Details of the company coming soon
In 1921, The Irish Times carried a remarkably lengthy and insightful rerospective on the activities of the Brisan Company:
“MUSIC AND DRAMA NOTES – This week may be said to mark what is actually the fifth anniversary of the musical and dramatic revival in Dublin. This revival became known as the ‘local talent’ movement and its results have had a marked effect on the development of musical enterprise – not alone in Dublin, but throughout Ireland. Before 1916, musical and dramatic societes in Dublin made no attempt to complete with professional cross-channel companies in our local theatres, they were content to appear periodically in their own halls, appealing solely to parochial patronage. One or two musical societies gave occasional performances in the Gaiety and – many years before – in the Royal and the Queen’s. No attempt was made to introduce professional methods and nearly all local effort was purely amateur.BRIn August 1916, Vincent O’Brien and Joseph P. Sandes formed the Brisan Opera Company and the success of this combination revolutionised musical and dramatic societies. This company was an all-Irish one and its first production cut right through all tradition. They staged the “Lily of Killarney” for the first time twice-nightly, and made an artistic and financial success of the venture. For an entire fortnight, the Queen’s Theatre was crowded at every performance, with the result that the twenty-six consecutive performances attracted twenty-nine thousand patrons. The Brisan Opera Co., in its brief career, staged ninety-one grand opera performances and twenty-four light opera performances
THE MCNALLY COMPANY
The original personnel were later merged into the McNally Grand Opera Co., when Walter McNally decided to organise this company. The McNally Company developed along more ambitious lines than the Brisan and staged a good repertoire including the “Lily of Killarney,” “Maritana,” “Bohemian Girl,” “Faust,” “Lurline,” “Trovatore,” “Traviata,” “Rigoletto,” “Pagliacci.” [N.B.: there were also productions of “Ernani” and “Traviata”]. The company was noted for the outstanding beauty of its choral ensembles which were rarely equalled by visting touring companies.
The original Brisan Company numbered many artistes who have since become familiar figures in the musical world. The most famous of these, of course, is Walter McNally, who is now climbing the last rung of the ladder that will lead to worldwide fame.
Many of the ladies who appeared with the company have since become professional artistes. Mildred Telford is starring with Robert Courtneidge, Bridie Moloney is playing in the Palace, Blackpool; Florrie Ryan is on tour with the McNally Company in Ireland. Alice Rafter and Joan Burke were, of course, well-known artistes before the company was organised. The latter is now Professor of Singing in the Leinster School of Music. The lady who shared the part of Eily with Mildred Telford – May O’Sullivan – is now Mrs. Vincent O’Brien. Another artist who quickly made a name was Teresa Owens.
Amongst the men were Harry O’Dempsey, T. J. Young, R. H. Jackson, Irvine Lynch, W. J. Lemass, J. C. Rock – now secretary to the Mater-Scala Concert; Andrew Tyrell, John Neilan and Shaun O’Farrell, now well-known as the Irish Troubadour, who is at present touring the United States.
FRUITS OF ENTERPRISE
The organisation of the Brisan Opera Company rounded in many directions. It was directly responsible for the inception of the Queen’s Theatre Sunday Concerts, which proved to be one of the most fruitful sources for the discovery and encouragement of new artistes. All-Irish variety entertainments were next started, with very good results, tapping and developing quite a lot of hitherto unknown artiste possibilities. Sidney Kelly, the dancer, was re-discovered, as were the sisters Colley. Cathal McGarvey wrote his sketch, the “Bend o’ the Road,” specially for one of these arrangements. A clever local conjuror was discovered in the person of Harry Milford; and virtuosity of the blind was shown when Violet McKinnon and Winifred McGough appeared in their musical scena, “In the Shadows.” A novelty was introduced in these variety performances in the shape of scenes from well-known opera – these excerpts proved highly popular, and they are now the basis of the success of the McNally Operatic and Variety Co.
The cameo opera scenes were organised specially for the Tivoli Theatre later and presented in the cosy Burgh Quay house. Many operatic entertainments, including a production of “Lurline,” specially arranged for presentation in one scene, with full chorus.
Curefew restrictions and the conditions generally have caused for some time past a slump in local activities: but now that conditions are reverting to normal, it is hoped that a great new superstructure will be built on the foundations so carefully laid since 1916.
