Metropolitan Opera Archives

Cavalleria Rusticana received eight performances this season.
Pagliacci received ten performances this season.

Review 1:

Review signed M. W. in the Herald Tribune

Three Operas in Single Day Give Musical Feast

'Cavalleria Rusticana' and 'Pagliacci' for Matinee Benefit, and 'Madama Butterfly' as Evening Offering

Three operas yesterday indicated that the Metropolitan is getting well into its stride. In the afternoon the first of the season's benefit matinees took place in the interest of the Florence Crittenden League, "Cavalleria Rusticana" and "Pagliacci" renewing their perennial partnership for the occasion with noteworthy casts. Some days ago Maria Jeritza declared in the press that the worthiness of the cause would guarantee her participation at the top of her form. This vow she fulfilled. Sacrificing blondness, but not beauty, to Santuzza and her malaise, she mitigated the gory mimic sordidness with an abundance of golden notes, and presumably thereby enriched the fund with the same. Her sensationally reckless manner of descending the church steps won its usual round of applause. Mario Chamlee appearing with her as the sharp-toothed Turiddu, responded to the stimulus of the general enthusiasm and gave a vivid performance. Picco as Alfio, Wakefield as Lola, and Grace Anthony as Mamma Lucia contributed their share of excellence.

"Pagliacci" revealed Martinelli once more in the role of Canio. The authority of his impersonation, his vocal and physical vigor made of this sniveling puppet a man. Nedda is a becoming role for Queena Mario, being admirably fitted to her clear, light voice and her special dramatic gifts. Danise as Tonio sang the "Prologue" with fervor and brought a rich humor to subsequent scenes. As Silvio, Lawrence Tibbett had small opportunity but did that well. The chorus in both operas sang with precision and sonority, and Mr. Papi conducted with due regard for the traditions.

The house was crowded, boxes and orchestra chairs engaged by many of the socially prominent in support of the cause. The usual crowd of enthusiasts filled galleries and standee's rail.

See

Review 2:

Review of 'Madama Butterfly" in the evening November 13, 1925.

Search by season: 1925-26

Search by title: Cavalleria Rusticana, Pagliacci,

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