cramer & Beale for a series of 
 Italian Operas. The following artistes formed the Com- 
 pany : Mdme. Grisi, Mdme. Lorini, Mdme. Zedlatzek,
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. l6(> 
 
 Mdme. Amadei, Mdme. Gassier, Signer Mario, Mr. Ten- 
 nant, Signer Lorini, Signer Albicini, Signer Luigi Mei, 
 Signer Gregorio, Signer Graziani, Signer Revere, Mons. 
 Gassier, Herr Formes. Conductor, Signer Li Calsi; 
 Leader, Mr. Levey ; Prompter, Signor Galli. 
 
 The Operas were : Monday, Sept. isth, " Ernani." 
 Elvira, Mdme. Lorini (first appearance) ; Ernani, Signor 
 Lorini ; Carlo, Graziani ; Silva, Mons. Gassier. 
 
 Tuesday, September i6th. " Lucrezia Borgia." Lu- 
 crezia, Grizi ; Orsini, Amadei ; Gennaro, Mario ; Duca, 
 Gassier ; Gubetta, Signor Rovere (his first appearance) ; 
 Rustighello, Signor Albicini (his first appearance). 
 
 Wednesday, i;th. "II Barbiere." Rosina, Mdme. 
 Gassier; Almaviva, Mario ; Bartolo, Rovere; Figaro, 
 Mons. Gassier ; Basilic, Herr Formes. 
 
 Thursday, 1 8th. " Norma." Norma, Grisi ; Adalgisa, 
 Mdlle. Lorini; Pollio, Signor Lorini; Oroveso, Herr 
 Formes. 
 
 Friday, igth. "Don Pasquale." Norina, Mdme. 
 Gassier ; Ernesto, Mr. Tennant (his first appearance) ; 
 Don Pasquale, Rovere ; Malatesta, Gassier. 
 
 Saturday, 2oth. "La Favorita." Grisi, Mario, Gra- 
 ziani, and Formes. 
 
 Monday, 22nd. " II Trovatore." Leonora, Grisi; 
 Azucena, Mdme. Amadei ; Manrico, Mario ; Conte di 
 Luna, Graziani ; Ferrando, Gassier. 
 
 Tuesday, 23rd. One Act of "Ernani" (as before) ; 
 the second Act of " II Barbiere," and last Act of " Don 
 Pasquale " (as before).. 
 
 Wednesday, 24th. " Norma " (cast as before).
 
 170 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Thursday, 25th. " II Trovatore " (repeat). 
 
 Friday, 2 6th. One Act of " Puritani " Elvira, Mdme. 
 Lorini ; Arturo, Mario ; Ricardo, Graziani ; Georgio, 
 Formes ; concluding with " La Sonnambula " Amina, 
 Mdme. Gassier ; Teresa, Mdlle. Belosio ; Elvino, Albi- 
 cinij Rodolpho, Gassier. 
 
 Saturday, 27th. For the benefit of Mdme. Grisi and 
 Signer Mario. " Lucrezia Borgia." Cast as before. 
 Concluding with the second Act of " II Barbiere." 
 
 Nothing worthy of remark occurred during this engage- 
 ment, except the appearance of Mr. Tennant, who had 
 been known as a "distinguished amateur " in Dublin. He 
 possessed a nicely cultivated tenor voice, but not suffi- 
 ciently powerful for the lyric stage. He was, however, 
 making some way, when his career was cut short by an 
 early death. 
 
 An Italian Opera engagement for four nights, com- 
 mencing on October i4th, 1856, with Mdlle. Piccolo- 
 mini, Mdlle. Borgaro, Signer Rossi, Signer Belletti, Mdlle. 
 Berti, Signer Pierini, Signor Kinni, and Charles Braham. 
 Conductor, Signor Bonetti. 
 
 On Tuesday, October i4th, 1856, was produced Verdi's 
 Opera, "La Traviata." Violetta, Mdlle. Piccolomini; 
 Floria Bervois, Mdlle. Borgaro ; Amiria, Mdlle. Berti ; 
 Alfredo, Mr. Charles Braham ; Dottori Grenvil, Rossi ; 
 Baron Dauphol, Signor Pierini; Marchese D'Obigny, 
 Kinni ; Germont, Signor Belletti. 
 
 The Opera of " La Traviata " had created a great sen- 
 sation in London, in many ways. The subject, taken 
 from the celebrated French novel, " La Dame aux Came-
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 171 
 
 lias," gave much offence to the fastidious portion of the 
 music-loving public. The Opera at first rather "flagged," 
 notwithstanding Piccolomini's extraordinary representation 
 of Violetta. Some strong letters appeared in the Times 
 and other journals, condemning the subject as entirely 
 unfit for the stage, being calculated to excite sympathy 
 with immorality, &c., c. Replies to those epistles ap- 
 peared from Mr. Lumley, then Manager of Her Majesty's. 
 A long correspondence, very animated on both sides, was 
 the result. This had the effect of exciting public curio- 
 sity to such an extreme degree, that the houses " pulled 
 up " considerably ; and at last crowds rushed nightly to 
 see " La Traviata." It was rumoured by some of the 
 manager's kind friends that he was the author of all the 
 letters, pro and con an assertion never proved. How- 
 ever, the success must not be altogether attributed to 
 this newspaper controversy, for Piccolomini was a genius 
 in her way. She was not a great vocalist ; her scale sing- 
 ing was defective, but her beautiful sympathetic voice 
 carried her through the music ; and her acting, particu- 
 larly in the tragic scenes, was fine beyond precedent, 
 compared with lyric artistes. Her assumption of the 
 consumptive cough was most distressingly natural ; and 
 the death-scene produced quite as much sympathy, and 
 caused as death-like a silence, as the best of our trage- 
 dians in the last scene of " The Gamester." A rumour, 
 circulated in Dublin, that the young artiste was related to 
 the Cardinal of the same name, added much to the suc- 
 cess of the engagement. 
 
 Charles Braham was a son of the veteran tenor ; his
 
 172 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 voice in many particulars resembled that of his father ; 
 and although possessing some of the imperfections of his 
 great parent, he was in marked favour with the public. 
 
 Signer Belletti was one of the most accomplished 
 artistes of the day a highly-finished vocalist and a sound 
 musician. 
 
 The character of Violetta has been essayed with much 
 success by many great artistes, but there was a specialty 
 attached to Piccolomini's version which left a lasting im- 
 pression. It would be unjust not to record the great 
 capacity of Signer Bonetti as Conductor. This was his 
 first and only visit to Dublin ; he enjoyed an extended 
 Continental reputation. 
 
 On Wednesday, October i5th, "La Figlia del Reggi- 
 mento " was given. Maria, Mdlle. Piccolomini ; La Mar- 
 chesa, Mdlle. Borgaro ; Tonio, Mr. C. Braham ; Corpo- 
 rale, Signor Kinni ; Sulpizio, Signor Belletti. 
 
 Piccolomini's Maria was highly characteristic and ani- 
 mated, but, as might be supposed, the vocalism fell far 
 short of that of Jenny Lind. 
 
 On Thursday, October i6th, "Don Pasquale," was 
 performed. Norina, Piccolomini ; Ernesta, Charles 
 Braham ; Malatesta, Belletti ; Don Pasquale, Rossi ; 
 Notaro, Mariani. 
 
 On Saturday, October i8th, the engagement con- 
 cluded with a repetition of " La Traviata." Cast as be- 
 fore. 
 
 Piccolomini's fascinating manner attracted many friends, 
 and during her short career her engagements were most 
 profitable to her managers and to herself.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 173 
 
 In March, 1857, the following announcement .ap- 
 peared : " Mr. Harris has the honour to announce that, 
 in compliance with the earnest solicitations of her mime, 
 rous admirers, and the express wish of the public in gene- 
 ral, he has made arrangements with the celebrated artiste, 
 Miss Catherine Hayes, to appear for a limited number of 
 nights in Italian Operas, supported by an efficient Com- 
 pany, selected from the principal Opera-houses of Eu- 
 rope. Prima-donna, Miss Catherine Hayes ; Contralto, 
 Mdlle. L. Corelli ; Tenors, Signori Volpini (his first ap- 
 pearance), Mr. W. J. Tennant ; Baritones, Signor Badiali 
 (from La Scala, Milan; his first appearance), Signor 
 Pierini ; Buffo, Signor Maggiorotti (his first appearance) ; 
 Signor Mariani. Conductor, Herr Anschuez ; Prompter, 
 Signor Galli; Stage Director, Mons. Martini. The or- 
 chestra and chorus will be considerably augmented, under 
 the direction of Mr. Levey." 
 
 On Monday, March i6th, 1857, "Lucia di Lammer- 
 moor." Lucia, Miss Hayes ; Aston, Signor Badiali ; 
 Edgardo, Signor Volpini; Raimondo, Signor Pierini; 
 Arturo, Signor Mariani. 
 
 On Thursday, March igth, "Don Pasquale." Norina, 
 Catherine Hayes; Ernesto, Mr. Tennant; Malatesta, 
 Signor Badiali ; Don Pasquale, Signor Maggiorotti. 
 
 On Saturday, March 2ist, " Norma." Norma, 
 Catherine Hayes ; Adalgisa, Miss Julia Cruise ; Pollio, 
 Signor Volpini ; Flavio, Mariani ; Oroveso, Signor 
 Badiali. 
 
 On Monday, March 23td,' " Linda di Chamouni." 
 Linda, Miss C. Hayes ; Pierotto, Mdlle. Corelli ; Carlo,
 
 174 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Mr. Tennant ; Intendente, Signer Mariani ; Antonio, 
 Signer Badiali ; Marquis, Maggiorotti. 
 
 Thursday, March 26th. " Norma." Cast as before. 
 
 Saturday, z8th. " Linda." As before. 
 
 Monday, March 3oth, 1857. "Lucrezia Borgia." 
 Lucrezia, C. Hayes ; Orsini, Mdlle. Corelli ; Gennaro, 
 Volpini ; Alfonso, Badiali ; Gubetta, Signer Magiorrotti ; 
 Petrucci, Pierini ; Rustighello, Mariani ; Gazella, Dun- 
 elli ; Vitellozzo, Hortinelli ; Liverotto, Benelle ; Astolfo, 
 Casaboni. 
 
 Although the Lucrezia of Catherine Hayes lacked the 
 power of other great artistes who had and have since ap- 
 peared in the part, still, in dramatic conception, it was in 
 every respect a study of high artistic merit. The change 
 of hair, naturally light, to a very dark colour, made a 
 striking alteration in Miss Hayes' appearance ; her classic 
 features and commanding figure lending additional effect. 
 The tragic scenes were given with much force ; and, in- 
 deed, the performance, as a whole, proved that the Irish 
 prima-donna was equally at home in the heavier as in the 
 lighter roles of the lyric drama. The name Dunelli (at- 
 tached to the part of Gazella) was an excusable change 
 from Dunn, the possessor of which was a member of the 
 company pressed into the service, and who had a capital 
 bass voice. Hortonelli was also a member of the 
 "stock " (Horton). Such changes are not more startling 
 than Foli (Foley), Bentami (Bentham), Campobello 
 (Campbell), &c., &c. 
 
 Some of the Italian impresarii found it difficult to 
 Italianize the name of Hayes ; so it appears to have been
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 175 
 
 compromised, as in some foreign programmes the name 
 appears as " Katarina Hayes." The name of Balfe was, 
 during his sojourn in Italy, Signer Balfi. 
 
 Thursday, April 2nd, " La Sonnambula." Amina, 
 Catherine Hayes ; Lisa, Miss F. Cruise ; Elvino, Volpini ; 
 Rodolpho, Badiali. 
 
 A more effective performance of this work has seldom 
 been witnessed in " the Royal." Amina caused enthu- 
 siasm from beginning to end. The finale, " Ah, non 
 giunge," fully equalling any other effort either before or 
 since. Miss Fanny Cruise (then at her best), a highly- 
 finished vocalist a pupil of T. Blanchard, as before stated 
 was, perhaps, as efficient a representative of Lisa as 
 ever " trod the boards." Volpini's Elvino was blameless ; 
 and the Rodolpho of the veteran Badiali was something 
 to remember a study in every particular for all aspiring 
 young artistes. 
 
 Saturday, April 4th, 1857. Two Acts of " Don Pas- 
 quale," and two Acts of " Lucia." Casts as before. Miss 
 Hayes singing between the Operas " The Harp that 
 Once," and " Home, sweet Home," with extraordinary 
 success. 
 
 The Company proceeded to Cork and Limerick, 
 where in the latter city especially a great ovation 
 again naturally awaited the appearance of the native 
 prima-donna. 
 
 A re-engagement of the Catherine Hayes' Company 
 took place for three nights only, commencing on Tues- 
 day, April 2ist, 1857, with "Trovatore." Leonora, C. 
 Hayes \ Azucena, Mdlle, Corelli ; Manrico, Volpini ;
 
 176 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Conte di Luna, Badiali ; Ferrando, Pierini. An excellent 
 performance " all round," but especially remarkable by 
 the wonderful singing and acting of the immortal Badiali. 
 Comparisons are at all times odious, more particularly in 
 matters of art ; but the great old man suffered nothing 
 whatever even in comparison with the most eminent of 
 baritones who had preceded him Graziani. All the 
 freshness of voice and beauty of style of the younger 
 artist seemed concentrated, even improved, in the " old 
 man eloquent." All living witnesses who were present 
 on the occasion will vouch for the truth of this not ex- 
 aggerated criticism of Signer Badiali. 
 
 Thursday, 23rd. " Trovatore " repeated. Saturday, 
 24th. " Lucrezia Borgia," as before. 
 
 The next Italian Opera Company was, indeed, a strong 
 one, and consisted of Mr. Gye's Covent Garden troupe, 
 being the first and only speculation in Dublin of that dis- 
 tinguished impresario. The list included Madame Bosio 
 (her first appearance), Madame Didier, Madame Taglia- 
 fico, Mdlle. Parepa, Mdlle. Victoire Balfe (her first ap- 
 pearance), Signer Gardoni, Signer Neri Baraldi (his first 
 appearance), Signer Graziani, Signer Tagliafico, Herr 
 Zegler (his first appearance), Signer Polonini, and Signer 
 Ronconi (his first appearance). Conductor, Mr. Alfred 
 Mellon ; Prompter, Signer Monterasi ; Acting and Stage 
 Manager, Mr. A. Harris ; Leader, Mr. Levey. The 
 orchestra and chorus were strengthened by " considerable 
 additions from the Royal Italian Opera." The magnifi- 
 cent costumes and appointments of the Covent Garden 
 establishment were also made available on this occasion.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 177 
 
 Monday, August 3rd. "Lucia di Lammermoor." 
 Lucia, Mdlle. Victoire Balfe (her first appearance) ; Alice, 
 Mdme. Tagliafico ; Enrico, Graziani ; Raimondo, Zegler ; 
 Normanno, Polonini ; Arturo, Cherricci ; Edgardo, Neri 
 Baraldi. 
 
 Tuesday, August 4th. " Rigoletto." Gilda, Bosio ; 
 Madelena, M. Didie ; Giovanna, Mdme. Tagliafico ; 
 Duca, Neri Baraldi ; Sparafolle, Signer Tagliafico ; Mon- 
 terone, Signer Polonini ; Rigoletto, Ronconi. 
 
 Wednesday, August 5th. " Sonnambula." Amina, 
 Victoire Balfe ; Lisa, Mdme. Tagliafico ; Teresa, Mdme. 
 Cherricci ; Rodolfo, Ronconi ; Alessio, Polonini ; Elvino, 
 Signer Gardoni. 
 
 Thursday, 6th. "FraDiavolo." Zerlina, Mdme. Bosio ; 
 Lady Allcash, Mdme. Parepa; Fra Diavolo, Gardoni; 
 Lorenzo, Neri Baraldi ; Matteo, Polonini ; Beppo, Tag- 
 liafico j Giacomo, Herr Zegler; Lord Allcash, Signer 
 Ronconi. 
 
 Friday, yth. " La Favorita." Leonora, Mdme. Didie ; 
 Inez, Mdme. Tagliafico ; Alfonso, Signer Graziani ; Bal- 
 dassare, Zegler; Gaspardo, Polonini; Fernando, Neri 
 Baraldi. 
 
 Saturday. " Trovatore." Leonora, Mdme. Bosio ; 
 Azucena, Mdme. Didie ; Inez, Mdme. Tagliafico ; II 
 Conte di Luna, Graziani ; Ferrando, Signer Tagliafico ; 
 Ruiz, Signer Cherricci ; Manrico, Neri Baraldi. 
 
 Monday. "La Traviata." Violetta, Mdme. Bosio; 
 Florio Bervois, Mdme. Tagliafico ; Amiria, Mdme. Cher- 
 ricci ; Alfredo, Gardoni ; Grenvill, Zelger ; Dauphol, Polo- 
 nini ; D'Obigny, Signor Tagliafico ; Germont, Graziani.
 
 178 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Tuesday. " Puritani." Elvira, Mdlle. Victoire Balfe ; 
 Henrietta, Mdme. Tagliafico ; Sir R. Forth, Graziani ; 
 Sir George, Tagliafico ; Lord Walton, Polonini ; Arthur 
 Talbot, Gardoni. After which a Scene from " Lucrezia 
 Borgia " " II Segreto," by Mdme. Didie concluding 
 with the last Act of " La Favorita." 
 
 Wednesday. " Trovatore," as before. 
 
 Thursday, August i3th, 1857, for the benefit of Mdlle. 
 Victoire Balfe. The First and Third Acts of " La Son- 
 nambula ; " cast as before. Followed by a Concert, as 
 follows : " Kathleen Mavourneen," Mdlle. Parepa ; 
 " The Flowers of the Forest," Signer Neri Baraldi ; "Ah, 
 mon Fils," Mdme. Didie; Ballad, "You'll remember 
 me," Gardoni; Ballad, " I dreamt that I dwelt in Marble 
 halls," Mdlle. Victoire Balfe. On this occasion, Mr. M. 
 W. Balfe presided at the piano, it being announced as 
 "his first appearance these ten years." The performance 
 concluded with " L'Elisir d'Amore," compressed into one 
 Act. Adina, Mdlle. Parepa ; Gianetta, Mdme. Taglia- 
 fico ; Nemorino, Neri Baraldi ; Belcore, Tagliafico ; Dul- 
 camara, Ronconi. 
 
 Friday, i4th. " Fra Diavolo," " in consequence of the 
 unprecedented success of the Opera." 
 
 Saturday, August i5th, 1857, for the benefit of Mdme. 
 Bosio, " Lucrezia Borgia," with (as announced) " the 
 following unprecedented cast, viz. : Lucrezia Borgia, 
 Mdme. Bosio ; Maffio Orsini, Mdme. Didie ; Gennaro, 
 Neri Baraldi ; Don Alfonso, Ronconi ; Rustighello (for 
 this occasion only), Graziani ; Petrucci, Polonini ; Gu- 
 betta, Signor Tagliafico ; Vitellozo, Herr Zegler.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 179 
 
 This was the last night of the most complete Italian 
 Company which ever had been heard up to that date in 
 the Royal. The chorus and band had formerly been 
 supplied from local resources ; now some of the " pick " 
 of both departments, from the most perfect choral and 
 orchestral organization in Europe nay, we might say, in 
 the world joined with their powerful aid. The cos- 
 tumes and appointments in every department were per- 
 fect ; the dresses of the chorus, and all the minor parts, 
 being supplied from the wonderful wardrobe of Covent 
 Garden. It was, indeed, a novelty here to behold so 
 perfect an ensemble. In addition, the combination of 
 principal artistes was unprecedented. Of course much 
 curiosity existed with reference to the first appearance of 
 Victoire Balfe, who, as may be perceived, was accom- 
 panied by her celebrated father. He was not attached to 
 the Company, but was naturally intensely interested in 
 her success, and travelled with her all through the tour, 
 playing the piano accompaniments when required. She 
 was, as may be supposed, an accomplished artiste, and 
 had studied with Garcia, Jenny Lind's professor. Added 
 to a most prepossessing appearance, her figure was grace- 
 ful and elegant ; and in her acting she displayed a pre- 
 mature ease and knowledge of the stage remarkable, con- 
 sidering her youth, as she was then only about eighteen 
 or nineteen years of age. After a short and successful 
 career, she retired, and, as is well known, married Sir 
 John Crampton, then English ambassador at Madrid. 
 
 The first appearance of Bosio was also an event to be 
 remembered. This wonderful creature seemed to com-
 
 l8o ANNALS OF THE 
 
 bine all the qualities, " all the talents " of all the great 
 ones who had appeared before, and, it might be said, of 
 any who have since been heard. Like Cruvelli, she only 
 paid one visit to Dublin, and the impression created by 
 each of those great artistes was very much alike, both 
 possessing many similar artistic qualities. Notwithstand- 
 ing the great success of Piccolomini in " Traviata," the 
 Violetta of Bosio was considered by critics a performance 
 of a much higher class ; and from a musical point of 
 view, no doubt could exist of the justice of this decision. 
 The harrowing death-scene was not so melodramatic, but 
 not the less telling. 
 
 The name of Parepa added great strength to this list of 
 distinguished vocalists. With all the qualifications of a 
 great lyric artiste a magnificent voice, of wonderful com- 
 pass and the highest cultivation, dramatic capability 
 equal to any "walk," tragic or comic, a commanding 
 figure, and highly classic features Mdlle. Parepa was a 
 " host in herself." It is hardly necessary to say that she 
 became Mdme. Parepa-Rosa by marriage with the re- 
 nowned impresario, Carl Rosa, and, to the great grief of 
 her husband, and to the extreme regret of the whole 
 musical world, she was prematurely taken away at a com- 
 paratively early age, and at the very meridian of 'a bril- 
 liant and splendid career. 
 
 Mdme. Didie was a contralto of first-rate capacity. 
 Gardoni, elegant in appearance, and then at his best, 
 was, amongst a large portion of the ttitc of London and 
 Paris, the favourite tenor. Neri Baraldi created quite a 
 sensation in Dublin. Graziani had already made his
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. l8l 
 
 mark. Ronconi (first appearance), the greatest artiste of 
 the day, not alone as a vocalist, but as an actor, com- 
 pleted the list of this remarkable combination. The 
 Operas, as already remarked, were mounted in a style of 
 unprecedented perfection ; and the result heavy loss ! 
 So bad, that the late Mr. Gye never could be induced to 
 try again his luck in Dublin. 
 
 It would be fruitless to enter into the cause of this; but 
 after a long experience, it is unfortunately too true that a 
 great musical ensemble is not sufficiently appreciated in 
 Dublin; that is to say, a "star" one name placed in large 
 letters at the head of the bills will "draw," when a number 
 of names, if not well known, will fail ; and the pecuniary 
 result will show a large balance in favour of the starring 
 system. In proof of this fact, the Piccolomini engage- 
 ment, shortly before and after, with a comparatively weak 
 troupe to support her, produced nearly double the sum. 
 Matters may have since improved somewhat, but not 
 sufficiently so that we may congratulate ourselves. Several 
 recent instances might be quoted in support of this view. 
 
 Monday, September 2ist, 1857, the following Italian 
 Opera engagement commenced : Mdme. Grisi, Mdme. 
 Alboni, Mdme. Gassier, Mdme. Gramaglia, Mdlle. Bail- 
 Ion, Signer Dragone, Mr. George Perrin, Signer Annoni, 
 Signer Benedetti, Mr. Tennant, Signor Mario, Signor 
 Baillon, Signor Kinni, Signor Gabussi, Signor Deriviz. 
 Prompter, Signor Galli ; Conductor, Signor Stanzieri. 
 
 Monday, September 2 ist, 1857. " La Traviata." Vio- 
 letta, Mdme. Gassier ; Alfredo, Signor Mario ; Germont, 
 Signor Dragone.
 
 1 82 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Tuesday, 22nd. "IlTrovatore." Leonora, Mdme. Grisi; 
 Azucena, Mdme. Alboni ; Inez, Mdlle. Baillon ; Conte 
 di Luna, Signer Dragone ; Ferrando, Signer Kinni ; Man- 
 rico, Signer Mario. 
 
 This was announced as an unprecedented cast, but the 
 only remarkable feature was the Azucena of Alboni, 
 whose singing was, of course, magnificent ; but as a dra- 
 matic representation, it was far inferior to many others 
 witnessed on previous occasions. 
 
 Wednesday, 23rd. " Norma." Norma, Mdme. Grisi ; 
 Adalgisa, Mdme. Gassier ; Clotilda, Mdme. Baillon ; 
 Oroveso, Signer Deriviz ; Flavio, Gabussi ; Pollio, 
 Benedetti. 
 
 Thursday, 24th. "Lucrezia Borgia." Lucrezia, Grisi ; 
 Maffeo Orsini, Alboni ; Alfonso, Signor Deriviz ; Astolfo, 
 Mattoni ; Gubetta, Kinni ; Gazella, Signor Baillon ; Rus- 
 tighello, Signor Annoni; Liverotto, Signor Gabussi; 
 Petrucci, Signor Chiesi ; Gennaro, Mario. 
 
 Friday, 25th. " Sonnambula." Amina, Mdme. Gas- 
 sier ; Lisa, Mdme. Gramaglia ; Teresa, Mdme. Baillon ; 
 Rodolfo, Signor Baillon ; Allessio, Signor Mattoni ; El- 
 vino, Signor Benedetti. 
 
 This performance of " Sonnambula " was only remark- 
 able for the wonderful vocal efforts of Mdme. Gassier, 
 who, in the faiak, reached the extraordinary vocal height 
 of A in alt, the highest note ever attempted on the Dublin 
 stage. 
 
 Saturday, 26th. " Trovatore " repeated. 
 
 Monday, 28th. " Semiramide." Semiramide, Grisi; 
 Arsace, Alboni ; Idreno, Mr. Tennant ; Assur, Signor
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 1 8$ 
 
 Deriviz ; Oroe, Signer Baillon ; L'Ombra di Nino, Signor 
 Kinni. 
 
