The Inauguration of the Municipal Opera

By a kind gesture from Senator Flaissières, Mayor of Marseille, the population of our city was invited to the inauguration of our new Municipal Opera and it was in his honor that the first evening was given. As there was obviously not room for everyone, the draw on the electoral lists designated the beneficiaries.

The general impression is that the new hall makes one rich, nouveau riche perhaps, but rich all the same. Despite some criticism from people who are doubtless more competent, it is admiration that is expressed.
The Mayor is happy to see the joy of the public, he radiates, and when he is seen an enthusiastic ovation is given to him. The hall is as successful as the stage, and that is saying something. The performers of Sigurd were warmly applauded.
The following Thursday was the real premiere, the one that had the usual audience in the hall, at least in large part. Sigurd was performed, as the day before. Messrs. Audier and Durand, who are great directors, have assembled a first-rate troupe, something that only they could have done, in the uncertain conditions of the opening date. With an elite staff, there were no hitches in the machinery, as was to be feared. It is true that we are dealing with professional men, accustomed to foreseeing everything and who only know difficulties in order to overcome them.
The interpretation of Sigurd was approved by all the amateurs who had come to see the debut of the new troupe, which made an excellent impression. The tenor Cazenave was particularly appreciated and applauded. He had to repeat his romance from the 2nd act, and everyone is pleased to recognize that it is a Sigurd full of courage, and whose superb voice is both captivating and caressing.
Mrs. Mathilde Comès makes a splendid Brunehilde, her beautiful voice, her melodious phrasing, won her the sympathies of the public who acclaimed her with enthusiasm.
Mr. Yves Noël, in the role of Gunther, showed himself to be a skillful actor and an excellent singer. He is a remarkable baritone who will do wonders in the repertoire.
Mrs. Jacqueline Royer, in the role of Uta, and Mrs. Sabran in that of Hilda. raised warm applause. MM. Terval, Audiger were also applauded.
The choruses were a pleasure, as well as the ballets, where our graceful dancers, mainly Mile Eymery, were very celebrated.
Let us pay tribute to Mr. Rey and his orchestra, whom in its applause the public largely associated with the triumph of the opening night of the new Opera, for which the greatest part of the merit goes to the eminent directors.
On Thursday afternoon, the official taking of possession of the Municipal Opera took place. This ceremony, presided over by Mr. Flaissières, and attended by Mr. Daladier, Minister of the Colonies, began with a visit to the building, the sumptuousness of which was much admired.
Mr. Flaissières gave a very fine speech, rejoicing, on behalf of the City, to see the work undertaken completed and in such magnificent conditions of art and comfort.
MM. Billès, deputy mayor; Pellegrini, on behalf of the builders, and finally Mr. Daladier, gave speeches that were much applauded. Then we drank in the success of the new Opera.