SELECT * FROM london_stages WHERE MATCH('(@(authnameclean,authname,perftitleclean,commentcclean,commentpclean) "Mr and Mrs Davies"/1) | (@(roleclean,performerclean) "Mr and Mrs Davies")') GROUP BY eventid ORDER BY weight() desc, eventdate asc OPTION field_weights=(perftitleclean=100, commentpclean=75, commentcclean=75, roleclean=100, performerclean=100, authnameclean=100), ranker=sph04

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We found 23874 matches on Performance Comments, 7644 matches on Event Comments, 4638 matches on Performance Title, 27 matches on Author, and 0 matches on Roles/Actors.
Event Comment: MMrs Cibber continuing ill, Miss Bellamy from Covent Garden Did Sigismunda for Mr Berry (Cross). Benefit for Berry. Tickets at Mr Pope's, Peruke Maker, in Russel St., Covent Garden, and at stage Door. Part of pit laid into Boxes. N.B. As Mrs Cibber's illness prevents her from performing the part of Sigismunda for Mr Berry's Benefit, he apply'd to Mr Rich, who very readily consented to let Mrs Bellamy play that part for him, which she as obligingly comply'd with. Receipts: #210 (Cross)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Tancred And Sigismunda

Performance Comment: As17560110, but Sigismunda-Mrs Bellamy.
Cast
Role: Sigismunda Actor: Mrs Bellamy.

Afterpiece Title: Chaplet

Cast
Role: Laura Actor: Mrs Vernon
Role: Pastora Actor: Mrs Clive
Event Comment: Paid Tallow Chandler's 4th Bill #41 6s. 5d.; Spermacetti Candles, #132 18s. Mr Tomlinson for Men's cloaths #11 11s.; Mr J. French on acct #20; Miss Hopkins, 15 nights (19th Dec. incl.) #3 15s. (Treasurer's Book). [The sixth edition of Wm. Law's Absolute Unlawfulness of Stage Representations was published this year (1st. edn. 1726) This day was published the Preliminary Number of the Westminster Magazine, which, monthly, included a section called The English Theatre, which observed generally on the state of the Stage, and commented specifically on new plays. Its view of the stage in general was not as sanguine as had been that of the writer for the Town and Country Magazine (1 April 1772). "We are of opinion, that the English Theatre is now in its decline. Whether it is that the stores of Dramatic Subjects or of Dramatic Genius are exhausted, is not immediately obvious; but there is a fault somewhere....We have seen the Morning star of Wit--the Noon too is past; we have now arriv'd at its evening...There is in Arts, as in Empires, a progress which leads to Refinement; and this refinement leads to Ruin." According to the writer the meridian glory of the English stage was during the reign of Queen Anne. Reviewer damns the Irish Widow, refuses to discuss the Gamesters (revived), damns the Rose and praises the Garrick alteration of Hamlet. This year also appeard Granny's Prediction, a 53-page pamphlet attack on Mrs Barry, condemning her on moral grounds (polygamy) and on aesthetic grounds, commenting on each of her characters. By a spiteful female relative Elizabeth Franchetti.] Receipts: #142 10s. (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Committee Or The Faithful Irishman

Performance Comment: Abel-Burton; First Committeeman-Hartry; Second Committeeman-Griffith; Teague (With Songs)-Moody; Careless-Jefferson; Col. Blunt-J. Aickin; Lt Story-Fawcett; Mr Day-Baddeley; Obadiah-Love; Arabella-Miss Ambrose; Mrs Day-Mrs Bradshaw; Ruth-Mrs Egerton.
Cast
Role: Mrs Day Actor: Mrs Bradshaw
Role: Ruth Actor: Mrs Egerton.
Event Comment: Margaretta 1st time by Mrs Robinson not perfect. very B. & Disconcerted Mr G. very much (Hopkins Diary). [MacMillan's note from Kemble differs slightly in wording.] Receipts: #239 17s. (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Rule A Wife And Have A Wife

Performance Comment: Leon-Garrick; Duke-J. Aickin; Cacafoggo-Love; Juan-Packer; Sanchio-Hurst; Alonzo-Ackman; Copper Capt.-King; Margaretta-Miss Robinson, first time; Clara-Mrs Jefferson; Altea-Mrs Love; Old Woman-Mr Baddeley; Maid-Mr Waldron; Estifania-Mrs Abington.
Cast
Role: Clara Actor: Mrs Jefferson
Role: Altea Actor: Mrs Love
Role: Estifania Actor: Mrs Abington.

Afterpiece Title: The Padlock

Cast
Role: Leonora Actor: Mrs Smith
Role: Leander Actor: Vernon
Role: Ursula Actor: Mrs Love
Event Comment: Benefit for Miss Younge. Last time of performing till Easter. Mainpiece: Not acted these 5 years. [See 9 Nov. 1768.] Afterpiece: Never acted here (playbill). Part of pit laid into boxes. Ladies and Gentlemen requested to come early. Rec'd stopages #2 12s. 6d.; short charge for new farce on 8 March #10 10s.; Paid 4 days salary list #348 14s. 8d.; Mr King's extra salary #2; Mr S. Barry on note #100; Mr Cook's 4 boys 4 nights (the 7th incl.) #6 Mr J. French on acct #10 10s. (Treasurer's Book). Receipts: #282 19s. 6d. Charges #64 17s. Profit to Miss Younge: #218 2s. 6d. (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Earl Of Warwick

Performance Comment: Warwick-Reddish; King Edward-Clinch; Pembroke-J. Aickin; Buckingham-Fawcett; Messenger-Griffith; Lady Elizabeth-Mrs Baddeley, first appearance here in 3 years; Lady Clifford-Miss Sherry; Margaret of Anjou-Miss Younge; Suffolk-Packer; Original Epilogue-Miss Younge.

Afterpiece Title: The Pantheonites

Performance Comment: Parts-Weston, Dodd, Parsons, Dimond, Bannister, Baddeley, Mas. Blanchard, Mrs Greville, Miss Platt, Mrs Hopkins; Dan Drugger-Weston; Farmer Tilwell-Bannister; Anna-Miss Platt (Genest, V, 408).