The Queen’s Theatre has found it possible – and remunerative – to depend solely on Irish talent for its productions; and, although the other theatres cannot do this – for economic reasons well understood in the profession – yet they can, and will do everything possible to afford scope for the development of local enterprise., whether musical, dramatic or variety. Will 1921 be the herald of a new and even greater resnaissance? Surely, the omens are favourable.” (Saturday Herald, September 3rd 1921)
“THE MODEST ENTREPRENEURS – By the way, the name Brisan is a medley combination of O’Brien and Sandes – Bri(en) San(des). Both Mr Vincent O’Brien and Mr Joseph P. Sandes, who are heart and soul in the Metropolitan Oera Company and the most earnest in their desire to use up latent musical talent in Dublin for the production of high class work, conceived the idea of engaging a theatre for a week and launching the venture. They were so modest about their enterprise that they sunk their names in the title given to the company. The extraordinary success of the company is the talk of the twon. I hear they have got offers to tour the provinces. Next, however, they intend to puit on “Maritana,” for which rehearsals will begin almost immediately. A feature in last night’s performance of the “Lily” was the admirable manner in which Mr. Reuben Jackson doubled the parts of the loveable soggarth and the un-loveable Corrigan.” (SEEN AND HEARD, Evening Herald 5th Sep 1916)
THE BRISAN OPERA COMPANY – A CHRONOLOGY OF PERFORMANCES
including events which name-check the company in their advertising
Chronology below is a work-in-progress
| 1916 |
| Dublin, Queen’s Theatre, twice nightly (6.45pm and 9pm) | |
| “The Brisan Opera Co., which presents the “Lily of Kilarney” this week in the Queen’s Theatre, is the first combination to bring twice-nightly opera from a much-discussed possibility into the realm of thigs accomplished, as far as Ireland is concerned. It suffers very little from the slight pruning which was found necessary to fit it into a space of a little under two hours. Not content with producing the opera in a much shorter time than has ever before been attempted in Ireland, the management is also trying to break all records in the matter of artistes. Mr Harry O’Dempsey has been specially engaged for the part of Hardress (by kind permission of Mr Joseph O’Mara). Last time when the “Lily” was produced by the O’Mara company hundreds of opera lovers were turned away from the doors, and the many admirers of Mr O’Dempsey in Dublin have not had an opportunity since of hearing him in one of his favourite parts. Danny Mann will be played by Mr. Walter McNally whose McCormack-like method of singing is admirably adapted to the lyric music of the “Lily of Killarney.” Mr McNally’s performance in the Coliseum on St Patrick’s night will long be remembered. Miss Mildred Telford is one of the three ladies playing the part of Eily O’Connor. Her singing at the recent Feis Ceoil, when shewon the soprano solo competition, showed her to be the fortunate posessor of a most charming voice, ideally adapted to Eily’s music. Father Tom will be played by Mr. Irvine Lynch, Corrigan by Mr. R. F. Jackson, Myles by J. O’Mahoney, and T. J. Young, O’Moore by W. J. Lemass. Among the ladies, Miss Alice Rafter will play Ann Chute; Sheelagh will be played by Miss Lily O’Dempsey; Mrs. Cregan by Miss Joan Burke. Two additional Eilys will be Miss May O’Sullivan and Miss Agnes McGrail. The company also includes Mr. A. Tyrell, Mr. J. Neilan and Mr. M. J. Gallagher. The production will have full chorus and a special troupe of Irish dancers.” (Freemans Journal 28th August 1916) | |
| 31 Aug | The Lily of Kilarney – May O’Sullivan, Andrew Tyrell, J. Neilan, |
| “Remarkable success and popularity are attending the twice-nightly performances of “The Lily of Kilarney” by the Brisan Opera Company at the Queen’s Theatre, Dublin. The theatre was crowded again last night. The manner in which the opera is performed is surprisingly good, from a dramatic as well as a musical point of view, and the company are particularly successful in presenting a genuine Irish atmosphere. Chorus and principals are uniformly good singers. At last evening’s performance, the character of Eily O’Connor was taken by Miss May O’Sullivan who is sharing it with Miss Mildred Telford. Miss O’Sullivan is not yet a mature actress, and has still room for development in her style of singing and breadth of expression, but the quality of her voice and the clearness of her notes commended her performance, which received warm appreciation. Among those members of the company not yet referred to are Mr. Andrew Tyrell who is to appear again in the part of Hardress Cregan and Mr. J. Neilan, who is billed for that of Danny Mann, both artists appearing on two occasions. Future productions of the company will be looked for with keen interest.” (Irish Times, 1st Sep 1916) | |
