Aufführungsbesprechung London: Oberon von C. M. v. Weber (2. Aufführung 13. April 1826)

Covent Garden Theatre.

Oberon was repeated last night to a crowded house. It will grow upon the ear, and be more admired, as it is more known. The Overture, wild and fanciful in its character, and breathing mysterious and unearthly strains, was admirably executed. Braham infuses into his war song, “O! ’tis a glorious sight to see,” all the lyrical and heroic spirit which demands, and his magnificent voice stirs the blood like the sound of a trumpet; the tenderness of his transition to “Mourn ye maidens of Palestine,” displays his power over the gentle and pathetic, and derives great effect from the contrast. There is a beautiful finale to the second act, containing an appropriate song, to which Miss Goward, as a sea-nymph, does full justice, and ending with a chorus of sea-nymphs and fairies [and] Miss H. Cawse, as Puck, both sings and acts very pleasingly, and gives promise of great future excellence. Miss Paton’s “Thou mighty monster that liest curled,” and the deseriptive songs which follow, are perfect in science and melody. Madame Vestris was encored in “O Araby! dear Araby!” which she sang delightfully. the scenery is most appropriate and strinking, and excites great admiration. In the interior of Mamouna‡’s cottage, there is a beautiful contrast between the effect of natural and artifival light, which has not received the commendation which it deserves. Weber was again called forward at the close: we hope this is not to be the practice every night, for it gives him evident annoyance; grateful as every admirer of music must be to him, it is hardly fair to burden him with the expression of thanks. We subjoin the song of Mr. Braham, to which he gives such effect.