Dance: V: The Sailors Revels, as17730928

Event Comment: Rich's Company. The date of the first performance is not known, for the play was apparently not printed until 1704. Nevertheless, some details indicate a performance early in the early in the season of 1696-97. In the first place, the presence of Verbruggen in the cast indicates that it must have been acted before 1 Jan. 1696@7, when Verbruggen was permitted to act at Lincoln's Inn Fields. The play also parodies the works of Mrs Manley, whose The Royal Mischief had been staged (probably) in April 1696, and it is likely that the company would emphasize the pertinence of the parody by presenting it soon after the appearance of the original. Although The Female Wits may not have been acted until later in the autumn, it seems likely that it was acted first in the late summer or early autumn. Preface, Edition of 1704: [The] Success of this Play has been such...having been Acted six Days running without intermission....Among the rest, Mr Powel and his Wife excell'd in the Characters they represented, as did Mrs Verbruggen, who play'd the Chief Character....The Lady whose Play is rehears'd, personated one Mrs M-ly [Manley]

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Female Wits Or The Triumvirate Of Poets At Rehearsal

Performance Comment: [The author is not known, but the title page states that it was written by W. M.] Edition of 1704: Prologue-; Epilogue-; Mr Aw'dwell-Mills; Praiseall-Cibber; Fastin-Powell; Amorous-Pinkethman; Lord Whiffle-Thomas; Lord Whimsical-Verbruggen; Marsillia-Mrs Verbruggen; Patience-Mrs Essex; Mrs Wellfed-Mrs Powell; Calista-Mrs Temple; Isabella-Mrs Cross; Lady Loveall-Mrs Knight; Betty Useful-Mrs Kent; Players-Johnson, Pinkethman, Mrs Lucas, Miss Cross; Singers-Mrs Cross, Pate; Dancers-Mrs Cross, Mrs Lucas.
Cast
Role: Marsillia Actor: Mrs Verbruggen
Role: Patience Actor: Mrs Essex
Role: Mrs Wellfed Actor: Mrs Powell
Role: Calista Actor: Mrs Temple
Role: Isabella Actor: Mrs Cross
Role: Lady Loveall Actor: Mrs Knight
Role: Betty Useful Actor: Mrs Kent
Role: Players Actor: Johnson, Pinkethman, Mrs Lucas, Miss Cross
Role: Singers Actor: Mrs Cross, Pate
Role: Dancers Actor: Mrs Cross, Mrs Lucas.
Event Comment: Afterpiece: A New Dramatic Masque. Admission 5s., 3s., 2s., 1s. No Money under the full Price will be taken; and the Advance Money will he returned to those who chuse to go out before the Overture to the Entertainment begins. Edition of 1736: Invented by Mr Pritchard. Musick composed by Mr Arne. Scenes painted by Mr Hayman

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Unhappy Favourite

Cast
Role: Queen Elizabeth Actor: Mrs Butler
Role: Rutland Actor: Mrs Thurmond
Role: Nottingham Actor: Mrs Cross

Afterpiece Title: The Fall of Phaeton With Harlequin a Captive

Performance Comment: Jupiter-Winstone; Neptune-Turbutt; Priest of Aurora-Salway; Terra-Mrs Cross; Phoebus-Mrs Cantrell; Phaeton-Cross; Clymene-Mrs Clive; Ethiopian-Essex; Moors-Pelling, Villeneuve, Davenport, Rector; Seasons-Villeneuve, Duke, Mrs Walter, Mrs Pelling; Turkish Dancers-Delamayne, Mrs Walter; Turk-Salway; Harlequin-Le Brun; Morocco Servant-Poitier; Colombine-Miss Mann; Her Maid-Mrs Pritchard; Captain of the Galley-Este; Innkeeper-Turbutt; Barber-Grey; Porter-Leigh; China Woman-Mrs Ferguson; Lodging Woman-Mrs Bennet; Harlequin's Good Genius-Miss Cole; Adonis-Denoyer; Venus-Mlle Anne Roland; Followers of Adonis-Pelling, Rector, Davenport, Mrs Davenport, Mrs Villeneuve, Miss Cantrell; Hours-Pelling, Rector, Davenport, Mrs Davenport, Mrs Villeneuve, Miss Cantrell .
Event Comment: The United Company. The date of the first production is not known, but Part II seems to have followed rather closely upon Part I. The Gentleman's Journal, June 1694 (which apparently appeared in mid-June) states: The first Part of Mr Durfey's Don Quixote was so well received, that we have had a second Part of that Comical History acted lately, which doubtless must be thought as entertaining as the first; since in this hot season it could bring such a numerous audience (p. 170). The Songs were advertised in the London Gazette, 5 July 1694, and Part II advertised in the same periodical 19-23 July 1694. The songs as listed in the separately printed Songs are as follows: Genius of England, the music by Henry Purcell, sung by Freeman and Mrs Cibber. I burn, I burn, the music by John Eccles, sung by Mrs Bracegirdle. Since times are so bad, the music by Henry Purcell, sung by Reading and Mrs Ayliff. Damon, let a friend, the music by Pack, sung by Mrs Hudson. Ye nymphs and sylvan gods, the music by John Eccles sung by Mrs Ayliff. If you will love me, composer and singer not named. In addition, Thesaurus Musicus, 1695, published Lads and lasses, blithe and gay, the music by Henry Purcell, sung by Mrs Hudson. Purcell also wrote the music for other songs for which the singer is not known. Preface, edition of 1694: The good success, which both the Parts of Don Quixote have had, either from their Natural Merit, or the Indulgence of my Friends, or both, ought sufficiently to satisfie me, that I have no reason to value tne little Malice of some weak Heads, that make it their business to be simply Criticizing....I think I have given some additional Diversion in the Continuance of the character of Marcella, which is wholly new in this Part, and my own Invention, the design finishing with more pleasure to the Audience by punishing that coy Creature by an extravagant Passion here, that was so inexorable and cruel in the first Part, and ending with a Song so incomparably well sung, and acted by Mrs Bracegirdle, that the most envious do allow, as well as the most ingenious affirm, that 'tis the best of that kind ever done before....I deserve some acknowledgment for drawing that Character of Mary the Buxom, which was intirely my own,...by making the Character humorous, and the extraordinary well acting of Mrs Verbruggen, it is by the best Judges allowed a Masterpiece of humour

