On this day in 1928, the play Diamond Lil, written by and starring Mae West, opened at the Royale Theater in New York City. (Miss West revived the play frequently later in her career, last appearing on Broadway in the role of Lil in 1951.)

Born on this day in 1898 tenor Julius Patzak

Born on this day in 1906 conductor Antal Dorati

Born on this day in 1910 mezzo-soprano/contralto Cloe Elmo

Happy 72nd birthday bass-baritone Claudio Desderi

Happy 70th birthday tenor and conductor Neil Jenkins