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Meyerbeer's opera "The Huguenots" was repeated at the Metropolitan Opera House last evening. In the days of Maurice Grau's management this work was made the occasion for the disclosure of great star casts. Sometimes the prices were raised and in spite of the increased tax the public crowded the house and gazed with the deepest interest upon the entr'acte promenades behind the footlights of the line of celebrities. It was indeed a gallant sight to behold Mmes. Nordica, Sembrich and Mantelli and Messrs.. Jean de Reszke, Edouard de Reszke, Scotti and Plancon parading before the curtain.

At the first performance of the work this season there was a large audience, but that of last evening was larger. It was said here on the previous occasion that Mr. Gatti-Casazza found himself unable to offer such an imposing array of artists as that named above. But in one case at least a solution of the difficulty has been found. Carl Braun, the German bass, who has appeared this season in several Wagnerian roles and who was readily acclaimed as a great Hagen, made his debut last evening as an Italian opera singer in the role of Marcel.

His impersonation was one of high excellence. Indeed, it ought to be said without hesitation that Mr. Braun is one of the finest Marcels the local stage has held. His costume and makeup combined with his height to make him a commanding figure, a splendid picture of the rough and devoted old soldier. He sang with tremendous breadth and virility, and yet in the sustained phrases with a good legato. His enunciation was clear and fluent, though a German accent was noticeable at times. His conception of the part was just and it was carried out with real power.

The other members of the cast were the same as before. Mr. Caruso, who is naturally the magnet of every performance of the opera, was at his best last evening and at no other time this season has he sung better. Mme. Hempel and Mme. Destinn were heard again with pleasure and Mr. Scotti again gave distinction to the roles of De Nevers. Mr. Polacco conducted with good judgment.

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Search by title: Les Huguenots,

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