| 1 Sep | |
| 2nd Sept | The Lily of Kilarney – “Owing to the enormous success and response to public demand, re-engagement of the Brisan Opera Company FOR NEXT WEEK” (Freemans Journal) |
| 3rd Sept (sun) | |
| 4th Sept | The Lily of Kilarney – Mildred Telford, Joan Burke, Alice Rafter, Lily O’Dempsey, Walter McNally, R. T. Jackson, T. J. Young, A. Tyrel, W. J. Lemass; Mr Brisan |
| “The Brisan Opera Company, which scored a brilliant success at the Queen’s Theatre last week in “The Lily of Killarney,” entered last evening on a second week’s programme. The crowded audience at both performances proved that the success of last week is going to be repeated. It is certainly gratifying to find a corps of Dublin operatic artists able to fill to the utmost a theatre for two successive weeks, and it gives promise of further success in the future. The principal parts were placed as they were last week, and they were taken with similar success. Miss Telford repeated her success as Eily, and appeared to benefit by her previous experience. Miss Joan Burke, as Mrs. Cregan, was equally effective, and the other parts were taken by Miss Alice Rafter, Miss Lily O’Dempsey, and Messrs. W. McNally, R. T. Jackson, T. J. Young, A. Tyrell and W. J. Lemass. The chorus and the orchestra, inder the direction of Mr Brisan, showed improvement upon last week’s performances.” (Irish Times, 5th Sep 1916) “REMARKABLE – In my preliminary notes the week prior to the appearance of the Brisan Opera Compnay at the Queen’s Theatre, I ventured to anticipate some pleasant surprises for visitors. I referred rather to the individual performances than to ensemble successes. Candidly, I had no conception that the engagement was going to prove the record triumph it has proved to be, and is continuing to be this week. Last night again both houses were full up at curtain rise, and enthusiasm was unbounded. My chief purpose in going there was to hear and see McNally, the young Galway amateur artist, of whom Jacques says: “He is the most natural singer of operatic music I have ever heard. His is a pure, light, soft baritone that coaxes you to listen. With training and opportunity, he should make good in his line as John McCormack has done as a tenor vocalist.” McNally has “knocked ’em” at the Queen’s.” (SEEN AND HEARD, Evening Herald 5th Sep 1916) | |
| 5th Sept | The Lily of Kilarney – “Owing to the enormous success and response to public demand, re-engagement of the Brisan Opera Company FOR THIS WEEK” |
| Dublin, Queen’s Theatre, twice nightly (6.45pm and 9pm), matinee sat at 2.30 | |
| 11th Dec | Maritana – Joan Burke, Mildred Telford, Betty Byrne, R. Haviland Jackson, Joseph Ronan, W. J. Lemass, Andrew Tyrell, Walter McNally, Thos. J. Young (Opera ballet arranged by Aileen Magee) |
| 13th Dec | Maritana – Joan Burke, Mildred Telford, Betty Byrne, R. Haviland Jackson, Joseph Ronan, W. J. Lemass, Andrew Tyrell, J. C. Rock, Thos. J. Young (Opera ballet arranged by Aileen Magee) |
| 14th Dec | Maritana – Joan Burke, Mildred Telford, Betty Byrne, R. Haviland Jackson, Joseph Ronan, W. J. Lemass, Andrew Tyrell, Walter McNally, Thos. J. Young (Opera ballet arranged by Aileen Magee) |
| 15th Dec | Maritana – Joan Burke, Mildred Telford, Betty Byrne, R. Haviland Jackson, Joseph Ronan, W. J. Lemass, Andrew Tyrell, J. C. Rock, Thos. J. Young (Opera ballet arranged by Aileen Magee) |
| 17th Dec (Sunday) | Grand Concert at 8.15pm – Jay Ryan (Baritone, O’Mara Opera Co.), Mildred Telford (Soprano, Brisan Opera Co.), Annie Fagan (Harpist), Cecilian Trio (Harp, Violin, ‘Cello), Brisan Opera Chorus “and first-class Dublin Artists” “Last eveing, the fourth in the series of Sunday concerts took place at the Queen’s Theatre, when an admirable concert of vocal and instrumental music was arranged. The artistes whose names lent special attraction to the programme included Miss Mildred Telford (soprano, Bri=san Opera Co.), Annie Fagan (harpist), Mr Jay Ryan (O’Mara Opera Co.), Miss Bridie Moloney (mezzo-soprano), Mt W. T. Toolan (tenor) and the Cecilian Trio (harp, violin and ‘cello), and the Brisan Opera Chorus” (Freemans Journal) |
