The London Stage Database team will be retiring the Legacy Search on May 1, 2025. Please take a moment before that date to reproduce any pre-2021 searches and export any resulting datasets you may wish to preserve for future use. We are making this change in order to free up computational resources for new features and data, currently in development with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Watch this space for more updates and, coming soon, new ways to keep up with the latest project developments!
SELECT * FROM london_stages WHERE MATCH('(@(authnameclean,perftitleclean,commentcclean,commentpclean) "Mr and Mrs Knight"/1) | (@(roleclean,performerclean) "Mr and Mrs Knight")') 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

Result Options

Download:
JSON XML CSV

Search Filters

Event

Date Range
Start
End

Performance

?
Filter by Performance Type










Cast

?

Keyword

?
We found 23639 matches on Performance Comments, 7642 matches on Event Comments, 4769 matches on Performance Title, 81 matches on Author, and 0 matches on Roles/Actors.
Event Comment: Mainpiece: By Beaumont and Fletcher, reviv'd. Afterpiece: Not acted these three years. [See 8 Aug. 1761.] Mr Powell made his first appearance this Night in Philaster. His Reception was very great, he play'd the part amazingly well, & Seems to have Requisites to make a very Capital Performer. N.B. Covent Garden Theater begun to play every Night (Hopkins). Philaster by Mr Powell. Prodigious applause (Cross Diary). This play [Philaster] was wrote by Beaumont and Fletcher, and is now altered by Mr Colman. Mr Powell, a young gentleman clerk to Sir Robert Ladbrook, made his first appearance in the character of Philaster.--A greater reception was never shown to anybody,--he was so very much frightened, he could not speak for some time, and, when he did, the tears ran fast down his cheeks,--but he soon recovered himself, and went through the part with a great deal of nature and feeling,--Continued claps and huzza of bravo! &c. &c. Upon the whole I think him possessed of every requisite necessary to make him an ornament to the stage.--N.B. Mr D. Garrick instructed him in this part--when I see him in another shall be able to judge better of his capabilities.--Miss Pope appeared this Night in the character of Maria in the Citizen,--by endeavoring to be very fine she overdid it,--and it was plain to see she wanted her master. N.B.--Covent Garden began to play of our nights--the first time they ever begin first since Mr Garrick was manager (Hopkins Diary--MacMillan). Receipts: #258 11s. 6d. (MacMillan)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Philaster

Performance Comment: Philaster-a young Gentleman, first appearance on any stage; others-Bransby, Lee, Burton, Ackman, Baddeley, Castle, Parsons, Fox, Marr, Watkins, Strange, Miss Bride, Mrs Lee, Mrs Hippisley, Miss Mills, Mrs Yates; Prologue-. Philaster-Powell, first appearance on any stage; Pharamond-Lee; King-Bransby; Dion-Burton; Old Captain-Baddeley; Countryman-Parsons; Euphrasia-Mrs Yates; Arethusa-Miss Bride; Megra-Mrs Lee; Thrasaline-Ackman; Claremont-Castle; Galatea-Miss Mills; Messengers-Fox, Marr; Woodmen-Watkins, Strange; Lady-Mrs Hippisley; Prologue- (Genest, V, 36; MacMillan). MacMillan).

Afterpiece Title: The Citizen

Performance Comment: Old Philpot-Baddeley; the Citizen-King; Jasper-Burton; Wilding-Lee; Dapper-Parsons; Beaufort-Packer; Quildrive-Castle; Corinna-Mrs Hippisley; Maria-Miss Pope.
Cast
Role: Corinna Actor: Mrs Hippisley
Event Comment: Rich's Company. The date of the premiere is not known, but Dryden, writing on 14 Dec. 1699, indicates that this play had had its first performance by that date. The Dedication is dated 10 Jan. 1699@1700, and the play was advertised in the Post Boy, 20-23 Jan. 1699@1700. Preface, Edition of 1700: Another difficulty this Play labour'd under, was its being acted at a time when the whole Town was so much, and so justly diverted by the Trip to the Jubilee. When the play was revised and reprinted in 1714, the new edition--The Victim; or Achilles and Iphigenia in Aulis--indicates that The Invocation to Diana in the last act was set by Gottfreid Finger, the first verse being sung by Freeman, the second verse by Mrs Erwin, and the third verse by W. Pate. Advertisement, Edition of 1714: The following Tragedy...having been translated into English [from Racine], with considerable Additions, by Mr Boyer, and pass'd the Correction and Approbation of the late famous Mr Dryden, and several other Persons distinguish'd as well by their Wit and Learning, as by their Taste and Discernment, was acted with general Applause, towards the End of the Year 1699, and Beginning of 1700. The Reasons why this Excellent Play stopt, on a sudden, in a full Career, are, in some Measure, accounted for in Mr Boyer's Preface: To which he might have added, That the Dutchess of Marlborough, who at that Time bore an irresistable Sway, bespoke the Comedy then in Vogue [The Constant Couple], during the Ruin of Iphigenia in Aulis; And that this Tragedy receiv'd no small Prejudice, from the Person that acted Eriphyle [Mrs Wilkins], who sunk under the Weight of so great a Part. A Comparison Between the Two Stages (1702), pp. 24-25: Sullen: Then comes the second Iphigenia in all her Charms, and like a superious Mistress was resolv'd to eclipse her Rival: No cast was spar'd by the Masters, nor toil by the Actors; the Town was bespoke in its favour, and all the Friends of this new Fletcher and Beaumont were ingaged to clap it. She appear'd, but what pity 'twas (as the Prefacer says) that a Play which had such a glorious run shou'd in four Days disappear, never to rise again. Oh! says Mr D@@, mine was acted six Days; and I'll hold you a hundred Pound--just what I got by't--How's that?, says Boyer--I say, Sir, that I'll hold you, or any Man, a hundred Pound, 'twill be acted again ten times this Winter. With that B@@ fell a laughing, and replies, Sir, says he, I'll stake my French Dictionary against your Criticisms on Blackmore, and that I think is odds enough--I say,"I'll hold you that Bet, that you did not get fifty Shillings by't, and that the House lost a hundred Pound. This had like to ha' made sad work; but all was well, for neither of 'em have been acted since, for they both sleep in everlasting Tranquillity. [See also pp. 23-25 for other remarks about the two Iphigenia plays.

