On this day in 1857 Verdi’s Simon Boccanegra premiered in Venice. 

Born on this day in 1710 composer Thomas Augustine Arne.

Born on this day in 1863 writer Gabriele D’Annunzio.

Born on this day in 1888 conductor Hans Knappertsbusch.

Born on this day in 1925 soprano Helga Pilarczyk.

Born on this day in 1926 bass-baritone Zoltán Kelemen.

Happy 82nd birthday director John Cox.

Happy 80th birthday soprano Elizabeth Vaughan.

Born on this day in 1939 tenor Veriano Luchetti.

Happy 58th birthday soprano Catherine Dubosc.