 Old Opera-goers will remember the grand performance 
 of the duet by Grisi and Alboni, more particularly 
 " Giorno d' orrore." 
 
 Tuesday, 2Qth. "Traviata" repeated; after which 
 " Ah, non giunge " by Madame Gassier. 
 
 Wednesday. " Don Giovanni." Donna Anna, Grisi ; 
 Zerlina, Alboni; Donna Elvira, Mdme. Gassier; Don 
 Giovanni, Signor Dragone ; Leporello, Signor Deriviz ; 
 Commendatore, Signor Kinni ; Masetto, Signor Baillon ; 
 Don Ottavio, Signor Benedetti. 
 
 The enormous size of Alboni rendered the appearance 
 of Zerlina peculiar. The transposition of the song, 
 " Batti, batti," a full tone below the original, considerably 
 marred the effect, as the violoncello obligato is thereby 
 spoiled. However, the change becomes necessary with 
 contralto vocalists. The appeal to Masetto during the 
 song was, on this occasion, rather forcible ; he was in 
 person the reverse of muscular or powerful ; and the 
 sudden concussion with such an immense body of ani- 
 mated matter as Zerlina presented was well-nigh causing 
 a curious scene, for if one " gave way" the other would 
 have followed. However, by a little artistic management 
 on Zerlina's part, matters righted themselves, and a little 
 sensation in the pit was the only result. 
 
 Thursday, " Les Huguenots." Valentine, Grisi ; Mar- 
 guerite, Mdme. Gassier ; Urbano, Mdme. Gramaglia ; 
 Raoul, Signor Benedetti ; Marcello, Signor Deriviz ; San 
 Bris, Signor Baillon ; Nevers, Signor Kinni ; Tavannes,
 
 1 84 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Signer Annoni ; Cosse, Signer Gabussi; Meru, Signer 
 Mattoni ; Retz, Signer Talamo. 
 
 With the exception of Grisi's great impersonation of 
 Valentine, there was nothing worthy of much notice in 
 this performance. 
 
 Friday, October znd. Repetition of " Don Giovanni." 
 Saturday, 3rd. " Les Huguenots." Last night. 
 
 First appearance of Giuglini. 
 
 On Monday, October izth, 1857, the following Italian 
 Opera engagement commenced: Mdlle. Spezia (first 
 appearance), Mdlle. Porna, Mdlle. Ortolani, Signor Giug- 
 lini (his first "appearance), Signor Aldighieri, Signor Via- 
 letti, Signor Rossi, Signor Belletti. Conductor, Signor 
 Arditi ; Leader, Mr. Levey. 
 
 Monday. " II Trovatore." Leonora, Mdlle. Spezia ; 
 Azucena, Mdlle. Poma ; II Conte di Luna, Aldighieri ; 
 Ferrando, Vialetti ; Ruiz,j Signor Mercuriali ; Manrico, 
 Signor Giuglini. 
 
 Tuesday. " La Figlia del Reggimento." Marie, Mdlle, 
 Piccolomini ; La Marchesa, Mdlle. Poma ; Tonio, Signor 
 Luchesi ; Pesano, Signor Mercuriali ; Sergeant Sulpizio, 
 Signor Belletti. 
 
 Wednesday. " La Traviata." Violetta, Piccolomini ; 
 Florio Bervois, Mdlle. Poma ; Alfredo, Signor Giuglini ; 
 Gastone, Signor Mercuriale ; Dottore, Signor Rossi ; Ger- 
 mont, Signor Belletti. 
 
 Thursday, October 1 5th. " La Sonnambula." Amina, 
 Mdlle. Ortolani (her first appearance) ; Lisa, Mdlle. Poma ; 
 Elvino, Signor Giuglini ; Rodolpho, Belletti. 
 
 Saturday. " Lucia di Lammermoor." Lucia, Picco-
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 185 
 
 lomini ; Enrico, Belletti ; Bidebent, Signer Vialetti ; Ar- 
 turo, Signer Mercuriale ; Edgardo, Giuglini. 
 
 Monday, October igih. " La Traviata," as before. 
 
 Tuesday. "Don Pasquale." Norina, Piccolomini; 
 Ernesto, Signer Luchesi ; Malatesta, Belletti ; Don Pas- 
 quale, Rossi. Also, the Third Act of " La Favorita." 
 Leonora, Mdlle. Spezia; Baldassare, Signer Vialetti, 
 Fernando, Signor Giuglini; Walter, Signer Mercuriale; 
 Riccardo, Signor Belletti. 
 
 Wednesday, October 2ist. "I Puritani." Elvira, 
 Mdlle. Ortolani; Enrichetta, Mdlle. Poma ; Arturo, 
 Giuglini ; Georgio, Signor Vialetti. 
 
 Thursday. "La Figlia," as before; and last Act of 
 " Lucia." 
 
 Friday. Benefit of Giuglini, " I Puritani," as before. 
 
 Saturday. Last night, " Don Giovanni." 
 
 This formed the fourth Italian Opera engagement during 
 the year 1857, an unprecedented occurrence in the annals 
 of " the Royal," and which has never since been re- 
 peated ; the prima-donnas being Grisi, Catherine Hayes, 
 Mdme. Bosio, and Piccolomini. The last of the four 
 engagements was, indeed, remarkable for the first ap- 
 pearance of Giuglini. Report had combined all the 
 qualities of Mario and Rubini in this wonderful tenor, 
 and facts fully verified the report. The style was not so 
 florid as that of Rubini ; Mario had, perhaps, some supe- 
 rior qualities, and was a better actor ; but " take him for 
 all in all," so satisfying a tenor as Giuglini never appeared. 
 The most enchanting " timbre" of voice, the highest pos- 
 sible finish in style every single note producing the im-
 
 i86 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 pression of severe study the effect on the audience was, 
 indeed, electrifying. London was naturally raised to the 
 highest pitch of enthusiasm by the appearance of this 
 new and unexpected star in the lyric firmament, and in 
 each successive part his reputation seemed, if possible, to 
 increase. The Dublin audience did not fail to appreciate 
 Giuglini, and fiat to the fullest extent the opinion of 
 London on this occasion which is not always the case ; 
 as some tenors have since appeared with the London 
 stamp, whose efforts have not been so highly appreciated 
 in Dublin perhaps from the fact that the London criti- 
 cisms were much overwrought a great mistake, most un- 
 fair and injurious to the artist criticized. It is sad to re- 
 late the end of poor Giuglini. He died in an asylum in 
 London, in a state bordering on idiocy. Although given to 
 simple, boyish ways in private life, such as kite-flying, &c., 
 there was nothing to indicate so fearful a breakdown in 
 intellect. His extreme care at rehearsals was most re- 
 markable ; and his suggestions with reference to the or- 
 chestral accompaniment were most artistic, when he 
 wished for a pianissimo or crescendo at any particular 
 point. As before remarked, every individual note seemed 
 to him of the greatest importance ; and the most minute 
 error, orchestral or choral, would not escape him. He 
 was always much pleased by the applause of the members 
 of the orchestra, which, at rehearsals, was, with Giuglini, 
 more constant and hearty than with any other artist. He 
 always sang in the morning as if before the audience at 
 night (an example which might well be followed by many 
 dramatic artists in their particular line). On one occa
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 187 
 
 sion, at a rehearsal of " La Favorita," Giuglini seemed 
 actually inspired, singing so divinely as to enchant every 
 member of the company present. The repeated bursts 
 of applause pleased him so much, that he exerted his 
 voice almost to exhaustion, against the advice of the 
 leader ; and consequently in the evening the wondrous 
 voice manifested signs of fatigue. All who remember 
 this rehearsal still look back, with a "longing, lingering" 
 wish that the day might "come again." Giuglini en- 
 joyed a game of pool, in which he joined at the billiard 
 table attached to the Theatre, and at which only a few 
 chosen friends of the outside world were privileged to 
 partake. The great tenor seemed to appreciate the small 
 coin of sixpence, earned for a " life " taken by him, much 
 more than the large premium of ^50, or perhaps ^60, 
 paid for each night's professional services. A revenue ex- 
 ceeding that of an English Lord Chancellor, nay, that of 
 a Prime Minister, awaits a legitimate and real successor to 
 Giuglini. 
 
 During this last engagement, Signer Arditi made his 
 first appearance in Dublin as conductor of the Italian 
 Opera. He at once established himself a favourite with 
 the audience, who fully appreciated his masterly capa- 
 bilities for his high position. He has up to the present 
 (1878) continued, with few interruptions, to visit us, and 
 still meets with the strongest possible demonstrations of 
 almost affectionate favour, which will doubtless continue 
 as long as he fulfils the same office in Dublin. 
 
 In July, 1858, Mdme. Gassier appeared in a series of 
 concerts given by Mr. Harris (in connection with the
 
 1 88 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 firm of Cramer, Beale & Co.) at the Rotundo Gardens ; 
 the " venue " being changed, after a few nights, to the 
 Portobello Gardens, as it was found that the music and 
 fireworks could be enjoyed at the Rotundo quite as well, 
 if not better, outside the railings of the gardens as in- 
 side " distance lending enchantment " to sound as well 
 as view. The public did not fail to take advantage of 
 this poetic fact, and the enormous crowds of non-paying 
 outsiders presented a strong contrast to the simple- 
 minded few who paid to become insiders the former in- 
 creasing, the latter decreasing nightly. Some amusing 
 episodes resulted. On the third evening a rather long 
 delay occurred, and the band (the Garde Nationale of 
 Paris) were half-an-hour late in attendance. During this 
 " wait," the outside public manifested strong signs of im- 
 patience, while the paying few inside enjoyed their pro- 
 menade without the slightest signs of disapproval. Mr. 
 Levey, not being musically engaged, was assisting in the 
 business department (giving tickets, checks, &c.) at the 
 gate attached to the railings in Rutland-square. His 
 duties in " money-taking " were not heavy, but he had to 
 bear several severe rebukes from those who were 
 anxiously awaiting their gratuitous musical and pyro- 
 technic treat. " What's the delay, Lavey ? " " Are you 
 goin' to keep us standin' out here all night?" and such 
 searching inquiries were directed on the poor temporary 
 official. At last, his patience being exhausted, one indig- 
 nant " member " raised himself on the curb-stone, looked 
 over the palisading, and called out : " Look here, Lavey, 
 tell Harris if you don't begin soon, we'll all go home ! "
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 189 
 
 We adjourned the next evening to the Portobello 
 Gardens, where to enjoy the sound and sight the money 
 should be forthcoming. The name of Mdme. Gassier, as 
 connected with the Italian Opera, will be our excuse for 
 this digression. 
 
 Wednesday, August nth, 1858, the following Italian 
 Opera Company commenced : Mdlle. Piccolomini (her 
 farewell engagement previous to her departure for 
 America), Mdme. Viardot Garcia, Mdme. Ghioni, Signer 
 Giuglini, Signer Vialetti, Signer Aldighieri, Signer Cas- 
 telli, Signer Mercuriale, Signer Rossi, Signer Belart. 
 Conductor, Signor Arditi ; Leader, Mr. Levey. 
 
 Wednesday, August nth, 1858. "La Figlia." Maria, 
 Piccolomini ; Marchese, Mdme. Ghioni ; Sulpizio, Signor 
 Vialetti; Hortensio, Signor Castelli; Notaro, Signor 
 Mercuriale ; Tonio, Signor Belart (his first appearance in 
 Dublin). 
 
 Thursday. " II Trovatore." Leonora, Piccolomini ; 
 Azucena, Viardot Garcia; Inez, Mdme. Ghioni; Conte 
 di Luna, Signor Aldighieri ; Ferrando, Signor Vialetti ; 
 Ruiz, Signor Mercuriale ; Zingaro, Signor Castelli ; Man- 
 rico, Giuglini. 
 
 Saturday, August i4th. "La Traviata." Violetta, 
 Piccolomini; Flora, Mdme. Ghioni; Germont, Aldi- 
 ghieri ; Dottore, Castelli ; Marchese, Mercuriale ; Barone, 
 Rossi; Alfredo, Giuglini. 
 
 Monday, August i6th. First time of "La Zingara," 
 the Italian version of Balfe's " Bohemian Girl," as per- 
 formed at Her Majesty's Theatre with unprecedented 
 success. Zerlina, Mdlle. Piccolomini ; Yelva (Queen of
 
 IQO ANNALS OF THE 
 
 the Gipsies), Mdme. Viardot Garcia ; II Conte Abano, 
 Signer Aldighieri ; Frederico, Signer Mercuriali ; Un 
 Officiate, Signer Castelli; Falco, Signer Vialetti ; Gual- 
 tiero, Signer Giuglini. 
 
 Tuesday, lyth. " Don Giovanni." Donna Anna, Viar- 
 dot Garcia ; Zerlina, Mdlle. Piccolomini ; Elvira, Mdme. 
 Ghioni ; Don Giovanni, Signer Aldighieri Leporello, 
 Rossi ; Commendatore, Vialetti ; Masetto, Signer Cas- 
 telli ; Don Ottavio, Giuglini. 
 
 Wednesday, i8th. " II Trovatore," repeated. 
 
 Thursday, igth. "II Barbiere." Ronna, Viardot 
 Garcia ; Berta, Mdme. Ghioni ; Figaro, Signer Aldi- 
 ghieri ; Bartolo, Signer Rossi ; Basilio, Signer Vialetti ; 
 Officiate, Castelli; Notario, Mercuriale; Conte Alma- 
 viva, Signer Belart. 
 
 Saturday, 2ist. "Lucia di Lammermoor." Lucia, 
 Mdlle. Piccolomini : Ashton, Aldighieri ; Arturo, Signer 
 Mercuriale ; Bidebent, Vialetti ; Edgardo, Giuglini. 
 
 Monday, 23rd. " La Traviata," repeated. 
 
 Tuesday, 24th. " La Figlia," as before. 
 
 Wednesday, 25th. "La Sonnambula." Amina (her 
 first appearance in that character in Dublin), Mdlle. Pic- 
 colomini ; Lisa, Mdme. Ghioni ; Notario, Signer Mercu- 
 riale ; Allessio, Signer Castelli ; Count Rodolfo, Signer 
 Vialetti ; Elvino, Giuglini. 
 
 Thursday, 26th. " Lucia," as before ; with a Scena 
 and Duo from " I Martiri " (first time in Dublin), by 
 Mdlle. Piccolomini and Signor Giuglini. 
 
 Saturday, August 28th. Farewell benefit of Mdlle. 
 Piccolomini, and last night of the engagement. Last Act
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 19* 
 
 of " La Zingara," as before ; followed by the first and 
 last Acts of " La Traviata ; " after which the Scena and 
 Duo from " I Martiri," concluding with a Farewell 
 Cantata, composed expressly for the occasion, and sung 
 by the entire Company, aided by the chorus and military 
 band. Music by Signer Giuglini ; Poetry by Signer Al- 
 dighieri ; Instrumentation by Signer Arditi. 
 
 GLI ITALIANI AGLI IRLANDESI ADDIO. 
 
 Coro. 
 
 Viva 1'Irlanda, libera e grande ! 
 
 Viva il tuo ciels, viva il tuo suol ! 
 Dovunque il raggio del sol se spaaide, 
 
 Dovunque il vento agita il vol, 
 Assisa in grembo della tempesta, 
 
 Come guerriera, pionta a pugnar ; 
 Chini gentila, la bella testa, 
 
 Come fanciulla ch'esce dal mar. 
 
 Terzetto Signori Giuglini, Aldi%hieri $ Vialdti. 
 Addio redente, piaggia Irlandese, 
 
 Addio fratelli, figlia del mar. 
 Sea benedetto, 1'uom che n'appresse 
 
 La vostra sponda a salutar. 
 Ultima giaci Ionian lontano ; 
 
 Come un perduto solingo nor, 
 Ma benche figlia dell' oceano, 
 
 Nutri potenit vita ad amor. 
 
 Solo Mdlle. Piccolomini . 
 Triste, si triste, e 1'abbandono ; 
 Come un accento nol puo ridir.
 
 192 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Partir ci e forza v'offriamo in dono, 
 
 Un mesto vale, ed un sospir. 
 Ma allor che lunge sa questa care 
 
 Terra il piensiero ritornera, 
 Una segreta lagrima amara, 
 
 Sul mesto ciglio ci spuntera. 
 II mesto labbro dira' un addio ; 
 
 L'eco per 1'aere, lo ridera ; 
 Come una prece rivolta a Dio, 
 
 L'onda dei pelaghi vel portera. 
 
 (Translation.) 
 
 THE FAREWELL OF THE ITALIANS TO IRELAND. 
 Hail to thee, Erin, ever great and free ! 
 
 Hail to thy changeful skies, thy fertile land ! 
 Far as the sun extends his generous heat, 
 
 Far as the winds their rapid wings expand. 
 Set 'mid the stormy seas that gird thee round, 
 
 A warrior maid thou seem'st, secure and free ; 
 Or liftest up thy fair head, ocean-crowned, 
 
 Rising in beauty from thy parent sea. 
 
 TrioSignori Giuglini, Aldighieri and Vialetti. 
 Kind friends, farewell ; adieu, each friendly spot ; 
 
 Farewell your beauteous mountains, shores and bays. 
 Happy the hour, and ne'er may be forgot, 
 
 When these first broke upon our wond'ring gaze. 
 Thee from our Italy far realms remove ; 
 
 Thou seem'st to us some lovely flow'r on earth, 
 Radiant with life, and warmth, and love, 
 
 Albeit the cold waves may have given thee birth. 
 
 SoloMdllc. Piccolomini. 
 Glad, oh, how glad, is still the hour we meet ; 
 Sad, oh, how sad, the hour we needs must part.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 193 
 
 The fond farewell I fain would oft repeat, 
 
 The word is lost 'mid sighs that rend my heart. 
 And oft when distant seas between us roll, 
 
 Back to thy loved land will my thoughts return, 
 Regretful memory fill my longing soul, 
 
 And on my eyelids the mute teardrops burn. 
 My lips, when far, will falter forth, " Farewell ! " 
 
 Back by the breeze its echo will be given ; 
 The waves that part us back my thoughts will tell, 
 
 As angels waft the unspoke prayer to Heaven. 
 
 The production of " La Zingara," a very good Italian 
 version of Balfe's " Bohemian Girl," formed the chief 
 event on this occasion. It had been well received in 
 London and on the Continent. The singing of Giuglini 
 was surpassingly beautiful. It may with justice be said 
 that " When other lips " never had such a rendering, 
 either before or since. Indeed, he bestowed especial 
 pains on the study of the part in detail, as well from his 
 high artistic feeling as with the intent of pleasing the 
 fellow-citizens of the composer. The profound silence 
 which prevailed during his singing of the ballad, and the 
 repeated bursts of applause at the end, gave evident 
 signs of his great success. In " When the fair land of 
 Poland," he betrayed most extraordinary power of voice 
 and dramatic force, which seemed to be treasured up for 
 the occasion. Indeed, the Italian Company seemed all 
 " on their mettle ;" for, leaving aside their professional 
 anxiety, Balfe was an especial and personal favourite with 
 all Continental artistes, and each member of the present 
 Company bestowed all possible pains and attention to 
 their several parts. Piccolomini not a great vocalist in the
 
 194 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 true sense seemed to "come out" better as a vocalist in 
 this than in any other Opera. The soprano music, although 
 showy, is not difficult. The first song, " I dreamt that I 
 dwelt," suited her peculiar style, and created at once a good 
 impression ; and the duet with Giuglini, which follows, 
 " The secret of my birth," was a wonderful success the 
 great tenor adding to the effect by, now and then, a 
 judicious " new reading/' without marring the intention 
 of the composer, but, as was ever the case, prompted by 
 careful and conscientious study. Signer Aldighieri, an 
 accomplished artiste, made the most of the Count ; and 
 certainly the Gipsy Queen never had such a represen- 
 tative as Viardot Garcia. It will be inferred that Balfe's 
 work had on this occasion a " good chance," and, in- 
 deed, it was a performance which never can be forgotten 
 by those who were present. 
 
 A large pecuniary success was the result of this en- 
 gagement ; the Morning Concert, on August 2oth, pro- 
 ducing nearly ;6oo. 
 
 It would be unjust to pass over the appearance in this 
 troupe of a charming little tenor of the florid school, 
 Mons. Belart a Frenchman whose singing, more espe- 
 cially as the Count Almaviva in " II Barbiere,'' gave great 
 satisfaction, and caused a universal wish that he might 
 be again heard in Dublin. The school was, of course, 
 quite French, and highly elaborated. The difficult pas- 
 sages in the second movement of " Ecco ridenti " were, 
 perhaps, never given with more precision, and no instru- 
 ment could have given the scales with greater perfection. 
 
 The next Italian engagement commenced on Monday,
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 195 
 
 March 2 8th, 1859 : Mdme. Grisi, Mdme. Viardot 
 Garcia, Mdlle. Zedlatzek, Mdme. Bellosio, Mdlle. Col- 
 berti. Signer Mario, Signer Corsi, Signer Armoni, Signer 
 Lanzoni, Signer Graziani, Signer Kinni, Signer Vairot. 
 Conductor, Signer Stanzieri ; Leader, Mr. Levey. 
 
 On Monday, March 28th, 1859, " II Trovatore." Leo- 
 nora, Grisi ; Azucena, Viardot Garcia ; Inez, Mdlle. 
 Bellosio ; Manrico, Mario ; Conte di Luna, Graziani ; 
 Fernando, Lanzoni ; Ruiz, Annoni. 
 
 Tuesday, 29th. " Norma." Norma, Grisi; Pollio, 
 Mario. 
 
 Wednesday, 30th. Verdi's Opera, " Macbeth " (first 
 (time). Lady Macbeth, Viardot Garcia ; Dama, Mdlle. 
 Sedlatzek ; Macbeth, Signer Graziani ; Banco, Signer 
 Lanzoni ; Macduff, Signer Corsi ; Malcolm, Signer An- 
 noni ; Medico, Signer Vairot ; Silvario, Signer Kinni. 
 
 Thursday, 3 1 st. " Lucrezia Borgia." Lucrezia, Grisi; 
 Maffeo, Sedlatzek ; Gennaro, Mario ; Alphonso, Lanzoni ; 
 Rustighello, Annoni ; Guibetta, Vairot ; Gazella, Kinni. 
 
 Saturday, April 2nd. " Trovatore," as before. 
 
 Monday, April 4th. " Don Giovanni." Donna Anna, 
 Grisi ; Zerlina, Viardot Garcia ; Elvira, Mdlle. Zedlatzek 
 Ottavio, Mario ; Don Giovanni, Graziani ; Leporello, 
 Lanzoni ; Masetto, Kinni ; Commendatore, Kinni. 
 
 Tuesday, 5th. " Lucrezia," repeated. Maffeo, on this 
 occasion, Viardot Garcia. 
 
 Wednesday, 6th. "Macbeth," repeated. 
 
 Thursday, yth. " Norma," repeated. 
 
 Saturday, 9th. First performance in Dublin of " Marta." 
 Tristram, Lanzoni; Lionello, Mario; Phmketto, Gra-
 
 196 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 ziani ; Sheriffo, Kinni ; Lady Henrietta, Grisi ; Nancy, 
 Viardot Garcia. 
 
 Monday, nth. " Marta," repeated. 
 
 Tuesday, i2th. "Trovatore." 
 
 Wednesday, 1 3th. "Macbeth." 
 
 Thursday, i4th. " Marta." 
 
 Saturday, i6th. " Marta," repeated. Grisi's benefit, 
 and last night of the engagement. 
 
 The first performance of " Macbeth " formed a special 
 feature during this engagement. This work contains 
 some of Verdi's best writing and scoring, but the absence 
 of a soprano part has prevented the Opera from be- 
 coming as popular as others by the same eminent com- 
 poser. Lady Macbeth is a mezzo-soprano indeed, 
 almost a contralto part and the interpretation was such as 
 might be expected from the musical and dramatic powers 
 of a Viardot. Her " make-up " was evidently formed on 
 that of Mrs. Siddons ; and in the bedroom scene the 
 likeness to the received portraits of the latter great 
 actress was very striking ; and some very old playgoers, 
 who had seen the sister of the great Kemble act the part 
 in Crow-street Theatre, gave evidence to this effect, and 
 were much struck with Viardot's magnificent perform- 
 ance, which was, indeed, a high Shakesperean study, well 
 worthy of witnessing, even if deprived of the beautiful 
 music. Graziani, also, added much to his already great 
 reputation as a vocalist by his excellent reading, and, in 
 some parts, powerful efforts to do justice, in a histrionic 
 point of view, to the grand part of the great English poet, 
 as far as the crippled medium of a rather weak translation
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 197 
 
 set to music would permit. The witches' choruses in 
 this Opera, although of rather light character for the pon- 
 derous subject, are dramatic and effective, and, as before 
 remarked, the instrumentation excellent, and not over 
 brassed. 
 
 Another important event in our operatic annals was 
 the first performance in Dublin of " Marta," destined to 
 become a most popular and established favourite up to 
 the present, and perhaps for years to come. The cast 
 on this occasion was well calculated to lead to this 
 result, for never since has there been one more com- 
 plete and effective. It is unnecessary to remind Dublin 
 opera-goers of Guila Grisi's Enrichetta, Mario's Lionello, 
 or Graziani's Plunketto ; but we may refer to this the 
 only occasion on which Viardot held forth as Nancy. 
 Those who had seen her "heavy tragedy" the night 
 before, and now beheld her on the "light fantastic," 
 dancing like a sylph (for in everything she was perfect), 
 could hardly believe it was the same person. The 
 effect of " The Last Rose," as given by Grisi now for the 
 first time, may well be conceived ; and the enthusiasm 
 which followed on the repetition (at the encore), with the 
 English words, made so interesting by the slightly broken 
 Italian-English, which is much softer than from the lips 
 of a native of France or Germany. 
 
 From some indescribable cause, the "Spinning Wheel" 
 quartet has never " gone" with such enthusiasm as with 
 Grisi, Viardot, Mario, and Graziani. 
 
