On this day in 1928 the melodrama Diamond Lil, written by and starring Mae West, opened at the Royale Theatre, to run 176 performances. 

Born on this day in 1847 composer Francesco Paolo Tosti.

Born on this day in 1898 tenor Julius Patzak.

Also born on this day in 1898 singer and actor Paul Robeson.

Born on this day in 1906 conductor Antal Dorati.

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

Happy 73rd birthday bass-baritone Claudio Desderi.

Happy 71st birthday tenor and conductor Neil Jenkins.