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Achilles; Or, Iphigenia In Aulis

Performance Comment: Edition of 1700: Prologue by Tho. Cheek Esq-Mr Powell; Epilogue by Mr Motteux-Mr Norris; Eriphile-Mrs Wilkins.
Cast
Role: Eriphile Actor: Mrs Wilkins.
Event Comment: Garrick put the finish hand to the sale of half the patent &c. to Dr Ford, Linley, Ewart, and Sheridan for #35,000 to be delivered over in June next. Garrick it was said rais'd #12,000 last year by subscription to pay New Ornamentation, which cost #3000, so that the remaining #4500 and #35,000 was no bad interest for the #5,000 he gave in 1747. New property valuation giving him a...(Winston MS 11, from Burney News Cuttings). Paid Mr Palmer, spermacetti candle Bill #186 13s.; Mr Machin, Chorus, 19 times #4 15s. Rec'd Mr Percy's rent 1 year to Mich Last, #10; Stopages #14 5s. Receipts: #167 2s. (Treasurer's Book). From the Morning Chronicle, 19 Jan.: "David Garrick, Esq., has signed and sealed for the sale of his share in the patent and Property of Drury Lane Theatre. The purchasers are Dr Ford, Mr Ewart, Mr Linley, and Mr Richard Sheridan. The purchase money is #35,000. The public may now therefore depend upon it that this will be the last season of Mr Garrick's performing. The new proprietors as an act of their own, have stipulated that Mr Garrick shall continue to keep that box which has of late years been set apart for the accomodation of his family. Mr Garrick intimated last night to the audience his having sold his share in Drury Lane Theatre, by answering in the part of Abel Drugger , on being asked if he had any interest at the theatre, 'I had some, I don't know what I may have.'

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Macbeth

Performance Comment: As17751207, but MacDuff-Farren, first time; Lady Macbeth-Mrs King, first time.

Afterpiece Title: The Jubilee

Event Comment: Betterton's Company. The date of the first performance is not known, but the fact that the play was advertised in the Post Boy, 18-21 Dec. 1697, suggests that the premiere occurred not later than late November. This play was originally given to the company in Drury Lane, but withdrawn. See G. Thorn-Drury, An Unrecorded Play Title, Review of English Studies, VI (1930), 316-18. Edition of 1698: A Dialogue in the fourth Act, between Mr Bowman and Mrs Bracegirdle; The words by Mr Durfey and set by Mr Eccles: When will Stella kind and tendre. A Dialogue in the fifth Act, between a Boy and a Girl, and an Old Man, Written by Mr Motteux, set to the Musick by Mr J. Eccles. Preface: I look upon those that endeavour'd to discountenance this Play as Enemys to me

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Deceiver Deceived

Performance Comment: Edition of 1698: Meleto Bondi-Betterton; Gonsalvo-Arnold; Count Andrea-Hodgson; Fidelio-Verbruggen; Count Insulls-Bowman; Gervatio-Bowen; Actwell-Trafuse; Hiordouble-Knap; Strechwell-Watson; Olivio-Mrs Barry; Ariana-Mrs Bracegirdle; Lady Temptyouth-Mrs Lee; Lucinda-Mrs Prince; Prologue-Mr Bowen; Epilogue-Miss Bradshaw.
Cast
Role: Count Andrea Actor: Hodgson
Role: Olivio Actor: Mrs Barry
Role: Ariana Actor: Mrs Bracegirdle
Role: Lady Temptyouth Actor: Mrs Lee
Role: Lucinda Actor: Mrs Prince

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Beggar's Opera

Performance Comment: Peachum-Wilson; Lockit-Cubitt; Macheath-Miss DeCamp (1st appearance in that character); Filch-Miss Fontenelle; Mat o' th' Mint-Johnson; Ben Budge-Abbott; Mrs Peachum-Mrs Webb; Polly-Mr Bannister; Lucy-Mr Johnstone; Diana Trapes-Mr Parsons; Mrs Vixen-Mr Wewitzer; Jenny Diver-Mr R. Palmer; Mrs Slammekin-Mr Bannister Jun.
Cast
Role: Mrs Peachum Actor: Mrs Webb
Role: Mrs Vixen Actor: Mr Wewitzer
Role: Mrs Slammekin Actor: Mr Bannister Jun.