 First appearance of Titiens. 
 
 August, 6th, 1859, the following Company was an-
 
 198 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 nounced : Mdlle. Titiens, Mdlle. Guarducci, Mdlle. 
 Vaneri, Mdlle. Dell'Anese, Signer Badiali, Signer Via- 
 letti, Signer Corsi, Signer Castelli, Signer Mercuriali, 
 Signer Rossi, Signer Borchardt, and Signer Giuglini. 
 Conductor, Signer Arditi ; Leader, Mr. Levey. 
 
 On Saturday, August 6th, 1859, " Les Huguenots." San 
 Bris, Badiali ; Conte de Nevers, Signer Borchardt ; Ta- 
 vannes, Signor Mercuriali ; De Retz, Signer Rossi ; 
 Raoul, Signor Giuglini ; Marcello, Signor Vialetti ; 
 Marguarita, Mdlle. Vaneri, ; Urbano, Mdlle. Guarducci ; 
 Dame d'Onore, Mdlle. Dell'Anese ; Valentina, Mdlle. 
 Titiens. 
 
 On Monday, August 8th, " Norma." Pollio, Giuglini ; 
 Flavio, Mercuriale ; Oroveso, Signor Vialetti ; Adalgisa, 
 Mdlle. Vanere; Clotilda, Mdlle. Dell'Anese; Norma, 
 Titiens. 
 
 On Tuesday, gth, " La Favorita," Leonora, Guarducci ; 
 Alfonso, Signor Borchardt ; Baldassore, Signor Vialetti ; 
 Gasparo, Signor Corsi ; Inez, Mdlle. Dell'Anese ; Fer- 
 nando, Giuglini. 
 
 On Wednesday, ioth,'"Trovatore." Manrico, Giuglini; 
 II Conte di Luna, Badiali ; Azucena, Mdlle. Guarducci ; 
 Leonora, Mdlle. Titiens. 
 
 On Friday, izth, " II Barbiere." Figaro, Badiali ; Don 
 Bartolo, Signor Castelli ; Basilio, Vialetti ; Fiorello, 
 Signor Mercuriali ; Conte Almaviva, Corsi ; Berta, Mdlle. 
 Dell'Anese ; Rosina, Mdlle. Guarducci. 
 
 Saturday. " Les Huguenots," repeated. 
 
 On Monday, "Trovatore," repeated. 
 
 On Tuesday, August i6th, " Lucrezia Borgia," Gennaro,
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 1 99 
 
 Giuglini ; Alfonso, Badiale ; Rustighello, Mercuriale ; 
 Astolfo, Borchardt ; Gubetta, Vialetti ; Gazella, Signer 
 Castelli ; Liverotto, Signer Corsi ; Maffio Orsini, Guar- 
 ducci ; Lucrezia Borgia, Titiens. 
 
 On Wednesday, lyth, "Norma," and selections from 
 " II Barbiere." 
 
 On Thursday, i8th, "II Trovatore." Giuglini's benefit. 
 
 On] Saturday, August 2oth, 1859, "Don Giovanni." 
 Benefit of Titiens, and last night of engagement. Donna 
 Anna, Titiens; Elvira, Mdlle. Vaneri ; Zerlina, Mdlle. 
 Guarducci ; Ottavio, Giuglini ; Leporello, Vialetti ; 
 Commendatore, Borchardt ; Maretto, Castelli ; Don 
 Giovanni, Badiali. 
 
 A worthy successor to the great Grisi (now on the 
 " wane ") seemed a distant probability, whenjalmost sud- 
 denly the immortal Titiens made her appearance, and 
 startled the musical world by fulfilling worthily the now 
 almost vacant place. For the lighter works, such as " Don 
 Pasquale," " L'Elisire," &c., in which Grisi was so great, 
 younger artistes were springing up, but the question arose, 
 where is the coming " Norma," " Lucrezia Borgia," " Se- 
 miramide," " Medea," &c. ? Jenny Lind and others 
 had essayed without success ; when now comes one whom 
 the Dublin Press named most aptly the " Queen of Song " 
 and now commences an historic, and indeed an affec- 
 tionate relationship between the Dublin audience and 
 the wonderful Titiens, which continued for 14 or 15 
 years, and was only terminated by her most lamented 
 death. Titiens was indeed great in every particular. 
 Queenly in person and stature, gigantic in talent, and
 
 200 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 possessing a heart (well described by a Dublin " Boy ") 
 as big as herself. By her voice and purse she con- 
 stantly contributed to increase the funds of many 
 charitable institutions, and the extreme kindness with 
 which she tendered her great services, doubly enhanced 
 the favours bestowed. Long years will indeed elapse 
 before the public of Dublin can forget Titiens ! Mdlle. 
 Guarducci was married during this engagement at the 
 Cathedral in Marlborough-street, by the Rev. Canon 
 Murphy (now P.P. of St. Kevin's), on which occasion, 
 at the conclusion of the ceremony, he gave a beautiful 
 address in " very choice Italian." 
 
 On Saturday, October ist, 1859, a short engagement. 
 Mdlle. Piccolomini,Mdlle Dell'Anese, Signer Belart, Sign or 
 Corsi, Signer Aldighieri, Signer Mercuriali, Signer Rossi, 
 Signer Castelli, Signer Badi ; Conductor, Signer Biletta ; 
 Leader, Mr. Levey. 
 
 On Saturday, ist, " La Figlia." Tonio, Belart; Sal- 
 pizio, Aldighieri ; Ortensio, Castelli ; Caporale, Rossi ; 
 Palrano, Mercuriali ; Maria, Piccolomini. 
 
 On Monday, October 3rd, " La Traviata." Germont, 
 Signor Aldighieri ; Duphol, Signer Rossi ; Gastone, 
 Signor Mercuriale; Medico, Signor Castelli; Commis- 
 sionaro, Signor Badi ; Alfredo, Signor Belart ; Flora, 
 Mdlle. Dell'Anese ; Violetta, Mdlle. Piccolomini. 
 
 On Tuesday, 4th, " Lucia." Ashton, Aldighieri ; Be- 
 debent, Castelli ; Arturo, Corsi ; Raimondo, Mercuriali ; 
 Edgardo, Belart ; Alice, Mdlle. Dell'Anese ; Lucia, 
 Piccolomini. 
 
 On Wednesday, " La Figlia" repeated ; and on Satur-
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 
 
 day, repeat of " La Traviata," for the benefit of Mdlle. 
 Piccolomini, and last night. 
 
 On the Saturday following, viz. : October 8th, 1859, 
 Mdlle. Titiens, Mdlle. Dell'Anese, Mdlle. Borchardt, 
 Signer Giuglini, Signer Badiali, Signer Vialetti, Signer 
 Mercuriali. Commenced with " II Trovatore." Manrico, 
 Giuglini ; II Conte di Luna, Badiali ; Fernando, Vialetti ; 
 Ruiz, Mercuriali Azucena, Mdlle. Borchardt ; Inez, 
 Mdlle. Dell'Anese ; Leonora, Titiens. 
 
 On Monday, " Don Giovanni ;" with (as announced), 
 " the following powerful cast " Don Ottavio, Giuglini ; 
 Don Giovanni, Badiali j Leporello, Vialetti ; Commen- 
 datore, Castelli ; Mazetto, Aldighieri ; Donna Anna, 
 Titiens ; Elvira, Mdlle. Vaneri ; Zerlina, Mdlle. Picco- 
 lomini (expressly engaged). 
 
 On Tuesday, October nth, 1859, " II Trovatore." 
 Leonora, Titiens ; Inez, Mdlle. Dell'Anese ; Azucena, 
 Borchardt ; Ruiz, Signer Mercuriali ; Fernando, Signor 
 Vialetti ; Conte di Luna, Badiali ; Manrico, Giuglini. 
 
 On Thursday, i3th, " Marta." Tristano, Signor Cas- 
 telli j Lionelli, Giuglini ; Plunkett, Signor Vialetti ; 
 Sheriffo, Rossi ; Nancy, Mdlle. Borchardt ; Marta, 
 Titiens ; 
 
 And on Saturday, for the joint benefit of Mdlle. Titiens 
 and Signor Giuglini, a repeat of " Marta." Conductor, 
 Signor Arditi. 
 
 NOTE: On the 27th of this month Madame Jenny 
 Liiid Goldsmid visited Dublin, for the purpose of singing 
 at a Concert given for the joint benefit of " Mercer's 
 Hospital" and the "Irish Musical Fund Society," the
 
 202 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 profits of which exceeded ^900, equally divided between 
 the two institutions. Madame Lind not only gave her 
 gratuitous services, but refused her railway fare. 
 
 Mr. Harris, in conjunction with Mr. Willert Beale, 
 announced a short series of Italian Operas, to commence 
 on Monday, February 27th, 1860, supported by Mdlle. 
 Piccolomini, Mdme. Borchardt, Mdme. Gramaglia,Mdme. 
 Rudersdorff, Signor Belart, Signer Mercuriali, Signor 
 Attavilla, Signor Aldighieri, Signor Castelli, Signor 
 Allara, Mr. Patey (Primo Basso del Tetro Reggio 
 Torino). Conductor, Signor Arditi. 
 
 On Monday, February 27th, " La Traviata." Violetta, 
 Piccolomini Alfredo, Belart ; Germont, Aldighieri ; Flora, 
 Mdme. Gramaglia; Barone, Signor Allara ; Gaston, 
 Signor Mercuriali. 
 
 On Tuesday, 28th, "Lucrezia Borgia." Lucrezia, 
 Mdme. Rudersdorff; Gennaro, Signor Attavilla; Duca, 
 Mr. Patey ; Orsini, Madame Borchardt ; Vitellozo, Signor 
 Allara ; Gubetta, Signor Castelli ; Rustighello, Signor 
 Mercuriali. 
 
 On Wednesday, 29th, " La Figlia." Maria, Piccolomini ; 
 Marchesa, Madame Gramaglia ; Salpizio, Signor Castelli ; 
 Ortensio, Signor Allara ; Caporale, Signor Mercuriale ; 
 Tonio, Signor Belart. " II Bacio ;" concluding with a 
 " Valtz Brilliant," sung by Mdlle. Piccolomini, composed 
 expressly for her by Signor Arditi. 
 
 NOTE : This was the first appearance of this Valtz, 
 which has attained great popularity, and still continues 
 by an enormous sale a profit to composer and publisher. 
 
 On Thursday, March ist, "Lucrezia" (repeat).
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 203 
 
 On Friday, and March, " La Traviata " (repeat). 
 
 On Saturday, March 3rd, " I Puritani." Elvira, Mdlle. 
 Piccolomini ; Arturo, Signer Belart ; Giorgio, Mr. Patey ; 
 Riccardo, Signer Aldighieri ; Regina, Mdme. Gramaglia. 
 
 On Monday, March 5th, " Trovatore." Leonora, 
 Madame Rudersdorff; Azucena, Madame Borchardt; 
 Manrico, Signer Attavilla ; Di Luna, Aldighieri ; Fer- 
 rando, Castelli. 
 
 On Tuesday, repeat of " Puritani." 
 
 On Wednesday, " La Figlia," " II Bacio " and the 
 fourth Act of "La Favorita ;" with Piccolomini, Belart, 
 and Patey. 
 
 On Thursday (first time in Dublin), Mozart's " Nozze 
 de Figaro" (in Italian.) Susanna, Mdlle. Piccolomini; 
 Contessa, Mdme. Rudersdorff; Cherubino, Mdme. Bor- 
 chardt ; Barbara, Mdme. Gramaglia ; Conte Almaviva, 
 Signer Aldighieri ; Basilio, Attavilla ; Bartolo, Signer 
 Castelli ; Figaro, Mr. Patey ; Giardiniere, Signer Allara. 
 The following note appeared in the bills of this evening 
 " Mozart is said to have chosen this subject when ordered 
 to compose an Opera for the stage of Vienna, about four 
 years after the appearance of his " Ent fuhring aus den 
 Serail." Its success was not decided, even at rehearsal, 
 when, according to the account left us by Michael Kelly, 
 the enthusiasm both of singers and of the orchestra rose 
 to a pitch that must seem quite incredible to those accus- 
 tomed to a colder mode of expressing satisfaction. Nor 
 did the result disappoint the expectations of the Viennese 
 artistes ; so great was the delight of the audience on its 
 first representation, that scarcely a single piece of music
 
 204 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 was allowed to pass without an encore, in consequence of 
 which the Opera was so extravagantly prolonged, that the 
 Emperor thought himself obliged to interfere, and com- 
 manded that nothing for the future should be called for 
 a second time in the course of the same evening." Oh ! 
 for such an Emperor at the present time ! 
 
 On Saturday, March loth, repeat of "Lucrezia; and 
 first time in Dublin, a " Farsa Musicale " by Fioravante, 
 entitled, " La Serva Padrona." Serpina, Mdlle. Piccolo- 
 mini; Oberto, Signor Castelli: Tempesta,Signor Casalioni. 
 
 Monday, March i2th, repeat of "Le Nozze." 
 
 On Tuesday, i3th, "La Figlia." 
 
 Wednesday, "Trovatore" and " Serva Padrona." 
 
 On Thursday, i5th, "Marta." Enrichetta, Piccolo- 
 mini ; Nancy, Mdme. Rudersdorff (in consequence of 
 Mdme. Borchardt's accident) ; Lionello, Signor Belart ; 
 Plunkett, Signor Aldighieri ; Tristani, Signor Castelli ; 
 Podesta, Signor Mercuriali. 
 
 On Friday, March i6th, a Concert in Rotundo. 
 
 On Saturday, March lyth," Marta." Benefit of Mdlle. 
 Piccolomini, and last night. 
 
 The first performance in Italian of " Le Nozze " marked 
 this engagement, and was decidely the best performed 
 work during the short season. Mdme. RudersdorfFs 
 version of the Countess was marked by the thorough 
 musicianlike qualities which attended every classical role 
 attempted by the same artiste. As before stated, she was 
 daughter of Monsieur Rudersdorff, an excellent violinist ; 
 (a resident in Dublin some years since), who, in'connectioa 
 with Mr. Pigott, the eminent violoncellist, and Mr. John
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 205 
 
 Wilkinson, gave a most successful series of Promenade 
 Concerts at the Rotundo. Mr. Patey, a young English- 
 man, who had pursued his studies in Italy, was an 
 excellent Figaro ; Aldighieri, a capital Count ; and with 
 the minor parts well filled, Mozart's (by some considered) 
 best work was rendered every justice. It has ever since 
 justly increased in public estimation. The accident 
 alluded to, and which caused Mdme. Rudersdorff to 
 undertake the Nancy in " Marta," occurred to Mdme. 
 Borchardt while singing at the window as " Le Nozze " 
 she fell, and hurt severely the cap of her knee ; this, 
 unfortunately, laid her up for the remainder of the 
 engagement, and she was delayed six weeks after at the 
 Gresham Hotel under surgical care. 
 
 The Company performed for two additional nights, 
 viz.: On Thursday, March 2 2nd, "Lucia" (benefit of 
 Mdme. Rudersdorff). Lucia, Mdme. Rudersdorff; Ed- 
 gardo, Signer Belart ; 
 
 And on Saturday, March 24th, 1860, it was announced, 
 " Mdlle. Piccolomini will most positively make her last 
 appearance, and take a formal farewell of the Dublin 
 public in the Opera of ' La Traviata ;' " which was 
 performed with the same cast; concluding with "La 
 Serva Padrona " and " II Bacio." 
 
 The next troupe consisted of Mdme. Grisi, Mdme. 
 Viardot Garcia, Mdme. Orvil, Mdlle. Sedlatzek, Mdme. 
 Rita, Madame Gassier, Signor Mario, Signer Angelo 
 Luise, Signor Graziana, Signor Fallar, Signor Kinni, 
 Signor Cherricci, Signor Forsi, and Signor Ciampi. Con- 
 ductor, Signor Viannese.
 
 206 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 On Monday, September zoth, 1860, "II Trovatore." 
 Leonora, Madame Grisi ; Azucena, Viardot Garcia j Inez, 
 Madame Cherricci ; Manrico, Mario ; Conte di Luna, 
 Signor Graziani; Ferrando, Signor Ciampi ; Ruiz, 
 Signor Kinni ; Zingaro, Signor Cherricci. 
 
 On Tuesday, "Macbeth." Lady Macbeth, Viardot 
 Garcia ; Dame, Mdme. Cherricci ; Macbeth, Signor Gra- 
 ziani ; Banquo, Signor Ciampi ; Macduff, Signor Luise ; 
 Medico, Signor Kinni. 
 
 On Wednesday, i2th, "Norma." Norma, Grisi; Adal- 
 gisa, Madame Orvil ; Clotilde, Madame Cherricci ; Pollio, 
 Signor Luise ; Oroveso, Signor Ciampi ; Flavio, Kinni. 
 
 On Thursday, i3th, "Rigoletto." Gilda, Madame 
 Gassier ; Madalena, Madame Viardot ; Giovanni, Mdme. 
 Cherricci ; Duca, Signor Mario ; Rigoletto, Signor Gra- 
 ziani ; Sparafucili, Signor Ciampi. 
 
 On Friday, i4th, " Marta." Lionelli, Mario ;Plunkett, 
 Graziani ; Tristano, Signor Ciampi ; Sheriffo, Kinni ; 
 Enrichetta, Grisi ; Nancy, Viardot. 
 
 On Saturday, isth, "Lucrezia Borgia." Lucrezia, Grisi; 
 Orsini, Viardot ; Gennaro, Mario ; Alfonso, Graziani ; 
 Gubetta, Signor Fallar ; Rustighello, Signor Cherricci ; 
 Vitellozo, Kinni. 
 
 On Monday, September iyth, "Don Giovanni." Gio- 
 vanni, Graziani ; Donna Anna, Grisi ; Ottavio, Mario ; 
 Commendatore, Fallar ; Donna Elvira, Madame Gassier ; 
 Leporello, Signor Ciampi ; Masetto, Signor Kinni ; Zer- 
 lina, Madame Viardot Garcia. 
 
 On Tuesday, i8th, " Norma," as before. 
 
 On Wednesday, igth, " Rigoletta," as before.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 207 
 
 On Thursday, 2oth, "Marta." 
 
 On Friday, September 2ist (first time in Dublin), 
 Gluck's Opera, " Orfeo and Euridice." (The version 
 performed at the Theatre Lyrique, Paris.) Orfeo, Mdme. 
 Viardot Garcia ; L'Arnore, Madame Gassier ; Euridice, 
 Madame Orvil ; after which " Don Bucefalo." Buce- 
 falo (a composer at his first rehearsal), Signer Ciampi \ 
 concluding with last Scene of " Somnambula." Amina, 
 Madame Gassier. 
 
 On Saturday, 22nd, "Trovatore" (repeat). 
 
 On Monday, 24th, " II Barbiere." Rosina, Madame 
 Gassier; Berta, Mdlle. Cherricci ; Count Almaviva, Signer 
 Mario ; Figaro, Signer Graziani ; Bartolo, Signor Ciampi ; 
 Basilio, Signor Fallar ; Officiale, Signor Cherricci. 
 
 On Tuesday, 25th, " Norma." 
 
 Wednesday, 26th, " La Favorita." Leonora, Madame 
 Grisi ; Luis, Madame Cherricci ; Fernando, Signor Mario ; 
 Alfonso, Graziani ; Gaspare, Signor Cherricci. 
 
 On Thursday, 27th, "Orfeo and Euridice" (repeat). 
 
 On Friday, 28th, " Don Giovanni." 
 
 On Saturday, " Lucrezia Borgia," as before last night. 
 
 The Opera of " Macbeth " proved more attractive 
 during this engagement than when first presented, the 
 Lady Macbeth of Viardot having produced a deep im- 
 pression ; however, it may here be remarked that, as a 
 rule, new works are not generally attractive in Dublin ; 
 it is when the music becomes familiar that the audience 
 increases in numbers. Several instances of this truth 
 might be quoted, but that the fact is universally acknow- 
 ledged there may be a few exceptions, but the rule still
 
 208 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 holds. The production of Gluck's " Orfeo and Euridice" 
 was the feature of the season, Viardot adding another 
 laurel wreath to her already overcrowded brow by her 
 extraordinary performance of " Orfeo," which, indeed, 
 realized all the classical ideas that could possibly be 
 formed of the heart-broken god of the lyric art. It was, 
 indeed, a highly, deeply-wrought study, most delightful to 
 witness from the first scene to the last ; in fact it would 
 require a volume to enter into a just criticism of this 
 effort of genius, either with reference to the rendering of 
 the music of the great composer, who first formed the 
 classic French school, or as a histrionic embodiment of 
 the part which it is said Gluck set his heart on. The 
 impression produced by the " Che faro senza Eurydice " 
 can never be forgotten ; its exquisite tenderness caused 
 tears to flow, and the contrast between the death-like 
 silence during the song, and the " thunders of applause " 
 at the end, was indeed striking. If any proof were wanted 
 of the extraordinary versatility of this great artiste-musi- 
 cienne, it only required to see her Lady Macbeth one 
 evening, then Orfeo, and then Zerlina in " Don Giovanni/' 
 all equally excellent, and fully proving that she had "gone 
 through each mode of the lyre, and was mistress of all." 
 
 September, 1861. Italian Opera Company. Mdlle. 
 Titiens, Madame Lemaire, Madame Bellini, Mdlle. Anna 
 Whitty, Signor Giuglini, Signor Delia Sedie, Signer Fallar, 
 Signor Ciampi, Signor Bossi, Signor Bellini, Signor Casa- 
 boni, and Mr. Swift. Conductor, Signor Arditi. 
 
 Monday, September i6th, 1861, " II Trovatore." Leo- 
 nora, Titiens ; Azucena, Mdme. Lemaire ; Inez, Madame
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 20Q 
 
 Bellini ; Conte di Luna, Signer Delia Sedie ; Fernando, 
 Signer Bossi ; Ruiz, Casaboni ; Manrico, Giuglini. 
 
 Tuesday, i;th, " I Puritani." Elvira, Miss Anna 
 Whitty ; Georgio, Signor^Ciampi ; Ricardo, Signer Delia 
 Sedie ; Arturo, Signer Giuglini. 
 
 On Wednesday, i8th, " Norma." Norraa, Titiens; 
 Adalgisa, Mdlle. Anna Whitty ; Oroveso, Signer Ciampi ; 
 Clotilde, Madame Bellini ; Pollio, Mr. Swift. 
 
 Thursday, ipth, " Marta." Lady Enrichetta, Titiens; 
 Nancy, Madame Lemaire ; Lionello, Giuglini ; Plunketto, 
 Signer Delia Sedie ; Tristano, Signer Ciampi ; Sheriffo, 
 Signer Casaboni. 
 
 Friday, 2oth, " II Barbiere." Rosini, Anna Whitty ; 
 Figaro, Signer Delia Sedie ; Bartolo, Ciampi ; Basilio, 
 Signer Fallar ; Conte Almaviva, Mr. Swift. 
 
 On Saturday, 2ist, " Lucrezia Borgia." Lucrezia, 
 Titiens; Orsini, Madame Lemaire; Alfonso, Signer 
 Ciampi ; Gubetta, Signer Bossi ; Gazella, Signer Fallar j 
 Vitellozo, Signer Casaboni ; Liverotto, Signor Bellini ; 
 Gennaro, Giuglini. 
 
 On Monday, 22nd, " Don Giovanni." Donna Anna, 
 Titiens ; Zerlina, Madame Lemaire ; Elvira, Mdlle. Anna 
 Whitty ; Don Giovanni, Signor Delia Sedie ; Leporello, 
 Signor Ciampi ; Mazetto, Signor Casaboni ; Commenda- 
 tore, Signor Bossi ; Don Ottavio, Signor Giuglini. 
 
 On Wednesday, September 25th, 1861, for the first time 
 in Dublin, Verdi's Grand Opera, " II Ballo in Maschera." 
 Amelia, Mdlle. Titiens ; Renato, Signor Delia Sedie ; 
 Oscar, Mdlle. A. Whitty; Ulrica, Madame Lemaire; 
 Samuele, Signor Bossi ; Tomaso, Signor Ciampi ; Silvano, 
 
 o
 
 2IO ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Signer Fallar ; Un Guidice, Signer Casaboni ; Servo, 
 Signer Lavini ; Ricardo, Signer Giuglini. The Band of 
 the nth Hussars performed in the Masquerade Scene, 
 conducted by Signer Operti. 
 
 On Thursday, 26th, " Norma," as before. 
 
 On Friday, zyth, "Marta." 
 
 Saturday, 28th, " Ballo in Maschera." 
 
 Monday, soth, " Trovatore." 
 
 Tuesday, October ist, " Don Giovanni." 
 
 Wednesday, 2nd, " Un Ballo." 
 
 Thursday, 3rd, " Marta." Benefit of Titiens and 
 Giuglini. 
 
 Friday, 4th, " II Barbiere," as before. 
 
 Saturday, 5th, " Un Ballo." Last night. 
 
 Miss Anna Whitty, who created a favourable impres- 
 sion as a soprano during this engagement, was a daughter 
 of Mr. Whitty, proprietor of one of the principal daily 
 journals of Liverpool. She had a good and well- 
 cultivated voice, having studied under the best masters 
 in Italy. After a short and successful career on the stage, 
 she accepted a good matrimonial offer of engagement, and 
 retired from public, to delight her friends in social life by 
 her musical abilities. The first production of Verdi's 
 charming Opera, " Un Ballo in Maschera," formed the 
 chief feature, and was a great event in our operatic annals. 
 The work created an immediate impression, as well from 
 the attractive nature of the music, as from the very efficient 
 tC cast." Titiens was of course, as usual, at home ; Mdlle. 
 Whitty, an excellent " Seconda Donna ;" but the palm 
 seemed to lie with Giuglini and Delia Sedie ; the singing
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 211 
 
 of " Eri tu " by the latter great artiste created quite a 
 startling sensation, and most deservedly, for a more 
 finished piece of vocalism has seldom, if ever, been heard. 
 Although nearly 30 years have elapsed, there are many 
 who preserve a lively recollection of this " Eri tu " of 
 Delia Sedie. The same remarks will apply to Giuglini, 
 whose singing in this work almost excelled any former 
 effort. The first eight bars of " E Scherzo " was given 
 with such marvellous point and beauty, that a double 
 encore was the result every night, thus delaying the 
 *' ensemble," which follows, for a considerable time. 
 Madame Lemaire, Signor Ciampi, Signer Bossi (a capital 
 basso profondo), and Casaboni, the most useful of " utility 
 men," contributed much to the general effect of the very 
 beautiful concerted pieces. The Band of the nth Hussars 
 bore an important " hand " in the Masquerade Scene, led 
 by Signor Operti, the efficient master, who first visited 
 Dublin in the capacity of " Suggeritore " with former 
 companies. A great financial success attended this en- 
 gagement, much enhanced by the production of "Un 
 Ballo." 
 