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Comical History Of Don Quixote Part Ii

Performance Comment: Edition of 1694: Prologue-Mr Powel; Epilogue-Sancho, Mary the Buxome; Duke Richardo-Cibber; Cardenio-Bowman; Ambrosio-Verbruggen; Don Quixot-Boen; Manuel-Powel; Pedro Rezio-Freeman; Bernardo-Trefuse; Diego-Harris; Page to the Duke-Lee; Sancho Pancha-Underhil; Dutchess-Mrs Knight; Luscinda-Mrs Bowman; Dulcinea del Toboso-Lee; Marcella-Mrs Bracegirdle; Don Rodriguez-Mrs Kent; Teresa Pancha-Mrs Lee; Mary-Mrs Verbruggen.
Cast
Role: Dutchess Actor: Mrs Knight
Role: Luscinda Actor: Mrs Bowman
Role: Marcella Actor: Mrs Bracegirdle
Role: Don Rodriguez Actor: Mrs Kent
Role: Teresa Pancha Actor: Mrs Lee
Role: Mary Actor: Mrs Verbruggen.
Event Comment: [Puff for the afterpiece]: As this Pastoral was not originally designed for the theatre, it is thought proper to give the public some account of it, and by what means it has now found its way to the stage. The Chorusses and Airs were selected from Mr Handel, and several other eminent masters, by a gentleman whose taste and knowledge in music is perhaps his least merit. Having conceived the design of a musical entertainment of this miscellaneous nature he found himself oblig'd...to connect them [the airs] by a Recitative of his own composition: This naturally produced a kind of a little drama, and the ease and elegance of the whole is the more to be admired when it is considered that the words were of necessity composed in perfect subservience to the music. The piece has been several times performed at Salisbury and greatly admired by many of the first Rank. The author, upon Mr Norris being engaged at the theatre, was applied to for leave to bring it on the stage, to which he has most obligingly given his consent. [Cast given] After an agreeable Overture, the curtain rises and discovers a rural scene, and a troop of nymphs and shepherds assembled to celebrate the Spring. Their rejoicings open with a grand cheerful chorus. We cannot say enough of the taste and execution of Mr Vernon and Miss Young in this scene. The united sprightliness and simplicity of the duet was truly admirable. [Song given, followed by a brief description of the parting of the shepherds, the announcement of Peace so they won't have to part, and special commendation for the various songs of Mr Vincent, and Mr Norris.] We will venture to prophesy that it will be more and more admired at every representation; though perhaps it may not fall in with the Taste of the Groundlings, who, like Polonius, are for a Jig or a Tale of Bawdry, or they sleep (Public Advertiser)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Constant Couple

Performance Comment: Sir Harry Wildair-Obrien; Dicky-Vaughan; Tom-Clough; Col Standard-Holland; Alderman Smuggler-Blakes; Beau Clincher-Yates; Clincher Jun-King; Vizard-Packer; Lady Darling-Mrs Cross; Angelica-Miss Bride; Lady Lurewell-Miss Haughton.
Cast
Role: Col Standard Actor: Holland
Role: Lady Darling Actor: Mrs Cross

Afterpiece Title: The Spring

Cast
Role: Amaryllis Actor: Mrs Vincent

Dance: II: The Irish Lilt, as17621023

Event Comment: Benefit for King. [This was Smith's last appearance on the stage, from which he had officially retired on 9 June 1788.] Broadside in Kemble playbills announcing this benefit: Mr King most respectfully informs the Public that his Night is fixed for Friday the 18th of May, when will be presented The School for Scandal. Mr King has the pleasure to add that Mr Smith, who was so long and so worthily applauded by the Public, and was the original performer of Charles Surface in the above, distinguished Comedy, at the particular request of Mr King, backed by a strong assurance from many admirers and encouragers of the Drama that it will not only add to Mr King's emolument but highly gratify the Town, has kindly consented to return to the Theatre for one night, and resume his favourite Character. "We had been told that Smith pourtrayed the Manners of a finished gentleman with more delicacy and characteristic propriety than any actor of his day; but this did not appear to us to be his particular excellence; he stands too wide to be graceful, and his deportment gains no advantage from a perpetual application of his hand to the lower part of the waist. These habits are far from elegant. His Charles, however, is a favourable specimen of that sort of acting which commonly falls under the denomination of the old school: light, airy, and natural; which excites applause without any anxious endeavour to produce it; which suffers the points to tell of themselves, and does not place them as so many traps to ensnare the injudicious part of the audience" (Monthly Mirror, May 1798, p. 299). "He was received with the most heart-felt gratulations by an audience who did not expect any apology for such acting, though he saw fit to deliver one at the conclusion of the play" (Monthly Visitor, May 1798, p. 72). Times, 4 May: Tickets to be had of King at his house, New Store-street, Bedford-square. Receipts: #674 6s. (388.0.6; 55.17.6; 2.0.0); tickets: 228.8.0) (charge: #212 5s. 6d.)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The School For Scandal

Performance Comment: As17970919, but Charles Surface-Smith (who performed the Character originally [on 8 May 1777]; being positively his only appearance); Snake-Caulfield; Lady Sneerwell-Mrs Sparks; Trip-_.
Cast
Role: Lady Sneerwell Actor: Mrs Sparks
Role: Lady Teazle Actor: Mrs Jordan
Role: Mrs Candour Actor: Miss Pope

Afterpiece Title: Sylvester Daggerwood

Cast
Role: Mary Actor: Mrs Bland
Role: Mrs Cockney Actor: Mrs Walcot
Role: Mrs Buckram Actor: Miss Tidswell.
Role: Miss Lucy Actor: Mrs Bland.