Afterpiece Title: Who's the Dupe

Performance Comment: Doiley-Parsons; Sandford-Evatt; Granger-R. Palmer; Gradus-Bannister Jun.; Miss Doiley-Miss Heard; Charlotte-Miss Fontenelle.
Cast
Role: Sandford Actor: Evatt

Song: In course of Entertainment: his favourite Planxty [descriptive of Ireland-Johnstone (in the character of Murtough Delany) [see The Irishman in London, cg, 21 Apr.]

Event Comment: Benefit for Mrs Bannister. Mainpiece: Never acted here. The Music by Dr Arne. With a Grand Procession of the different Orders of the Knights of Chivalry. Public Advertiser, 6 Mar.: Tickets to be had of Mrs Bannister, No. 6, Great Russel-street, Covent Garden. Receipts: #252 8s. 6d. (177/14/6; tickets: 74/14/0) (charge: #105)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Cymon

Performance Comment: Cymon-Johnstone; Merlin-Bannister; Doras(with a new song)-Quick; Daemon of Revenge-Darley; Linco-Edwin; Urganda-Mrs Martyr; Farima-Mrs Wilson; Dorcas-Mrs Pitt; Shepherdesses-Mrs Morton, Miss Stuart; Sylvia-Mrs Bannister .
Cast
Role: Urganda Actor: Mrs Martyr
Role: Farima Actor: Mrs Wilson
Role: Dorcas Actor: Mrs Pitt
Role: Shepherdesses Actor: Mrs Morton, Miss Stuart
Role: Sylvia Actor: Mrs Bannister

Afterpiece Title: Rosina

Cast
Role: William Actor: Mrs Kennedy
Role: Phoebe Actor: Mrs Martyr
Role: Dorcas Actor: Mrs Pitt
Role: Rosina Actor: Mrs Bannister

Dance: In Act I of mainpiece a Dance of Cupids; In Act IV a Dance of Daemons; In Act V a Grand Ballet (performers not listed)

Event Comment: Not acted in 30 years. Principal Characters new Dress'd. Written by Otway (General Advertiser). Mr Woodward did ye part of Malagene in which he took off Mr Foote & would have many of ye Actors but the Audience grew so outragious, that he was forc'd to desist ye 4th & 5th Acts were much hooted, Mr Havard in a part where he says Whir was severely treated, nor could he ever appear after in ye play, but the whole Audience echoed that Word--it was given out again, wch so enrag'd the Audience yt they call'd loudly for Garrick, but as he was not this Night at the House, they pull'd up the Benches, tore down ye King's Arms, & wou'd have done much more mischief had not Mr Lacy qone into the Pit, & talk'd to 'em, what they resented was giving out a piece again after they had damn'd it--the Gallery resented ye Guards being sent in--Mr Lacy was oblig'd to go upon the Stage after & tell 'em I had given out the play again, as ne'er a Manager was present to give other Directions--In his Argument Mr Lacy call'd a Witness in ye pit, saying that Gent: next to ye painter knows I was in ye pit when ye Guards went into the Gallery, so I cou'd not send 'em this painter after ye rout came behind the scenes & was angry for being call'd painter (his name was Hudson) but at length he as well as ye rest was pacified--and we gave out Provok'd Husband (Cross). [See Foote's retaliation in Daily Advertiser, 26 Jan.] Paid Capt. Turber 1!2 year's rent #11 3s. 4d. (Treasurer's Book). Receipts: #140 (Cross); #137 12s. (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Friendship In Fashion (reviv'd)

Performance Comment: Goodville-Havard; Malagene-Woodward; Sir Noble Clumsey-Winstone; Truman-Palmer; Valentine-Usher; Caper-Shuter; Saunter-King; Mrs Goodville-Mrs Pritchard; Lady Squeamish-Mrs Clive; Victoria-Mrs Bennett; Camilla-Mrs Willoughby; Lettice-Miss Pitt; Page-Master Cross; Bridge-Mrs Simpson; Harry-Marr.
Cast
Role: Mrs Goodville Actor: Mrs Pritchard
Role: Lady Squeamish Actor: Mrs Clive
Role: Victoria Actor: Mrs Bennett
Role: Camilla Actor: Mrs Willoughby
Role: Bridge Actor: Mrs Simpson

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Manager In Distress

Performance Comment: As17840728 but Gentleman in the Balcony (with a Variety of Imitations')-Kean (2nd appearance); Easy-R. Palmer; Lady in the Balcony-Mrs Webb; omitted: Actresses . omitted: Actresses .

Afterpiece Title: The Beggar's Opera

Performance Comment: Macheath-Mrs Wells; Peachum-Mrs Lefevre; Lockit-Mrs Webb; Mat o' the Mint-Miss Morris; Ben Budge-Mrs Inchbald; Crook-finger'd Jack-Mrs Invill; Jemmy Twitcher-Miss Francis; Filch-Mrs Lloyd; Lucy-Mr Edwin; Mrs Peachum-Mr Wilson; Jenny Diver-Mr Davies; Diana Trapes-Mr Wewitzer; Polly-Mr Bannister. hathi.
Cast
Role: Macheath Actor: Mrs Wells
Role: Peachum Actor: Mrs Lefevre
Role: Lockit Actor: Mrs Webb
Role: Ben Budge Actor: Mrs Inchbald
Role: Crook Actor: finger'd Jack-Mrs Invill
Role: finger'd Jack Actor: Mrs Invill
Role: Filch Actor: Mrs Lloyd
Role: Mrs Peachum Actor: Mr Wilson

