The D'Oyly Carte Repertoire Company opened a short campaign at the Theatre Royal, Hanley, last evening with a representation of "The Gondoliers," the last of the series of operas which Gilbert and Sullivan created before the first serious misunderstanding between took place. The performance was of the usual satisfaction characters, albeit one of the principal artists, Mr, Scott Russell, was unable to appear through temporary indisposition, his role, that of Marco Palmieri, one of the Gondoliers, being filled by Mr. Lenox. The music proved as acceptable as ever. The melodies and harmnonisations for the voices, and the exquisite orchestrations, are a source of immense delight. The reproduction of so many Sullivan operas this week, has suffered through the death of Sir Arthur Sullivan.

Mr. C. H. Workman, an old friend, was the Duke of Plaza-Toro; and a most entertaining character he made of it. His constant repetition of the patter songs, enabled him to deliver them at a pace which none of his predecessors attempted. But what ever speed he adopts, his words are clear and always distinguishable without any necessity to strain on the part of the listener. His acting of the character is beyond reproach - nothing better could be desired. Mr. Fred Billington as Don Alhambra is as satisfactory as ever. His Grand Inquisitor is capital as a piece of acting, and was much enjoyed . As the attendant Luiz, Mr. G. Villiers Arnold was satisfactory. He speaks his lines well, and his voice is equal to the delivery of the vocal parts in a manner calculated to satisfy everybody. Miss Norah Maguire, as Casilda, is able to uphold the tradition of the prima donna of the Savoy opera. That is to say she presents a graceful stage presence, has a light soprano voice which she uses in a pleasant manner, and is always in the picture. The Tessa of the cast is entrusted to a very young lady, Miss Ethel Beech. Her voice is hardly mature enough for such a role, but she is a sprightly maiden, a capital dancer; one with a keen sense of humour who promises well for a successful future.

Miss Lina Carr, as Gianetta, displayed a strong soprano voice and a capacity to make her vocalism interesting. Other parts were well filled. The chorus singing was especially good, the concerted music rendered with good spirit, and the ensembles capitally worked up.

Tonight, "The Pirates Of Penzance" is to be given. Mr. Scott Russell, we are asked to say, will appear as the pirate apprentice.