Event Comment: A Serious Opera (1st time [in
London; 1st performed at
Rome, 1766]);
the music partly by
Sarti and partly [i.e. with additions] by
Paisiello. 2nd ballet: With entire
new scenes by
Degotti and executed by himself and
Marinari. "
The dresses [in this ballet] are said to be after designs from
David;
the costume is correct, perhaps, but it may be a little softened without injury to
the effect.
The contrast of colours is in some of
them too harsh...
The scenery is in a
new stile. It has been our taste to assist
the perspective by contracting
the stage to a point. This was but a clumsy method, as
the illusion was rarely complete, and it gave
the idea of littleness. In this instance
the stage is thrown open on every side, and
the perspective is managed as every painter is obliged to manage it, on
the broad surface, but still with
the mechanic aids which scenery affords.
The effect was enchanting" (
Morning Chronicle, 30 Nov.).
The Doors to be opened at 6:30. To begin at 7:30 [same throughout season]. Pit 10s. 6d. Gallery 5s. No Money to be returned.
The Subscribers are most earnestly entreated to observe that, on account of
the abuses frequently practised in
their names, it has become absolutely necessary to adopt
the former rule for Subscribers
themselves to produce
their Tickets at
the doors as
they pass into
the Theatre.
The Upper Boxes to be lett by
the night, at one Guinea each for four persons.
The way to
them through
the Gallery Staircase