Metropolitan Opera Archives

The warmth, the indefatigable energy and the all-embracing intelligence of George Szell's conducting were the most memorable factors in the season's first performance of Strauss' "Rosenkavalier" on November 30. By the third act, the orchestra, which is cruelly overtaxed, and many of the singers were not in best estate; yet, largely owing to Mr. Szell's enthusiasm, the opera kept alive. Irene Jessner was the Marschallin; Rise Stevens, Octavian; Eleanor Steber, Sophie; and Emanuel List, Ochs.

Miss Jessner was most convincing in the first act, though she has given better performances on previous occasions. Octavian is perhaps Miss Stevens' best role and she is always delightful as the headstrong, sensitive boy with a mischievous sense of humor. Mr. List gave a rollicking performance of Ochs, less careful in its attention to musical detail than its fullness of dramatic flavor. Miss Steber's Sophie was appealing; though not as effortless in vocal effect as it usually is.

Kurt Baum replaced Thomas Hayward, who was indisposed and did not make his debut as the Singer, as had been planned. The intriguer Valzacchi and his wife were played by Alessio de Paolis and Herta Glaz in lively fashion. Frederick Lechner's portrayal of Faninal was excellent as far as it went, but could have been more decisively drawn. Thelma Votipka's Marianne was well sung as always; it is one of those carefully drawn characterizations which do much for the overall effect of the performance. "Rosenkavalier" is one of those inexhaustible works, which revel new facets of dramatic or musical genius at every hearing. Thanks to Mr. Szell, there were many such moments in this performance.

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