 Later in October, i86r, the following announcement 
 appeared : " Mr. Harris has very great pleasure in an- 
 nouncing that, in compliance with the generally-expressed 
 wish to hear Mdlle. Adelina Patti, he has, at an enormous 
 expense, succeeded in making arrangements for that cele- 
 brated artiste to sing once in each of those Operas in 
 which she achieved such unparalleled success at the Royal 
 Italian Opera, Covent Garden, during the past season." 
 Accordingly, on Tuesday, October zgth, 1 86 1, was given,
 
 212 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 " La Sonnambula." Amina, Mdlle. Patti ; Ina, Mdlle. 
 Sedlatzek ; Elvino, Signer Galvani ; Rodolfo, Signer 
 Manfredi ; Alessio, Signer Kinni; Notaro, Signer Annoni. 
 
 On Thursday, October 3 ist, " La Traviata." Violetta, 
 Mdlle. Patti ; Flora, Mdlle. Sedlatzek ; Georgio Germont, 
 Signor Cima; Gaston, Signer Annoni; Baron Duphol, 
 Signer Galli; Dottore, Signor Kinni; Alfred Germont, 
 Signor Galvani. 
 
 On Saturday, November 2nd, " Lucia." Lucia, Mdlle. 
 Patti ; Aston, Signor Cima ; Raimondo, Signor Man- 
 fredi ; Arturo, Signor Annoni ; Normanno, Signor Kinni ; 
 Edgardo, Signor Galvani. 
 
 On Monday, 4th, "II Barbiere." Rosina, Mdlle. 
 Patti; Berta, Mdlle. Sedlatzek; Figaro, Signor Cima; 
 Bartolo, Signor Manfredi ; Basilio, Signor Kinni ; Fiorello, 
 Signor Annoni ; Almaviva, Signor Galvani. 
 
 On Wednesday, repeat of " Sonnambula." 
 
 On Saturday, gth, " Marta." Lady Enrichetta, Mdlle. 
 Patti; Nancy, Mdlle. Sedlatzek ; Plunketto, Signor 
 Cima ; Lionello, Signor Galvani ; Sheriffo, Signor 
 Kinni ; Tristano, Signor Manfredi. In the course of 
 the evening Patti sang "Home, Sweet Home," and 
 " 'Twas within a Mile of Edinbro' Town." Last night, 
 for Patti's benefit. 
 
 The prices on this occasion were Dress Circle, IDS. ; 
 Second Circle, 6s. ; Pit, 33. 6d ; Lower Gallery, 23. 6d. ; 
 Upper Gallery, is. 6d. 
 
 Since the engagement of Jenny Lind the prices had 
 not been so high, and many signs of disapproval were 
 manifested, as, with the exception of the great prima-
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 213 
 
 donna, the Company was not " of the strongest." It was 
 on the first night, during the progress of the song, 
 "Vi Raviso," by Rodolfo, when, from nervousness or 
 otherwise, the singer " broke down " on an important 
 note, a "member" of the upper gallery exclaimed, in 
 a rather subdued tone, but with a melancholy whine, 
 " Oh ! Blood-an-'ouns, my eighteenpence !" An enor- 
 mous success of course attended the engagement, proving 
 fully the profitable results to managers of the starring 
 system. Patti, if not the greatest, certainly as great a 
 genius as ever appeared in the musical world, deserved all 
 the " kudos " that could possibly be bestowed. It is 
 quite unnecessary to descant on her transcendant merits, 
 as she still reigns supreme, and, if possible, increases 
 year after year in public favour, commanding the largest 
 terms ever bestowed on any other vocalist, except Jenny 
 Lind terms, it is to be feared, which may prevent the 
 possibility of Patti's re-appearance in the Dublin Theatre. 
 Happily, however, the facility of travelling now offers the 
 opportunity of hearing her in London ; and ail are hereby 
 advised to witness her Catarina in " L'Etoile du 
 Nord," and her Americaine, &c., &c., and, if occasion 
 should offer, she should also be heard in " Oratorio," in 
 which she " shines resplendent." At the last Triennial 
 Handel Festival, she positively eclipsed all her compeers. 
 Farewell Engagement of Mdme. Grisi. On Tuesday, 
 December 3rd, 1861, the above-announced appeared. 
 The Company thus : Madame Grisi, Madame Le- 
 maire, Mdlle. Bossi, Mdlle. Dario, Miss Ellen Conran 
 (her first appearance) ; Signer Galvani, Mr. Swift, Signer
 
 214 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Aspa, Signer Cresci, Signer Fallar, Signer Bellini, Signer 
 Ciampi. Conductor, Signer Vianesi ; Leader, Mr. Levey. 
 
 On Tuesday, December 3rd, " Lucrezia Borgia." 
 Lucrezia, Mdme. Grisi ; Maffeo Orsini, Mdme. Lemaire ; 
 Don Alfonso, Signer Cresci ; Vitellozo, Signer Fallar ; 
 Liverotto, Signer Aspa; Gubetta, Signer Bellini ; Gen- 
 naro, Signer Galvani. 
 
 On Wednesday, 4th, "Rigoletto." Gilda, Mdlle. 
 Dario ; Madelina, Mdme. Lemaire ; Contessa, Mdlle. 
 Bossi; Rigoletto, Signer Cresci; Sparafucele, Signer 
 Ciampi ; Marcello, Signer Fallar ; Monteroni, Signer 
 Ceni ; II Duca, Signer Galvani. 
 
 On Thursday, "Norma." Norma, Madame Grisi; 
 Adalgaisa, Miss Ellen Conran (her first appearance) ; 
 Pollio, Mr. Swift; Flavio, Signer Aspa; Oroveso, 
 Signer Ciampi. 
 
 On Saturday, " Trovatore." Leonora, Mdme. Grisi ; 
 Azucena, Mdme. Lemaire ; Inez, Mdlle. Bossi ; Conte 
 di Luna, Cresci ; Ferrando, Signor Ciampi ; Un Zingara, 
 Signer Bellini ; Manrico, Signor Galvani. 
 
 On Monday, December gth, " Don Giovanni." Donna 
 Anna, Grisi ; Donna Elvira, Mdlle. Dario ; Zerlina, Miss 
 Ellen Conran ; Ottavio, Signor Galvani ; Leporello, 
 Ciampi ; Masetto, Bossi ; Commendatore, Fallar ; Don 
 Giovanni, Signor Cresci. 
 
 On Tuesday, December loth, " Un Ballo in Maschera." 
 Amelia, Miss Ellen Conran; Ulrica, Mdme. Lemaire; 
 Oscar, Mdlle. Dario ; Renato, Signor Cresci ; Tomaso, 
 Signor Fallar ; Samuele, Signor Ciampi ; Silvano, Signor 
 Bellini ; Riccardo, Signor Galvani.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 215 
 
 On Wednesday, repeat of " Lucrezia." 
 
 On Thursday, " Trovatore." 
 
 On Friday, " La Traviata." Violetta, Mdlle. Dario ; 
 Flora, Mdme. Bossi ; Germont, Signer Cresci j II Barone, 
 Signer Fallar ; Alfredo, Signer Galvani. Second Act of 
 " Un Ballo " and First Act of " II Barbiere." Rosina, 
 Miss E. Conranj Figaro, Signor Cresci j Almaviva, 
 Signer Galvani. 
 
 On Saturday last night (benefit of Miss Conran) 
 " Marta." Enrichetta, Grisi ; Nancy, Miss E. Conran ; 
 Plunketto, Signor Ciampi ; Tristano, Signor Fallar ; 
 Sheriffo, Signor Bellini ; Lionelli, Signor Galvani. 
 
 The Company proceeded to Cork and Limerick, and, 
 on the return, " Norma" was given for the benefit of 
 Mdme. Grisi, announced as " positively her last appear- 
 ance on any stage in the United Kingdom." Miss Ellen 
 Conran was the daughter of William Sarsfield Conran, 
 an eminent pianist of Dublin, and great public favourite. 
 She made a most successful debut; Mdme. Grisi taking 
 the greatest interest in her welfare, and bestowing much 
 pains in imparting to Miss Conran at rehearsals the most 
 careful lessons in stage business ; teaching her also, with 
 the greatest care, the different passages and cadenzas 
 which occur in the duets which occur between Adalgisa 
 and Norma, " De Conte," &c. It is hardly necessary to 
 say that Grisi did not require rehearsal for music which 
 she had so repeatedly sung. She, however, went over 
 every note with this young artiste, so that no hitch might 
 possibly occur ; of course it was of the last importance 
 to Norma that all should be smooth ; and the uninitiated
 
 2l6 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 are not aware of the extreme pains exercised, and the 
 perfect understanding which must exist between two 
 even of the most finished artistes, to ensure the precision 
 which is indispensable for public performance. Grisi, 
 was, however, on this occasion prompted more by kind- 
 ness for the young Dublin Adalgisa than from any selfish 
 motives, and displayed a nervous anxiety which gave 
 strong evidence of a kindness of heart worthy of a great 
 artiste. 
 
 This Engagement'was not a marked success. 
 
 On Tuesday, October yth, 1862, the following Com- 
 pany: Mdlle. Titiens, Mdme. Louise Michal, Mdlle. 
 Florio, Mdme. Lemaire, Mdme. Pauline Castro, Sign or 
 Badiali, Herr Formes, Signor Casaboni, Signer Soldi, 
 Signor Bossi, SignorJGiuglini. Conductor, Signor Arditi. 
 
 On Tuesday, " II Trovatore ;" with Titiens, Louisa 
 Michal, Badiali, Formes and Giuglina. 
 
 On Wednesday, " Lucia ;" with Mdlle. Pauline Castro, 
 Signor Badiale, Herr Formes, Giuglini. 
 
 On Friday, "Puritani." Titiens, Giuglini, Badiali,. 
 Formes. 
 
 On Saturday, i ith, Marta." Titiens, Pauline Castro,. 
 Giuglini, Badiali, Formes. 
 
 Monday, i3th, " Lucrezia Borgia." Lucrezia, Titiens ; 
 Orsino, Mdme. Lemaire ; Gennaro, Giuglini ; II Duca, 
 Badiali. 
 
 Tuesday, i4th, " Don Giovanni." Donna Anna, Titiens; 
 Elvira, Louise Michal ; Zerlina, Pauline Castro ; Lepo- 
 rello, Herr Formes ; Giovanni, Badiali ; Masetto, Bossi ;. 
 Commendatore, Casaboni ; Ottavio, Giuglini.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 2 1/ 
 
 On Wednesday, i5th, "Norma." Norma, Titiens ; 
 Adalgisa, Louise Michal ; Oroveso, Bossi ; Pollio, Signer 
 Palmiera (his first appearance). 
 
 On Friday, lyth, " Lucrezia Borgia." Cast as before. 
 
 Saturday, i8th, benefit of Titiens, and last night. 
 "Puritan!" and Third Act of "Robert le Diable." 
 Bertram, Formes ; Rambaldo, Signer Ubalde ; Robert, 
 Signer Palmieri ; Alice, Mdlle. Titiens. (No remarkable 
 event.) 
 
 Mdlle. Titiens, Mdme. Volpini (her first appearance), 
 Mdlle. Giraldoni, Mdlle. Trebelli (her first appearance), 
 Signer Volpini (his first appearance) ; Signor Bettini (his 
 first appearance), Signor Soldi, Mr. Sims Reeves (his 
 first appearance these nine years), Mr. Santley (his first 
 appearance), Signor Bossi, Signor Casaboni. Sug- 
 geritore, Signor Fontana ; Regisseur, Signor Grua ; 
 Conductor, Signor Arditi ; Leader, Mr. Levey. 
 
 Saturday, September 26th, 1863, "Lucia." Edgardo, 
 Mr. Sims Reeves ; Arturo, Signor Soldi ; Normanno, 
 Signor Casaboni ; Ashton, Mr. Santley ; Raimondo, 
 Signor Bossi; Alice, Mdlle. Giraldoni; Lucia, Mdlle. 
 Volpini (in consequence of Mdlle. Titiens having missed 
 the train). 
 
 On Monday, September 28th, " Marta." Lionello, 
 Signor Bettini ; Tristano, Signor Casaboni ; Plunketto, 
 Signor Bossi ; Sheriffo, Signor Pretti ; Nancy, Mdlle. 
 Trebelli ; Marta, Mdlle. Volpini. 
 
 Tuesday, September 29th. The following announcement 
 appeared " Postponement of the production of ' Faust ' 
 until Thursday next, when it will positively be performed.
 
 2l8 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 In consequence of the amount of preparation necessary 
 for the representation of a work of such importance and 
 magnitude, and which has created such a remarkable 
 sensation throughout the whole of the principal Theatres 
 of Europe, it has been deemed necessary, in order to 
 attain that ensemble so indispensable to this celebrated 
 work, to postpone the first performance until Thursday 
 next, October ist, when will be presented for the first 
 time Gounod's celebrated Opera of ' Faust.' " 
 
 On Tuesday evening, September 29111, "II Trova- 
 tore." Manrico, Signor Volpini ; Conte di Luna, Mr. 
 Santley ; Ferrando, Signor Bossi ; Ruiz, Signor Vercel- 
 lini ; Un Zingara, Signor Casaboni ; Azucena, Mdlle. 
 Trebelli ; Inez, Mdlle. Giraldoni ; Leonora, Mdlle. Titiens. 
 
 On Wednesday, 3oth, " Un Ballo in Maschera." 
 Ricardo, Volpini ; Renato, Mr. Santley ; Samuele, Ver- 
 cellini ; Tomaso, Signor Bossi ; Ulrica, Mdlle. Trebelli ; 
 Oscar, Mdlle. Volpini ; Amelia, Mdlle. Titiens. 
 
 On Thursday evening, October ist, 1863, Gounod's 
 Opera, " Faust." Faust, Mr. Sims Reeves ; Valentino, 
 Mr. Santley ; Wagner, Signor Casaboni ; Mephistophele, 
 Signor Bossi ; Siebel, Mdlle. Trebelli ; Marta, Mdlle. 
 Giraldoni ; Margherita, Mdlle. Titiens. (The Band of 
 the 86th Regiment.) 
 
 Friday, October 2nd, " La Traviata." Alfredo, Signor 
 Bettini ; Germont, Mr. Santley ; Gastone, Mdlle. Trebelli 
 {" who has kindly undertaken the part, in which she will 
 introduce ' No, no, no,' from ' Les Huguenots.' ") Obigny, 
 Signor Vercellini ; Medico, Signor Bossi ; Anina, Mdlle. 
 Giraldoni \ Violetta, Mdlle. Volpini.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 219 
 
 On Saturday, October 3rd (in consequence of the 
 immense success), " Faust," as before. 
 
 On Monday, "Norma." Norma, Mdlle. Titiens; 
 Adalgisa, Mdlle. Volpini; Clotilda, Mdlle. Giraldoni 
 Oroveso, Signer Bossi ; Flavio, Signer Casaboni ; Pollio, 
 Signer Volpini. 
 
 On Tuesday, 6th October, " Faust," as before. 
 
 On Wednesday, " Marta " (repeat). 
 
 On Thursday, 8th, Oberon " (first time in Italian). 
 Sir Huon, Sims Reeves: Sherasmin, Mr. Santley; 
 Oberon, Signor Bettini ; Babakin, Signer Bossi ; Califo, 
 Signer Casaboni; Puck, Mdlle. Volpini; Fatima, Mdlle. 
 Trebelli ; Reiza, Mdlle. Titiens. 
 
 On Friday, " Traviata " (repeat). 
 
 On Saturday (last night), " in consequence of the 
 immense success," repeat of " Oberon." 
 
 This engagement is, indeed, memorable for the first 
 production of " Faust " and of " Oberon ;" also for the 
 numerous " first appearances " of so many artistes des- 
 tined to become immense favourites Trebelli, Santley, 
 Signor Bettini, &c. Signor Volpini made his mark as a 
 genuine, substantial, manly tenor, most satisfactory in 
 every part he undertook. The Dublin audience may be 
 considered very fastidious with reference to tenors, still, 
 coming after all the great ones, Volpini held his ground 
 well, and became a great favourite. Mdlle. Volpini was 
 fortunate in meeting an opportunity the very first night of 
 the engagement. In consequence of the accidental 
 absence of Titiens, by missing a train, the young soprana, 
 at a short notice, sustained the part of " Lucia."
 
 220 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Audiences in general are, on all such occasions, in- 
 dulgent to a rising artiste who can on an emergency 
 undertake an important role when successful, the 
 applause will be greater than if announced as " Prima- 
 Donna" beforehand. Mdlle. Volpini took the public 
 quite by surprise by her admirable singing and acting, and 
 established herself so firmly, that the announcement 
 appeared the next day that, " In consequence of Mdlle. 
 Volpini's great success, she will appear on Friday in ' La 
 Traviata.'" Several similar instances have occurred,, 
 which have made the fortune of " Remplagantes." Miss 
 Rainsforth (in English Opera) is one instance. She 
 undertook the part of "Norma" at a moment's notice, 
 when Miss Adelaide Kemble was taken ill, and thus 
 elevated herself to the position of prima-donna, which 
 she enjoyed for several years on the English Stage. 
 
 It is unnecessary to allude to the almost unprece- 
 dented success of Trebelli, who up to the present 
 moment enjoys a world- wide reputation, which in every 
 city in Europe seems to increase, and which must still in- 
 crease, as long as purity of style and finished taste indeed, 
 art, in its highest lyric form continue to be appreciated. 
 Then Santley, the greatest baritone England has yet pro- 
 duced indeed, unsurpassed by any foreign artist in voice 
 or high-toned musical education. An instrumentalist in 
 his younger days (having played the violin at the Liver- 
 pool Philharmonic), he enjoyed the advantage of a most 
 perfectly formed " ear," which those may lack who have 
 not studied a stringed instrument. As Mr. Santley is 
 still in the enjoyment of all his great powers, and con-
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 221 
 
 tinues periodically to visit Dublin, more welcome each 
 time, it is unnecessary to enlarge more on his merits. 
 Signer Bettini, though last, not least, must not be for- 
 gotten. This tenor only required a little more power of 
 voice to have placed him amongst those who have arrived 
 at the top of the ladder. The wonderfully artistic manner 
 in which he managed the rather limited organ which 
 nature placed at his disposal, was most remarkable. Al- 
 though wanting force, the voice was exquisitely sweet, 
 and in music requiring flexibility, such as Rossini's Count 
 Almaviva, &c., he was perfection, varying his passages 
 on the repetition of a phrase with great judgment a 
 proceeding very often admissible in florid composers, but 
 sometimes abused. It is related that Rossini, after hear- 
 ing a song of his own performed by a great Parisian 
 soprano, was asked : "Well, Maestro, what do you think 
 of that ? " " Magnificent," replied Rossini ; " but who is 
 the composer ? " Bettini did not go so far, but " used 
 all gently." His singing in " Oberon " was something 
 charming. 
 
 The first performance of the now familiar "Faust" 
 was a success, but a succes d'estime. It must be ad- 
 mitted that the audience were a little puzzled, and varied 
 were the critical remarks. The journals were for the 
 most part favourable, but the pit-goers, in particular, were 
 doubtful. All admitted the " grandeur " of the work, the 
 fulness of the orchestra, c. \ but it was asked, " Where 
 is the melody ? Why, the only tune is ' The Soldiers' 
 Chorus,'" &c., &c. (Valentine's first song, " Dio pos- 
 sente," was not then introduced.) The cavillers were an-
 
 222 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 swered by " What do you say to Trebelli's song, ' Le par- 
 lati d'amor ?' " the reply to which was, " Ah, it's very 
 short." " Well, but c The Jewel Song ? ' " one enthusiast 
 asked seriously. " Now, who could whistle any of that 
 song? " Altogether, " Faust "at first left the impression of a 
 great work of high art some thought rather too high 
 and this is not to be wondered atafter so many years of the 
 "Lucias," " Sonnambulas," " Puritanis," &c., &c., where 
 the attention of the listener must be concentrated on the 
 star on the stage singing, doubtless, a very pretty tune, 
 with the orchestra, " vilely subservient," giving a tickling 
 arpeggio accompaniment. Happily this state of things is 
 passing away ; and although the old melodious works will, 
 doubtless, still hold ground for some time, the public taste 
 is fast improving, and the constant hearing of " Faust," with 
 the works of Meyerbeer, Thomas, Wagner, &c., must 
 surely educate us up to the more classical school, where 
 luxuriant orchestration and more unity of " form " 
 exist. 
 
 Weber's " Oberon," in Italian guise, came on us now 
 also for the first time. This work (written by Weber for 
 Miss Paton, afterwards Mrs. Wood) had lain dormant 
 for some years, partly, it was stated, because it was hope- 
 less to find a vocalist who could declaim the great scena, 
 " Ocean, thou mighty Monster," equal to the eminent 
 English soprano, whose "reading" of this wonderfully de- 
 scriptive composition was, indeed, an extraordinary effort 
 of genius. However, Mr. Mapleson, with his accustomed 
 foresight, knew he had an artiste equal to the occasion ; 
 and, indeed, Titiens even excelled the great original in
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 223. 
 
 this piece. By the addition of a recitative by Sir Julius 
 Benedict, and some additions from other Operas of 
 his old master, Weber, Sir Julius elevated a rather patchy 
 musical drama, with certainly some exquisite songs, 
 duets, quartets, &c., to an Italian Opera, or as near as 
 possible thereto. When shall we again hear " Over the 
 dark blue Waters," as given by Titiens, Trebelli, Sims 
 Reeves, and Santley? What could equal the duet, 
 "Let us be Merry," with Trebelli and Santley ; the 
 songs, "A lonely Arab Maid" and "Oh! Araby" 
 of Trebelli ? The " Mermaid's Song " by Mdlle. Volpini 
 must not be forgotten ; and then, as already noticed, the 
 " Ocean, thou mighty Monster " of Titiens. By-the-way, 
 a slight inconsistency occurred on the last occasion but 
 one of the performance of " Oberon." It was for the 
 benefit of Titiens. At the forcible request indeed, the 
 continued and boisterous command of the members of 
 the upper gallery, immediately following " Ocean, thou 
 mighty Monster," a pianoforte had to be carried on the 
 stage (the waters of said ocean supposed to be running 
 thereon), that poor Titiens should sing " The Last Rose 
 of Summer ! " This she did with her (on this occasion) 
 too yielding kindness and good-nature, notwithstanding 
 her dishevelled hair and sea-like appearance. The piano- 
 forte, on being rolled off the stage, unfortunately rolled 
 over, creating shouts of laughter. " Oberon " has well 
 held its ground, but its repetition, it is to be feared, is a 
 distant event. 
 
 NOTE. Thalberg's farewell Concerts took place this 
 season, commencing on the i6th November.
 
 224 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Sothern made his first appearance at the Royal, No- 
 vember gth, 1863, as Lord Dundreary. 
 
 Opera Company Mdlle. Titiens, Mdlle. Grossi, Mdlle. 
 Giraldini, and Mdlle. Sinico (her first appearance) ; Signer 
 Gardoni, Mr. Santley, Signor Bossi, Signor Marini, Signer 
 Vercellini, Signor Casaboni, and Mr. Swift. Conductor, 
 Signor Arditi. 
 
 On Saturday, September 24th, 1864, " Lucrezia Borgia." 
 Gennaro, Signor Gardoni ; Alfonso, Santley ; Rustighdlo, 
 Marini ; Liverotto, Vercellini ; Astolfo, Casaboni ; Gu- 
 betta, Bossi ; Orsini, Mdlle. Grossi ; Lucrezia, Titiens. 
 
 On Monday, "Faust." Faust, Gardoni; Valentino, 
 Santley ; Mephistophele, Bossi ; Wagner, Casaboni ; 
 Siebel, Mdlle. Grossi ; Marta, Mdlle. Giraldini ; Marghe- 
 rita, Titiens. 
 
 On Tuesday, 2 ;th, " La Traviata." Alfredo, Gardoni ; 
 Germont, Santley ; Gaston, Marini ; Barone, Vercellini ; 
 Marchese, Casaboni ; Medico, Bossi ; Flora, Mdlle. Giral- 
 dini ; Violetta, Mdlle. Sinico. 
 
 On Wednesday, 28th, "Norma." Pollio, Swift; 
 Oroveso, Bossi ; Flavio, Marini ; Clotilda, Mdlle. Giral- 
 dini ; Adalgisa, Mdlle. Sinico ; Norma, Titiens. 
 
 OnThursday, September 29th, 1864, firsttime in Dublin, 
 Gounod's Grand Opera, "Mirella." Vincenzo, Signor 
 Gardoni ; Orvias, Mr. Santley ; Ramon, Signor Bossi ; 
 Ambrozio, Signor Casaboni; Vincenzina, Mdlle. Sinico ; 
 Tavena, Mdlle. Grossi ; Mirella, Mdlle. Titiens. 
 
