Mary Fabian

An internationally known soprano, Miss Fabian was the founder of the American Civic Productions Company which presented Opera in English throughout the United States. She formed the Civic Opera Association in Birmingham and produced and directed its presentation of "Carmen" in 1936. Her first professional engagement was in "Katinka" with the Hammersteins, touring the country and appearing in a variety of roles. Following a vaudeville tour with her sister, Rose, a violinist, Miss Fabian became a member of the San Carlo Opera Company. She also sang with the Zuro Opera Company, The Puccini Opera Company, and the Chicago Civic Opera Association. Her debut in Italy was in "Madame Butterfly", which she sang 100 times in that country. During World War II, Miss Fabian served as a lieutenant in the Women's Army Corps, entertaining troops in the United States and Europe. Following the war she remained in Europe assisting with the rebuilding of Austria.