The Telephone (1956 film)
| Company type | Television play |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television, Opera |
| Founded | 1956 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
| Products | Television adaptation of opera |
The Telephone is a 1956 Australian television adaptation of Menotti's opera The Telephone. This production was the first opera ever broadcast by the ABC. The 25-minute feature starred Kevin Mills and Marie Tysoe.
Premise
Ben attempts to propose marriage to Lucy, who remains preoccupied with chatting on the telephone. Eventually, he chooses to make his proposal through the phone instead.
Cast
- Kevin Mills portraying Ben
- Marie Tysoe portraying Lucy
Background
Both Tysoe and Mills had previously performed the opera several times on stage and radio during 1953 and 1954. Tysoe later reminisced about the live broadcast from the Kings Cross radio studio, which was produced by George Trevare and featured the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. The production’s minimalistic set and two-actor format suited television perfectly. Additionally, the ABC team provided Tysoe with an elegant costume for the filming.