 On Friday, 3oth, "Trovatore." Conte di Luna, 
 Santley ; Ferrando, Bossi ; Manrico, Mr. Swift ; Azu- 
 cena ; Mdlle. Grossi ; Leonora, Mdlle. Sinico.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 225 
 
 On Saturday, October ist, " Oberon." Huon, Gar- 
 doni ; Oberon, Mr. Swift ; Sultano, Signor Bossi ; Scher- 
 asmin, Santley ; Fatima, Mdlle. Gross! ; Puck, Mdlle. 
 Sinico ; Reiza, Mdlle. Titiens. 
 
 On Monday, 3rd, " Faust." Faust, Gardoni ; Valen- 
 tini, Santley ; Mephistophele, Bossi ; Wagner, Casaboni ; 
 Siebel, Mdlle. Grossi ; Martha, Mdlle. Giraldini ; Mar- 
 gherita, Mdlle. Titiens. 
 
 On Tuesday, 4th, " Fidelio." Ferdinando, Gardoni ; 
 Pizzaro, Mr. Santley ; Rocco, Signor Bossi ; Jacquino? 
 Mr. Swift ; Ministro, Signor Casaboni ; Marcellina, Mdlle. 
 Sinico; Leonora, Mdlle. Titiens. 
 
 On Wednesday, 5th, "Trovatore." 
 
 On Thursday, 6th, " Norma." 
 
 On Friday, 7th, "Marta." Lionello, Gardoni; Plun- 
 ketto, Santley ; Sheriffo, Marini ; Enrichetta, Mdlle. 
 Sinico ; Nancy, Mdlle. Grossi. 
 
 On Saturday, 8th, " Fidelio." Last night ; benefit of 
 Titiens. 
 
 Gounod's charming pastoral "Tone Poem," " Mirella," 
 was not a great success, and has never since been re- 
 peated. This result is unaccountable ; the work is quite 
 worthy of its great author, full of charming melody and 
 rich scoring. Poor Titiens was much disappointed, having 
 set her heart on its success in Dublin. Indeed, she was 
 under the impression that her grand scena in " Mirella " 
 would have produced even greater effect than her " Jewel 
 Song" in "Faust." She was, however, mistaken, and 
 was, in consequence, much depressed. She expressed 
 her opinion, in which she is joined by many eminent
 
 226 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 musicians, that " Mirella " is still destined to force its 
 way in the lyric world. 
 
 Italian Opera Company. Mdlle. Titiens, Mdlle. 
 Veralli, Mdlle. Taccani, Mdlle. Zandrina (her first ap- 
 pearance), Mdlle. Sinico, Signer Giuglini, Mr. Santley, 
 Signer Garcia, Signer Celli, Signer Bossi, Signer Marini, 
 Signer Vercellini, Signer Casaboni, Mr. Swift and Mons. 
 Joulain (his first appearance). Conductor, Signor Arditi. 
 Leader, Mr. Levey. 
 
 On Monday, March 6th, 1865, "Lucrezia Borgia." 
 Gennaro, Mr. Swift : Alfonso, Signor Garcia ; Rustighello, 
 Signor Marini ; Liverotto, Signor Casaboni ; Astolfo, 
 Signor Celli ; Gubetta, Signor Bossi ; Orsini, Mdlle. 
 Veralli ; Lucrezia, Mdlle. Titiens. 
 
 On Tuesday, 7th, " II Trovatore." Manrico, Mons. 
 Joulain ; Conte di Luna, Santley ; Ferrando, Bossi : 
 Ruiz, Marini ; Zingaro, Casaboni ; Azucena, Mdlle. 
 Veralli ; Leonora, Titiens. 
 
 On Thursday, Qth, " Faust." Faust, Mons. Joulain ; 
 Valentino, Santley ; Mephistophele, Bossi ; Siebel, Mdlle. 
 Veralli ; Margherita, Titiens. 
 
 On Saturday, nth, " Lucia." Edgardo, Mons. Joulain ; 
 Ashton, Santley ; Raimondo, Bossi ; Lucia, Titiens. 
 
 On Monday, i3th, "Faust," cast as before, except 
 Siebel, Mdlle. Zandrina (first appearance). 
 
 Tuesday, " Norma." Pollio, Signor Sinico (in 
 consequence of Mr. Swift's illness). Oroveso, Signor 
 Bossi ; Adalgisa, Mdme. Sinico ; Norma, Titiens. 
 
 On Wednesday, isth, " Rigoletto." II Duca, Mons. 
 Joulain ; Rigoletto, Santley ; Sparafucile, Bossi ; Monte-
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 22 7 
 
 roni, Garcia ; Paggio, Mdlle. Zandrina ; Contessa, Mdlle. 
 Taccani; Madalena, Mdlle. Veralli; Gilda, Madame 
 Sinico. 
 
 Thursday, 1 6th, "Trovatore" (repeat). 
 
 Saturday, i8th, " Ernani." Ernani, Mons. Joulain ; 
 Don Carlo, Santley ; Riva, Bossi ; Elvira, Titiens. 
 
 Monday, 20th, "Lucia, as before. 
 
 Tuesday, "Faust." 
 
 Thursday, "Ernani/' 
 
 Saturday, March 25th, first Act of "Fidelio," the 
 Garden Scene from '"Faust," and the fourth Act of 
 " Trovatore " last night. 
 
 It will be perceived that Giuglini was announced to 
 appear in this Company, but the following appeared on 
 the first night's announcements : " Signor Giuglini 
 having been delayed by indisposition on his return 
 from St. Petersburg!!, the part of Gennaro will be under- 
 taken by Mr. Swift, to prevent disappointment by change 
 of Opera." Poor Giuglini never appeared again in 
 Dublin ; he died soon after, under the melancholy cir- 
 cumstances before recorded. When shall we hear such 
 a tenor ? The remarks of Charles Lamb with reference 
 to John Kemble may well (with a little alteration) be 
 applied to Giuglini " He made his defects a grace ; his 
 exact declamatory manner, as he managed it (in vocalism), 
 only served to convey his points with more precision. 
 It seemed to head the shafts, to carry them deeper ; not 
 one of his sparkling effects was lost. We remember how 
 minutely he delivered each in succession, and cannot by 
 any effort imagine how any of them could be altered for
 
 228 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 the better." It required the united efforts of Mr. Swift 
 (a thorough good musician-like English tenor), Mons. 
 Joulain, a very charming French artiste, and (on an extra- 
 ordinary occasion), Signer Sinico, to fill up the place of 
 the "great departed." Signer Sinico only appeared the 
 one night, on which occasion, relieving the management 
 from a great emergency, he proved himself a thorough 
 good and experienced musician, and one who, in his 
 younger days, and in freshness of voice,must have enjoyed 
 a well-earned reputation. Joulain made a marked im- 
 pression, more particularly in the last scene of " Lucia," 
 by his singing of the " Fra poco," the last movement 
 being encored doubly, and the audience remaining long 
 after the falling of the curtain to call "Joulain out!" 
 Mdlle. Zandrina was a niece of Titiens, with fair promise ; 
 she soon retired from the stage. It was reported that a 
 matrimonial engagement existed between herself and 
 and Signor Vizzani, which report has not as yet been 
 verified. 
 
 Italian Company, commencing September i8th, 1865. 
 Mdlle. Titiens, Mdme. Sinico, Mdlle. Sarolta (her first 
 appearance), Mdlle. Redi (first appearance), . Mdme. De 
 MericLablache (her first appearance in Dublin), Signor 
 Mario, Signor Filippi, Signor Stagno (his first appear- 
 ance), Signor Foil (his first appearance), Signor Bossi, 
 Signor Casaboni, Siguor Vercellini, and Mr. Santley. 
 Conductor, Signor Arditi. 
 
 On Monday, September i8th, " Faust." Faust, Mario ; 
 Valentino, Santley ; Mephistophele, Bossi ; Siebel, Mdlle. 
 Sarolta ; Monta, Mdlle. Redi ; Margherita, Titiens.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 229 
 
 On Tuesday, ' Norma." Norma, Titiens ; Adalglsa, 
 Sinico ; Oroveso, Foil ; Pollio, Stagno. 
 
 On Wednesday, " Rigoletto." II Duca, Mario ; Rigo- 
 letto, Santley ; Sparafucile, Bossi ; Madelina, Madame 
 De Meric Lablache ; Gilda, Madame Snrolta. 
 
 On Thursday, 21 st, "Don Giovanni." Donna Anna, 
 Titiens ; Elvira, Mdme. Sinico ; Zerlina, Mdlle. Sarolta ; 
 Giovanni, Santley ; Leporello, Bossi ; Ottavio, Mario. 
 
 On Friday, 22nd, " La Traviata." Alfredo, Signer 
 Stagno; Germont, Santley ;, Barone, Casaboni; Mar- 
 chese, Filippi ; Medico, Bossi ; Violetta, Mdme. Sarolta. 
 
 On Saturday, 23rd, " Trovatore." Manrico, Mario; 
 Conte di Luna, Santley; Ferrando, Bossi; Azucena, 
 Mdme. De Meric Lablache ; Leonora, Titiens. 
 
 On Monday, "Faust" (repeat). 
 
 Tuesday, 26th, " Fidelio." Pizarro, Santley ; Rocco, 
 Bossi; II Ministri, Foli ; Fernando, Swift; Marcellina. 
 Mdme. Sinico ; Leonora, Titiens. 
 
 On Wednesday, 2 7th, "Marta." Lionello, Mario; 
 Plunketto, Bossi ; Nancy, Mdme. De Meric Lablache ; 
 Lady Enrichetta, Mdme. Sinico. 
 
 Thursday, " Lucrezia Borgia." Alfonso, Santley ; 
 Gennaro, Stagno ; Gubetta, Bossi ; Rustighello, Filippi ; 
 Orsini, De Meric Lablache ; Lucrezia, Titiens. 
 
 Friday, 29th, " Un Ballo in Maschera," Ricardo, 
 Mario : Renato, Santley ; Tomaso, Bossi ; Samuel e, 
 Foli ; Falvio, Casaboni ; Ulrica, Mdme. De Meric La- 
 blache; Oscar, Mdlle. Sarolta; Amelia, Mdme. Sinico. 
 
 On Saturday, soth, " Don Giovanni " (repeat.) 
 
 Monday, October 2nd, " Trovatore."
 
 230 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Tuesday, October 3rd, ' Marta." 
 
 Wednesday, 4th October, " Der Freischutz." Casparo, 
 Santley ; Rodolfo, Stagno ; Kuno, Bossi ; Hermit, Foli ; 
 Killiano, Casaboni ; Ottakar, Filippi ; Annetta, Madame 
 Sinico; Agata, Mdlle. Titiens. 
 
 On Thursday, 5th, " Faust," as before. 
 
 On Friday, 6th, " Der Freischutz " last night. 
 
 The first appearance of Foli rendered this engagement 
 special. Fourteen years (who would suppose it ?) have 
 passed, still his grand voice seems better on each suc- 
 cessive visit. His fine manly person, and easy bearing 
 on the stage, will ever be welcome to the Dublin 
 audience, who live in hope to welcome their favourite and 
 eminent basso for years to come. 
 
 Madame De Meric Lablache also " came out " during 
 this engagement, and a more substantial, universally- 
 accomplished lady could hardly be found, with a voice 
 (mezzo-soprano) almost contralto in quality and in 
 general fulfilling parts of this class. Mdme. De Meric 
 Lablache is " under studied " in almost every part in the 
 Operatic Calendar, and therefore, in cases of illness or 
 disappointment, from whatever cause, this most useful of 
 " members " is ready at a moment's notice to become the 
 prima or seconda donna, and has often, by so doing, 
 relieved the management of much embarrassment. 
 
 Mdme. Sarolta was also a successful debutante. 
 
 1866 The following Italian Company : Mdme. Grisi, 
 Mdlle. Enequist, Mdme. De Meric Lablache, Mdlle. 
 Edi, and Mdme. Sinico ; Signor Amodio, Signer Cara- 
 voglio, Signor Bossi, Signor Capello, Signor Casaboni,
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 23! 
 
 Signor Foli, Signor Stagno, Signer Mario. Conductor, 
 Signor Arditi. 
 
 On Monday, March izth, 1866, " Faust." Faust, Mario ; 
 Mephistophele, Bossi; Valentino, Signor Amodio (first 
 appearance) ; Siebel, Mdme. De Meric Lablache ; Mar- 
 gherita, Mdme. Sinico. 
 
 Tuesday, i3th, " Lucrezia Borgia." Gennaro, Stagno; 
 Alfonso, Foli ; Gubetta, Bossi ; Maffio Orsini, De 
 Meric Lablache; Luerezia, Grisi. 
 
 Wednesday, i4th, " Marta." Lionello, Mario ; Plun- 
 ketto, Bossi; Nancy, De Meric Lablache; Henrietta, 
 Mdme. Sinico. 
 
 Thursday, i5th, " Norma." Pollio, Stagno; Oroveso, 
 Foli ; Adalgisa, Enequist ; Norma, Grisi. 
 
 On Friday, i6th, "Trovatore." Manrico, Mario; II 
 Conte, Amodio ; Ferrando, Bossi ; Azucena, De Meric 
 Lablache ; Leonora, Mdme. Sinico. 
 
 On Saturday, iyth, " Don Giovanni." Donna Anna, 
 Grisi ; Elvira, Enequist ; Zerlina, De Meric Lablache ; 
 Leporello, Bossi ; Masetto, Casaboni ; Commendatore, 
 Foli ; Don Giovanni, Signor Caravoglio ; Ottavio, Mario. 
 
 On Monday, igth, "Faust," repeated. 
 
 On Tuesday, 20th, " Norma." 
 
 On Wednesday, 2ist, " La Traviata." Alfredo, Signor 
 Stagno ; Germont, Amodio ; Dottore, Bossi ; Violetta, 
 Sinico. 
 
 Thursday, 22nd, "Trovatore," repeated, except Man- 
 rico, played by Stagno. 
 
 Friday, 23rd, " Don Giovanni" repeated. 
 
 Saturday, 24th, " Don Giovanni " repeated. Last night.
 
 232 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 This was really the third and last " last appearance " of 
 Grisi. Even after the enormous sums of money received 
 during a long professional career, circumstances obliged 
 her to remain too long before the public. Like other 
 great artistes, she would not believe in the decline of her 
 powers. The public were naturally surprised at each 
 announcement of her appearance after her last farewell ; 
 the manifest change was too apparent, and, of course, the 
 houses "fell off;" and on this occasion, more particu- 
 larly, the result was not profitable. It was also the season 
 of Lent, which did not improve matters. When some 
 musical Agnes Strickland shall chronicle " The Lives of the 
 Queens of Song," Grisi and Titiens will hold first places. 
 
 On Monday, September lyth, 1866, Italian Opera com- 
 menced, as follows : Mdme. Titiens, Mdlle. Bau- 
 meister (first appearance), Mdlle. Zandrina, Mdme. De 
 Meric Lablache, Mdme. Sinico ; Signer Mario, Signer 
 Morini (first appearance), Signor Gassier, Signor Capello, 
 Signor Foli, Signor Bossi, Signor Casaboni, Mr. Santley. 
 Conductor, Signor Arditi. 
 
 Monday, lyth, "Faust." Faust, Mario; Valentino, 
 Santley ; Mephistophele, Gassier ; Wagner, Bossi ; Siebel, 
 Mdlle. Zandrina ; Marta, Mdme. Baumeister ; Marghe- 
 rita, Titiens. 
 
 Tuesday, iSth, "Lucia." Lucia, Sinico; Alisa, Bau- 
 meister; Ashton, Gassier; Raimondo, Bossi ; Normanno, 
 Casaboni ; Arturo, Capello ; Edgardo, Morini. 
 
 Wednesday, igth, " Marta." Lionello, Mario ; Plun- 
 ketto, Santley ; Tristano, Bossi ; Nancy, De Meric Lab- 
 lache ; Henrietta, Titiens.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 235. 
 
 Thursday, 2oth, "Lucrezia Borgia." Gennaro, Morini;. 
 Alfonso, Gassier ; Gubetta, Bossi ; Maffeo, De Meric 
 Lablache ; Lucrezia, Titiens. 
 
 Friday, 2ist, "Traviata." Alfredo, Morini; Germont, 
 Santley ; Marchese, Capello ; Medico, Bossi , Annina, 
 Mdlle. Baumeister ; Violetta, Sinico. 
 
 On Saturday, 22nd, " Trovatore." Manrico, Mario; 
 Conte di Luna, Santley ; Ferrando, Bossi ; Ruiz,. 
 Capello ; Azucena, De Meric Lablache ; Leonora, 
 Titiens. 
 
 On Monday, 24th, " Semiramide." Assur, Gassier ;. 
 Oroe, Bossi ; Idreno, Morini ; L'Ombra, Casaboni ; Ar- 
 sace, De Meric Lablache ; Semiramide, Titiens. 
 
 On Tuesday, 25th, " Les Huguenots." Raoul, Mario; 
 St. Bris, Gassier ; Nevers, Santley ; Marcello, Foli ; 
 Meru, Bossi ; Tavannes, Capello ; Maurevert, Casaboni ; 
 De Retz, Balesca ; De Cosse, Bolli ; Marguerite, Sinico ; 
 Dame d'Onore, Mdlle. Baumeister ; Urbano, Mdlle. Zan- 
 drina ; Valentina, Titiens. 
 
 On Wednesday, 26th, " Der Freischutz." Rodolfo, 
 Morini ; Caspar, Santley ; Killiano, Gassier ; Kuno, 
 Bossi ; Eremita, Foli ; Ottaker, Capello ; Annetta, Mdme. 
 Sinico ; Agata, Titiens. 
 
 On Thursday. Rigoletto." II Duca, Mario ; Rigo- 
 letto, Santley ; Sparafucile, Bossi ; Monteferone, Foli ; 
 II Paggio, Mdlle. Zandrina ; Giovanna, Mdlle. Baumeister ; 
 Madelina, Mdlle. De Meric Lablache ; Gilda, Mdlle. 
 Sinico. 
 
 On Friday 28th. "Don Giovanni." Ottavio, Mario; 
 Don Giovanni, Gassier ; Commendatore, Foli ; Leporello,
 
 234 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Bossi ; Masetto, Casaboni ; Elvira, Mdlle. Sinico ; Zerlina, 
 Mdlle. Zandrina ; Donna, Titiens. 
 
 On Saturday. " Faust " (repeat). 
 
 Monday, October ist. " Huguenots " (repeat). 
 
 Tuesday, 2nd. " Le Nozze di Figaro." Figaro, Gassier ; 
 II Conte, Santley ; Don Bartolo, Bossi ; Basilio, Morini ; 
 Antonio, Casaboni ; Susanna, Sinico ; Cherubino, Zand- 
 rina ; La Contessa, Titiens. 
 
 On Wednesday, October 3rd. " II Puritani." Arturo, 
 Mr. Tom Hohler (first appearance in Dublin) ; Ricardo, 
 Gassier ; Georgio, Foli ; Bruno, Bossi ; Enrichetta, Mdlle. 
 Baumeister ; Elvira, Mdlle. Sinico. 
 
 Thursday. " Trovatore " (repeat). 
 
 On Friday, October 5th. Benefit of Titiens and last 
 night. First and second Acts of " Norma." Pollio, 
 Morini ; Oroveso, Foli ; Adalgisa, Sinico ; Norma, Titiens. 
 Second and third Acts of " Faust," and third Act of 
 *' Puritani," as before. 
 
 It would be unjust to pass over the first appearance of 
 Mdlle. Baumeister, one of the most useful and universal 
 of Operatic artistes, who is ever ready to " rush into the 
 breach " on any emergency ; having studied almost every 
 part in the lyric catalogue, acquitting herself on all 
 occasions as an excellent and finished vocalist, as well as 
 a ready and accomplished " musicienne." Gassier's high 
 finish has been already noticed, his scale-singing during 
 this engagement, more particularly in the first scene of 
 " Semiramide," was delightful. " Tom Hohler " made a 
 good impression. 
 
 The Company thus : Mdlle. Titiens, Mdlle. Clara Doria
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 235 
 
 (her first appearance), Mdlle. De Meric Lablache, Mdlle. 
 Baumeister, Mdlle. Sinico, Signer Tombesi (first appear- 
 ance), Mr. Hohler, Signer Bolli, Signer Agretti, Signer 
 Balesca, Signer Casaboni, Mr. Lyall, Signer Gassier, 
 Signer Foli, Signer Zoboli (her first appearance), Mr. 
 Santley. Conductor, Signer Bevignani. 
 
 On Monday, September i6th, 1867. " Le Nozze di 
 Figaro." II Conte, Santley ; Figaro, Gassier ; Bartolo, 
 Foli ; Basilic, Mr. Lyall ; Antonio, Casaboni ; Cherubino, 
 De Meric Lablache ; Marcellini, Mdlle. Baumeister ; 
 Susanna, Madame Sinico ; La Contessa, Titiens. 
 
 On Tuesday, " Norma." Pollio, Tombesi; Oroveso, 
 Foli; Clotilda, Baumeister; Adalgisa, Sinico; Normn, 
 Titiens, 
 
 On Wednesday, " Marta." Lionello, Mr. T. Hohler ; 
 Plunketto, Santley; Sheriffo, Mr. Lyall; Nancy, De 
 Meric Lablache ; Marta, Sinico. 
 
 Thursday. "Trovatore." Manrico, Tombesi; Conte 
 di Luna, Santley ; Ferrando, Foli ; Azucena, De Meric 
 Lablache ; Leonora, Titiens. 
 
 On Friday, zoth, " Sonnambula." Elvino, T. Hohler; 
 Conte Rodolfo, Gassier ; Lisa, Mdlle. Baumeister ; Amina, 
 Mdlle. Clara Doria (first appearance). 
 
 N.B. The names of Mdlle. Trebelli Bettini and Signer 
 Bettini (first appearance for four years) were now added 
 to the list. 
 
 On Saturday, Sept. 2ist, " Les Huguenots." Raoul, 
 Signer Bettini ; Conte di San Bris, Gassier ; Conte di 
 Nevers, Santley ; De Cosse, Mr. Lyall ; Tavannes, Agretti; 
 Bois' Rose, Bolli; De Retz, Casabom'-; Marcello, Foli;
 
 236 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Margherita, Madame Sinico ; Urbano, Madame Trebelli 
 Bettini ; Dame d'Onore, Baumeister ; Valentino, Titiens. 
 
 On Monday, 2yd, " Faust." Faust, Signer Bettini ; 
 Valentino, Santley; Mephistophele, Gassier; Siebel, 
 Madame Trebelli Bettini ; Marta, Mdlle. Baumeister ; 
 Margherita, Titiens. 
 
 First production of Nicolai's " Falstaff." 
 
 On Tuesday, September 24th, was given, for the first 
 time in Dublin, Nicolai's favourite Opera of " Falstaff." 
 Mrs. Ford, Titiens ; Mrs. Page, Mdlle. De Meric Lablache; 
 Anne Page, Madame Sinico ; Mr, Ford, Mr. Santley ; 
 Mr. Page, Signer Gassier ; Fenton, Mr. Hohler ; Dr. 
 Caius, Signer Zoboli ; Slender, Mr. Lyall ; Sir John 
 Falstaff, Signer Foli. 
 
 On Wednesday, "II Barbiere." II Conte Almaviva, 
 Bettini ; Figaro, Gassier ; Dr. Bartolo, Zoboli ; Basilio, 
 Foli ; Berta, Mdlle. Baumeister ; Rosina, Mdme. Trebelli 
 Bettini. 
 
 On Thursday, " Don Giovanni." Donna Anna, Titiens ; 
 Zerlina, Trebelli Bettini ; Elvina, Sinico ; Ottavio, Hohler; 
 Leporello, Boboli ; Commendatore, Foli ; Masetto, Casa- 
 boni ; Don Giovanni, Gassier. 
 
 On Friday, 2 yth, " Lucia." Edgardo, Tombesi ; Ashton, 
 Santley ; Arturo, Agretti ; Raimondo, Foli ; Alice, Bau- 
 meister ; Lucia, Mdlle. Clara Doria. 
 
 On Saturday, 28th, " Oberon." Reiza, Titiens ; Fatima, 
 Madame Trebelli Bettini ; Puck, De Meric Lablache ; 
 Mermaid, Baumeister ; Scherasman, Santley ; Babekan, 
 Gassier ; L'Emiro, Boboli ; Astrakan, Agretti ; Sir Huon, 
 Tombesi ; Oberon, Signor Bettini.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 237 
 
 Monday, 3oth. " Lucrezia Borgia." Gennaro, Signor 
 Bettini; Alfonso, Gassier; Gubetta, Foli; Rustighello, 
 Agretti; Liverotto; Zoboli; Petrucci, Lyall; MarTeo 
 Orsini ; Madame Trebelli Bettini ; Lucrezia, Titiens. 
 
 Tuesday, Oct. ist " La Traviata." Alfredo, Hohler ; 
 Germont, Santley ; Medico, Foli ; Gaston, Agretti ; II 
 Barone, Zoboli ; Marchese, Casaboni ; Guiseppe, Lyall ; 
 Amina, Baumeister ; Violetto, Madame Sinico. 
 
 On Wednesday, 2nd, " Semiramide." Idreno, Signor 
 Bettini ; Assur, Gassier ; Oroe, Foli ; L'Ombra, Casaboni ; 
 Arsace, Madame Trebelli Bettini ; Semiramide, Titiens. 
 
 On Thursday, 3rd, " Faust " (as before). 
 
 On Friday, 4th, " Trovatore " (as before). 
 
 Saturday, 5th. " Oberon." Titiens' benefit, and last 
 night. 
 
 The additions of Signor Bettini and his wife tended to 
 " pull up " this engagement, which was " flagging." The 
 event was the first performance of Nicolai's " Falstaff," 
 a charming work, replete with sparkling ideas, well worked 
 out ; but it failed to make a great impression in fact, as 
 is very often the case in Dublin with new works, the 
 public did not come to judge ; the house being about half 
 filled, if so much; the risk of repetition was not attempted, 
 Trovatore, Lucia, or any of the oft-repeated Operas 
 proving much more profitable. 
 