| “The inclemency of the weather naturally affected the attendance at the Queen’s Theatre last night, when what was undoubtedly one of the finest of the series of Sunday concerts was given. The Chorus of the Brisan Opera Company, under the conductorship of Mr. Vincent O’Brien, evoked very hearty applause by their rendering of selections from Wallace’s operas, whilst instrumental secetions were excellently rendered by the Cecilian Trio (Miss Annie Fagan, harp; Miss Agnes Bannard, violin and Mr. Patrick Cherry, ‘cello). The vocalists included Miss Mildred Telford, soprano; Miss Bridie Moloney, mezzo-soprano; Mr William F. Toolan, tenor; and Mr Jay Ryan, baritone. Miss May Sullivan and Miss Annie O’Connor acted as accompanists and the Queen’s Theatre Orchestra played selections, under the conductorhsip of Mr Samuel Levenston.” (Irish Times, 18th Dec 1916) | |
| 1917 |
| Dublin, Queen’s Theatre, twice nightly (6.45pm and 9pm) | |
| “At the Queen’s Theatre on Monday next the Brisan Opera Company will open a week’s engagement in “The Lily of Killarney.” There will be a full chorus, an augmented orchestra and special scenery and effects. The dances have been arranged by Miss A. L. Magee, and the opera will be produced under the direction of Mr. J. G. O’Brien. The artists include Miss Mildred Telford, Miss Teresa Owens, Miss Betty Byrne, Miss Lily O’Dempsey, Miss Kathleen Dorrian, Messrs. William Hillier, Lee Meade-Brady, Thomas J. Young, R. Haviland Jackson, Irvine Lynch, W. J. Lemass, Walter A. McNally and John Neilan.” (Irish Times, 21st April 1917) “A musical treat is promised to the patrons of the Queen’s next week, when the favourite “Lily of Killarney,” will be produced by the Brisan Opera Company. Many popular local artistes appear in the caste including Misses Joan Burke, Lily O’Dempsey, Messrs. lland, O’Dempsey, Andrew Tyrrell, Irvine Lynch and J. Neilan, who have already won fame on the concert platform. The opera will be given twice nightly, a proceeding altogether novel to Dublin audiences. Irish dancing will be introduced, and the augmented orchestra will be under the baton of Mr Lewis Brisan. The performances will start at 6.45 and 9 o’clock, and there will be given the usual matinee on Saturdsy at 2.30. The enterprise is worthy of every support, and next week should be a record one for the Brunswick street house.” (Saturday Herald, 26th Aug 1916) | |
| 23rd April | Lily of Kilarney – Mildred Telford, Betty Byrne, Kathleen Dorrian, Lily O’Dempsey, William Hillier, Thos. J. Young, R. Haviland Jackson, Irvine Lynch, W. J. Lemass, Walter McNally |
| 24th April | Lily of Kilarney – Mildred Telford, Betty Byrne, Kathleen Dorrian, Lily O’Dempsey, William Hillier, Thos. J. Young, R. Haviland Jackson, Irvine Lynch, W. J. Lemass, Walter McNally |
| 25th April | Lily of Kilarney – Teresa Owens, Betty Byrne, Kathleen Dorrian, Lily O’Dempsey, Thos. J. Young, R. Haviland Jackson, Leo Meade-Brady, John Neilan, Irvine Lynch, W. J. Lemass |
| 26th April | Lily of Kilarney – Mildred Telford, Betty Byrne, Kathleen Dorrian, Lily O’Dempsey, William Hillier, John Nolan, R. Haviland Jackson, Irvine Lynch, W. J. Lemass, Walter McNally |
| 27th April | Lily of Kilarney – To-night, Entire Principal Cast – including Walter McNally and Mildred Telford (Evening Herald) – Mildred Telford, Betty Byrne, Kathleen Dorrian, Lily O’Dempsey, William Hillier, John Nolan, R. Haviland Jackson, Irvine Lynch, W. J. Lemass, Walter McNally |
| 28th April | Lily of Kilarney – Matinee today at 2.30pm – Teresa Owens, Leo Meade-Brady, John Nolan, remainder of cast as last Monday; Tonight at 6.45pm and 9pm, Entire Principal Cast, including Walter McNally and Mildred Telford, (“Next week: Bohemian Girl – Mon, Tue, Wed Mildred Telford Walter McNally, William Hillier, S. J. Young”) |
| “The Brisan Opera Company enter a second week of twice nightly opera at the Queen’s Theatre. It is anticipated that the success of the “Lily of Kilarney” will be equalled, if not excelled, by “The Bohemian Girl,” which is the fare announced for the coming week. The company is to be congratulated as much on its courage as its enterprise.” (Fare for next week, Freemans Journal, 28th April 1917) | |
| 30th April | The Bohemian Girl – Mildred Telford, Walter McNally, Betty Byrne, W. H. Jones, , Thos. J. Young, Jos C. Rock |
| 1st May | The Bohemian Girl – Mildred Telford, Walter McNally, Betty Byrne, Thos. J. Young, John Neilan |
