Where would the documenting of Australia’s theatrical history be without Frank Van Straten? After giving us books on the Tivoli, the National and Regent Theatres, Melbourne, and Hugh D. McIntosh, he now turns his attention to Florence Young, one of Australia’s forgotten stars of the early twentieth century.

In a rich career that started in Edwardian times in 1890, Florence Young reigned as “Queen of Light Opera,” until her premature death in 1920 at the age of 49.

She worked almost exclusively for the J.C. Williamson management and traveled extensively throughout Australia and New Zealand in a succession of sparkling operettas; The Merry Widow, The Mikado,and The Chocolate Soldier, and pantomimes Aladdin, Humpty Dumpty and Mother Goose, where she was famed for playing the principal boy.

With meticulous research of the period, Frank Van Straten brings this hard-working and dedicated artist, and her colorful era of Australian musical theatre, vibrantly to life. He leaves no stone unturned.

She studied in Paris with Mathilde Marchesi (Melba’s teacher). Her London appearances in the late 1890s were unsuccessful, but a tour of South Africa was.

We also learn of her short-lived marriage, her affair with a fellow actor that lasted until her death, and her ill-fated foray into production in New Zealand.

The book is beautifully produced with copious illustrations of program and sheet-music covers in color and black and white, posters, cigarette cards, and rare photos. It’s a marvelously entertaining read and an ideal gift. Recommended. Available for $25.00 from Hill of Content, Melbourne, and info@beleura.org.au Peter Pinne