November 1899: “Il Trovatore” at the Lyceum Theatre, Govan
An article on page six of The Glasgow Herald, on Friday the 17th of November, 1899, reads:
“‘IL TROVATORE’ AT THE LYCEUM THEATRE. –
The enterprise of the management of the Lyceum Theatre, Govan, continues to be well
supported by the playgoers of the district. Last evening there was again a large audience,
when ‘Il Trovatore,’ the third of the operas embraced in the programme for the opening
week of the new suburban venture, was produced by the Carl Rosa Opera Company.
Verdi’s mellifluous work has long been popular with music-lovers, and it always finds a
place in the repertory of ‘Her Majesty’s Servants’ on their periodical visits to the city. The
opera was performed in a manner that left little to be desired, and there was unmistakable
evidence that it was much enjoyed by the large audience. For once the occupants of the
gallery showed due appreciation, there being an absence of the accompaniments which
marred the pleasure of those genuinely interested in the performances of the preceding
nights. Miss Marie Titiens was Leonora, a rôle in which she had already been seen in
Glasgow. She was in good voice, and was especially strong in the miserere scene. In the
same scene Mr William Stephens also distinguished himself, and throughout his
well-trained voice was employed with admirable effect. Vocally Miss Browning, who was
the representative of Azucena, gave a satisfactory account of the trying music of the part,
but her impersonation of the character otherwise could hardly be described as ideal. Mr
Walter Burton’s Count di Luna was another fine performance, the familiar ‘Tempest of
the Heart’ receiving adequate treatment. The other parts were in good hands, and due
attention was paid to the accessories.”
George Fairfull-Smith, April 2022.