Metropolitan Opera Archives

The guests of the Duke of Mantua made a brilliant picture as they moved in the stately hall of his palace in the first act of "Rigoletto" on Saturday night, and in this way the keynote was struck for an effective performance of Verdi's opera under Gennaro Papi's baton. Through the indisposition of Giuseppe Danise, Millo Picco took the title-role at short notice and, all things considered, did remarkably well. Manuel Fleta, by his dashing impersonation of the Duke, strengthened the good impression he had made earlier in the week, and Queena Mario, who appeared as Gilda, found herself obliged to bow repeatedly in acknowledgment of the enthusiasm which followed "Caro Nome." All the familiar melodies, in fact, excited a capacity audience which had begun to assemble at the theater long before the curtain rose. Marion Telva sang well as Maddalena and Giovanni Martino was an effective Sparafucile. Nannette Guilford, one of the new members of the company, made her first Metropolitan appearance as the Countess in the first act. She is of attractive presence and, though the part is only a small one, she made a distinct impression by her excellent vocal quality.

Search by season: 1923-24

Search by title: Rigoletto,

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