Reviews — The New York Times

From the New York Times - January 15, 1887

TWO OF SARDOU’S WORKS
A NEW PLAY AND AN OPERA
BASED ON “PATRIE.”
Magnificent Scenes in Both - Other-
wise Disappointing - Music Com-
monplace and Costumes Superb.
[LE CROCODILE]

***

     There is absolutely no play or plot; the little attempts in that way are more than childish, but there is superb scenery and moreover quite a musical score, in 16 numbers, I think, of beautiful music by Massenet. A delightful waltz is a prelude to the rising of the curtain, and is again offered, then in its integrity, to the guests at the ball; the entr’acte of the second act is exquisite, soft, low, sweet melody that, after Paladilhe, must have touched M. Sardou’s very soul. Then the prelude to the first forest scene is quite as original and equally as effective. These were all repeated and every part and portion of the musical development was hailed with universal approbation....

Last updated December 30, 2006