The two found success touring in Australia, and then playing in London, the U.S. and elsewhere in a comedy called "Struck Oil". In 1879, Williamson obtained the right to present "H.M.S. Pinafore" and then other Gilbert and Sullivan operas in Australia. He soon formed his Royal Comic Opera Company. In 1881, Williamson became the lessee of the Sydney Theatre Royal, and the next year he entered into a partnership with Arthur Garner and George Musgrove, expanding to own more theatres such as the Adelaide Theatre Royal in 1886, and bringing famous actors to Australia, such as Sarah Bernhardt and H. B. Irving, and becoming known for spectacular, large-scale productions.