 We must not pass over an amateur performance of " II 
 Trovatore," which took place on Tuesday, March 3ist, 
 1868, with the following cast: Leonora, Miss Annie Doyle; 
 Azucena, Mrs. E. L. Shaw ; Inez, Miss Levey ; Conte 
 di Luna, Mr. J. J. Marlow; Fernando, Mr. P. Hayes;
 
 238 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Ruiz, Mr. Montgomery ; Manrico, Mr. C. Cummins. 
 Conductor, Mr. George G. Lee. A capital performance of 
 the Opera, alike creditable to the Conductor and all the 
 amateurs concerned in it. 
 
 1868. (First appearance of Mongini). September. 
 Italian Opera Company. Mdlle. Titiens, Mdme. Sinico, 
 Mdme. De Meric Lablache, Mdlle. Baumeister, Mdlle. 
 Hersee, Mdlle, Zandrina, Mdme. Trebelli Bettini, Signor 
 Mongini (first appearance), Signor Bettini, Signor Bul- 
 terini (first appearance), Signor Bolli, Signor Campi 
 (first time), Signor Crosti (first time), Signor Foli, 
 Signor Zoboli, Mr. Santley, Herr Formes and Mr. Lyall. 
 Conductor, Signor Bevignani ; Leader, Mr. Levey. 
 
 Monday, i4th September, 1868, " Trovatore." Man- 
 rico, Mongini ; Conte di Luna, Santley ; Ferrando, Foli ; 
 Azucena,'De Meric Lablache ; Inez, Baumeister; Leonora, 
 Titiens. 
 
 Tuesday, " Der Freischutz." Rudolph, Mongini ; 
 Caspar, Santley ; Eremita, Foli ; Killano, Casaboni ; 
 Kuno, Zoboli ; Annetta, Madame Sinico ; Agata, 
 Titiens. 
 
 Wednesday, i6th, "Lucia." Edgardo, Signor Bul- 
 terini ; Ashton, Crosti; Raimondo, Foli; Arturo, Agretti; 
 Alice, Baumeister ; Lucia, Mdme. Sinico. 
 
 Thursday, "Lucrezia Borgia." Gennaro, Mongini; 
 Alfonsi, Crosti; Gubetta, Foli; Rustighello, Agretti; 
 Astolfo, Campi; Petrucci, Mr. Lyall; Orsini, Mdlle. 
 Zandrina ; Lucrezia, Titiens. 
 
 Friday, i8th, " Rigoletto." II Duca, Bulterini, Rigo- 
 letto, Santley ; Sparafucile, Foli ; Paggio, Mdlle.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 239 
 
 Baumeister ; Madelina, Zandrina, Giovanni, Hersee; 
 Gilda, Mdme. Sinico. 
 
 Saturday, i Qth, "Faust." Faust, Bulterini j Valentino, 
 Santley ; Mephistophele, Crosti ; Siebel, Sandrina ; 
 Marta, Baumeister ; Margharita, Titiens. 
 
 Monday, 2ist, " Norma." Pollio, Mongini ; Oro- 
 veso, Foli ; Adalgisa, Sinico ; Coltilda, Baumeister ; 
 Norma, Titiens. 
 
 Tuesday, 22nd, " Le Nozze." II Conte, Santley j 
 Figaro, Herr Formes j Don Basilio, Lyall ; Don Curzio, 
 Agretti ; Susanna, Sinico ; Marcellina, Baumeister; 
 Cherubino, Sandrina ; La Contessa, Titiens. 
 
 Wednesday, 23rd, " Marta." Lionello, Mongini; 
 Plunketto, Santley ; Tristram, Zoboli ; Guiseppa, Lyall ; 
 Nancy, Trebelli ; Marta, Sinico. 
 
 Thursday, 24th, " Don Giovanni." Ottavio, Bettini ; 
 Don Giovanni, Santley ; Leporello, Formes ; Commen- 
 datore, Foli ; Mazetto, Zoboli ; Zerlina, Trebelli Bettini ; 
 Elvira, Sinico ; Donna Anna, Titiens. 
 
 Friday, 25th, " II Barbiere." II Conte, Bettini ; 
 Figaro, Tagliafico ; Don Bartolo, Zoboli ; Fiorello, Casa- 
 boni ; Basilio, Foli ; Marcellina, Baumeister ; Rosina, 
 Trebelli Bettini. 
 
 Saturday, 26th, " Fidelio." Florestan, Bulterini ; 
 Pizzaro, Santley ; Rocco, Foli ; Ministro, Tagliafico ; 
 Jaqueno, Lyall ; Marcellina, Sinico ; Leonora, Titiens. 
 
 Monday, 28th, " Les Huguenots." Raoul, Mongini ; 
 San Bris, Santley ; Nevers, Tagliafico ; De Corsi, Lyall ; 
 Tavannes, Agretto ; Bois Rose, Bollio ; De Retz, Casa- 
 boni ; Mera, Belasco ; Marcello, Foli ; Margharita, Sinico
 
 240 AXXALS OF THE 
 
 Urbano, Trebelli Bettini ; Dama D'Onore, Baumeister.; 
 Valentina, Titiens. 
 
 Tuesday, September 29th, 1868. First production in 
 Dublin of "II Flauto Magico." Tamino, Bettini ; 
 Papageno, Santley ; Sarastro, Foli ; Monastos, Lyall ; 
 Due Uomini, Agretti and Campi ; Due Sacerdoti, Bolli 
 .and Tagliafico ; Tre Geni, Hersee, Zandrina and Mdlle. 
 Giacomina ; Tre Damigelli, Miss Cruise, Miss Baily and 
 Miss Eiffe ; Regina della Notte, Baumeister ; Papagena, 
 Sinico ; Pamina, Titiens. 
 
 Wednesday, 3oth, " La Sonnambula." Elvino, Mon- 
 gini ; Rodolfo, Tagliafico ; Alessio, Zoboli ; Lisa, 
 Baumeister ; Teresa, Miss Cruise ; Amina, Sinico. 
 
 Thursday, October ist, " Semiramide." Idreno, Bet- 
 tini; Assur, Foli; Oroe, Tagliafico; Arsace, Trebelli 
 Bettini ; Semiramide, Titiens. 
 
 Friday, " II Flauto Magico " (repeat). 
 
 Saturday, 3rd, " Oberon." (Benefit of Titiens.) Huon, 
 Mongini ; Oberon, Bettini ; Scherasmin, Santley ; Fatima, 
 Trebelli Bettini ; Mermaid, Baumeister ; Reiza, Titiens. 
 
 Three first appearances this engagement, viz. : Bulte- 
 rini (tenor), Campi (baritone), Mongini (tenor). Signor 
 Mongini had made a great " stir " in London a most 
 powerful tenors robusto he produced some great effects, 
 but wanted the finish of many who preceded him ; he 
 was the first who gave the ut depoitrine in the " Di quella 
 pira" (Trovatore), and the night he introduced this 
 change in Drury Lane, the pit audience rose en masse and 
 cheered heartily ; it was also duly applauded in Dublin. 
 In the " Huguenots," during a melee, Mongini was stabbed
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 241 
 
 with a wooden dagger, from which he was laid up for some 
 days. The immortal " Flauto Magico " also now made 
 its first appearance, and with as complete a cast as could 
 well be obtained to interpret this charming work. The 
 tenor music might have been written for Bettini, whose 
 singing was perfection. Santley (Papageno) " goes with- 
 out saying." " Charley " Lyall (artist in everything,) the 
 best'of Monastos. Nothing could exceed the amusement 
 created in the " frightened " duet between Papageno and 
 Monastos. Everybody will remember Foil's " Qui 
 S'degno;" also the "Pa, Pa," duet with Santley and 
 Sinico, never equalled by others. The concerted trios of 
 the Geni and Damigelli were remarkably well sung. The 
 Opera was therefore naturally a great success, and has 
 continued to be a great " draw " when well performed. 
 
 First appearance of lima di Murska. 
 
 Italian Company. Mdlle. Titiens, Madame Sinico, 
 Mdlle. Scalchi (first appearance), Mdlle. Baumeister, 
 Mdlle. Corsi, Mdlle. lima di Murska (first appearance), 
 Signor Gardoni, Signer Delia Rocca (first appearance), 
 Signer Marino (first appearance), Mr. Lyall, Signor 
 Mongini, Signor Gassier, Signor Baggagiolo (first appear- 
 ance, Signor Zoboli, Signor Campi, Herr Formes and 
 Mr. Santley. Conductors, Signor Arditi and Signor 
 Bevignani ; Principal Danseuse, Mdlle. Rosalia ; Maitre 
 de Ballet, Mons. De Places. 
 
 Monday, i3th September, 1869, "Les Huguenots" 
 (with the whole strength). 
 
 Tuesday, " Dinorah" (with the whole strength). 
 
 Wednesday, 1 5th, "Trovatore." Manrico, Mongini; 
 
 Q
 
 242 . ANNALS OF THE 
 
 II Conte, Santley: Ferrando, Baggagiolo; Azucena, 
 
 Scalchi ; Leonora, Titiens. 
 
 Thursday, i6th, "Lucia." Edgardo, Mongini ; Ar- 
 
 turo, Marino ; Raimondo, Baggagiolo ; Lucia, lima di 
 
 Murska. 
 
 Friday, 1 7th, " Don Giovanni." Donna Anna, Titiens ; 
 Zerlina, Sinico ; Elvira, Bauineister ; Don Giovanni, 
 Santley ; Leporello, Zoboli ; De Ottavio, Gardoni. 
 
 Saturday i8th, " II Flauto Magico." Tamino, Gordini ; 
 Papageno, Santley; Sarastro, Baggagiolo ; Orator e, Campi ; 
 Monastatos, Lyall ; Astrifiammanti, lima di Murska ; 
 Papagena, Sinico ; Tre Geni, Mdlles. Baumeister, Scho- 
 field, Clinton ; Tre Damigelli, Mdlles. Cruise, Corsi, and 
 Scalchi ; Pamina, Titiens. 
 
 Monday, 2oth, "Faust." Siebel, Scalchi; Marta, 
 Mdme. Corsi ; Mephistophele, Gassier; Valentino, Santley ; 
 Faust, Gardoni. 
 
 Tuesday, zist, " Sonnambula." Elvino, Mongini ;, 
 Conte Rodolfo, Gassier ; Terese, Corsi ; Lisa, Baumeister ;. 
 Amina, lima di Murska. 
 
 Wednesday, 22nd, " Lucrezia Borgia." Gennaro, Mon- 
 gini (in which he introduced "Desertoin Terra"); Alfonso, 
 Gassier ; Gazella, Lyall ; Maffio Orsini, Scalchi ; Lucrezia, 
 Titiens. 
 
 Thursday, 23rd, " II Flauto," as before. 
 
 Friday, 24th, "La Traviata." Germont, Santley; 
 Gaston, Marino ; Baron, Zoboli; Dottore, Campi ; Alfredo, 
 Delia Rocca (first appearance) ; Violetta, Sinico. 
 
 Saturday, 25th, "Robert le Diable." Roberto, Gardoni ; 
 Bertram, Baggagiolo ; Rambalda, Delia Rocca ; Alberto,
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 243 
 
 Campi ; First Cavaliere, Marino; Second Cavaliere, Lyall j 
 Third Cavalier, Casaboni ; Eraldo, Marino ; Isabella, lima 
 di Murska ; Helena, Mdlle. Ricois ; Alice, Titiens. 
 
 Monday, 27th, " Linda di Chamouni." Carlo, Gar- 
 doni ; Antonio, Santley ; Prefetto, Baggagiolo ; Pierotto, 
 Scalchi ; Linda, lima di Murska. 
 
 Tuesday, 28th, " Norma." Pollio, Mongini ; Oroveso, 
 Baggagiolo ; Adalgisa, Sinico ; Norma, Titiens. 
 
 Wednesday, 29th, "Lucia" (repeat). 
 
 Thursday, 3oth, "Faust" (repeat). 
 
 Friday, October ist, " Marta." Lionello, Mongini ; 
 Plunketto, Gassier; Nancy, Scalchi; Marta, lima di 
 Murska. 
 
 Saturday, 2nd, " II Flauto." 
 
 Monday, 4th, " Robert le Diable." 
 
 Tuesday, 5th, " Der Freischutz." Rodolfo, Mongini ; 
 Caspar, Santley ; Killiano, Gassier ; Annetta, Sinico ; 
 Agata, Titiens. 
 
 Wednesday, 6th, " Sonnambula " (repeat). 
 
 Thursday, yth, " Fidelio." Florestano, Gardoni ; 
 Pizzaro, Santley ; Rocco, Herr Formes ; Jacqueno, Lyall ; 
 Marcellina, Sinico ; Leonora, Titiens. 
 
 - Friday, 8th, " Marta " (second Act), as before ; first 
 Act of " Traviata ;" concluding with the fourth Act of 
 " Hamlet," containing the celebrated mad scene. Ophelia, 
 lima di Murska. 
 
 Saturday, gth, " II Trovatore " last night. 
 
 " The cry was still they come !" More first appear- 
 ances, viz : lima di Murska, Mdlle. Scalchi, Signer 
 Marino, Signer Baggagiolo, the Danseuse Rosalia, and
 
 244 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 the celebrated Maitre de Ballet, Mons. Des Places. 
 This Company was remarkably strong in quantity and 
 quality. Di Murska sang the " Queen of Night's " song 
 (II Flauto) in Mozart's original key (F), taking the 
 audience quite by surprise from her extraordinary and 
 distinct execution of the different staccato passages inci- 
 dental to the work. Two encores every night. Mdlle. 
 Di Murska also proved herself an accomplished artiste 
 by her performance of Ophelia in the last act of Ambrose 
 Thomas's " Hamlet," which she sang for the first time, 
 and at a short notice, very beautifully. Mdlle. Scalchi at 
 once established herself; and rapidly advancing in her pro- 
 fession, has elevated herself to the position of first contralto 
 in Covent Garden. Signer Baggagiolo was a good basso ; 
 indeed all the " first appearances " found favour. 
 
 First appearances of Fancelli, Vizzani, Ciampi, Cara- 
 voglia. 
 
 Italian Company Mdlle. Titiens, Mdlle. Scalchi, 
 Mdlle. Baumeister, Mdlle. Madigan (first appearance), 
 Mdlle. Leon Duval (first appearance), Mdlle. Sinico, 
 Madame Trebelli Bettini, Mdlle. lima di Murska, Signer 
 Vizzani (first appearance), Signer Bettini, Signer Rinaldini 
 (first appearance), Signer Fancelli (first appearance), 
 Signer Ciampi (first appearance), Signer Caravoglia (first 
 appearance), Signer Taglian'co, Signer Casaboni, Mr. 
 Morgan, Signer Antonucci (first appearance), Signer 
 Cotogni (first appearance). Conductor, Signer Be- 
 vignani. 
 
 On Monday, September i2th, 1870, "Lucrezia Borgia." 
 Oennaro, Signer Fancelli ; Alfonso, Antonucci ; Rustig-
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 245 
 
 hello, Signer Rinaldini ; Liverotto, Mr. Morgan ; Gubetta, 
 Tagliafico ; Maffeo Orsini, Mdlle. Scalchi ; Lucrezia, 
 Titiens. 
 
 Tuesday, 1 3th. "Puritani." Arturo, Vizzani ; Ricardo, 
 Cotogni ; Georgio, Antonucci ; Bruno, Rinaldini ; Walton, 
 Tagliafico ; Enrichetta, Baumeister ; Elvira, Sinico. 
 
 Wednesday, i4th. " Trovatore." Manrico, Fancelli ; 
 Conte, Cotogni ; Inez, Baumeister ; Leonora, Titiens. 
 
 Thursday, i5th. "II Barbiere." Almaviva, Bettini; 
 Figaro, Cotogni ; Bartolo, Ciampi ; Basilic, Tagliafico ; 
 Rosina, Mdlle. Leon Duval. And second and third Acts 
 of " Massaniello." Massaniello, Mr. Morgan (in conse- 
 quence of Signor Fancelli's illness). 
 
 Friday, 1 6th. "Norma." Oroveso, Antonucci; Flavio, 
 Mr. Morgan ; Adalgisa, Sinico ; Norma, Titiens. 
 
 Saturday, lyth. "Don Giovanni." Don Giovanni, 
 Cotogni ; Leporello, Ciampi ; Zerlina, Trebelli Bettini ; 
 Elvira, Sinico ; Donna Anna, Titiens. 
 
 Monday, igth. " Le Nozze." Figaro, Cotogni ; Conte, 
 Caravoglia ; Bartolo, Ciampi ; Chembino, Trebelli Bettini; 
 Contessa, Titiens. 
 
 Tuesday, 2oth. "Faust." Faust, Bettini; Mephis- 
 tophele, Antonucci ; Valentino, Cotogni ; Siebel, Trebelli 
 Bettini ; Margherita, Mdlle. Leon Duval. 
 
 Wednesday, 2ist. " Trovatore " (repeat). 
 
 Thursday, 22nd. " Sonnambula." Elvino, Fancelli; 
 Rodolpho, Tagliafico ; Amina, lima di Murska. 
 
 Friday, 23rd. " Semiramide." Idreno, Bettini ; Assur, 
 Antonucci ; Arsace, Trebelli Bettini ; Semiramide, 
 Titiens.
 
 246- ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Saturday, 24th. " II Flauto." Tamino, Bettini ; Papa- 
 geno, Totogni ; Sarastro, Antonucci ; Queen ; of Night, 
 Di Murska ; Papagena, Sinico ; Pamina, Titiens. 
 
 Monday, 26th. " Les Huguenots." Raoul, Bettini; 
 San Bris, Caravoglia ; Nevers, Cotogni ; Marcello, Anto- 
 nucci;- Margherita, Sinico; Valentino, Titiens. 
 
 Tuesday, 27th. "Lucia." Edgardo, Fancelli ; Enrico, 
 Caravoglia ; Lucia, lima di Murska. 
 
 Wednesday, 28th. " Don Giovanni " (as before). 
 : Thursday, 2 gth. "II Flauto '' (repeat): 
 : Friday, 30th. " Marta." Lionello, Vizzani ; Plunketto, 
 Giampi; Tristano, Tagliafico; Nancy, Scalchi; Marta, 
 lima di Murska. 
 
 Saturday, 3 1 st. "Oberon." Huon, Fancelli ; Oberon, 
 Bettini; Scherasmin, Cotogni; Fatima, Trebelli; Reiza, 
 Titiens. Last night. 
 
 Fancelli came amongst us now for the first time. His 
 fame had of course preceded him through the Press, and, 
 unlike others, he did not disappoint ; if not quite up to 
 the standard of the great ones heard before, he may cer- 
 tainly be placed as a first-class tenor, perhaps the best, 
 or certainly the equal of any present aspirant. His voice 
 is a pure and powerful tenor, and he improves in style 
 each season. Signor Vizzani was also a success, and 
 displayed most promising powers as a tenor, possessing 
 an organ not very robust but of exquisite quality. He 
 gave the " A te o Cara " with much effect, and all through 
 the very trying music of " Puritani " he displayed much 
 taste, using his voice skilfully and artistically. Signor 
 Rinaldini, a most useful, indeed indispensable member of
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 247 
 
 the Company, also made good way. Caravoglia and 
 Ciampi, both most efficient baritones, received full appre- 
 ciation ; and Mr. Wilton Morgan proved his well-known 
 efficiency by " rushing " into " Massaniello " in place of 
 Fancelli, and coming off with honours. 
 
 First appearances of Mdlle. Marimon, Agnesi, Men- 
 
 NOTE. 
 
 Thursday, 2 9 th. "II Flauto " (repeat). Madame 
 Trebelli and Mdlle. Scalchi took parts in the 
 Uamigelli," an almost unprecedented musical event. 
 
 (tirst appearance), Signer Mendiorez (first time), Signer 
 Caravoglia, Signor Zoboli, Signor Casaboni, Signer 
 Stefano, Signor Foli, Mr. Morgan. Conductor, Signor Li 
 Calsi. 
 
 Monday, September nth, 1871. " Trovatore." Man- 
 rico, Prudenza; Conte di Luna, Mendiorez; Ferrando, 
 Foli; Ruiz, Rinaldini; Azucena, Trebelli; Leonora, 
 Titiens, 
 
 Tuesday, i2th. "La Figlia." Tonio, Vizzani; Sul- 
 pizio, Agnesi ; Marchesa, Baumeister ; Maria, Marimon. 
 
 Wednesday, 13*. "Anna Bolena." Henry VIII., 
 Agnesi ; Percy, Prudenza ; Rochford, Caravoglia ; Smea- 
 ton, Fernandez ; Jane Seymour, Columbo ; Anne Boleyn, 
 Titiens. 
 
 Thursday, i4th. " Sonnambula." Elvino, Vizzani; 
 Rodolfo, Foli; Lisa, Baumeister; Teresa, Miss Cruise; 
 Amina, Marimon. 
 
 Friday, i5th. " Semiramide." Assur, Agnesi; Idreno,
 
 246' ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Saturday, 24th. " II Flauto." Tamino, Bettini ; Papa- 
 geno, 'Cotogni ; Sarastro, Antonucci ; Queen ; of Night, 
 Di Murska ; Papagena, Sinico ; Pamina, Titiens. 
 
 Monday, 26th. " Les Huguenots.' 5 Raoul, Bettini; 
 San Bris, Caravoglia ; Nevers, Cotogni ; Marcello, Anto- 
 nucci;- Margherita, Sinico; Valentino, Titiens. 
 
 lima di Murska. 
 
 Saturday, 3 1 st. "Oberon." Huon, Fancelli ; Oberon, 
 Bettini; Scherasmin, Cotogni; Fatima, Trebelli; Reiza, 
 Titiens. Last night. 
 
 Fancelli came amongst us now for the first time. His 
 fame had of course preceded him through the Press, and, 
 unlike others, he did not disappoint ; if not quite up to 
 the standard of the great ones heard before, he may cer- 
 tainly be placed as a first-class tenor, perhaps the best, 
 or certainly the equal of any present aspirant. His voice 
 is a pure and powerful tenor, and he improves in style 
 each season. Signor Vizzani was also a success, and 
 displayed most promising powers as a tenor, possessing 
 an organ not very robust but of exquisite quality. He 
 gave the " A te o Cara " with much effect, and all through 
 the very trying music of " Puritani " he displayed much 
 taste, using his voice skilfully and artistically. Signor 
 Rinaldini, a most useful, indeed indispensable member of
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 247 
 
 the Company, also made good way. Caravoglia and 
 Ciampi, both most efficient baritones, received full appre- 
 ciation ; and Mr. Wilton Morgan proved his well-known 
 efficiency by " rushing " into " Massaniello " in place of 
 Fancelli, and coming off with honours. 
 
 First appearances of Mdlle. Marimon, Agnesi, Men- 
 diorez. 
 
 Troupe: Mdlle. Titiens, Mdlle. Columbo, Mdlle. 
 Baumeister, Mdlle. Maria Marimon,' Madame Trebelli 
 Bettini, Mdlle. Fernandez (first appearance), Mdlle. di 
 Murska, Signor Vizzani, Signer Tesseman, Signer Rinal- 
 dini, Signor Prudenza (first appearance), Signor Agnesi 
 (first appearance), Signor Mendiorez (first time), Signor 
 Caravoglia, Signor Zoboli, Signor Casaboni, Signor 
 Stefano, Signor Foli, Mr. Morgan. Conductor, Signor Li 
 Calsi. 
 
 Monday, September nth, 1871. " Trovatore." Man- 
 rico, Prudenza; Conte di Luna, Mendiorez; Ferrando, 
 Foli ; Ruiz, Rinaldini ; Azucena, Trebelli ; Leonora, 
 Titiens, 
 
 Tuesday, i2th. "La Figlia." Tonio, Vizzani; Sul- 
 pizio, Agnesi ; Marchesa, Baumeister ; Maria, Marimon. 
 
 Wednesday, 13*. "Anna Bolena." Henry VIII., 
 Agnesi ; Percy, Prudenza ; Rochford, Caravoglia ; Smea- 
 ton, Fernandez ; Jane Seymour, Columbo ; Anne Boleyn, 
 Titiens. 
 
 Thursday, I4th. " Sonnambula." Elvino, Vizzani; 
 Rodolfo, Foli; Lisa, Baumeister; Teresa, Miss Cruise; 
 Amina, Marimon. 
 
 Friday, 151)1. " Semiramide." Assur, Agnesi; Idreno,
 
 248 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Rinaldini; Oroe, Foli; Arsace, Trebelli; Semiramide, 
 Titiens. 
 
 Saturday, i6th. "La Figlia" (repeat). 
 
 Monday, i8th. "Don Giovanni." Donna Anna, 
 Titiens; Elvira, Columbo ; Zerlina, Trebelli; Don 
 Giovanni, Mendiorez; Leporello, Agnesi; Mazetto, 
 Zoboli ; Commendatore, Foli ; Ottavio, Vizzani. 
 
 Tuesday, igth. "Sonnambula" (as before). 
 
 Wednesday, 20th. " Anna Bolena." 
 
 Thursday, 2 1 st. "II Barbiere." Almaviva, Vizzani; 
 Bartolo, Zoboli; Figaro, Mendiorez; Basilio, Foli; 
 Rosina, Marimon. 
 
 Friday, 22nd. "Lucrezia." Gennaro, Prudenza; 
 Alfonso, Agnesi; Gubetta, Stefano; Orsini, Trebelli; 
 Lucrezia, Titiens. 
 
 Saturday, 23rd. " Lucia." Edgardo, Prudenza ; Ashton, 
 Mendiorez ; Raimondo, Foli ; Lucia, Di Murska. 
 
 Monday, 25th. "II Flauto." Tamino, Vizzani; 
 Papageno, Mendiorez; Sarastro, Foli; Astrinammenti, 
 Di Murska; Papagena, Columba; Tre Damegelli, Miss 
 Cruise, Miss Grosvenor, Mdme. Trebelli Bettini ; Pamina, 
 Titiens. 
 
 Tuesday, 26th. "II Barbiere" (repeat). 
 
