Metropolitan Opera Archives

The Metropolitan Opera Association last night brought to Philadelphia its production of Delibes' "Lakmé." With it came all the splendor, grandeur, and color of grand opera at its best.

Written in 1882, especially for Marie Van Zandt, who insured the success of the opera from the first performance, its title role has been synonymous with the Metropolitan's tiny coloratura soprano, Lily Pons.

The reason for this was quite obvious last night, for her performance was indeed without peer.

Vocally she was in the finest form, and her dramatic charms on the stage are only enhanced by the graceful veils and spangles worn as "Lakmé. All attention naturally fell upon the famous "Bell Song" in the second act. It was sung with a vocal flexibility and ease which transcends any other singer today. Certainly the applause of the audience inadequately expressed their appreciation.

In the supporting roles were Irene Jordan as Mallika, Raoul Jobin as Gerald, and Giacomo Vaghi as Nilakantha who were adequate for their roles but certainly paled in the light of the star of the evening.

The ballet scenes in the beginning of the second act were notable for their color and careful choreography, which was planned by Boris Romanoff. The applause was shared by Marina Svetlova and Leon Varkas.

The orchestra was under the direction of Louis Fourestier who maintained good balance between the voice and the instruments at almost all times.

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