AustLit

A comic opera described as "after Sir Arthur Sullivan dashed with a soupcon of Planquette" (Brisbane Courier 29 April 1885, p.4). The 28 April rehearsal, undertaken during the morning and attended by members of the press, was accorded a relatively positive response from the Brisbane Courier critic who suggested that 'the music of Zenda is bright and sparkling, and shows in many places true musicianly skills and taste… [and] judging from the specimens we heard [it] show hold its own with many comic operas that have been exceedingly popular.' Details concerning a theatrical staging have not yet been established.

At least one song from the opera, 'The Spinning Wheel,' was presented in Sydney at a special matinee musical concert put on by Mr Juncker at Sydney's West's Rooms on 27 November 1885. The vocalist was Josephine Deakin, with piano accompaniment provided by the composer.

[Source: Australian Variety Theatre Archive]