Afterpiece Title: The Son in Law

Cast
Role: Oriana Actor: Mrs Goodall
Role: Bisarre Actor: Mrs Jordan.

Song: In III 1st piece: song-Dignum

Event Comment: [Benefit on one-half value of tickets basis to nine ticket holders. The General Advertiser notice lists beneficiaries as Harrington (Prompter); Stede, Carr, Mrs Bland, Mrs Rowley.] Tickets deliver'd by Mrs Daniel, Mrs Dumont, &c will be taken. /For Box Pit Gallery Value Half-Value/Harrington 7 29 22 #8 6s. #4 3s./Stede 7 52 59 #15 9s. #7 14s. 6d./Carr 6 53 46 #14 1s. #7 0s. 6d./Mrs Rowley 27 77 44 #22 14s. #11 7s./Mrs Dumont 36 31 32 #16 17s. #8 8s. 6d./Mrs Bland 9 56 91 #19 15s. #9 17s. 6d./Mrs Dupre 5 33 42 #10 8s. #5 4s./Mrs Daniel .. 45 109 #17 13s. #8 16s. 6d./Mrs Hitchcock 34 58 31 #20 6s. ........./Totals 131 434 476 #145 9s. #62 11s. 6d./ [Mrs Hitchcock seems to have received the full value of her tickets.] This Day is Publish'd A Treatis on the Passions so far as they regard the stage, with a critical inquiry into the Theatrical Merit of Mr G k, Mr Q n, and Mr B y, the first considered in the part of Lear, the last two oppos'd in Othello. By S. Foote, Esq

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Committee

Performance Comment: As17461017, but Day-Arthur; Obadiah-Morgan; Mrs Day-Mrs Bland; Arabella-Mrs Rowley; Mrs Chat-Mrs Daniel.
Cast
Role: Mrs Day Actor: Mrs Bland
Role: Arabella Actor: Mrs Rowley
Role: Mrs Chat Actor: Mrs Daniel.
Role: Ruth Actor: Mrs Pritchard
Role: Arbella Actor: Mrs Hale

Afterpiece Title: Phebe

Cast
Role: Phebe Actor: Mrs Dunstall

Dance: The English Boy, English Girl

Event Comment: Play never acted before. [This new tragedy by MacNamara Morgan is mercilessly scourged by Paul Hiffernan in Tuner No 1, (21 Jan.), pp. 41-61]: To Tune it in Lilliputian Score : @Such sighing@Such Billing@Such Flashing@Such Heeling@And Dying@And Killing@And Dashing@And Kneeling@Such Rizing@Surprizing!@Such Falling@And Bawling@Such Attitudes@And Flattitudes@Were ne'er exhibited before.@ In the representation Mr Barry spared no pains; Miss Nossiter and Mr Smith strained hard-Mrs Bland, as far as her part exposed itself, did it with alacrity, but vanished abruptly in a storm of Lust. Mrs Vincent put as good a face on wanton barbarity as possible-and Mr Sparks who can do justice to a more spirited character, supported his Arcadian Kingship with becoming equanimity...It is a Romance crush'd together without choice, unconnected and full of Exidents not Incidents. Musidorus and Pamela , are duplicates to Pyrocles and Philoclea , which lengthen by so much the play, with repetition of the same dull nauseous tale of love, stirr'd up now and then by a bounce and a cracker-many persons come on we know not why, and disappear we know not wherefore....This new piece is an outlaw from all rules of Criticism; the Unities of Time, Place, and Action are unobserv'd; Plot, Moral, Verisimilitude, or even Probability unknown: many scenes bid defiance to possibility....Mr Rich stopp'd at no expence as to the Dresses and Decorations, and reprieving the play's duration to the utmost extent of Managerian clemency

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Philoclea

Performance Comment: Parts-Barry, Sparks, Smith, Ridout, Usher, Mrs Bland, Mrs Vincent, Miss Kennedy, Mrs Griffith, Miss Nossiter. [ Basilius-Sparks; Pyrocles-Barry; Musidorus-Smith; Amphialus-Usher; Philanax-Ridout; Euristus-Anderson; Dametas-Redman; Thyrsis-Holtam; Gynecia-Mrs Bland; Pamela-Miss Kennedy; Philoclea-Miss Nossiter; Cecropia-Mrs Vincent; Eugenia-Mrs Griffith; Phebe-Miss Mullart; Prologue-Sparks; Epilogue-Mrs Bland [[Edition of 1754).][Edition of 1754).]
Event Comment: Afterpiece [1st time; c 3, altered from the same, probably by the author, Richard Bentley]: Written in the manner of the Italian Comedy. With new Scenes and Dresses. [Author of Prologue unknown.] "It was originally produced at Drury Lane in the summer of 1761 [27 July] . . . and has now been new dished up, and seasoned to the day" (European Magazine, ibid). J. P. Collier states that "it is not a revival of the former piece" (MacMillan, Larpent Catalogue, p. 98). It was not, strictly speaking, a "revival", but, rather, a revision, as a collation of Larpent MS 586 (the present version, which is unpublished) with MS 199 (Bentley's 1761 version) makes clear. In 1761 Bentley introduced "the speaking Harlequin after the manner of the Italians . . . Mr Harris some years after gave it a second chance on the stage" (Cumberland, Memoirs, I, 212-14). Receipts: #215 19s. (213/5/6; 2/13/6)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Count Of Narbonne