| “DUBLIN AMATEURS IN OPERA – The fates were not kind to the Brisan Opera Co. who were producing “The Bohemian Girl” at the Queen’s Theatre last night. A tragic occurrence deprived the company of the services of Mr Hillier, who was specially engaged for the part of Thaddeus. He received word that his wife had died suddenly and he left Dublin in consequence. Mr. W. Jones was then chosen for the role, but at the last moment his place was taken by Mr O’Toole. He was not a “last moment” success and he cannot be blamed. Miss Mildred Telford (Arline) have distinction to the performance. Her singing of “I dreamt that I dwelt” was the best item in the decimated score. She is a true little artiste. Mr McNally’s “Heart Bowed Down” was encored, and Miss Betty Byrne was recalled for “Love Smiles but to Deceive.” The chorus work was very well done. Making all allowances and granting the limit of indulgence to the company, I cannot work up enthusiasm for the performance. Things should not have been done as they were done last night and if the Brisan Company will not take themselves seriously they cannot expect Dublin audiences to do so. I’ll say no more – JACQUES” (Irish Independent, 1st May 1917) “The Brisan Opera Company have entered upon a second week’s engagement at the Queen’s Theatre and the favourable impression which their rendering of the “Kily of Killarney” last week produced seems to be pretty well enhanced at the beginning of their second week.. The opera last evening was “The Bohemian Girl,” compressed so as to be produced twice every evening. There were large audiences at both houses, and the efforts of the artists were warmly appreciated. Two remarkable incidents befel the company last evening: one was that Mr. Hillier, who played Hardress Cregan last week and was billed to play Florenstein in “The Bohemian Girl,” was called away yesterday owing to the sudden death of his wife in the Isle of Wight. His place was taken by Mr Thomas J. Young in the second house and Mr. Young was a substitute for Mr. W. H. Jones as Thaddeus, in the first house, Mr. Jones having been obliged to attend to his duties in a munitions factory. Mr. John O’Toole, at a few hours notice, took the part of Thaddeus, and so if there appeared to be some faults in the acting,the audience, to whom the contre-temps had been explained by the manager, overlooked them and applauded Mt. O’Toole for his vocal efforts.. Mr Walter McNally sang and acted the part of Count Arnheim with conspicuous success. Miss Mildred Telford, as Arline, displayed self-posession which might only be expected from more experienced stagers, and she sang her songs very sweetly and artistically. Miss Betty Byrne secured approval as the Queen, and Mr. John Neilan acted the character of Devilshoof splendidly. The chorus was good all round.” (Irish Times, 1st May 1917) | |
| 3rd May | The Bohemian Girl – Mildred Telford, Thos. J. Young, , Kathleen O’Toole, John Neilan, W. J. Lemass |
| 4th May | The Bohemian Girl – Mildred Telford, Walter McNally (Matinee tomorrow at 2.30. Betty Byrne, Thos J. Young, J. C. Rock, W. Hughes) |
| “GOING ON TOUR – Mr Walter McNally and Miss Mildred Telford will shortly begin on a big tour with the “Metropolitans.” The famous quartette – the other members of which are Miss Mrna Davan (piano) and Miss Murial Goodman (‘cello) – has already appeared at the Royal and Empre, Dublin, and also in Belfast, Cork, Limerick and Derry. The English tour, controlled by the Moss Empire Syndicate, opens on Whit Monday in New Brighton, followed by Liverpool and London. The tour is being specially arranged to allow of Mr. McNally and Miss Telford fulfilling their numerous engagements with the Brisan Opera Company, their next appearance with the company being early in June when Donizetti’s “Daughter of the Regiment” will be presented for the first time in Ireland twice nightly.” (Freemans Journal, Thu May 10th 1917) | |
| from Jun 11th (certainly to 16th, and beyond) Dublin, Queens Theatre – “the biggest production ever booked by the Queen’s – Grand Opera Chorus of 80” | |
| “The Brisan Opera Company announces a series of performances of Wallace’s opera “Lurline,” at the Queen’s Theatre next week. The opera is arranged in three acts, there si a chorus of seventy voices, the ballet has been arranged by Miss Aileen Magee, and there will be two performances nightly. It is to be produced by Messrs. H. O’Dempsey and Mr. M. D. Byrne. The cast includes Mr. Harry O’Dempsey as the Count, Messrs. E. O’Connor-Cox, E. Haviland Jackson, F. Roy Robinson, Walter McNally, W. J. Lemass; the Misses Betty Byrne, Eileen Furlong, Kathleen McCully and Kathleen Gavin.” (Irish Times, 9th June 1917) | |
| 11th June | Lurline – Harry O’Dempsey, R. Haviland Jackson, E. O’Connor Cox, Kathleen McCully, Eileen Furlong, Betty Byrne, Walter McNally |
| “LURLINE – Dublin Opera Coy. Win Big Success – SPLENDID CHORAL WORK – If the orchestra were only equal to the task, the performance of “Lurline” at the Queen’s Theatre – curtailed with prudence to suit the exigencies of two shows a night – would pass without occasion for adverse comment. But the band “beat” the vocalists many times last night. The original chorus of the Brisan Opera Company has been materially strengthened by the addition of members of the Dublin Metropolitan Opera Company. The stage was too small to hold them all, and “crowding” is not calculated to conduce to tonal effects. Yet a Dublin audience has rarely heard such excellent choral work in opera. The men’s singing in the carouse and meeting with Rudolph in the scene outside the castle was spendidly balanced. The tempo was excellent, and the tone full and rich. At other times the ladies, helped by a particularly strong contralto division, seemed to do better than their brothers. Past triumphs of the Brisan Opera Company are pleasurably remembered, yet it is doubtful if, on the whole, they have done anything quite so finished as “Lurline.” The opera was well mounted and handsomely dressed. The stage setting in the eight scenes was carefully and accurately manipulated. The performance went without a single hitch at the second house, and the demonstration of the delighted and crowded audience was one of genuine enthuisiasm and approval. It was a remarkable production and Dublin can rejoice that its sons and daughters can achieve such success. Of the choral delights, of which the opera ffords many, the best of the night was the singing “off” the stage in Lurline’s dwelling (Act 2, Scene 3). It was a charming sample of the choir work. Another beautiful number was the female chorus at the opening of Act 2. Here, Mr Harry O’Dempsey won his greatest triumph in his rendering of “Sweet Fawn” and “One Bright Star of Love.” He was in splendid voice, and rose to a fine height of dramatic vocalism in the famous narrative of the legend of the watersprite. He was well supported by Mis Kathleen McCully, who as Lurline improved as the night wore on. The housewanted “Take this Nectar Cup” repeated, but, wisely, the opera proceeded. The harp playing of Miss Anne Fagan was always a feature of the musical scoring. A very imposing Rhineberg was presented by Mr Walter McNally, whose “Father’s Early Love,” though not the greatest thing in his all-roiund finished inpersonation, was imperatively encored. The Gnome of Mr. R. H. Jackson was more than a minor part. He is a sincere actor and his “Dance and Sing” was his best number. Miss Eileen Furlong (Ghiva) and Mr. E. O’Connor Cox (the Baron) were others to share in the personal honours. Mr Lewis Brisan, Musical Director, can face the week with confidence, despite the doubts awakened by the band. The ballet dancing was good.” (Evening Herald, 12th June 1917) | |
| 12 Jun | Lurline – |
| 13 Jun | Lurline – |
| 14 Jun | Lurline – |
| “The Brisan Opera Company are having a successful week at the Queen’s, where Wallace’s “Lurline” has been drawing large audiences. Last night the house was packed. An interesting change in the cast was made, when Miss Kathleen Gavin played very charmingly the part of “Lurline.” Miss Gavin is gifted with a voice of unusual range and sweetness, which she used with artistic effect, in spite of a little natural nervousness in one so young and inexperienced. She was accorded a splendid reception throughout. She will again assume the role at tomorrow’s matinee. Another member of the company who sang well, and whose good work was loudly applauded, was Miss Eileen Furlong (Ghiva). Mr. Haviland Jackson took the part of the Gnome and his rendering of “Dance and Sing” was heartily applauded. Those responsible for this successful production are:- Messrs. Vincent O’Brien (muiscal director), Joseph P. Sandes (general manager), M. D. Byrne, and Louis O’Brien.” (Irish Times, 15th June 1917) | |
| 15th Jun | Lurline – |
| “The decided success of the Brisan Opera Company in “Lurline” has confirmed the promoters of the wisdom of holding the Queen’s Theatre for another week. On several occasions since Monday night visitors and money had to be turned away. The “House Full” sign hung out on the outer doors – the most welcome sight that could greet the eys of a management. ‘”Lurline” is a winner’ was what I wrote on Tuesday. It is. The Brisan management has been lucky in some things. The “Lily of Killarney” was a sopendid openig spec. But it was more than luck that won through with “Lurline.” It was foresight and sound judgement. The marshalling of the chorus – better than which in parts has very seldom been heard in opera in Dublin – was sound judgement. The chorus has two great lines – the bass and the contralto. But they are not allowed to dominate. Then the selction of the principals was very happy. The week has been a very trying one for Mr. Harry O’Dempsey and Miss Kathleen McCully in the leading roles, but they hace the reward of all earnest and ambitious artistes – they have won the esteem and admiration of many thousands of music lovers in their native city. It was impossible to get a