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Rose Pauly and "Elektra" returned to the Metropolitan last night. In this instance it is fitting to cite the artist before the opera, because it is not likely that "Elektra" would now be enjoying a revival were it not for Mme. Pauly's presence. And though there is more to the fervent and dramatic performance now to be heard at the opera house than her performance of the title role; much of its force and impact derive from her searing interpretation.

The focus and control of her singing indicated that she has recovered from the indisposition which caused her to forgo an appearance as Ortrud last week. Dramatically and pictorially, Mme. Pauly again thrust upon her listeners the kind of characterization and theatrical completeness which is all too rarely seen on the operatic stage. Radiating from this central strength were a series of contributing impersonations, especially by Kerstin Thorborg and Irene Jessner, that have combined to make this one of the Metropolitan's finest recent productions. Friedrich Schorr was again Orestes, with Paul Althouse as Aegisthus. Herbert Graf's thoroughly conceived direction, though occasionally burdened with excessive detail, was also an impressive element. Artur Bodanzky conducted with fine concentration and fervor.

Preceding "Elektra" was a repetition of "Gianni Schichi," sung in English with Julius Huehn giving a capable performance as Gianni and Hilda Burke (Lauretta), Charles Kullman (Rinuccio), and Chase Baromeo (Simone) his principal associates. Gennaro Papi conducted. The applausive audience could have been larger.

Search by season: 1937-38

Search by title: Gianni Schicchi, Elektra,

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