Afterpiece Title: The Wishes

Performance Comment: Characters by Lee Lewes, Edwin, Booth, Whitfield, Wewitzer, Fearon, Mahon, Stevens, Thompson, Bates; Mrs Wilson, Mrs Webb, Miss Morris, Mrs Whitfield, Miss Platt, Mrs Poussin, Miss Stuart, Mrs Davenett, Mrs Mattocks. [Cast from London Chronicle, 4 Oct., and European Magazine, Oct. 1782, p. 308: Harlequin-Lee Lewes; Pierrot-Edwin; Pantaloon-Booth; Mezzetin-Whitfield; Distress-Wewitzer; Members of the Conversazione-Fearon, Mahon; Taylor-Stevens; Invoice-Thompson; Gardener-Bates; Lord Furious-W. Bates; Mr Wrath-L'Estrange; Martinette-Mrs Wilson; Virtue-Mrs Webb; Manto-Miss Morris; Pleasure-Mrs Whitfield; Lady Pindar-Miss Piatt; Lady Avontree-Mrs Poussin; Miss Yewtree-Mrs Davenett; Colombine-Mrs Mattocks. Miss Stuart is unassigned. Larpent MS 586 has unassigned parts as above, and adds: Parte-per-pale, Portico, Four Somebodies, Chorus, Servants; Jenny, Maid.] New Prologue [spoken by Lee Lewes (European Magazine, Oct. 1782, p. 308)] . Jenny, Maid.] New Prologue [spoken by Lee Lewes (European Magazine, Oct. 1782, p. 308)] .
Related Works
Related Work: Belphegor; or, The Wishes Author(s): Miles Peter Andrews
Event Comment: The United Company. The date of the premiere is not known, but the Gentleman's Journal, January 1691@2, suggests that it was first given in December 1691, although the tendency of this journal to be dated one month and appear in the next month makes the interpretation of its information difficult: We have had a new Comedy this last Month, call'd The Wives Execuse; or Cuckolds make themselves: It was written by Mr Southern, who made that call'd Sir Anthony Love, which you and all the Town lik'd so well. I will send you The Wives Excuse, as soon as it comes out in Print, which will be very speedily: And tho' the Town hath not been so kind to this last, as to the former, I do not doubt but you will own that it will bear a Reading; which some that meet with a better Fate too often do not; some that must be granted to be good Judges commend the Purity of its Language (pp. 51-52). Henry Purcell composed the music for this work. One song, Corinna I excuse thy face, the words (according to the Edition of 1692) by Tho. Cheek, the music by Henry Purcell, but without the singer's name, is in The Banquet of Musick, The Sixth and Last Book, 1692 (licensed 17 Feb. 1691@2). Say, cruel Amoret, sung by Mountfort; Hang this whining way, sung by Mrs Butler; and Ingrateful lover, the words by Major General Sackville, are in Joyful Cuckoldom, ca. 1695. See also Purcell, Works, Purcell Society, XXI (1917), xxvi-xxix

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Wives Excuse Or Cuckolds Make Themselves

Performance Comment: Edition of 1692: Prologue-Mr Betterton; Lovemore-Betterton; Wellvile-Kynnaston; Wilding-Williams; Courtall-Bowman; Springame-Mich. Lee; Friendall-Mountford; Ruffle-Bright; Musick Master-Harris; Mrs Friendall-Mrs Barry; Mrs Sightly-Mrs Bracegirdle; Mrs Wittwoud-Mrs Mountford; Mrs Teazall-Mrs Cory; Betty-Mrs Richardson; Epilogue-Mrs Barry.
Cast
Role: Mrs Friendall Actor: Mrs Barry
Role: Mrs Sightly Actor: Mrs Bracegirdle
Role: Mrs Wittwoud Actor: Mrs Mountford
Role: Mrs Teazall Actor: Mrs Cory
Role: Betty Actor: Mrs Richardson
Role: Epilogue Actor: Mrs Barry.
Event Comment: A New Pantomime of Mr Messinks went off with great Applause (Hopkins Diary). Music By Dibdin. New Scenes, Habits, and Machines. Nothing under Full Prices will be taken. [Repeated.] Paid 4 days salary list at #85 12s. 11d., #342 11s. 8d.; Miss Mansell on acct #5 5s.; Mr Clinch ditto, #6 6s.; Dr Arne for Mrs Bradley 2 nights per order #5 5s.; Stopages nil (Treasurer's Book). [Full description of the New Pantomime is given in the Westminster Magazine (January 1773): Harlequin born to the Pigmies comes to manhood, gets a job from the Register Office in a Nobleman's family where he meets Colombine. They love, and elope, a chase ensues through several noted places in London, which are detailed in the review. The union of the lovers is finally consended to, and all closes with dancing. "Some of the paintings in the scenery are well executed; and the generality of Mr Dibdin's music deserves equal praise." In it Mrs Wrighten gives a ludicrous imitation of Miss Catley's manner of singing. The reviewer's general thesis about the London stage of this period, given first in the preliminary number, 1 Jan. 1773 continues: "The Stage seems now buried in universal darkness...The Publick for several weeks, has been fed with the lean carcass of two villainous pantomimes."] Receipts: #162 13s. 6d. (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The London Merchant

Cast
Role: Lucy Actor: Mrs Egerton
Role: Milwood Actor: Mrs Hopkins
Role: a Song Actor: Mrs Scott.

Afterpiece Title: The Pigmy Revels or Harlequin Foundling

Performance Comment: Harlequin-Rooker; Colombine-Mrs Sutton; Others-Messink, Grimaldi, Ackman, Keen, Wright, Burton, Kear, Waldron, W. Palmer, Wrighten, Jacobs, Griffith, Jones, Master Cape, Lings, Watkins, Mrs Wrighten, Mrs Bradshaw, Miss Lings, Miss Platt, Mrs Millidge, Miss Collett, Mrs S. Smith; Dances-Daigville, Atkins, Giorgi, Sga Vidini, Sga Giorgi.
Event Comment: Mainpiece: 7th Time [i.e. in continuation of the reckoning for the previous season. Mrs Rivers was from cg]

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Sword Of Peace Or A Voyage Of Love

Performance Comment: Principal Characters by Bannister Jun., Williamson, R. Palmer, Kemble, Iliff, Johnson, Abbott, Chapman, Burton, Baddeley, Mrs Kemble, Mrs Whitfield, Mrs Poussin, Miss Branghn, Mrs Rivers (1st appearance on this stage). Cast adjusted from text (J. Debrett, 1789): Jeffreys-Bannister Jun.; Mr Edwards-Williamson; Supple-R. Palmer; Mr David Northcote-Kemble; Lieutenant Dormer-Iliff; Gentlemen-Johnson, Abbott; Mazinghi Dowza-Chapman; Caesar-Burton; Resident-Baddeley; Miss Louisa Moreton-Mrs Kemble; Mrs Tartar-Mrs Whitfield; Mrs Garnish-Mrs Poussin; Miss Bronze-Miss Brangin; Miss Eliza Moreton-Mrs Rivers.

