The daily dispatch. [volume] (Richmond [Va.]) 1850-1884, 1876-10-26

THE OPERA-FRA cDIAv LO.-Aubers IS
comic opera "Fra Diavolo; or, The Inn of
Terracina," in three acts, was presented at
the Theatre last night to fine audience.
The dramdtis perSOn0e were as follows !:
Zerlina, Mrs. Caroline ichings-Bernard /;
Lady Alcash. Miss Hattie Moore; Fra Dia-
yolo, Harry Gates; Lorenzo, Pierre Ber-
nard; Lord Allcash, Frank Howard; Bep-
DO, John j. ,Benitz; Giacomo, C.l. Mar
son; Matteo, Joseph Dauphin.
The Introductory chorus OF the car
bineers-" Drink for Joy ,Bestowing"-
gave promise Of very enjoyable evening
Indeed, nearly all of the first act was well
rendered, and much Of the music well sung.
Zerlina's song-"On Yonder Rock Re-
cling g"-added not little to the interest OF
the act; but later in the evening the hopes
that she had inspired Were dispelled,
and much Of the singing Of some OF the
company and playing OF the. orchestra
was anything else than what was to be ex-
pected of company bearing the name OF
one Of Richmond's fayorites. It must now
be confessed that many Of our friends here
have been disappointed. Mrs. Bernard
possesses vim and determination. She is an
artist, q cultivated lady, and a fine singer;
but she cannot be expected to sing oil the
parts and do all the acting. Ii she is not
supported properly the contrast between her
self and company is all the more apparent. .
The cast last night embraced the stars OF
the troupe. Mr.. Bernard sang for the flrst
time since he has been here, as Lorenzo-a
character which, when well sustained, Is
one of the most attractive in the opera. We
missed him from the orchestra. His ser
vices as director on Monday night are now
fully appreciated. The director last night
used his baton to such an extent on the side
of his music-stand that we were inclined to
think that he was beating time for a re-
hearsal instead Of directing the opera. But
this is excusable in a measure. he meant
tcdo we'll. ,5s,.: 80 t,ss. - i,
Lord Allcash acted his part pretty well,
but his voice was not altogether equal to
the demands made upon it. IS
Miss Moore (Lady AlIcash) was very
hoarse. She has been suffering under
heavy cold ever since she has been in Rich
,mond, and when she fully RECEIVERS wan
douhtIess improve upon acquaintance.
The chorus at the end OF the first act was
very well sung, and stirred up the audience
into giving handsome evidence OF their
Appreciation. . ..s
B ! ia the second act Zeriina's cavatina and
was quite q fsutter among the audience as
she gracefully took off her head -dress, neck
lace, ETC., and retired to her couch.
Mr.. C. /. Marson, Giacomo; Mr. Benitz,
Beppo; and lir. Dauphin as Matteo, endea-
yored to render their parts we'll and snc-
ceeded in the main. .#s.
/ The chorus |" BLESSED Powers that Still
the Good Protect y was excellent. The only
positive encore during the evening Was be-
Slowed upon Beppo and Giacomo, who,
initiating zerlina's posture before the glass
and repeating her words
Is 9 For e servant there's no denying. 5s
Here's . shape not much amiss -
pleased everybody and gave zest TO the
closing portions Of the opera.
Tonight we are TO have Mariana, and on
Saturday afternoon Martha will be presenf-
ed at the matinee. It viii doubt btess be well
rendered, and :ahould secure 1f fnlI house.
&; Reserved seats may be had at W Watts