“CARMEN” AT THE AMERICAN (09-08-1908)

“CARMEN” AT THE AMERICAN

Italian Company Gives a Praiseworthy Performance of the Opera.

Considering the price of admission charged, the performance last night of “Carmen” by the Ivan Abramson Italian company at the American Theatre was praiseworthy.  Every seat was occupied, while enthusiasts stood six deep in the rear of the house.

Mme. Duce-Merola, a Polish soprano, sang Carmen, and her work improved as the evening wore on.  Signor Torre was Don Jose, and made a pronounced hit, G. Zara was a stalwart Escamillo, and Mme. Bertosi sang the plaintive role of Michaela.  The Smuggler’s quartet was done by Mmes. Solon and Bossi and Signori Novelli, Frascona, and Oteri.

The orchestra, under the baton of G. Merola, was satisfactory, and many of the passages were played with discretion and artistic effect.
Originally published in The New York Times on Tuesday, September 8, 1908