An overwhelming response in Europe had created high expectations for the Australian premiere of The Merry Widow on 16 May 1908, two years after its world premiere in Vienna. The Melbourne premiere was a sensational success with the audience applauding for fifteen minutes at the end, until J C Williamson made a speech of thanks.

"Sydney audiences responded equally enthusiastically, setting a new record for the city of 100 nights at Her Majesty's Theatre. The production was 'as full of melody as a Sydney alderman is of gas'."The Theatre, 1 October 1908

Approximate size of print is 100cm x 40cm