 Wednesday, 2yth. "Roberto il Diavolo." Roberto, 
 Prudenza ; Bertramo, Foli ; Un Prete, Agnesi ; Isabella, 
 Di Murska ; Alisa, Titiens. 
 
 Thursday, 28th. Morning performance of " Marta." 
 lionello, Vizzani ; Plunketto, Agnesi ; Nancy, Trebelli ; 
 Lady Enrichetta, Di Murska. 
 
 Thursday, 28th (evening). "Sonnambula" (repeat).
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 249 
 
 Friday, agth. " Trovatore " (repeat). 
 
 Saturday, 3oth. " Oberon." Sir Huon, Vizzani ; 
 Oberon, Tesseman ; Scherasmin, Caravoglia ; Fatiraa, 
 Trebelli ; Reiza, Titiens. Last night. 
 
 The first hearing of two great artistes occurred during 
 this series Mdlle. Marimon and Signor Agnesi. The 
 recollection of the former is so fresh that comment is al- 
 almost unnecessary, the same impression produced here 
 as in London and all the Continental cities, viz. an extra- 
 ordinary soprano of the very highest education and finish. 
 The very same remarks (in a baritone sense) may be 
 applied to Agnesi, who to a grand voice combined a style 
 the most masterly, bringing strongly to mind the great 
 Tamburini, whose wonderful flexibility and high education 
 Agnesi seemed almost to improve on. The Lyric Drama lost 
 too soon this much-esteemed vocalist, who died about 1874 
 or 1875. He fulfilled during the latter period of his life 
 the position of " Maitre de Chant " in the Paris Conser- 
 vatoire. Signor Mendiorez also worthily filled the position 
 of a first baritone, passing through the trying ordeal of 
 "The Conte di Luna" with the exacting "II Balen" 
 (after so many), with marked success. 
 
 First appearance of Campanini. Titiens, Baumeister, 
 Marimon, Trebelli, Filomena, Di Murska, Signor Bettini, 
 W. Morgan, Rinaldini, Signor Campanini (first appear- 
 ance), Agnesi, Mendiorez, Borella, Arnoldi, Casaboni, 
 Campobello, Foli. Conductor, Li Calsi. 
 
 Monday, September 3oth, 1872. "Lucrezia Borgia." 
 Gennaro, Signor Campanini ; Alfonso, Agnesi ; Astolfo, 
 Campobello ; Maffeo Orsini, Trebelli ; Lucrezia, Titiens.
 
 250. ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Tuesday, October ist. "Sonnambula." Elvino, Bettini ; 
 Roldolfo, Agnesi ; Lisa, Baumeister ; Amina, Marimon. 
 ^Wednesday, 2nd. "II Flauto Magico." Tamino,' 
 Bettini Papageno, Mendiorez ; Sarastro, Foli; Sacradoti, 
 Campbello ; Astrifiammenti, Di Murska ; Tre Damigelli, 
 Mdlles. Mara, Grosvenor, and Trebelli. 
 
 Thursday, 3rd. " II Trovatore." Manrico, Campanini ; 
 Conte di Luna, Mendiorez; Fernando, Foli; Azucena, 
 Trebelli ; Leonora, Titiens. 
 
 . Friday. "La Figlia." Tonio, Bettini; Sulpizio, 
 Agnesi ; Marchesa, Baumeister ; Maria, Marimon. 
 
 Saturday, 5th. " Lucia." Edgardo, Campanini ; Aston, 
 Mendiorez ; Raimondo, Foli ; Lucia, Di Murska. 
 
 Monday, October, yth. "Don Pasquale" (first time 
 for 17 years). Ernesta, Signer Bettini; Malatesta, 
 Mendiorez; Pasquale, Borella; Norina, Marimon. 
 
 Tuesday, 8th. "Don Giovanni." Ottavio, Bettini ; 
 Giovanni, Mendiorez; Leporello, Borella; Commendatore, 
 Foli; Masetto, Zoboli; Zerlina, Trebelli; Elvira, Di 
 Murska ; Donna Anna, Titiens. 
 
 Wednesday, gth. "Marta." Lionello, Campanini; 
 Plunketto, Agnesi ; Tristano, Borella ; Nancy, Trebelli ; 
 Marta, Marimon. 
 
 Thursday, loth. "Faust." Faust, Campanini (first 
 appearance) ; Valentino, Mendiorez ; MephistopheJe, 
 Foli; Siebel, Trebelli; Margherita, Titiens. 
 
 Friday. " II Barbiere." Almaviva, .Bettini ; Bartolo, 
 Borella; Figaro, Mendiorez; Basilio, Agnesi ;] Rosiha, 
 Marimon. 
 
 Saturday, 1 2th. " II Flauto " (repeat).
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 2$ I 
 
 Monday, 1 4th, " Les Huguenots." Raoul, Campanini ; 
 San Bris, Agnesi; Nevers, Mendiorez; Marcello, Foli; 
 Maurevert, Campobello ; Urbano, Trebelli ; Margherita, 
 Di Murska ; Valentina, Titiens. 
 
 Tuesday, i5th. " Sonnambula" (repeat). 
 
 Wednesday, i6th. " Semiramide." Assur, Agnesi ; 
 Oroe, Foli ; Arsace, Trebelli; Semiramide, Titiens. 
 
 Thursday, i7th. "Rigoletto." Duca, Campanini; 
 Rigoletto, Mendiorez; Sparafucile, Foli ; Monterone, 
 Campobello; Maddalena, Trebelli; Gilda, Di Murska. ; 
 
 Friday, 1 8th. "Faust" (as before). 
 
 Saturday. Repeat of " Don Giovanni." Last night. ' 
 
 The injury occurring to an artist from extreme over 
 criticisms beforehand was evident in the case of Campanini. 
 With his glorious voice and dramatic qualities it was 
 quite unnecessary, his merits were and are quite sufficient ; 
 but the public were led to believe they were about to hear 
 "the greatest tenor that ever appeared, none excepted." 
 Campanini is a great artist : himself and Fancelli now hold 
 the first places. Comparisons in art are particularly odious, 
 both fully deserve the positions they have attained, and 
 can " well hold their own :> on their merits. It will be 
 observed that Trebelli on this, as on a former occasion, 
 with that self-sacrifice always attached to a true artiste, 
 joined the "Tre Damigelli," adding thereby wonderful 
 effect to the beautiful concerted music. 
 
 The next Italian Opera took place at the Gaiety Theatre, 
 viz. : Mdlle. Marimon, Mdlle. Ida Corani, Mdlle. 
 Baronetti, Madame Elena Corani, Miss Sinclair, Mdlle. 
 Arnoldi, Madame De Meric Lablache, Signer Mottino,
 
 25 2 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Signor Toppai, Signer Bettini, Signer Celli, Signer Tag- 
 liafico, Signor Arnoldi, Signor Riccobuono, Signor Foli, 
 Signor Enrico Serazzi. Conductor, Mons. Maton. 
 
 Monday, August 25th, 1873. "La Sonnambula." 
 Amina, Marimon ; Lisa, Mdlle. Arnoldi ; Conte, Celli ; 
 Elvino, Bettini. 
 
 Tuesday, 26th. "Lucrezia." Elena Corani; Orsini, 
 De Meric Lablache; Gennaro, Serazzi. 
 
 Wednesday, 27th. " II Barbiere." Rosina, Marimon; 
 Figaro, Mottino ; Almaviva, Bettini. 
 
 Thursday, 28th. "Trovatore." Leonora, Corani; 
 Azucena, Lablache ; Di Luna, Mattino ; Manrico, Bettini. 
 
 Friday, 29th. " Lucrezia Borgia." Lucrezia, Corani ; 
 Orsini, De Meric Lablache ; Duca, Celli ; Gennaro, 
 Serazzi. 
 
 Saturday, 3oth. "Faust." Margherita, Marimon; 
 Siebel, Lablache ; Mephistophele, Foli ; Valentino, Mat- 
 tino ; Faust, Serazzi. 
 
 Monday, Sept. ist. "Norma." Norma, E. Corani; 
 Adalgisa, Sinclair; Oroveso, Foli; Pollio, Serazzi. 
 
 Tuesday, 2nd. "Marta." Marta, Marimon; Nancy, 
 Lablache ; Plunketto, Mattino ; Lionello, Bettini. 
 
 Wednesday, 3rd. " Un Ballo in Maschera." Amelia, 
 E. Corani ; Ulrica, Lablache ; Oscar, Ida Corani ; Renato, 
 Mattino; Samuele, Foli; Ricardo, Serazzi. 
 
 Thursday, 4th. Repeat of " Faust." 
 
 Friday, 5th. " Don Giovanni." Donna Anna, Corani ; 
 Elvira, Arnoldi ; Zerlina, Sinclair ; Giovanni, Celli; Com- 
 mendatore, Foli ; Leporello, Toppai ; Masetto, Tagliafico ; 
 Ottavio, Bettini.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 253 
 
 Saturday, 6th. "II Flauto." Astrifiamraenti, Mdlle. 
 Marimon; Papagena, Sinclair; Pamina, E. Corani; 
 Sarastro, Foli ; Papageno, Celli ; Tamino, Bettini. Last 
 night. 
 
 Elena Corani is the identical Miss Ellen Conran who 
 came out some time before at the Royal under the kind 
 auspices of Grisi, and who made sufficient progress in her 
 profession to become prima-donna, and fulfil many of the 
 characters of her great friend (to whom she bore some 
 resemblance), with every success. Miss Ida Corani was a 
 younger sister, and fully sustained the musical reputation 
 of their father, the great Dublin pianist, William Sarsfield 
 Conran. We return to the " Royal" 
 
 First appearance of Marie Roze and Alwina Valleria. 
 Company : Titiensi, Sinico, Mdlle. Marie Roze (first time), 
 Trebelli, Mdlle. Justia MacVitz (first time), Baumeister, 
 Mdlle. Alwina Valleria (first time), Signer Camero (first 
 time), Signer Urio (first time), Signer Cantoni (first time), 
 Fabbrini( first time), Rinaldiiii, Marchetti, Aramburro (first 
 time), Agnesi, Catalani (first time), Mendiorez, Campo- 
 bello, Signer Pro, Zoboli, Casaboni, Guilio Perkins (first 
 appearance), Castlemary (first time). Conductor, Signer 
 Li Calsi. 
 
 Monday, September i5th, 1873. " La Favorita. 
 Fernando, Aramburro; Alfonso, Sterbini; Baldassore 
 Perkins ; Leonora, Titiens. 
 
 Tuesday, 1 6th. " Marta." Lionello, Urio ; Tristani, 
 Borella; Plunketto, Agnesi; Nancy, Trebelli; Marta, 
 Sinico. 
 
 Wednesday, 1 7th. " II Trovatore." Manrico, Aram-
 
 '254 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 burro ; Conte di Luna, Sterbini ; Ferrando, Campobello ; 
 Azucena, Trebelli ; Leonora, Sinico. 
 
 Thursday, iSth. " Norma." Pollio, Aramburro; 
 Oroveso, Agnesi ; Adalgisa, Sinico ; Norma, Titiens. 
 
 Friday, igth. "Faust." Faust, Camero; Mephis- 
 tophele, Perkins; Valentino, Campobello; Siebel, MacVitz; 
 Marta, Baumeister ; Margherita, Marie Roze. 
 
 Saturday, 2oth. " Oberon." Sir Huon, Urio ; Oberon, 
 Cantoni ; Scherasmina, Agnesi ; Puck, MacVitz ; Fatima, 
 Trebelli ; Reiza, Titiens, 
 
 Monday, 22nd. " Semiramide." Assur, Agnesi ; Oroe, 
 Campobello ; Arsace, Trebelli ; Idreno, Rinaldini ; Semi- 
 ramide, Titiens. 
 
 Tuesday. " Rigoletto." Duca, Aramburro ; Rigoletto, 
 Catalani ; Sparafucile, Pro ; Monterone, Campobello ; 
 Maddalena, MacVitz ; Gilda, Alwina Valleria. 
 
 Wednesday, 24th. " Don Giovanni." Ottavio, Cantoni; 
 Giovanni, Sterbini ; Leporello, Borella ; Commendatore, 
 Perkins ; Zerlina, Trebelli ; Donna Anna, Titiens. 
 
 Thursday, 25th. Repeat of " La Favorita." 
 
 Friday, 26th, "II Barbiere." Almaviva, Camero; 
 Bartolo, Borella; Figaro, Sterbini; Basilio, Agnesi; 
 Rosina, Trebelli. 
 
 Saturday, 27th. . " II Flauto Magico." Tamino, Can- 
 toni ; Papageno, Catalani ; Sarastro, Perkins ; Sacradoti, 
 Campobello ; Astrifiammenti, Valleria ; Papagena, Sinico ; 
 Pamina, Titiens. Trebelli again joined the " Tre Dami- 
 gelli," with Marie Roze and Baumeister. 
 
 Monday, 29th. " Lucrezia Borgia." Gennaro, Aram-
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 2$$ 
 
 burro' ; Alfonso, Agnesi ; Maffeo Orsini, Trebelli ; Lu- 
 crezia, Titiens. 
 
 Tuesday, 3oth. " Le Nozze di Figaro." Cherubim, 
 Trebelli ; Sigaro, Agnesi ; II Conte, Campobello ; Bartolo, 
 Borella; Basilio, Rinaldini ; Susanna, Sinico ; La 
 Contessa, Titiens. 
 
 Wednesday, October ist. Repeat of " Faust." 
 Thursday, and. Repeat of " Don Giovanni." 
 Friday, 3rd. " Lucia." Edgardo, Aramburro ; Ashton, 
 Catalani; Raimondo, Campobello; Lucia, Alwina Valleria. 
 Saturday, 4th. " II Trovatore," as before, except 
 Leonora, Titiens, being her benefit and last night. 
 
 Marie Roze, who was Madame Perkins, and has 
 since married Mr. H. Mapleson (son of the great 
 impresario], made a " decided hit " in Margherita. 
 Admirably suited to the part in personal appearance, 
 and imparting to her music a well-studied and 
 classic " reading," she won " golden opinions." She also 
 displayed her respect for Mozart by becoming one of the 
 Tre Damigelli " in " II Flauto." The name of Alwina 
 Valleria added much strength to this troupe, her per- 
 formance of "Lucia" and "Gilda" placing her high in 
 the soprano list. The early death of Giulo Perkins left a 
 blank in the list of useful bassi. Noble appearance, fine 
 features, grand voice of great extent, he walked the stage 
 " like a man " (to use a pit expression regarding him), and 
 gave out the low E in "Qui S'degno " with grand effect. 
 : This was indeed a strong troupe. 
 
 First appearance of Brignoli and Mdlle. Singelli, and 
 first performance of " II Talismano."
 
 256 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Theatre Royal. Italian Company : Titiens, Alwina 
 Valleria, Mdlle. Risarelli (first time), Marie Roze, Trebelli, 
 De Meric Lablache, Mdlle. Baumeister, Mdlle. Louise 
 Singelli (first time), Signor Campanini, Mr. Bentham, 
 Rinaldini, Grazzi, Paladini (first time), Signor Brignoli 
 (first appearance), Signor Agnesi, Signor Di Reschi (first 
 time), Gallassi (first time), Campobello, Casta, Casaboni, 
 Guilio Perkins, and Herr Conrad Behrens. Conductor, 
 Signor Li Calsi. 
 
 Monday, September 2ist, 1874. "Lucrezia Borgia." 
 Gennaro, Campanini; Alfonso, Agnesi; Maffeo Orsini, 
 Trebelli ; Lucrezia, Titiens. 
 
 Tuesday, 22nd. "Marta." Lionello, Brignoli; Tris- 
 tani, Zoboli; Plunketto, Behrens; Nancy, Trebelli; Marta, 
 Louise Singelli. 
 
 Wednesday, 23rd. "II Talismano" (first time in 
 Dublin). Sir Kenneth, Campanini; Richard Cceur de 
 Lion, De Reschi; Nectabanas, Catalani; L'Emiro, 
 Campobello ; II Re de France, Costa ; Duca, Casaboni ; 
 Berengana, Marie Roze ; Edith Plantagenet, Titiens. 
 
 Thursday, 24th. " II Flauto." Astrifiammenti, Singelli ; 
 Tamino, Mr. Bentham ; Papageno, Catalani ; Sarastro, 
 Perkins; Sacradoti, Campobello; Papagena, Alwina 
 Valleria ; Pamina, Titiens. 
 
 Friday, 25th. " Lucia." Edgardo, Campanini ; Ashton, 
 Galassi ; Raimondo, Campobello ; Lucia, Alwina Valleria. 
 
 Saturday, 26th. " Les Huguenots." Raoul, Campa- 
 nini; St. Bris, Agnesi; Nevers, Galassi; Marcello, 
 Behrens ; Urbano, Trebelli ; Margherita, Singelli ; Valen- 
 tina, Titiens.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 257 
 
 Monday, 28th. Repeat of " II Talismano." 
 
 Tuesday, 29th. " Le Nozze." Chembini, Trebelli; 
 Figaro ; Agnesi ; II Conte, Campobello ; Bartolo, Zoboli ; 
 Susanna, Marie Roze ; La Contessa, Titiens. 
 
 Wednesday, 3oth. "Faust." Faust, Campanini ; 
 Mephistophele, Perkins ; Valentino, De Reschi ; Siebel, 
 Trebelli ; Margherita, Marie Roze. 
 
 Thursday, October ist. "II Trovatore." Manrico, 
 Brignoli ; Conte di Luna, Galassi ; Ferrando, Campobello ; 
 Azucena, Trebelli ; Leonora, Titiens. 
 
 Friday, 2nd. " Catarina le Donna Novi." Don Enrico, 
 Bentham ; II Conte, Campobello ; Mayer, Agnesi ; 
 Rebolledo, Costa ; La Catarina, Louise Singelli. 
 
 Saturday, 3rd. Repeat of " II Talismano." 
 
 Monday, 5th. '" Semiramide." Assur, Agnesi; Oroe, 
 Campobello ; Arsace, Trebelli ; Semiramide, Titiens. 
 
 Tuesday, 4th. Rep eat of " Faust. ' ' 
 
 Wednesday, 5th. " Don Giovanni." Ottavio, Brignoli ; 
 Giovanni, De Reschi : Leporello, Behrens ; Zerlina, 
 Trebelli ; Elvira, Risarelli ; Donna Anna, Titiens. 
 
 Thursday, 8th. Repeat of " Trovatore." 
 
 Friday, gth. " Sonnambula." Elvino, Campanini ; 
 Rodolfo, Agnesi ; Amina, Mdlle. Singelli. 
 
 Saturday, loth. " Norma." Pollio, Campanini ; Oro- 
 veso, Costa; Adalgisa, Baumeister; Norma, Titiens. 
 Last night. 
 
 Colonel Mapleson's capacity for discovering talent was 
 strongly developed in the case of Brignoli, who made his 
 first appearance now, a tenor of vast experience ; he must 
 in youth have been well worth hearing, indeed at present 
 
 R
 
 258 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 many of the " younger branch " might study him with 
 advantage : Brignoli and Badiali bear close comparison. 
 The tenor, not quite so advanced in life as the grand old 
 baritone, still shows somewhat more lack of freshness of 
 voice, which quality Badiali retained to the last ; ihe sing- 
 ing for itself of each was perfect, both equally inspired 
 with dramatic feeling, which found its way into every 
 movement on the stage, or every note given forth. The 
 parallel might be extended if space permitted ; some 
 young baritones such as Badiali had been, and a few 
 juvenile tenors with the qualities of Brignoli, would be 
 very desirable. Mdlle. Louise Singelli is a young and 
 talented Belgian student, daughter of the late well-known 
 and highly-respected Concert conductor of' Brussels, 
 Mons. Singelli, whose violin arrangements are much 
 valued, and have a large sale all over Europe. 'Mdlle. 
 Singelli has doubtless a bright future before her,Jiaving 
 in "Amina" and in "Marta" made a most favourable 
 impression. 
 
 First appearance of Mdlle. Albani and Mdlle. Zara 
 Thalberg. 
 
 1875. The Italian Opera this season was from Covent 
 Garden, and under the direction of Sir Julius Benedict ; 
 thus Soprani : Mdlle. Albani, Mdlle. Bianchi, Mdlle. 
 Estelle, Mdlle. Cruise, Mdlle. Stewart, Mdlle. Paoli, and 
 Mdlle. Zara Thalberg; Contralti : Mdlle. Phillipini D'Edels- 
 burgh, and Mdlle. Ghiotto ; Tenori : Mons. Naudin, Signer 
 Pavani, and Mons. De Vellier; Baritoni: Mons. Maurel and 
 Signer Medica; Bassi: Signer Scolari, Signor Tagliafico, 
 Signer Bolli, and Signor Pronti; Leader, Mr. Levey; 
 Organist, Mr. Pitman ; Conductor, Signor Vianesi.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 259 
 
 Monday, October 4th, 1875. " Don Giovanni." Donna 
 Anna, Mdlle. Paoli ; Zerlina, Zara Thalberg ; Elvira, Mdlle. 
 Ghiotti; Ottavio, Mr. Richard Sydney (MacNevin);* 
 
 * From the Freeman's Journal, Tuesday, October 5th, 1875 : 
 "The extraordinary interest in Italian Opera which prevails in 
 Dublin at this time of year was manifested last night with all its 
 wonted intensity. The stir and bustle about the exterior of the Theatre 
 were quite as troublesome as usual ; and although notices had been 
 duly published that programmes and books of the opera would be 
 sold inside the house, the yelling and importunity outside were not 
 a whit abated. Up to the very last moment the arrivals were fast, 
 and in many cases furious. We say furious, for as a rule a late- 
 comer is in an ill-temper, and disturbs everybody by special privilege. 
 Last night there were many late-comers, and the overture was 
 frequently marred in effect by persons whose exterior would have 
 suggested better manners. This observation is made not indeed 
 with a view of wounding anybody in Dublin, experience has 
 dissolved all such views, and converted suffering into a sort of 
 expectation. So far as the orchestra was heard in the overture it 
 appeared to be adequate, finished, and thoroughly under the com- 
 mand of Signor Vianesi. The stringed instruments, without which 
 Mozart is impossible, were tolerably full ; and if the effect was not 
 startling, it was satisfactory. A notice to the effect that Signor 
 Pavani being ill Mr. Richard Sydney (MacNevin) would assume 
 the character of Don Ottavio was posted about the house in quite 
 a wonderful manner; and there was a nervous anxiety lest some- 
 thing should happen to spoil the evening's entertainment. Nothing 
 really did happen, for, notwithstanding Mr. Sydney's disquiet, he 
 succeeded very well, and, under the circumstances, he must have 
 surpassed expectation. The sort of dilemma caused by the sudden 
 illness of an artiste is just of that order in which rapidity of judg- 
 ment is most essential. Mr. Gunn decided on having a Dublin 
 amateur, and the result proved that Mr. Gunn was right, and that 
 Dublin was rich in talent of a high and educated order. In how 
 many cities in the empire could there be found a private gentleman 
 competent and willing to sing at a few hours' notice the music of 
 Mario and Guiglini in Don Giovanni? The answer must suggest 
 something in favour of Dublin, in which the feat has been accom- 
 plished, and well accomplished."
 
 260 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Leporello, Signer Scolari; Masetto, Signer Tagliafico; 
 Commendatore, Signer Pronti; Don Giovanni, Signer 
 Maurel. 
 
 Tuesday, 5th. "Trovatore." Leonora, Mdlle. Paoli ; 
 Azucena, Mdlle. D'Edelsburgh; Maurice, Mons. De 
 Vellier ; Conte di Luna, Signer Medica. 
 
 Wednesday, 6th. "Fra Diavolo." Zerlina, Zara 
 Thalberg ; Lady Coburg, Mdlle. Ghiotti ; Lord Coburg, 
 Signer Scolari ; Lorenzo, Signer Filli ; Beppo, Tagliafico ; 
 Giacomo, Signer Pronti ; Matteo, Belli ; Fra Diavolo, 
 Signer Naudin. 
 
 Thursday, yth. "La Sonnambula." Amina, Albani 
 (first appearance in Dublin) ; Rodolfo, Medica ; Elvino, 
 Naudin. 
 
 Friday, 8th. "La Figlia." Maria, Mdlle. Bianchi ; 
 Marchesa, Mdlle. Ghiotti ; Sulpizio, Scolari ; Tonio, Pavani. 
 
 Saturday, 9th. " Lucia." Lucia, Albani ; Enrico, 
 Medico ; Raimondo, Pronti ; Edgardo, Pavani. 
 
 Monday, nth. "Lohengrinn" (first time). Eliza, 
 Mdlle. Albani ; Artuso, Mdlle. D'Edelsburgh ; Frederic, 
 Maurel ; L'Araldo del Re, Pronti ; Enrio, Scolari ; Lo- 
 hengrinn, Naudin. 
 
 Tuesday, October i2th. " Dinorah." Dinorah, Zara 
 Thalberg ; Un Caprara, Estelle ; Un Capraro, Ghiotti ; 
 Un Cassiatore, Tagliafico; Corentini, Pavani; Hoel, 
 Maurel. 
 
 AVednesday, i3th. " Rigoletto." Gilda, Albani ; Ma- 
 dalena, Ghiotti; Giovanna, Mdlle. Estelle; II Duca, 
 Mons. De Vellier; Sparafucile, Tagliafico; Rigoletto, 
 Signer Medica.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 261 
 
 Thursday, i4th. "Don Giovanni" (as before, except 
 Ottavio, Naudin). 
 
 Friday, isth. " Un Ballo." Amelia, Mdlle. Paoli; 
 Oscar, Bianchi ; Ricardo, Pavani ; Renato, Signor Medica. 
 
 Saturday, i6th. " Faust." Margherita, Albani ; Siebel, 
 Mdlle. Ghiotti ; Marta, Mdlle. Estelle ; Mephistophele, 
 Scolari ; Wagner, Tagliafico ; Faust, Pavani ; Valentino, 
 Maurel. 
 
 Monday, i8th. "Dinorah" (cast as before). 
 
