In 1874 US-born actor and theatrical manager James Cassius Williamson opened his first Australian production, Struck Oil.
A huge success, it ran for a record forty-three shows at the Theatre Royal in Melbourne before going on to thrill audiences in Sydney and Adelaide.
Arthur Allen, a frequent visitor to the theatre, became a close friend of Williamson. He advised him on his personal, business and legal affairs, and Allen Allen & Hemsley managed the contracts for many world-renowned performers and playwrights. Perhaps the most famous performer represented by the firm was Australian opera star Dame Nellie Melba, who undertook many tours with Williamson.
Dame Nellie became close friends with Arthur Allen, and joined his family and friends for picnics in country and coastal New South Wales.
On at least one occasion she gave an impromptu performance from the balcony of Arthur's holiday house in Port Hacking.
Allens continues to be a proud supporter of the arts, through its work with the National Gallery of Victoria, the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, the Sydney Theatre Company and Sculpture by the Sea. The firm has also been a strong advocate for Australian contemporary art through acquisitions for its collection (thought to be the largest post-1970s corporate art collection in Australia).
Allen family albums. State Library of New South Wales.
Allen family albums. State Library of New South Wales.
Allen family albums. State Library of New South Wales.
Allen family albums. State Library of New South Wales.
Allen family albums. State Library of New South Wales.
Allen family albums. State Library of New South Wales.
Poster for the JC Williamson production of La Boheme 1924. Arts Collection from Arts Centre Melbourne.