Afterpiece Title: Foote, Weston, and Shuter in the Shades

Afterpiece Title: Medea and Jason

Performance Comment: Creon (in the Character of Punch)-Swords; Prince de la Cour (as a Running Footman)-Byrne; Captain of the Guard-Master Sestini; Jason (in the Character of Pierrot)-Delpini; Creusa (en dishabille Francoise)-Mrs Goodwin; Nurse-Mr Painter; Medea (in the Character of Mother Shipton)-Mme Dagueville .
Cast
Role: Creusa Actor: Mrs Goodwin

Dance: In Act III of 2nd piece Hornpipe by Byrne

Monologue: 1784 08 26 As 10 Aug

Event Comment: The Duke's Company. This performance is on the L. C. list, 5@142, p. 81. See also Nicoll, Restoration Drama, p. 348. There is no certainty that this is the premiere of this play; in fact, there is uncertainty concerning the first production, for Nell Gwyn saw a play on 19 March 1673@4, The Country Knight, about which nothing otherwise is known and which might be this play. Nevertheless, the fact that the play was not entered in the Term Catalogues until May 1676 makes it unlikely that the play was first acted two years before its publication, especially since it became a moderately popular play

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Country Wit

Performance Comment: Edition of 1675: Prologue-; Sir Thomas Rash-Sandford; Ramble-Batterton; Merry-Harris; Sir Mannerly Shallow-Nooks [Nokes]; Booby-Underhil; Lord Drybone-Medbourn; Rash-Leigh; Lady Faddle-Mrs Batterton; Christina-Mrs Leigh [Mrs Mary Lee]; Betty Frisque-Mrs Currer; Goody Rash-Mrs Norris; Isabella-Mrs Elinor? Leigh; Epilogue-.
Cast
Role: Sir Thomas Rash Actor: Sandford
Role: Lady Faddle Actor: Mrs Batterton
Role: Christina Actor: Mrs Leigh
Role: Betty Frisque Actor: Mrs Currer
Role: Goody Rash Actor: Mrs Norris
Role: Isabella Actor: Mrs Elinor? Leigh
Event Comment: Written by Sir Richard Steele, Knight

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Tender Husband; Or, The Accomplish'd Fools

Performance Comment: Clerimont-Mills; Captain Clerimont-Wilks; Sir Harry-Miller; Humphrey-Penkethman; Tipkin-Norris; Pounce-Shepard; Mrs Clerimont-Mrs Bicknell; Biddy-Mrs Oldfield; Fainlove-Mrs Willis; Aunt-Mrs Moor.
Cast
Role: Mrs Clerimont Actor: Mrs Bicknell
Role: Biddy Actor: Mrs Oldfield
Role: Fainlove Actor: Mrs Willis
Role: Aunt Actor: Mrs Moor.

Dance:

Event Comment: HHopkins Diary: This morning a printed paper was handed about requesting the lovers of theatrical Performances to meet this evening at the theatre to insist upon the doors not being opened till five o'clock.--As soon as the curtain was up, they called for Mr Garrick, and would not suffer the play to begin. Mr King went on and told the audience, "that he was desired by the managers to tell them the doors for the future should not be opened till Five," A great Clap,--He added, "that the managers was always willing to oblige the publick in everything that was in their power; but they thought that on very full nights it would be attended with some inconvenience." They would not hear of any alteration,--he then told them, "the doors should always for the future be opened at five, unless the public applyed to have it altered." All then was quiet and the play began. Mr Weston, whose name was in the Bills for Jerry, was taken suddenly ill, and Mr W. Palmer went on for it without an apology.--called out, "Mr Holland, what is the reason we have not Mr Weston according to your publication in the Bills?" They then were told he was taken suddenly ill--"then pray make an apology for him" they said.--Another gentleman called out "Don't answer him, Mr Holland, you do him too much honor by deigning to answer him."--then all was quiet, and the play went on

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Plain Dealer

Performance Comment: Plain Dealer-Holland; Freeman-Palmer; Novel-King; Plausible-Parsons; Major Oldfox-Love; Vernish-Packer; Jerry-Weston [but see note below that W. Palmer played Jerry]; Quillet-Baddeley; Oakum-Moody; Fidelia-Mrs Jeffries; Eliza-Mrs Johnston; Olivia-Miss Pope; Widow Blackacre-Mrs Clive.
Cast
Role: Plain Dealer Actor: Holland
Role: Fidelia Actor: Mrs Jeffries
Role: Eliza Actor: Mrs Johnston
Role: Widow Blackacre Actor: Mrs Clive.

Afterpiece Title: The Padlock

Cast
Role: Leander Actor: Vernon
Role: Leonora Actor: Mrs Arne
Role: Ursula Actor: Mrs Dorman
Event Comment: Mainpiece: With a Grand Procession of the Knights of Chivalryv. Receipts: #133 3s. (125.18.6; 7.4.6)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Cymon

Performance Comment: Cymon-Johnstone; Dorus-Quick; Merlin-Cubitt; Daemon of Revenge-Darley; Shepherds-Thompson, Helme; Linco-Edwin; Urganda-Mrs Martyr; Fatima-Mrs Wells; Dorcas-Mrs Pitt; Shepherdesses-Mrs Morton, Miss Stuart; Sylvia-Mrs Mountain.
Cast
Role: Urganda Actor: Mrs Martyr
Role: Fatima Actor: Mrs Wells
Role: Dorcas Actor: Mrs Pitt
Role: Shepherdesses Actor: Mrs Morton, Miss Stuart
Role: Sylvia Actor: Mrs Mountain.

