Metropolitan Opera Archives

The repetition of "Der Freischütz" at the Metropolitan Opera House last night obtained a measure of variety by reason of two changes in the cast. George Meader was substituted for Curt Taucher as Max. The change was in certain respects beneficial to the performance. The tenor of Weber's opera is not a heroic figure at the best, and because of his natural weakness he could draw the sympathy of the audience. Here is a young man who is credited with being the best shot among the company of foresters, but is beaten at an ordinary shooting match by a utility baritone.

What makes the matter worse is that Max's failure bids fair to lose him his sweetheart, the amiable but lachrymose Agatha, who has no more of the sterner stuff of humanity in her makeup than her lover has. Therefore Max is ready to fall a pry to the snares of the tempter, who promises him a sure thing with magic bullets cast in the mystery of night and with the aid of Samiel in the Wolf's Den. This fallen tenor deserves to lose his job and his bride, but, of course, the intervention of the church in politics saves him.

Mr. Meader was a good representative of Max. His voice was sometimes taxed by the demands of Weber's music, but the quality was admirably suited to the role. Added to this was the tenor's art, which combines excellent musicianship with finesse. It is the use of tone and diction which evokes fresh praise at every hearing. Mr. Meader acted the part with judgment and manifestly found favor with the large audience.

Miss Thalia Sabanieeva supplanted Miss Mario as Annchen. Her contribution to the performance was of modest importance. She sang her music commendably, though without distinction, and acted after the manner of those to whom vivacity is not quickly attainable and gesticulation reduces to elementary exercise of flexors and extensors. The other members of the cast were those of the previous performances and Mr. Bohnen's Caspar again reached heights of dramatic brilliancy. Mr. Bodanzky again conducted with affectionate heights.

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Search by title: Der Freischütz,

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