ACTRESSES FIGHT.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume II, Issue 594, 5 January 1916, Page 2

ACTRESSES FIGHT.

ENCOUNTER ON THE STAGE.

Professional jealousy led to a fight between two notable actresses behind the scenes and subsequently on the stage of the Komeo Theatre, Madrid, on the night of November 6. "La Argentinita," an artist who has distinguished herself in imitations of other well-known performers, was giving an imitation of Eaquel Meller, another favourite actress, who happened at that moment to be among the audience. Taking umbrage at the imitation, Senorita Meller, leaving her seat, proceeded behind the scenes and dealt "La Argentinita" a violent blow in the face. The actress returned blow for blow, and the curtain being raised at that moment the unusual spectacle of two famous artists buffeting each other on the stage was witnessed by the astonished audience, who, at first imagining the scene formed part of the performance, applauded vociferously. When, however, "La Argentinita" fell heavily to the stage and blood ws\s seen to be trickling down her cheeks, the enthusiasm gave place to loud cries of indignation. The next moment the curtain was lowered, and the theatre cleared forcibly by the police. "La Argentinita," who had fainted, was carried off the stage, and her aggressor was arrested. Both had suffered considerable personal injury.