Afterpiece Title: The Devil upon Two Sticks

Performance Comment: The Devil-Fearon; Sir T. Maxwell-Thompson; Invoice-Davies; Julep-Booth; Apozem-Wewitzer; Calomel-Cubitt; Camphire-Stevens; Dr Last-Edwin; Mrs Margaret Maxwell-Mrs Webb; Harriet-Mrs Morton.
Cast
Role: Mrs Margaret Maxwell Actor: Mrs Webb
Role: Harriet Actor: Mrs Morton.
Event Comment: Rich's Company. The date of the first performance is not certain, but the Preface refers to the Long Vacation and a thin house, suggesting a late summer production. As the play was advertised in the Post Boy, 16-18 Nov. 1697, a first performance in October 1697 is probably the latest date for this play, and September seems more likely. Among the songs are several for whom the composer and singer are named: Happy we who free from love, and How calm Eliza are these groves, the music set by Morgan and both sung by Mrs Lindsey. She comes my goddess comes, set by Morgan and sung by Mrs Cibber. Sleep shepherd sleep, the music set by Morgan and sung by Mrs Cross. All four are in A Collection of New Songs, 1697. Preface, Edition of 1698: To serve the wants of a thin Playhouse, and Long Vacation...This hasty Brat...had the Honor of keeping the Stage for five Days Reign. Animadversions on Mr Congreve's late Answer to Mr Collier (1698), pp. 34-35: The mighty Man of Wit [Congreve]...at the Representation of this Play...was seen very gravely with his Hat over his Eyes among his chief Actors, and Actresses, together with the two She Things, call'd Poetesses, which Write for his House, as 'tis nobly call'd; thus seated in State among those and some other of his Ingenious critical Friends, they fell all together upon a full cry of Damnation, but when they found the malicious Hiss would not take, this very generous, obliging Mr Congreve was heard to say, We'll find out a New way for this Spark, take my word there is a way of clapping of a Play down

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Imposture Defeated; Or, A Trick To Cheat The Devil

Performance Comment: Edition of 1698: Prologue-Mr Powell; Epilogue-Mr Mills [ascending from under the Stage; Duke of Venice-Thomas; Hernando-Powell; Gusman Sr-Ben Johnson; Gusman Jr-Evans; Pedro-Penkethman; Artan-Mills; Alonza-Horden [error for Harland?]; Bonde-Cibber; Delay-Smeaton; Peter-Smith; Senator-Rogers; Marcella-Mrs Temple; Serena-Mrs Andrews; Lucy-Mrs Powel; [In V: Endimion The Man in a Moon- [A Masque.A Masque.
Cast
Role: Hernando Actor: Powell
Role: Marcella Actor: Mrs Temple
Role: Serena Actor: Mrs Andrews
Role: Lucy Actor: Mrs Powel
Event Comment: Rich's Company. That this day was the premiere is implied by the Post Boy, 6-9 July 1700: This Day at the Theatre Royal in Drury-Lane, will be presented a New Comedy, never Acted before, called Courtship Alamode. Preface, Edition of 1700: This Play was so long expected e're it came into the World, that I'm oblig'd in Justice to my self, to excuse its appearance at at time when there were scarce Witnesses in Town of its Birth. It was enter'd in the other House [lif], where Mr Betterton did me all the Justice I cou'd indeed reasonably hope for. But that Example he gave, was not it seems to be follow'd by the whole Company, since 'tis known that Mr Bowman (I mention his Name to keep the reflection from other sharers) kept the first Character of my Play six weeks, and then cou'd hardly read six lines on't. How far that Way of management makes of late for the Interest and Honour of that House, is easie to be judg'd. Some who valu'd their reputations more, were indeed rarely or never absent. To these I gave my thanks; but finding that six or seven people cou'd not perform what was design'd for fifteen, I was oblig'd to remove it after so many sham Rehearsals, and in two days it got footing upon the other Stage [dl]. Where twas immediately cast to the best Advantage, and Plaid in less than twenty days. [In the Dedication Penkethman states that he saw the play into print after its being received well by the town.] A Comparison Between the Two Stages (1700), pp. 104-5: Ramble: Courtship Alamode, the Author, one Crawford, a Caledonian. Sullen: I remember it, and its Adventures; it was enter'd into the New-House, at the Recommendation of a certain Scotch Lord, and sojourning there six Months to no purpose, it travell'd afterwards to the Old-House, where it was with much ado Acted. Ramble: And Damn'd-there I was in with you

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Courtship A La Mode

Performance Comment: Edition of 1700: Prologue by Mr Farquhar-Mr Powell; Epilogue-Will. Pinkethman; Sir John Winmore-Powel; Capt. Bellair-Wilks; Sir Anthony Addle-Norris; Dick Addle-Pinkethman; Freelove-Mills; Alderman Chollerick-Johnson; Ned Chollerick-Toms; Willie-Bullock; Scowrer-Fairbank; Flora-Mrs Rogers; Melintha-Mrs Moor; Decoy-Mrs Powel; Timandra-Mrs Temple; Lucy-Mrs Kent; Betty-Mrs Baker.
Cast
Role: Flora Actor: Mrs Rogers
Role: Melintha Actor: Mrs Moor
Role: Decoy Actor: Mrs Powel
Role: Timandra Actor: Mrs Temple
Role: Lucy Actor: Mrs Kent
Role: Betty Actor: Mrs Baker.

