On this day in 1928, the melodrama Diamond Lil, written by and starring Mae West, opened at the Royale Theater, to run 176 performances. (Miss West revived the play several times over the years, playing Lil in New York City as late as 1951.) 

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 74th birthday bass-baritone Claudio Desderi.

Happy 72nd birthday tenor and conductor Neil Jenkins.