Opera Scotland

Mastersingers of Nuremberg 1909Moody-Manners Opera Company

Read more about the opera Meistersinger von Nürnberg

This staging of Mastersingers, handsomely designed by the company's scenic artist Clement Barnes, had first visited Glasgow the previous autumn, and now returned in the repertoire for both spring and autumn visits. Compared with 1908 there is only one small cast change, in the role of Ortel. The feature that seems to surprise authorities is the unexpected talent for comedy revealed by William Dever, usually a player of very serious parts, in the role of Beckmesser.

This was the first time Wagner's great comedy had been performed in Aberdeen or Dundee.

Casts are as detailed in programmes in the NLS and Aberdeen City Library. Six principals (not David) and the conductor are also listed in a review in the Dundee Advertiser.