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Beggar's Opera

Performance Comment: Peachum-Wilson; Lockit-Cubitt; Macheath (for that night only)-Mrs Edwards; Filch (for that night only)-Miss Fontenelle; Mat o' th' Mint-Chapman; Polly-Mr Bannister; Lucy-Mr Johnstone; Diana Trapes-Mr Parsons; Mrs Vixen-Mr Wewitzer; Mrs Slammekin-Mr Bannister Jun. (The only time of their appearing in those characters); Mrs Peachum-Mrs Webb.
Cast
Role: Macheath Actor: Mrs Edwards
Role: Mrs Vixen Actor: Mr Wewitzer
Role: Mrs Slammekin Actor: Mr Bannister Jun.
Role: Mrs Peachum Actor: Mrs Webb.

Afterpiece Title: The Village Lawyer

Cast
Role: Mrs Scout Actor: Mrs Webb
Role: Kate Actor: Mrs Edwards.
Event Comment: The King's Company. This performance is known through a document summarized in The Theatrical Inquisitor and Monthly Mirror, July 1816, p. 25, and summarized in Fitzgerald, A New History, I, 145. Although this performance is the first certainly known, it is probably not the premiere, for the attendance (see below) was too small for the premiere of a new work by John Dryden. Since the play was entered in the Stationers' Register, January 1678, the first production was probably not long before this performance. The document in The Theatrical Inquisitor gives this information: The King's Box, no receipts; Mr Hayles' boxes, #3 (probably 15 spectators); Mr Mohun's boxes, #1 12s. (probably 8 spectators); Mr Yeats' boxes, 12s. (probably 3 spectators); James' boxes, #2 (probably 10 spectators). Mr Kent's pitt, 82 spectators, and Mr Britan's pitt, 35 spectators, a total of 117, paying #14 12s. 6d. Mr Bracy's gallery, 42 spectators; and Mr Johnson's gallery, 21 spectators; a total of 63 spectators, who paid #4 14s. 6d. Mr Thomson's gallery, 33 spectators, paying #1 13s. The total attendance appears to have been 249; the receipts were #28 4s. The house rent came to #5 14s. Downes (Roscius Anglicanus, p. 11) gives a cast which is identical except for omissions

Performances

Mainpiece Title: All For Love; Or, The World Well Lost

Performance Comment: Edition of 1678: Prologue to Anthony and Cleopatra-; Marc Anthony-Hart; Ventidius-Mohun; Dollabella-Clarke; Alexas-Goodman; Serapion-Griffin; Another Priest-Coysh; Cleopatra-Mrs Boutell; Octavia-Mrs Corey; Epilogue-.
Cast
Role: Prologue to Anthony and Cleopatra Actor:
Role: Cleopatra Actor: Mrs Boutell
Role: Octavia Actor: Mrs Corey
Event Comment: Receipts: #200 7s. 6d. (Account Book). Mainpiece: With New Dresses and Decorations. [The first of a series of five performances (the last, Merchant of Venice, 18 Nov.) which got Macklin dismissed from the theatre until 1775, when his lawsuit against six persons whom he claimed formed a conspiracy to hiss him from the stage and ruin his livlihood was concluded favorably for him. His performance of Macbeth was favorably treated but with certain misgivings in the Morning Chronicle (25 Oct.), but he was mercilessly criticized in the London Evening Post and St James Chronicle: "In Act II, Sc. i, Shakespeare has made Macbeth murder Duncan; Now Mr Macklin, being determined to copy from no man, reversed this incident, and in the very first act, scene the second, murdered Macbeth." The favorable review (Morning Chronicle) thought he did well in first and last acts, but gave way to stage rant and "vehemence of energetic expression" wanting any variation in tone in between. It also pointed out a certain faulty memory of his lines. His novel stage effects came in for a paragraph of comment: The alterations in the jeux de theatre respecting the representation of this tragedy do Mr Macklin great credit. His change of the scenery is peculiarly characteristical. The Quadrangle of Macbeth's castle, and the door which is supposed to lead to Duncan's apartment (both of which are entirely new) are additions of consequence to the exhibition of the play. The door also through which Macbeth comes to the Weird Sisters, in the 4th act, is a better and more probable entrance than through the common stage portal. The dresses are new, elegant, and of a sort hitherto unknown to a London audience, but exceedingly proper. The Banquet was superbly set out, and it must be confessed that the managers seem to have spared neither cost nor assiduity to ornament and add to the effect of the representation." A favorable letter from a correspondent to the London Evening Post adds: "I must observe, Mr Printer, that from the graceful and characteristic manner in which Macbeth was introduced by the martial music and military procession, from the manner of M. Macklin's acting, from his judicious alteration of the dresses, the disposition of the scene where the King is killed, the cave of the witches in the 4th act, from the improvement of Mrs Hartley's thinking in Lady Macbeth and from her manner of speaking, which seemed plainly to be the effects of some intelligence she had received from Mr Macklin...I thought Mr Macklin deserv'd great praise." See the newspaper comments all gathered and reprinted in an Apology for the Conduct of Charles Macklin, (London, 1773). See also note to 30 Oct. See also London Chronicle, Oct. 23-26 (cf. Odell, I, 453). The Westminster Magazine suggests the performance was pitiable. "Macklin knew what he ought to do, but could not do it." The Scenemen's pay this week was about double the normal cost. (Account Book).] Verse Squibs from St James Chronicle (Oct. 1773) against Macklin: @Macbeth@"Eight Kings appear and pass over in order, and Banquo the last"@Old Quin, ere Fate suppressed his lab'ring breath@In studied accents grumbled out Macbeth:--@Next Garrick came, whose utt'rance truth impressed,@While ev'ry look the tyrant's guilt confess'd:--@Then the cold Sheridan half froze the part,@Yet what he lost by nature sav'd by art.@Tall Barry now advanc'd toward Birnam Woodv@Nor ill performed the scenes--he understood--@Grave Mossop next to Foris shaped his march@His words were minute guns, his action starch.@Rough Holland too--but pass his errors o'er@Nor blame the actor when the man's no more.@Then heavy Ross, assay'd the tragic frown,@But beef and pudding kept all meaning down:--@Next careless Smith, try'd on the Murd'rer's mask,@While o'er his tongue light tripp'd the hurried task:--@Hard Macklin, late, guilt's feelings strove to speak,@While sweats infernal drench'd his iron cheek;@Like Fielding's Kings [in Tom Thumb] his fancy'd triumphs past,@And all be boasts is, that he falls the last.@ Also from St James Chronicle:@The Witches, while living deluded Macbeth@And the Devil laid hold of his soul after death;@But to punish the Tyrant this would not content him,@So Macklin he sent on the stage to present him.