seat anywhere in the house last night when the curtain rose on the second performance. The “hit” of the night was made by Mr Lemass, who was substitute for Mr McNally in the heavy role of Rhineberg. His singing of “A Father’s Early Love” was his best number, and that verdict of the packed house was emphasised by the clamours for a repeat. Miss Bridie Moloney in the part of Ghiva rather surprised her many friends in the audience – an excellent rendering vocally and dramatically. Mr R. H. Jackson renewed his successes of other nights as “The Gnome.” The ballet in which appeared some well-known terpsichorean prize-winners, was good. About the … and the organ let there be silence. Talking about “Lurline,” it will interest lovers of Wallace’s opera to know that on the Rhine, a few miles below Bingen, the Lorelei Cliff rises sheer from the water to a height of nearly 500 feet. Mr A. O’Hagan of Kingstown sends me a photograph of a snapshot of the famous rock which he took a few years ago. “The Daughter of the Reghiment” or “Faust” will be done by the Brisan Co. in August – J ” (Evening Herald, 16th June 1917) | |
| 16 Jun | Lurline – |
| 18th Jun | Lurline – Harry O’Dempsey, R. Haviland Jackson, Walter McNally, E. O’Connor Cox, Eileen Furlong, Betty Byrne, Kathleen McCully [“Note: Mr O’Dempsey will sing Mon, Wed, Thu and Sat Mat and Mr. McNALLY is in the casts for Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat mat and Sat 2nd house”] |
| “The managements of the leading Irish theatres in Dublin and the provinces are busily booking Irish productions and engaging Irish artists for the coming season. We may see the Brisan Opera Company at the Royal, Dublin, in the early autumn. “Faust,” pruned down to suite the requirements of two houses a night, should prove, to say the least of it, interesting.” (Some Notes on Musical and Dramatic Events, Evening Herald, 30th Jun 1917) | |
| 6th – 11th August – Dublin, Queen’s Theatre [CHECK], “Grand re-opening” for one week “A tremendous holiday attraction” | |
| 6th August | Prison scene from Maritana – also “solo”Irish Scena” with Walter McNally assisted by Kathleen McCully |
| 1st Sep (other dates unknown) Dublin, Queen’s Theatre – twice nightly – 6.45pm and 9pm | |
| 1st Sep | GIGANTIC SUCCESS – A real All-Irish Company – Lena Munro and Joan Burke, Dave Watson, W. J. Jewell, M. T. Kinder, Lewis Quartette (Messrs. J. J. Hughes, Gerard Crofts, Chas. S. Bevan, J. T. Bevan), The Sisters Martagh, Little Eileen Kinahan – A DREAM OF “IL TROVATORE” – Miss Teresa Owens, Miss Florrie Batty, Mr W. F. Toolan, Mr Thos. J. Bevan (Irish Times 1st Sep 1917) |
| Kingstown Pavilion: | |
| 1st Sep | Evening performance only (between Moving Picture presentations) MISS KATHLEEN GAVIN, Principal Soprano, Brisan Opera Coy. |
| Boyne Valley Bazaar – Loreto Tea Stall: | |
| 2, 3, 4 Sep | Grand Concert and Entertainment – “J. C. ROCK’S COMPANY OF IRISH PLAYERS AND SINGERS (after their hughe success at Tivoli Theatre, Dublin) in the original Irish Musical Sketch “THE REHEARSAL OF MRS RAFFERTY’S AT HOME.” introducing high-class Irish Music and Comedy, and featuring Mr J. C. ROCK (Baritone), Brisan Opera Co.; Miss BRIDIE MALONEY (Soprano) Brisan Opera Comnapy; Miss MAUDE DAVIN, Pianiste and Violinist; Mr GEORGE CAVANAGH, Irish Entertainer. The above Artistes will be assisted by Mr WALTER McNALLY, the famous Irish Baritone; Miss BETTY O’BYRNE (Contralto); Mr J. G. BRADNER (Basso, London and Provincia Concerts), and the best local talent.” |
| 1918 |
| Dublin, Queen’s Theatre; twice-nightly at at 6.45pm and 9pm | |
| 26th August | Brisan Opera Co |
| 27th August | The Emerald Isle, – “ALL-STAR IRISH CAST – Hundreds turned away last night” |
| 28th August | The Emerald Isle, – “ALL-STAR IRISH CAST – Hundreds turned away last night” |
| 29th August | The Emerald Isle, – “ALL-STAR IRISH CAST – Hundreds turned away last night” |
| Dublin, Empire Theatre, twice nightly (6.30pm and 8.30pm) | |
| 18th Nov | The Emerald Isle, – “Exceptional Cast” – Mildred Telford, Brefini O’Rorke, T. J. Young, Teresa Owens, Haviland Jackson, Irvine Lynch, Arthur Lucas, Flossie Evans, etc. “Full Chorus and Ballet” |
| 19th Nov | The Emerald Isle, – “Exceptional Cast” – Mildred Telford, Brefini O’Rorke, T. J. Young, Teresa Owens, Haviland Jackson, Irvine Lynch, Arthur Lucas, Flossie Evans, Moira Brefini, etc. “Full Chorus and Ballet” |
