Der Zigeunerbaron
In 1938, he helped Edwin Lester launch the Los Angeles Civic Light Opera, appearing in the company's very first production in "Blossom Time". This work was derived from a Viennese operetta "Das Dreimäderlhaus", with music arranged from that of Schubert and adapted for American audiences by Dorothy Donnelly and Sigmund Romberg. Thomas sang regularly in operettas with the LACLO until 1942, starring in productions of "The Gypsy Baron", "H.M.S. Pinafore", "The Chocolate Soldier" and "Music in the Air".