Metropolitan Opera Archives

Two of the most popular selections for the opera-goers featured last night's entertainment at the auditorium. Especially noteworthy was the performance of "La Boheme," with the old favorites taking the leading parts.

The Puccini opera, depicting Bohemian life, always charms and the music is especially adapted to the characters. While there are many greater operas, "La Boh?me" is one of the most pleasing, with its descriptive orchestration and many haunting melodies. Especially interesting was the opera with Miss Bori in the role of Mimi. It seems that this popular star was more charming than ever. Certain it was that she makes an ideal Mimi in every respect. Her voice seems peculiarly fitted for the role, and she did not fail to impress us with the beauty of the music at all times.

Mr. Gigli's Rodolfo was given with the artistic finish and beauty of tone we always expect from him. His voice is one that especially appeals to us, having a softness of tone, yet not lacking in strength and resonance. Very beautiful was his work in the narrative, in the fascinanting love duet with Miss Bori in the first act, "Mi chamano Mimi," and the pathetic duet of the last act, "Sono audati."

Hunter Is Charming

Miss Hunter, one of Atlanta's favorites, was a charming and vivacious Musetta. She sang with much abandon, and made the Waltz song in the second act one of the memorable features of the evening. A season of opera in Atlanta without Mr. Scotti in one of the leading roles would certainly disappoint his countless admirers. We had the pleasure of again hearing this well-known Marcello. As usual he sang with utmost taste and gave an interpretation of the highest order. The four Bohemians, with fine perception, gave out the spirit of this opera with all the varying shades of gaiety and pathos.

Leoncavallo's "Pagliacci," so popular in being used as one of a double bill, was again given as the final offering. It was interesting to hear Miss Lewis in the leading role. Her Nedda, while interpreted generally in the conventional manner, was very attractive. She had good stage presence and her voice is pleasing. Vocally, she was probably at her best in the famous "Bird" aria.

Mr. Tokatyan was a very acceptable Canio. He sang with his accustomed warmth of feeling and received an ovation after singing the famous "Sob Song." Mr. Tibbett gave a very original interpretation of Tonio, and his voice seems to have gained in quality as well as volume. The prologue sung before the curtain was an excellent beginning to a well-performed presentation of the favorite work of Leoncavallo.

Mr. Papi directed the effective orchestration of "La Boh?me," while Mr. Bambosheck conducted "Pagliacci," due to Mr. Papi's indisposition.

Search by season: 1925-26

Search by title: La Bohème, Pagliacci,

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