 Tuesday, igth. " La Figlia," repeat. 
 
 Wednesday, 2oth. " Puritani." Elvira, Albani ; En- 
 richetta, Ghiotti ; Georgio, Maurel; Ricardo, Pronti; 
 Arturo, Naudin. 
 
 Thursday, 2ist. "La Favorita." Leonora, Mdlle. 
 D'Edelsburgh ; Alfonso, Signor Medica; Baldassare, 
 Pronti; Ferrando, Naudin. 
 
 Friday, 2 and. First and second Acts of " Fra Diavolo." 
 The shadow-scene from " Dinorah " (benefit of Zara 
 Thalberg). 
 
 Saturday, 23rd. " La Sonnambula" (as before). Last 
 night. 
 
 The recollection of Albani is still fresh in our memory a 
 more perfect representation of Margherita cannot well be 
 imagined ; indeed, the same applies to every part this great 
 artiste undertakes. Beautiful in appearance, and highly 
 accomplished in art, she, as a matter of course, found her 
 due appreciation in Dublin. She has since accepted an 
 engagement for life with Mr. Ernest Gye, proprietor of 
 Covent Garden, and the public are (now, 1879) anxiously 
 waiting for her re-appearance, after the interesting event.
 
 262 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Mdlle. Zara Thalberg, daughter of the late great pianist, had 
 made a sensation in London, and (youth and inexperience 
 considered) showed remarkable promise, since realized, of 
 a coming "star :" her "Zerlina" was specially successful. 
 Wagner's " Lohengrinn " had not a fair chance, Signor 
 Vianesi did everything possible with the means at his 
 disposal ; but it is hardly necessary to say that a work 
 which would require about 300 choristers of the very best, 
 100 picked instrumentalists, and nearly three months' 
 rehearsals, could not possibly with, say two rehearsals and 
 limited numbers, receive a worthy interpretation. Albani's 
 "Elsa di Brabante" will not, however, soon be 
 forgotten. 
 
 Italian Company : Mdlle, Titiens (first appearance for 
 two years), Mdme. Trebelli, Mdme. Marie Roze, Mdme. 
 Alwina Valleria, Mdlle. Baumeister, Mdlle. Elena Varesi, 
 Mdlle. Selina Bignarini, Miss Emma Abbott (first appear- 
 ance), Signor Gillandi, Signor Dorini, Signor Rinaldini, 
 Signor Grazzi, Signor Faustu Beliotti, Signor Galassi, 
 Signor Del Puente, Signor Rocca, Signor Costa, Signor 
 Broccolini, Herr Behrens. Conductor, Signor Li Calsi. 
 
 Monday, Sept. 25th, 1876. "Semiramide." Arsace, 
 Trebelli ; Assur, Del Puente ; Oroe, Broccolini ; Idreno, 
 Rinaldini ; Semiramide, Titiens. 
 
 Tuesday, 26th. "Lucia." Edgardo, Gillandi ; Enrico, 
 Galassi : Arturo, Rinaldini ; Raimondo, Behrens ; Alice, 
 Mdlle. Baumeister ; Lucia, Mdlle. Alwina Valleria. 
 
 Wednesday, 27th. " Trovatore." Manrico, Gillandi ; 
 Conte di Luna, Galassi ; Azucena, Trebelli ; Leonora, 
 Titiens.
 
 2 he following important en%agemait was omitted in first 
 issue : 
 
 Italian Opera Company, commencing, for six nights 
 only, November i5th, 1875. Principal artistes Madame 
 Christine Nilsson (her first appearance on the stage in 
 Dublin), Madame Trebelli-Bettini, Madame Marie Roze, 
 Madame Demeric-Lablache, Madame Bauermeister, and 
 Mdlle. Elena Varesi (her first appearance in Dublin), 
 Signer Gillandi (his first appearance in Dublin), Signer 
 Campanini, Signer Palladini, Signer Rinaldini, Signer 
 Grazzi, Signer Brignoli, Signer Galassi, Signer Del 
 Puente, Signer Costa, Signer Zoboli, Signer Casaboni, 
 Signor Castelmary (his first appearance in Dublin), and 
 Herr Behrens. Musical Director and Conductor, Signor 
 Li Calsi. 
 
 Monday, November i5th. Gounod's Opera of 
 " Faust." Faust, Signor Gillandi (his first appearance in 
 Dublin) ; Mephistopheles, Signor Castelmary (first ap- 
 pearance in Dublin) ; Valentino, Signor Galassi ; Wagner, 
 Signor Costa ; Siebel, Madame Trebelli ; Marta, Madame 
 Demeric-Lablache ; and Margherita, Madame Nilsson 
 (first appearance). 
 
 Tuesday i6th. Donizetti's Opera, " Lucia di Lammer- 
 moor." Eclgardo, Signor Gillandi ; Ashton, Signor 
 Galassi ; Raimondo, Herr Behrens ; Artiiro, Signor 
 Rinaldini ; Normano, Signor Zoboli ; Alice, Madame 
 Bauermeister ; Lucia, Mdlle. Elena Varesi (first appear- 
 ance in Dublin). 
 
 Wednesday, 17 th. Flotow's Opera, " Marta." Lionello,
 
 Signer Brignoli ; Plunketto, Herr Behrens ; Lord Tris- 
 tano, Signer Zoboli ; Sheriffo, Signer Casaboni ; Nancy, 
 Madame Trebelli ; Lady Henrietta (Marta), Madame 
 Christine Nilsson. 
 
 Thursday, i8th. Verdi's Opena, "Rigoletto." II 
 Duca, Signer Gillandi; Rigoletto, Signer Del Puente? 
 Sparafucile, Signer Castelmary ; Monterone, Signer Costa ; 
 Borsa, Signer Rinaldini ; Marcello, Signer Zoboli ; Mada- 
 lena, Madame Trebelli; Giovanni, Madame Bauermeister ; 
 Gilda, Mdlle. Elena Varesi. 
 
 Friday, igth. Benefit of Madame Christine Nilsson. 
 Verdi's Opera, " II Trovatore." Manrico, Signer Brignoli ; 
 II Conte di Luna, Signer Galassi ; Ferrando, Signer 
 Costa ; Ruiz, Signer Rinaldini ; Azucena, Madame 
 Trebelli ; Inez, Madame Bauermeister ; Leonora, Madame 
 Christine Nilsson. 
 
 Last night of the Italian Opera Company. Benefit of 
 Mdlle. Elena Varesi. 
 
 Saturday, 2oth. "La Sonnambula." Elvino, Signer 
 Brignoli ; II Count Rodolfo, Signer Del Puente ; Alessio, 
 Signer Casaboni ; II Notario, Signer Rinaldini ; Liza, 
 Madame Bauermeister; Teresa, Madame Lablache; 
 Amina, Mdlle. Elena Varesi (her third appearance in 
 Dublin).
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 263 
 
 Thursday, 2 8th. " Le Nozze di Figaro." Cherubim", 
 Trebelli; Conte, I) J Puente; Figaro, Galassi; Bartolo, 
 Galazzi ; Basilio, Rinaldini ; Susanna, Marie Roze ; Con- 
 tessa, Titiens. 
 
 Friday, 29th. " II Barbiere." Conte Almaviva, Signer 
 Dorini (first appearance) ; Bartolo, Zoboli ; Basilio, Rocca ; 
 Rosina, Trebelli. 
 
 Saturday, 3oth. " Norma." Pollio, Bellotti ; Oro- 
 veso, Broccolini ; Adalgisa, Alwina Valleria ; Norma, 
 Titiens. 
 
 Monday, October 2nd. *' Les Huguenots." Raoul, 
 Gillandi ; Count di Nevers, Del Puente ; St. Bris, Galassi ; 
 Marcello, Behrens; Margherita de Valois, Alwina Valleria ; 
 Urbano, Trebelli ; Valentino, Titiens. 
 
 Tuesday, 3rd, " Faust." Faust, Dorini ; Mephis- 
 tophele, Del Puente ; Valentino, Galassi ; Siebel, Mdlle. 
 Bignarini (first appearance) ; Marta, Baumeister ; Mar- 
 gherita, Miss Emma Abbott (first appearance). 
 
 Wednesday, 4th. " Don Giovanni." Ottavio, Gillandi ; 
 Giovanni, Del Puente ; Leporello, Behrens ; Zerlina, 
 Trebelli ; Elvira, Marie Roze ; Donna Annn, Titiens. 
 
 Thursday, 5th. " Lucrezia Borgia." Gennaro, Gillandi ; 
 Alfonso, Behrens ; Orsini, Trebelli ; Lucrezia, Titiens. 
 
 Friday, 6th. " Rigoletto." II Duca, Dorini ; Rigo- 
 letto, Del Puerte; Madalena, Trebelli; Gilda, Alwina 
 Valleria. 
 
 Saturday, October yth. " Trovatore " (repeat). Last 
 night. 
 
 This was the last appearance of the ever-to-be-lamented 
 Titiens she is gone from amongst us ! Let us "passionate
 
 264 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 our tenfold grief with folded arras," and be consoled with 
 the fact that she was " worthy to inlay Heaven with 
 stars." 
 
 Engagement for three weeks only of Mr. Mapleson's 
 Italian Opera Company. Director of Music and Con- 
 ductor, Signor Li Calsi. 
 
 Monday, October, ist, 1877. " Un Ballo in Maschera." 
 Ricardo, Signor Runcia (his first appearance these eight 
 years) ; Renato, Signor Galassi ; Samuelo, M. Gounet ; 
 Tomasso, Signor Franceschi ; II Giudice, Signor Rinaldini ; 
 Silvano, Signor Fallar ; Oscar, Mdlle. Mila Rodani (her 
 first appearance in Ireland) ; Ulrica, Madame Lablache ; 
 Amelia, Mdlle. Caroline Sala (her first appearance in 
 Ireland). 
 
 Tuesday, October 2nd. " II Barbiere di Siviglia." 
 II Conte Almaviva, Signor Bettini ; Figaro, Signor Del 
 Puente ; Fiorello, Signor Rinaldini ; II Dottore Bartolo, 
 Signor Zoboli ; Don Basilio, Signor Broccolini ; Official]', 
 Signor Grazzi ; Berta, Mdlle. Baumeister ; Rosina, 
 Mdlle. Anna de Belocca (her first appearance in Ireland). 
 
 Wednesday, October 3rd. " II Trovatore." Manrico, 
 Signor Fancelli (his first appearance for eight years) ; II 
 Conte di Luna, Signor Galassi ; Ferrando, Signor Brocco- 
 lini ; Ruiz, Signor Rinaldini ; Un Zingaro, Signor Fallar ; 
 Azucena, Madame Lablache ; Inez, Mdlle. Filomena ; 
 Leonora, Mdlle. Marie Roze. 
 
 Thursday, October 4th. " Le Nozze di Figaro." 
 Cherubino, Mdlle. Anna de Belocca ; II Conte, Signor 
 Del Puente ; Figaro, Signor Galassi ; Bartolo, Signor 
 Zoboli; Basilio, Signor Rinaldini; lJuii Curzio, Signor
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 265 
 
 Grazzi; Antonio, Signer Franceschi ; Susanna, Mdlle. 
 Marie Roze ; La Contessa, Mdlle. Caroline Sala. 
 
 Friday, Oct. 5th. " La Figlia del Reggimento." Tonio, 
 Signor Bettini ; Sergente Sulpizio, Signor Del Puente; 
 Un Paesano, Signor Rinaldini ; Ortenzio, Signor Fallar ; 
 Caporale, M. Gounet ; La Marchesa, Madame Lablache ; 
 Maria, Mdlle. Mila Rodani. 
 
 Saturday, October 6th. " Faust." Under the Patronage 
 and presence of Her Grace the Duchess of Marlborough. 
 Faust, Signor Fancelli ; Mephistophele, Signor Del 
 Puente, Valentino, Signor Galassi; Wagner, Franceschi ; 
 Siebel, Mdlle. Anna de Belocca ; Martha, Madame 
 Lablache ; Margherita, Mdlle. Alwina Valleria. 
 
 Monday, October 8th. " Robert le Diable." Roberto, 
 Signor Fancelli ; Bertramo, Signor Foli ; Rambaldo, 
 Signor Rinaldini ; Alberti, M. Gounet ; Araldo, Signor 
 Grazzi ; Un Preto, Signor Broccolini ; Elena, Madame 
 Katti Lanner (her first appearance in Dublin) ; Isabella, 
 Mdlle. Alwina Valleria : Alice, Mdlle. Marie Roze. 
 
 Tuesday, October gth. "Martha." Lionello, Mr. 
 Talbo* Brennan (his first appearance on the stage in this 
 his native city) ; Lord Tristano, Signor Zoboli ; Plunketto, 
 Signor Del Puente; Un Sheriffo, Signor Fallar; Un 
 Servitore, Signor Grazzi ; Nancy, Mdlle. Anna de Belocca; 
 Martha, Mdlle. Alwina Valleria. 
 
 Wednesday, October loth. " Les Huguenots." Raoul, 
 Signor Fancelli ; II Conte de Nevers, Signor Del Puente ; 
 11 Conte di San Bris, Signor Galassi ; Tavannes, Signor 
 
 * It required but little change to render Talbot Talbo (Lionello).
 
 266 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Rinaldini; De Retz, M. Gounet; De Cosse, Signer 
 Grazzi ; Meru, Signer Fallar ; Maurevert, Signer Zoboli ; 
 Marcello, Signer Foli ; Margherita di Valois, Mdlle. 
 Mila Rodani ; Urbane, Mdlle. Anna de Belocca ; Dama 
 d'Onore, Mdlle. Robiati ; Valentina, Mdlle. Caroline 
 Sala. 
 
 Thursday, October nth, " II Flauto Magico." Tamino, 
 Signor Bettini ; Papageno, Signer Del Puente ; Sarastro, 
 Signor Foli ; Monastatos, Signor Rinaldini ; Un Oratore, 
 Signor Broccolini; Due Uomini Armati, Signor Grazzi, 
 and Signor Franceschi ; I Tre Geni, Mdlle. Robiati, 
 Mdlle. Clinton and Mdme. Lablache ; La Tre Damigelli 
 della Regina, Mdlle. Bauraeister, Mdlle. Parodi, and 
 Mdlle. Risiani ; Astrifiammanti, Mdlle. Alwina Valleria ; 
 Papagena, Mdlle. Mila Rodina ; Pamina, Mdme. Marie 
 Roze. 
 
 Friday, Oct. i2th, " Rigoletto." II Duca, Signor Talbo 
 (his second appearance in Opera in this, his native city) ; 
 Rigoletto, Signor Galassi ; Sparafucile, Signor Broccolini ; 
 Monterone, M. Gounet ; Marallo, Signor Zoboli ; Borsa, 
 Signor Rinaldini ; Caprano, Signor Fallar ; Usciere, 
 Signor Grazzi ; La Contessa, Mdlle. Robiate ; Mada- 
 lena, Mdlle. Lisa Perdi (her first appearance) ; Giovanni, 
 Mdlle. Baumeister ; Gilda, Mdlle. Alwina Valleria. 
 
 Saturday, October i3th, "II Don Giovanni." Don 
 Ottavio, Signor Bettini ; Don Giovanni, Signor Del 
 Puente ; Leporello, Signor Zoboli; Masetto, Signor 
 Fallar ; II Commendatore, Signor Broccolini ; Zerlina, 
 Mdlle. Anna de Belocca ; Donna Elvira, Mdlle. Alwina 
 Valleria ; Donna Anna, Mdme. Marie Roze.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 267 
 
 Monday, October isth, " Der Freischutz." Rodolfo, 
 Signor Fancelli ; Caspar, Signer Foli ; Killiano, Signer 
 Franceschi ; Kuno, M. Gounet ; Ottocar, Signor Rinal- 
 dini ; Hermit, Signor Broccolini ; Annetta, Mdlle. 
 Baumeister ; Agata, Mdme. Marie Roze. 
 
 Tuesday, October i6th, " Faust." Faust, Signor 
 Runcia ; Mephistophele, Signor Del Puente ; Valentino, 
 Signor Galassi; Wagner, Signor Franceschi; Siebel, 
 Mdlle. Anna De Belocca ; Martha, Madame Lablache ; 
 Margherita, Mdlle. Caroline Sala. 
 
 Wednesday, October lyth, "Robert Le Diable." 
 Roberto, Signor Fancelli ; Bertramo, Signor Foli ; Ram- 
 baldo, Signor Rinaldini ; Alberti, M. Gounet ; Araldo, 
 Signor Grazzi ; Un Preto, Signor Broccolini ; Elena, 
 Mdme. Katti Lanner ; Isabella, Mdlle. Alwina Valleria ; 
 Alice, Mdlle. Marie Roze. 
 
 Thursday, October i8th, "Lucia di Lammermoor." 
 Edgardo, Signor Fancelli ; Enrico Ashton, Signor Galassi ; 
 Arturo, Signor Rinaldini ; Raimondo, Signor Broccolini ; 
 Normanno, Signor Fallar ; Alice, Mdlle. Baumeister ; 
 Lucia, Mdlle. Alwina Valleria. 
 
 Friday, October iQth, " II Flauto Magico." Tamino, 
 Signor Bettini ; Papageno, Signor Del Puente ; Sarastro, 
 Signor Foli ; Monastatos, Signor Rinaldini ; Un Oratore, 
 Signor Broccolini ; Due Uomini Amati, Signor Grazzi and 
 Signor Franceschi; I Tre Geni, Mdlle. Robiati, Mdlle. 
 Clinton and Mdme. Lablache; Le Tre Damigelli dclla 
 Regina, Mdlle. Baumeister, Mdlle. Parodi, and Mdlle. 
 Risiani ; Papagena , Mdlle. Mila Rodani ; Astrifiammanti, 
 Mdlle. Alwina Valleria ; Pamina, Mdme. Marie Roze.
 
 268 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Saturday, October 2oth, " II Trovatore." Manrico, 
 Signer Fancelli ; II Conte di Luna ; Signer Galassi ; 
 Ferrando, Signer Broccolini ; Ruiz, Signer Rinaldini ; Un 
 Zingaro, Signer Fallar ; Azucena, Mdme. Lablache ; Inez, 
 Mdlle. Filomena ; Leonora, Mdlle. Caroline Sala. 
 
 On Monday, April 2nd, 1877, the Imperial Italian 
 Company commenced an engagement of 1 2 nights, with 
 the following artistes : Mdme. Ernestina Robiati, Mdlle. 
 Emma Howson, Mdme. De Meric Lablache, Mdlle* 
 Hughes, Signer Vizzani, Signer, Belli, Signer Campo- 
 bello, Signer Rollo, Signer Garda, Signer Campi, Signer 
 Montini. The troupe was under the management of 
 Signer Frank Rialp, who also acted as Director of Music 
 and Conductor. The Operas performed were " Le Nozze 
 di Figaro," " Maritana,"* " Guiglielmo Tell," " La Traviata," 
 " II Trovatore," " " Rigoletto," and "Faust," in which 
 Mr. Snazelle (who has since joined Carl Rosa) per- 
 formed Mephistophele. This engagement concluded on 
 Saturday, April i4th. 
 
 Engagement for 12 nights only of Mr. Mapleson's 
 Italian Opera Company. Director of Music and Con- 
 ductor, Signor Arditi. 
 
 Monday, September 2nd, 1878, "La Sonnambula." 
 Elvino, Signor Frapolli ; II Conte Rodolfo, Signor Del 
 Puente ; Alessio, Signor Grazzi ; Un Notaro, Signor 
 Belli ; Liza, Mdlle. Robiati ; Teresa, Mdme. Lablache ; 
 Amina, Mdme. Etelka Gerster (her first appearance in 
 Ireland). The perfect vocalism of Mdme. Gerster was 
 fully appreciated in Dublin. 
 
 * First time in Italian.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 269- 
 
 Tuesday, September 3rd, "Le Nozze di Figaro.'* 
 Cherubino, Mdme. Trebelli ; II Conte Almaviva, Signer 
 Del Puente ; Figaro, Signor Galassi ; II Dottore Bartolo, 
 Signor Zoboli ; Basilic, Signor Rinaldini ; Don Curzio, 
 Signor Grazzi ; Antonio, Signor Franceschi ; La Con- 
 tessa, Mdlle. Parodi ; Marcellina, Mdme. Lablache ; 
 Susanna, Mdme. Helene Crosmond. 
 
 Wednesday, September 4th, " Lucia di Lammermoor." 
 Edgardo, Signor Gillandi ; Enrico Ashton, Signor Galassi ; 
 Raimondo, Signor Franceschi ; Arturo, Signor Bolli ; 
 Normanno, Signor Grazzi ; Alisa, Mdlle. Robiati ; Lucia, 
 Madame Etelka Gerster (her second appearance in 
 Ireland). 
 
 Thursday, September 5th, " La Traviata." Alfredo, 
 Signor Frapolli; Germont, Signor Galassi; Gastone, 
 Madame Trebelli, who, on this occasion, will intro- 
 duce the Brindisi, " II Segreto ;" Medico, Signor 
 Franceschi ; II Marchese, Signor Grazzi ; II Barone, 
 Signor Zoboli ; Amina, Mdlle. Robiati ; Flora, Mdlle. 
 Filomena; Violetta Valery, Mdlle. Minnie Hawk (her 
 first appearance in Ireland). The incidental divertisse- 
 ment will be supported by Mdlle. Malvina Cavalazzi and 
 the Corps de Ballet. 
 
 Friday, September 6th, " Faust." Faust, Signor Gil- 
 landi ; Mephistophele, Signor Franceschi ; Valentino, 
 Signor Del Puente ; Siebel, Mdme. Trebelli ; Martha, 
 Mdme. Lablache ; Margherita, Mdlle. Alwina Valeria. 
 
 Saturday, September 7th, " II Flauto Magico." 
 Tamino, Signor Frapoli ; Papageno, Signor Del Puente ; 
 Sarastro, Herr Behrens ; Sacerdote, Signor Pyatt ; Due
 
 270 ANNALS OF THE 
 
 Uomini Amati, Signer Franceschi and Signer Bolli ; 
 Monostatos, Signer Rinaldini ; II Due Oratori, Signer 
 Grazzi and Signer Zoboli ; I Tre Geni, Mdlle. Martini, 
 Mdlle. Lido and Mdme. Lablache ; I Tre Damigelli della 
 Regina, Mdlle. Robiati, Mdlle. Parodi, Mdme. Trebelli ; 
 Papagena, Mdlle. Alwina Valleria ; Pamina, Mdlle. 
 Parodi ; Astrifiammanti, Madame Etelka Gerster. 
 
 Monday, September gih, " Carmen " (first time in 
 Ireland). Don Jose, Signer Runcio ; Escamillo 
 (Toreado), Signer Del Puente; II Dancairo, Signer 
 Rinaldini ; II Remendado, Signer Grazzi ; Zuniga, Signer 
 Franceschi ; Morales, Signor Bolli ; Michaela, Mdlle. 
 Alwina Valleria ; Paquita, Mdlle. Robiati ; Mercedes, 
 Mdme. Lablache ; Carmen (a gipsy), Mdlle. Minnie 
 Hawk. " Carmen " has become an established favourite 
 in Dublin in English as well as Italian. 
 
 Tuesday, September loth, "Rigoletto." II Duca, 
 Signor Gillandi ; Rigoletto, Signor Galassi ; Sparafucile, 
 Signor Franceschi ; Monterone, Signor Gandini ; Mar- 
 cello, Signor Zoboli ; Borsa, Signor Grass! ; Perano, 
 Signor Bolli ; La Contessa, Mdlle. Filomena ; Madalena, 
 Mdme. Trebelli ; Giovanni, Mdlle. Robiati; Gilda, 
 Mdme. Etelka Gerster. 
 
 Wednesday, nth, "Don Giovanni." Don Ottavio, 
 Signor Gillandi ; Don Giovanni, Signor Del Puente ; 
 Leporello, Herr Behrens; Masetto, Signor Zoboli; II 
 Commendatore, Signor Pyatt ; Donna Anna, Mdlle. 
 Crosmond ; Don Elvira, Mdlle. Alwina Valleria ; Zerlina, 
 Mdme. Trebelli. 
 
 Thursday, September i2th, "Carmen" cast as before.
 
 THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 271 
 
 Friday, September i3th, " II Trovatore." Manrico, 
 Signer Gillandi ; II Conte di Luna, Signer Galassi ; 
 Ferrando, Signor Franceschi ; Ruiz, Signer Rinaldini ; 
 Inez, Mdlle. Robiati ; Leonora, Mdme. Sinico (her first 
 appearance this season) ; Azucena, Mdme. Trebelli. 
 
 Saturday, September i4th, " Faust." Faust, Signor 
 Gillandi ; Mephistophele, Signor Del Puente ; Valen- 
 tino, Signor Galassi ; Wagner, Signor Franceschi ; 
 Siebel, Mdme. Trebelli ; Martha, Mdme. Lablache ; 
 Margherita, Mdme. Etelka Gerster. 
 
 The last Italian engagement in the " Old Royal."
 
 ISTOT ICE OIF 
 
 M. (SOVER, 
 
 PHOTOGRAPHIC CONTINENTAL PORTAITIST, 
 
 BEGS TO ANNOUNCE THAT HIS NEW STUDIOS AT 
 
 124 STEPHEN'S-GREEN, WEST, 
 
 (Next Royal College of Surgeons, ) 
 WILL SHORTLY BE OPENED. 
 
 In consequence of the unprecedented success of M. GLOVER as a 
 Portraitist, he has specially constructed this Atelier on the most 
 advanced scientific principles, and engages that the work therein 
 executed will not be excelled by that of any living Photographer. 
 
 REMOVING FROM 70 GRAFTON-STREET TO 
 
 124 STEPHEN'S-GREEN, WEST. 
 
 Dublin, 1st January, 1880. 
 
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 AND OF ROYAL TWILL SILK UMBRELLAS. 
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 REPAIRS AND RECOVERINGS ON THE SHORTEST NOTICE. 
 
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