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Macbeth

Performance Comment: Macbeth-Macklin, first time; Macduff-Clarke; Lenox-Hull; Malcolm-Wroughton; Banquo-Bensley; Duncan-Gardner; Seyton-Thompson; Hecate-Reinhold; Witches-Dunstall, Mrs Pitt, Quick; Vocal Parts-Mattocks, Reinhold, Mrs Thompson, DuBellamy, Baker, Fox, Mrs Baker, Mrs Lampe, Mrs Jones; Lady Macbeth-Mrs Hartley.

Afterpiece Title: Thomasand Sally

Performance Comment: Squire-Mattocks; Sailor-DuBellamy; Dorcas-Mrs Thompson; Sally-Miss Brown; first time. With Hornpipe-Miss Twist.
Cast
Role: Dorcas Actor: Mrs Thompson
Event Comment: Benefit for Barry. Afterpiece: By MacNamara Morgan. Receipts: #133 14s. 6d. plus Tickets #163 3s. (boxes 479; pit 230; gallery 89). Charges #63. Total value of House: #296 17s. 6d. Profit to Barry #233 17s. 6d. Paid Samuel Wale for painting figures Boys & other decorations in a scene designed by Servandoni #5 5s. Paid Matthew Pearce, Bricklayer, #230, on account of the New Building. Paid Thomas Pervil for sundry cloaths as specified below, #112, 17s.: A Bloom Colored Brocade coat & Breeches with silver flowers & a Gold & Silver Brocaded Waistcoat & Coffs, #8; A Pompador Velvet Coat, Waistcoat & 2 pr. Breeches shot with silver, #11 11s.; A Blue cut and uncut Velvet Suit, Flower'd and Gold Ground, #10 10s.; A Dove colored Brocade Coat & Breeches, Gold & Flowers & a Gold & Silver Brocade waistcoat & Cuffs, #10 10s.; A Blue & Silver Brocade Coat & Breeches & Silver Brocade waistcoat & Cuffs, #10; a light color'd coat & Breeches & a blue silk waistcoat with gold lace, #14; A copper color'd velvet coat & breeches, and yellow waistcoat, embroider'd with gold, #20; A blue velvet suit, plain, #4 10s.; A crimson velvet Roab Surcoat, belt sword & Bonnet worn by a Peer in Parliament, & a Green velvet Roab, purple velvet surcoat & hood-a Knight of the Thistle's dress, #17 16s.; a plain crimson velvet suit, #6 (Account Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: King Richard Iii

Performance Comment: As17571111, but Richard-Barry; Queen-Mrs Bellamy.
Cast
Role: Queen Actor: Mrs Bellamy.
Role: Stanley Actor: Anderson
Role: Brandon Actor: Wignel
Role: Lady Anne Actor: Mrs Vincent
Role: Duchess of York Actor: Mrs Elmy

Afterpiece Title: The Sheep Shearing; or, Florizel and Perdita

Performance Comment: Florizel-Barry; Polixenes-Ridout; Alcon-Sparks; Camillo-Redman; Clown-Costollo; Autolicus (The Ballad-Singing Pedlar)-Shuter; Dorcas-Miss Mullart; Mopsa-Miss Helm; Perdita-Mrs Bellamy; Singing Shepherds, Shepherdesses-Baker, Mrs Chambers, Mrs Lampe, Miss Young; With a New Dabce , adapted to the Comedy,-Gallini; Music by Arne-; Epilogue in Character-Shuter.

