COMING OPERA.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIX, Issue 120, 24 May 1938, Page 8

COMING OPERA.

ITALIAN PRINCIPALS.

SIR B. FULLER'S VISIT.

I i Sir Benjamin fuller, who in Auckland by the Wanganella from Sydney this morning, said that now he had retired from active theatrical work to a large extent he was spending more of his time in New Zealand. Tliis is his third trip across the Tasman this year. "We have leased all our theatres," he said. "That is why I have a great deal more time at my disposal to travel about."

Sir Benjamin eaid he had made arrangements for an Italian opera company to tour Australia and New Zealand this year. It would open in Melbourne in July. Fifteen principals had been engaged in Italy, and the remainder of the company, such as orchestra, ballet and chorus would be recruited in Australia.

Arrangements had also been made for an American company of 46 players to come from Broadway to New Zealand, probably opening at Auckland provided the dates could be booked. It would be an entertainment somewhat similar to the Marcus show.

Sir Benjamin said his company was developing an acre block of land in Bourke Street, Melbourne. A new theatre and a theatrette would be included, in addition to shops and offices, and a private residential hotel.