POLLARD'S OPERA COMPANY.

New Zealand Mail, 27 August 1902, Page 7 (Supplement)

POLLARD'S OPERA COMPANY.

__Tbis popular organisation was inaugurated in Melbourne iu July, 1891, 'being known as Pollard’s Liliputian Opera Co. The tirst rehearsals were held in the old Foresters’ Hall in the Victorian capital, the opera being Gilbprt and Sullivan’s “ The Mikado.” On Mr J. C. Williamson witnessing a rehearsal, and noticing the advancement made by the youngsters, that gentleman decided to give Mr Pollard a share in the company. On perfecting their work a tour of Tasmania and New Zealand was arranged, Mr. J. R. Greville looking after Mr. Williamson’s interests and Mr. Lohr as touring manager. During this tour, which was thoroughly

successful, the operas “ La Mascotte ” and “ Patience” were also produced. After the New Zealand tour, seasons in Brisbane and Sydney were played, but the results were not altogether satisfactory. Mr. Williamson snortly after handed the entire control over to Mr. Tom Pollard, under whose management the combination has played in every town of any importance in Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand. O’ the original members in the company at present connected with the organisation are Miss Nellie Wilson. Miss Edie Zeigler, Miss Nellie Rede, Miss Nellie Foord, Miss Alice Pollard, Mr! W. S. Percy, Mr. Alf Stephens, Mr. H. Quea'y, Mr. Tom Quealy ( uecbanist) Mr. Charles Albert, Mr. W. O S illivan, and Mr. George Young.

IN THE MUSICAL COMEDY "THE MESSENGER BOY"