| “TABLOID OPERA – I am reminded that during that last great war Dubliners, who dearly love good singing, were treated to grand opera in “tabloid” form. This appreciation was revealed by the big audiences. All the favourite operas were performed twice nightly – “The Lily of Killarney,” “The Bohemian Girl,” “Faust,” “Il Trovatore,” “Lurline,” and the rest. Is there such a dearth of local talent today that it is impossible form a company on the lines of the old Brisan Opera Company, which included such sterling artistes as Joan Burke, Florence Howley, Betty Byrne, Walter McNally, Jay Ryan, Harry O’Dempsey, Thomas Young and William Lemass but to mention a few of those who were popular favourites with Dublin audiences. I do not think so. Dr. Vincent O’Brien was the principal conductor of the Brisan company and still he is to the fore. Dublin audiences, I am told, would welcome a change from the variety-cum-pictures show. Remembering that it is the vocal turn that invariably captures theatre-goers, I pass on the suggestion of “tabloid” opera, and shall not be surprised if it is taken up. – QUIDNUNC” (Irish Times, 5th December 1942) |
Despite the Rebellion of 1916 the musical life of the city continued. The Feis Ceoil was held that year in the Model Schools, Marlboro’ Street. Vincent O’Brien and Joe Sandes started a new opera company with the intention of performing twice-nightly shows. These shows were known locally as “Potted Opera.” Walter McNally, who was a pupil of Vincent O’Brien, took over the company, and in 1918 held two short seasons of opera in the Empire. Many delightful singers appeared on the stage. Amongst them were Kathleen McCully, Teresa Owens, Mildred Telford, Joan Burke. The male singers included Harry O’Dempsey, Joseph O’Neill, Arthur Lucas, A. J. O’Farrell and W. J. Lemass. The company at first aimed at the operas of Balfe and Wallace and, of course, ‘The Lily of Killarney’, but later extended their repertoire to include Faust, II Trovatore and Pagliacci. They sometimes brought guest artistes from England, the most notable being a tenor named Clarke, who played ‘Faust’ with superb artistry. Between seasons in Dublin the company toured the country giving scenes from operas. Vincent O’Brien conducted many of the Dublin seasons.
THE BRISAN TROUPE
Joan Burke
Mildred Telford
Teresa Owens
Florence Hewson (nee Ryan): “Combine wit, gentleness, affability, reserve, dedication and talent and you begin to get an idea of the person and personality of Florence Hewson (nee Ryan), who died recently in Ballina, Co. Mayo, aged 88. Florrie came from Drumcondra, Dublin, and starred in a London stage-production for the relief and benefit of TB sufferes in the west of Ireland before she was in her teens. Her wonderful contralto voice was nurtured and trained by Monther Clement at the Dominican College, Eccles Street, and then by the famous Dr. Vincent O’Brien. She sang with his Brisan Opera Company later known as the Walter McNally Opera Company – in which she was billed as ‘Ireland’s premier contrealto,’ a title now held by the great Bernadette Greevy. Florrie’s performances had brought her into contact and friendship with many nationally-known figures of the time including Padraic and Willie Pearse, the O’Rahilly, Countess Markievicz and General Sean MacEoin. ‘Stranded’ in the west during an opera and concert tour, she met George Hewson, a young chemist and a very fine singer, whom she returned to marry a year later. They both srtarred in opera productions in Ballina and Florrie’s singing became an integral part of of the musical, social and cultural life of the town, Into the fifties she was regularly heard in St. Muredach’s Cathedral both as choir member and soloist. She sang on Radio 2 RN in its first year of broadcasting and there were many subsequent occasions on RTE. She was featured on RTE television’s ‘Going Strong’ in 1982 and on RTE Radio’s ‘Looking West’ in January of this year. As housewife and mother she showed exemplary dedication and lavished her care and affection on her very distinguished and highly talented family who now mourn her passing. She was a great, noble and Catholic Irishwoman, and perfect lady. Ar dheis De go raibh a h-anam uasal.” (Irish Times, 4th Dec 1987)
Daniel Byrne: “Mr Daniel Byrne, Brian Road, Fairview, who has died, was for 40 years an accountant in Arnott and Co. Ltd., Dublin. Her was in his late seventies and retired about 10 years ago. A native of London, he had been connected with show business there before coming to Dublin wher he was a producer with the Brisan Opera Company for many years. He was also a producer of many operettas and plays for the Comerford School of Dancing at the Gaiety, Olympia and old Theatre Royal. He was one of the founder members of the Irish Folk Dancing Society of which he was honorary treasurer for five years. For almost 40 years he was producer of pantomimes and other shows at the Francis Xaver Hall.” (Irish Independent 19th Jan 1961)
…and Joseph P. Sandes
Opera in Ireland 