21 APRIL 1855, Page 11

Drury Lane Theatre—alias " the Royal Opera "—opened on Monday,

after so many postponements that it began to be doubted whether it was going to open at all, especially when it was remembered how abruptly its season came to a doge last year. The opening, however, promised well. The Sberiarnbula Was performed in a manner which gave great satisfaction to a crowded house. Madame Gassier, who played " Amine," is a pretty singer and pleasing actress, reminding us a good deg of Marie Cabel : her husband was a good " Count Rodolphe "; and Bettinia " Elvino " was excellent. The orchestra and chorus were of respectable strength, and ably conducted by Mr. Tully. So far well. With such performances Drury Lane might hold its place as a second Italian Opera, supported by that part of the public who do not frequent the high-priced entertain- ments over the way. But it seems there is also to be a German com- pany ; and two separate companies, both effective, are more than the theatre can support. This is the old fault of attempting too much, which has already been the cause of failure.