Drury Lane opened on May 7, 1663.

It was built at the instigation of Charles II. Many celebrated actors and actresses have been associated with the 'Lane'. Nell Gwynn, Peg Woffington, David Garrick, John Kemble, Mrs. Siddons and Henry Irving are only a few of the famous names associated with the history of the theatre.

Rose Marie, which was produced in March, 1925, was the first musical comedy to be mounted there. Before this, the regular programme consisted of two dramas and a Christmas pantomime a year. Rose Marie was a great success and proved to be the forerunner of many spectacular and successful shows.
Tonight you will hear records by artists in the roles they originally played, including excerpts from Rose Marie, Show Boat, and The Land of Smiles.