Guide

Key Word Search

Multi-Field Search

Browse

Repertory Report

Performers Report

Contacts

Met Opera Website

[Met Performance] CID:91880



Cavalleria Rusticana
Pagliacci
Metropolitan Opera House, Fri, January 8, 1926 Matinee










Review 1:

Review of Leonard Liebling in the New York American

The veritable deluge of orchestral doings during the past few days has forced upon peripatetic critics the unwilling necessity of dealing out rather cavalier treatment to the always interesting activities at the Metropolitan Opera House. It was a decided relaxation from the sterner duties of concert-going to slip into the purely lyrical domain yesterday afternoon and listen to "Cavalleria Rusticana" and "Pagliacci,," those two inseparables who have been parted for a performance or two occasionally, but evidently never will be completely divorced.

In the Mascagni work, Rosa Ponselle handled the heavy tragedy and dramatic music of her part with evident relish for both. Her voice is in excellent estate this season. Her fine performance in hot-blooded "Cavalleria," and her notable achievements in classical "La Vestale" are convincing proof of this young artist's growing powers and versatility.

Beniamino Gigli also is making some new strides. His recent taxing vocal contributions to "The Jest," and his impassioned singing in yesterday's "Cavalleria," remove him from the list of tenors who cultivate only the easily flowing lyrical line. Marion Telva was a smooth-voiced, but never over-coquettish Lola. Mario Basiola repeated his Alfio impersonation. Grace Anthony was the Lucia.

The "Pagliacci" tenor was Armand Tokatyan, who won marked honors with his colorful tones and warm delivery, plentifully supplied with the traditional sobs in the "Ridi" aria. Queena Mario made a plump and pleasant Nedda, who acted vivaciously, and sang the "Bird Song" in confident and spirited style.

Of course Titta Ruffo captured the histrionic glory of the show. He is an operatic character actor of supreme skill. The baritone's singing of the "Prologue" was an eloquent piece of delivery. Millo Picco made the small role of Silvio stand out through his vibrant voice and smooth phrasing.

Gennaro Papi conducted both performances in clear-cut and finished fashion.

Search by season: 1925-26

Search by title: Cavalleria Rusticana, Pagliacci,



Met careers

• Gennaro Papi [Conductor]
• Rosa Ponselle [Santuzza]
• Beniamino Gigli [Turiddu]
• Marion Telva [Lola]
• Mario Basiola [Alfio]
• Grace Anthony [Mamma Lucia]
• Queena Mario [Nedda]
• Armand Tokatyan [Canio]
• Titta Ruffo [Tonio]
• Millo Picco [Silvio]
• Giordano Paltrinieri [Beppe]