Dance: As17571217

Ballet: TThe Judgment of Paris. As17571217

Cast
Role: Pallas Actor: Mrs Granier
Event Comment: Mainpiece: With a Grand Procession of the different Orders of the Knights of Chivalryv. [This was included in all subsequent performances.] With new Dresses, and the Scenery entirely new painted. [Miss Simson is identified by MS annotation on Kemble playbill.] Receipts: #226 6s. 6d. (204.10.0; 21.12.0; 0.4.6)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Cymon

Performance Comment: Cymon-Vernon; Merlin-Bannister; Dorus-Parsons; Daemon of Revenge-Legg; Dorilas-Chaplin; Damon-Lamash; Linco-Dodd; Urganda-Mrs Baddeley; Fatima-Mrs Wrighten; Dorcas-Mrs Bradshaw; Shepherdesses-Miss Collett, Mrs Davies; Sylvia-A Young Lady (1st appearance upon any stage [Miss Simson]).Miss Simson]).
Cast
Role: Urganda Actor: Mrs Baddeley
Role: Fatima Actor: Mrs Wrighten
Role: Dorcas Actor: Mrs Bradshaw
Role: Shepherdesses Actor: Miss Collett, Mrs Davies

Afterpiece Title: The Deuce is in Him

Cast
Role: Madam Florival Actor: Mrs Davies

Dance: [the following new Dances composed] by Gallet:I: [a Dance of Cupids-; IV: [a Dance of Daemons-; to conclude: Grand Ballet-Henry, Miss Armstrong, Mlle Dupre. [These were danced, as here assigned, in all subsequent performances.

Music: Mainpiece: With a New Overture, and additional Airs, Chorusses-; the whole of the Music composed by Michael Arne

Event Comment: Mainpiece: The music composed by Michael Arne. With a Grand Procession of the different Orders of the Knights of Chivalryv. Receipts: #159 19s. (134.8; 25.11; 0.0)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Cymon

Performance Comment: Cymon-Vernon; Merlin-Bannister; Dorus-Parsons; Daemon of Revenge-Gaudry; Linco-Dodd; Urganda-Mrs Baddeley; Fatima-Mrs Wrighten; Cupid-Miss Field; Dorcas-Mrs Bradshaw; Shepherdesses-Miss Collett, Mrs Davies; Sylvia-Miss Brown (of cg; 1st appearance in that character). 1st appearance in that character).
Cast
Role: Urganda Actor: Mrs Baddeley
Role: Fatima Actor: Mrs Wrighten
Role: Dorcas Actor: Mrs Bradshaw
Role: Shepherdesses Actor: Miss Collett, Mrs Davies

Afterpiece Title: The Irish Widow

Dance: I: a Dance of Cupids-; IV: [a Dance of Daemons-; V: Grand Dance [Grand Ballet [sic], as17781102; End I afterpiece: Minuet de la Cour, as17780919; [and Allemande, as17780919

Event Comment: Mainpiece: The Music by Michael Arne. With a Grand Procession of different Orders of the Knights of Chivalryv. [This was included in both subsequent performances.] Afterpiece: Not acted these 2 Years. Receipts: #162 19s. (130.8.0; 31.11.6; 0.19.6)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Cymon

Performance Comment: Cymon-Vernon; Merlin (1st time)-Gaudry; Dorus-Parsons; Linco-Dodd; Urganda-Mrs Baddeley; Fatima-Mrs Wrighten; Dorcas-Mrs Bradshaw; Cupid-Miss Field; Shepherdesses-Miss Collett, Mrs Davies; Sylvia-Miss Brown (of cg).
Cast
Role: Urganda Actor: Mrs Baddeley
Role: Fatima Actor: Mrs Wrighten
Role: Dorcas Actor: Mrs Bradshaw
Role: Shepherdesses Actor: Miss Collett, Mrs Davies

Afterpiece Title: The Deuce is In Him

Performance Comment: Colonel Tamper-Palmer; Major Belford-Packer; Prattle-Baddeley; Madam. Florival-Mrs Davies; Bell-Mrs Sharp; Emily-Miss Pope.
Cast
Role: Florival Actor: Mrs Davies
Role: Bell Actor: Mrs Sharp

Dance: I: Dance of Cupids-; IV: a Dance of Daemons-. [These were danced in both subsequent performances.

Event Comment: This play was wrote by Mr Moor but as he had some Enemies, came out under ye Name of Mr Spence--went off well, except some few Words & a Song wch are since omitted--Mr Havard not being able to play the part design'd for him The following advertisement was put at ye Bottom of ye Bills for he first 2 Days: N.B. The Managers being engag'd to act two New Plays this Winter, cou'd not longer defer this Tragedy in waiting for Mr Havard's Recovery; Mr Davies at a very short Warning, has willingly undertaken the Character which Mr Havard was to have acted, and humbly hopes for the Indulgence of the Public (Cross). [This N.B. note from the Cross Diary is printed verbatim on the playbill]. Never Acted before. Tis hoped no Gentlemen will desire to be admitted behind the Scenes, this night. Receipts: #217 (Cross)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Gamester

Performance Comment: Beverly-Garrick; Stukely-Davies; Lewson-Mossop; Jarvis-Berry; Mrs Beverly-Mrs Pritchard; Charlotte-Miss Haughton; Bates-Burton; Dawson-Blakes; Waiter-Ackman; Lucy-Mrs Price.
Cast
Role: Mrs Beverly Actor: Mrs Pritchard
Role: Lucy Actor: Mrs Price.
Event Comment: Paid 6 days salary at #82 16s. 5d. per diem--#496 18s. 6d.; Mrs Abington on cloaths account #2; Mr French on acct #2. