MUSIC AT FUNERAL.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 56, Issue 263, 19 August 1936, Page 6

MUSIC AT FUNERAL.

GILBERT AND SULLIVAN OPERAS

(United- Press Association —Copyright.) (Received This Day, 11.5 a.m.) LONDON, August 18. Music from Gilbert and Sullivan operas will be played at the funeral, on Thursday, of the famous Savoyard Sir Henry Lytton.—British Official "Wireleas. •

The late Sir Henry A. Lytton/ singer and actor, was famed for his playing of chief parts in the Gilbert and Sullivan operas. He was born in London in January, 1867, and began his stage career in 1884 by appearing in the. chorus of “Princess Ida” on tour. He then obtained an engagement with the D’Oyly Carte Opera Company and toured with it for more than two years. In 1887 he was engaged by the management of the Savoy Theatre, London, the original home of the inimitable comic operas of Gilbert and Sullivan. He started as understudy to George Grossmith as Robin Oakapple in “Ruddigore” andl occasionally had a chance oL playing the part. Gilbert was attracted by the ability and enthusiasm of the young actor, and in addition to encouraging him gave him special coaching in parts which he was studying. In the 10 years or so that followed Sir Henry played success in “Yeo-, men of the Guard,” “Patience,” “lolanthe,” “The Pirates of Penzance,” “H.M.S. Pinafore,” “The Mikado,” “The Gondoliers,” and others of the operas. After touring Canada in 1927 and 1929 and revisiting the United States in the latter year, Sir Hlenry returned to;England and 1 retired in 1932. He had been knighted two years previously. In 1934 he received a presentation to mark His work of half a century on the stage.