THE THEATRES, ETC.
METROPOLITAN. - "Mazeppa" was performed last evening, in the presence of about two thousand people. The personation of the Tartar Prince was assumed by the manageress herself - Mrs. Emily Jordan. The part involves some rather risky horsemanship, and, considering the sultriness of the weather, a refreshing scantiness of clothing, which, perhaps, had not the least to do with causing the presence of the crowd. We suppose, as Mrs. Malaprop says, "comparisons are odorous," but we must give Jordan the credit of doing the "runs" in better style than Menken. The general performance of the role had not the dash and abandon of that many-named woman, but the equestrian portion was decidedly superior; and it surprises us to learn that the actress, up to the time of consenting to play the part, had been entirely unfamiliar with equestrianism. We must, therefore, add to her merit of gracefulness, the quality of courage, moral and physical. It would make the spectacle more generally effective, if greater attention were paid to other parts of it than that assigned to Mazeppa. The scenery and appointments are very well indeed; but the cast is miserably defective. The people act with a hesitation and timidity that lead one to believe they expected the "wild" horse to break loose from his halterings behind the scenes, and distribute a few kicks among them, which, by the way, not a few of the supers richly deserve. Some of the combats were ridiculous, and were openly derided by the audience. Mr. Phelps, who deserves every credit for his untiring industry and ability as a stage manager, had better get those gay swordsmen together and drill them thoroughly. "Mazeppa" will be repeated to-night, and every night this week until further notice.
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