Afterpiece Title: The Agreeable Surprise

Cast
Role: Eugene Actor: Davies
Role: Cowslip Actor: Mrs Kemble
Role: Mrs Cheshire Actor: Mrs Webb
Role: Fringe Actor: Mrs Poussin
Role: Laura Actor: Mrs Bannister.
Event Comment: Betterton's Company. The date of the first production is not known, but the play was probably not acted later than September 1695, as it was advertised in the London Gazette, No. 3122, 10-14 Oct. 1695. Preface, Edition of 1696: It was the first I ever made Publick by appearing on the Stage, which (with the Advantage it met with, of admirable Acting) is all the Recommendations I have for exposing it...Ariadne. A song, Restless, in thought disturbed, set by John Eccles and sung by Mrs Hodgson, is in A Collection of Songs, 1696

Performances

Mainpiece Title: She Ventures And He Wins

Performance Comment: Edition of 1696: Prologue-Mrs Bowman [in Man's Cloaths; Epilogue-Mr Dogget [drest as a Beau, by Mr Motteux; Sir Charles Frankford-Boman; Sir Roger Marwood-Scudamore; Lovewell-Hudson [Hodgson]; Freeman-Freeman; Squire Wouldbe-Doget; Charlot-Mrs Bracegirdle; Juliana-Mrs Boman; Bellafira-Mrs Martyn; Urania-Mrs Barry; Dowdy-Mrs Bowtel; Mrs Beldam-Mrs Lee; Doll-Mrs Lawson.
Cast
Role: Prologue Actor: Mrs Bowman
Role: Charlot Actor: Mrs Bracegirdle
Role: Juliana Actor: Mrs Boman
Role: Bellafira Actor: Mrs Martyn
Role: Urania Actor: Mrs Barry
Role: Dowdy Actor: Mrs Bowtel
Role: Mrs Beldam Actor: Mrs Lee
Role: Doll Actor: Mrs Lawson.
Event Comment: Receipts: #138 10s. 6d. Paid three days salary at #85 1s. 11d. per diem, #255 5s. 9d. [Paid the following items which occur regularly each Saturday pay day during the 37 weeks of the 1773-74 season: Lampmen #2 12s.; Billstickers #3 12s.; Handbills 8s.; Candlemen #3 18s.; Carpenter's Bills #8 14s. 6d.; Taylor's Bill #8 11s. 8d.; Mantua Maker's Bill #5 6s.; J. Stevens 18s; Mrs Abington's Cloaths #1; Mr Carver 11 days #11; Mr Royer 2 weeks #9; Mr J. French on act #8 8s.; Supernumeraries and Kettle Drummers #3 14s. (Treasurer's Book). N.B. This pay day was based on a three-day acting week. The average paid out for each of these items over the season, and the total for each computed on this average was as follows. [No further mention will be made of these items this season.] @ Average per week Total for season@Lampmen #3 2s. #113 14s.@Billstickers #2 14s. #99 18s.@Handbills 12s. #22 4s.@Carpenter's #5 10s. #203 10s.@Taylor's #10 2s. #373 14s.@Mantua Maker's #2 10s. #92 10s.@J. Stevens 18s. #33 6s.@Mrs Abington Cloaths #1 12s. 4d. #60@Carver at 1 per diem #189@Royer #4 10s. #166 10s.@Sups and Kettle Drum at #3 10s. per diem #661@Candlemen #7 14s. #277 4s.

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Gamesters

Performance Comment: Wilding-King; Hazard (with song)-Reddish; Barnacle-Parsons; Nephew-Dodd; Dwindle-Waldron; Acreless-Wheeler; Littlestock-Fawcett; Sellaway-Keen; Boxkeeper-Ackman; Drawer-Griffith; Mrs Wilding-Miss Younge; Penelope-Mrs Abington; Page-Miss P. Hopkins.
Cast
Role: Mrs Wilding Actor: Miss Younge
Role: Penelope Actor: Mrs Abington

Afterpiece Title: The Pigmy Revels

Performance Comment: Harlequin-Rooker; Colombine-Mrs Sutton; Other characters-Messink, Grimaldi, Ackman, Keen, Wright, Burton, Kear, Waldron, W. Palmer, Wrighten, Jacobs, Griffiths, Jones, Master Cape, Lings, Watkins, Mrs Wrighten, Mrs Bradshaw, Miss Platt, Mrs Millidge, Miss Collet, Miss Lings, Mrs S. Smith; The Dances-Daigville, Atkins, Giorgi, Sga Vidini.
Event Comment: The Duke's Company. If the run of The Wits occurred as it is outlined above, this would presumably be the first day of Hamlet. Pepys, Diary: To the Opera, and there saw Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, done with scenes very well, but above all, Betterton did the prince's part beyond imagination. Downes (p. 21): The Tragedy of Hamlet: Hamlet being Perform'd by Mr Betterton, Sir William (having seen Mr Taylor of the Black-Fryars Company Act it, who being Instructed by the Author Mr Shakespear) taught Mr Betterton in every Particle of it; which by his exact Performance of it, gain'd him Esteem and Reputation, Superlative to all other Plays...No succeeding Tragedy for several Years got more Reputation, or Money to the Company than this

