22 APRIL 1854, Page 10

DIORAMA OF CANADA AND THE UNITED STAlt...

This diorama, ned next door to the Polytechnic, is announced as " painted by Mr. . E. Friend " ; though, after deducting, as the pro- spectus further tells us to do, for the assistance of Mr. Warren in figures, Mr. E. G. Warren in landscape, and Mr. Weigall in animals, we remain somewhat uncertain how much of the canvasses may have been actually covered by the first-named gentleman. Whatever his share in the pictures may be, he has the lecture to himself; and makes it a more essential fea- ture of the entertainment than is usual in such cases. Besides descrip- tions and anecdotes, comprising Yankeeisms and Paddyisms rather too broad for Mr. Friend's voucher that they came within his own personal experience, Canadian boat-songs and other airs are sung by himself and a chorus. This part of the proceedings, so far as there is anything in it of special connexion with the subject, is pleasing : but when it comes to such things as " Home, sweet home," or " Ben Bolt," we infer that the tastes of the Easter Monday audience, rather than of those who were convened to the private view on Saturday, have been consulted. The diorama is up to the average of the better class ; commencing at New York, proceeding up the Hudson, giving several views of Niagara from different points, and taking in the principal cities, and some famous scenes and popular sports, of Canada.