THE NEW ENGLISH OPERA-HOUSE.
WE looked in this week to see the progress of the works in Mr. Aitarmais new theatre. The fineries is in so forward a state as to convey a complete idea of its arrangements, and a partial one of its style of decoration. It promises to be the most smmug, compact, and elegant theatre in the Metropolis. We were particularly struck with time great extent of the stage, both in depth and width. A famous perspective of actual space may thus be obtained—a great desideratum in these days of scenic display and illusion. The audience part is very convenient for seeing, and the greatest care has been had to render it equally advantageous for hearing; but this can only be ascertained by trial. It is of the horse-shoe form, and most like the Victoria in shape and size. There arc two tiers of boxes : time lower, or dress circle, projects a few incites, and its front will be an ornamental railing of trellis-work, which will have a light, elegant, and novel effect. Behind is a range of small boxes, for family parties. There are also three private boxes at each end of each tier, besides those on the stage. At the sides, on a level with time gallery, are the slips as usual. There being only one gallery, it might have been carried all round: but per- haps the owners of time private boxes might not like to be sub- jected to the stare of the gods. The pit has, apparently, a greater ascent than usual from time orchestra ; a convenience that will be welcomed by a numerous portion of the playgoing public.
The architecture of time building and its decorations, as far as we could judge, appear to be in classic taste; and will add greatly to the reputation of Mr. BEAZLEY, time architect. Time ceiling, which is circular, and slightly concave, is ornamented with coloured arabesques in compartments: and its efket is warm, rich, and chaste withal. Time principal entrance, from the new street, is under an elegant portico of six lofty fluted columns of time Corin- thian order; those at the two extremities being coupled—that is, placed on one base. Passing through a hall, with an arched roof, the visiter enters a vestibule opening into the dress circle, with a double staircase on each side, leading to the upper boxes, and the saloon. The saloon is, very properly, placed out of the way of all who do not choose to seek it. The operatic company will be very strong. Mr. ARNOLD intends, at last, to give English music a fair chance. Two new operas, by young English composers, are already prepared for the opening.
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