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Hamlet Prince Of Denmark

Performance Comment: Downes (Roscius Anglicanus, p. 21): Hamlet-Betterton; Horatio-Harris; King-Lilliston; Ghost-Richards; Polonius-Lovel; Rosencrans-Dixon; Guilderstern-Price; 1st Gravemaker-Underhill; 2d Gravemaker-Dacres; Queen-Mrs Davenport; Ophelia-Mrs Sanderson.
Cast
Role: Queen Actor: Mrs Davenport
Role: Ophelia Actor: Mrs Sanderson.
Event Comment: The Duke's Company. This performance is known by the separately printed Prologue and Epilogue: Prologue. By Mr Otway to his Play call'd Venice preserv'd or the Plot discover'd. Acted at His Royal Highness the Duke of Yorks Theatre, the 9th of February, 1681. [These have been reprinted in Wiley, Rare Prologues and Epilogues, pp. 61-66.] Luttrell dated his copy of the Prologue and Epilogue 11 Feb. 1681@2 (Huntington Library). It is not certain that 9 Feb. 1681@2 represents the first performance, but it may well be. For a comment by Downes, Roscius Anglicanus, on Mrs Barry, see The Orphan, February 1679@80

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Venice Preservd Or A Plot Discoverd

Performance Comment: Edition of 1682: Prologue-Mr Smith; Epilogue-Mr Betterton; Duke of Venice-D. Williams; Priuli-Boman; Antonio-Leigh; Jaffeir-Betterton; Pierre-Smith; Renault-Wilshire; Bedamar-Gillo; Spinosa-Percival; Belvidera-Mrs Barry; Aquilina-Mrs Currer.
Cast
Role: Belvidera Actor: Mrs Barry
Role: Aquilina Actor: Mrs Currer.

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Drummer

Performance Comment: Sir George-Freeman; Fantome-Stone; Tinsel-Turner; Vellum-Clarke; Butler-Harris; Gardener-Jones; Lady Trueman-Mrs Miller; Abigail-Mrs Clarke. With a Prologue, Written and Spoken by Mr Perkins, principally addressed to the Antient and Honourable Society of Free-Masons .

Song: The Apprentices, Wardens, and Masters Songs, to be sung by a worthy Brother

Event Comment: Benefit Mrs Arne. An Historical Musical Drama. The Musick composed by Command of his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, and never perform'd in England, but at his Royal Highnesses Palace at Cliefdon. The Poem was written by Mr Thompson and Mr. Mallet. The Musick by Mr Arne. To conclude with a Celebrated Ode in Honour of Great Britain in imitation of those formerly sung at Banquets of Kings and Heroes. Boxes 6s. Pit 4s. First Gallery 2s. 6d. Upper Gallery 1s. 6d. The above Day is fix'd on to avoid interfering with Mr Handel. Mrs Arne hopes humbly the Town will not be offened at this small advance of the Price, this performance being exhibited at an extraordinary expence, with regard to the number of Hands, Chorus singers, building the stage, and erecting an organ; besides all other incidentals as usual. Ladies desired to send servants by 4 o'clock. Tickets of Mrs Arne, next door to the Crown in Great Queen St, by Lincoln's Inn Fields, and places taken of Hobson at the stage Door, with whom Tickets are left

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Alfred The Great King Of England

Event Comment: Benefit for Berry. Tickets at Pope's Peruke Maker Russell St. Rec'd Cash #93 3s., plus #92 11s. from tickets. Total #185 14s.; Paid Salary List #203 7s.; Norton 5 chorus #1 5s. (Treasurer's Book). To the Public, Gentlemen and Ladies, I am very sorry that a long, sharp, and severe fit of Illness prevents me the satisfaction of making my personal application to my friends as usual, against my Benefit; but finding myself every day rather worse than better, I hope you will be so kind as to take this notice, that the Stratagem, will be performed on Saturday the 21st of April; the part of Archer by Mr Garrick, for the benefit of Mr and Mrs Mills; with a Farce and all other usual Entertainments. From your most oblig'd Servant, William Mills. Mr Mills hopes his friends who intend to honour him with their company, will be so kind as to send to him for Places, Tickets, &c., or call upon him at Mr Gardner's Printing Office in Russel St., Covent Garden; or at Hobson's at the stage door (General Advertiser). Receipts: #180 (Cross); charges, #60 (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Merope

Cast
Role: Merope Actor: Mrs Pritchard.

Afterpiece Title: The Chaplet

Performance Comment: As17500313 but Rural Dance-Grandchamps, Mathews, Miss Baker.

Dance: VVenetian Gardeners-Grandchamps, Mlle Auretti

Event Comment: Benefit for Yates. Aainpiece: By Particular Desire of several persons of Quality. Being the last time of performing it this season. Afterpiece by Desire. Many of Mr Yates's friends being desirous to see Mr Garrick in the part of Lord Townly, obliges him to change the play of the Mistake to the Provok'd Husband, and tickets deliver'd for The Mistake will be taken this night. Tickets to be had of Yates, next door to Mr Sparks's, Brazier, the corner of Catherine Street, the Strand, and of Mr Varney at the Stage Door. Receipts: #200 (Cross)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Provokd Husband

Performance Comment: As17570402 but Lady Townly-Mrs Yates, 1st time.
Cast
Role: Lady Townly Actor: Mrs Yates, 1st time.
Role: Trusty Actor: Mrs Bennet
Role: Mrs Motherly Actor: Mrs Cross
Role: Myrtilla Actor: Mrs Hippisley
Role: Lady Wronghead Actor: Mrs Macklin

Afterpiece Title: The Author

Event Comment: Boxes 5s. Pit 3s. First Gallery 2s. Upper Gallery 1s. Places for the Boxes to be taken of Mr Sarjant at the Stage Door of the Theatre. [Only sagnificant changes from this regular notice will be recorded hereafter.] Paid Mrs Margaret Lamb 6 months interest on #315 due 8 Sept. #7 10s. (Account Book). Receipts: #155 15s. (Account Book). Estimate of a Constant@N.B. The Ground Rent and Taxes is calculated to be Paid in 150 Days.@Per Annum Per Day@To 50 Old Shares at 2s. --- #5@To 50 New Ditto at 2s. --- #5@T 50 New Ditto at 2s. --- #5@To Ground Rent for the Theatre #100@To Ditto for Buildings in Harte St. #30@To Ditto for Mr Thurmond's House in Bow Street Passage #25@ #155 #1 0s. 8d.@ #11 0s. 8d.@Taxes (Viz)@To Land and Window Taxes for Theatre #98 2s.@To Do for a House in Bow St. Passage #5 15s 6d.@To Poor's Rate for the Theatre #20@To Do for a House in Bow St. Passage #1 10s.@To Watch rate for the Theatre #8 6s. 8d@To Do for a House in Bow St. Passage 10s. 6d.@To Rector's rate for the Theatre #6 13s. 4d.@To Do for a House in Bow St. Passage 8s. 4d.@To Scavenger's Rate for the Theatre #6 17s. 4d.@To Do for a House in Bow St. Passage 6s. 4d.@To Water for the Theatre #4@ #152 10s.@ #1 4d.@To Renters, Ground Rent & Taxes #12 1s.@To Gawrds [sic] per Day 14s.@To Barbers Do 5s. 4d.@To Scenemen Do #2 10s.@To Music as Per List #4 9s 2d.@For 150 Days To Candles #3 3s.@Do To Coales 10s 10s.@Passages, Stage Etc. To Lamps #1 12s.@To Bills #1 7s.@To Advertisements 5s.@To Billsetters 4s. 6d.@#16 6s. Sallery [sic] #14 6s. Estimate To Wardrobe bill about #1 11s.@#2 Sallery #5 Estimate To Property Bill Do 7s.@To Chorus Singers Do 10s.@To Mr J. Rich #5 5s.@To Mr C. Rich #1@ #36 1s.@Nightly Charge@Musick List@Messrs Wood 5s.@Gillier 5s.@Miller 5s.@Chapman@ 3s. 4d.@Goodman 3s. 4d.@Woodson 5s.@Ward 6s. 8d.@Rolland 5s.@Rawlings 3s. 4d.@Vincent 6s. 8d.@Wrexell 5s.@Beale 5s.@Jones 4s. 2d.@Biche 3s. 4d.@Heron 4s. 2d.@Stockdon 3s. 4d.@Scovell 3s. 4d.@Lampe 3s. 4d.@Smart 3s. 4d.@Assistant Writer 10d.@Harpsicord 5s.@#4 9s. 2d.@Men Dressers Charg'd in the Wardrobe Bills@Messrs Mearns 2s. 6d.@Cason 2s.@Esbury 1s.@Fenwick 1s.@Winterton 1s.@Besford 1s.@Francis 1s.@Cawder 1s.@Hays 1s.@Hollingsworth 1s.@Cabell 1s.@Nicholls 1s.@Norris 1s.@Cole 1s.@16s. 6d.@Billstickers as per List@Messrs Abbott 2s.@Mislebrook 2s.@Dymuck 2s@Tidd 2s.@Gale 2s.@Cole 1s. 6d.@11s. 6d.

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Jovial Crew Or The Merry Beggars

Performance Comment: Old Rents-Sparks; Hearty-Beard; Springlove-Clarke; Randal-Dunstall; Oliver-Dyer; Justice Clack-Shuter; Hilliard-Baker; Vincent-Mattocks; Meriel-Mrs Vincent; Rachel-Miss Brent, with dances incident to the Opera.
Cast
Role: Randal Actor: Dunstall
Role: Meriel Actor: Mrs Vincent

Afterpiece Title: The Mock Doctor

Performance Comment: Doctor-Dunstall; Sir Jasper-Collins; Dorcas-Mrs Green.
Cast
Role: Dorcas Actor: Mrs Green.
Event Comment: Benefit for Theatrical Fund. Doors open at 5 o'clock. Play to begin at half past 6. Last night of season. Cash in the Galleries #88, from Mr Johnston #211 18s. Total #299 19s. Paid in sundries (Rent #8; Soldiers 14s.; Properties 2s.; Bill Stickers 18s.; Candles, Oyl, Lampmen #3 18s. 6d.; Printer #2 13s. 6d.; Total #16 5s. 6d.; Box tickets 680 #170). Ladies and Gentlemen who have taken tickets for the Pit and Boxes are requested to be early at the Theatre, to prevent their being incommoded in getting to their Place. [N.B. 27 June 1767 the Gentleman's Magazine reports that Sg Tenducci "renounced the errors of popery, and embraced the protestant religion in Dublin."] Receipts: #299 19s. (Treasurer's Book). Instead of going to dinner put The Suspicious Husband in my pocket and read Ranger's part at the Somerset Coffee House. Dressed and at half past 5 went into the Front Boxes at Drury Lane to see The Suspicious Husband for the Fund for the Relief of Decayed Actors, being the last time of performing this season. The Pit and Boxes were laid together. Mr Garrick spoke an occasional Prologue and played Ranger. Though in the back row I saw him very well by the help of my glass...Before the Dance Mr Garrick saying that he would not have been able to do it after, in the name of the company and managers thanked the public for the favors received this season. Mr @@ asked me to go to Vauxhall after ye Play, but I chose rather to see Daphne and Amintor ye characters as usual (Neville MS Diary)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Suspicious Husband

Performance Comment: As17661128, but Jacintha-Mrs Lessingham; Frankly-Aickin; Occasional Prologue-; To conclude with a new Country Dance-.
Cast
Role: Jacintha Actor: Mrs Lessingham
Role: Strictland Actor: Love
Role: Mrs Strictland Actor: Mrs Palmer
Role: Lucetta Actor: Mrs Bennet

Afterpiece Title: Daphne and Amintor

Performance Comment: As17670509 but Daphne-Mrs Arne.
Cast
Role: Daphne Actor: Mrs Arne.

Music: I: Concerto on Harpsichord-Burney Jun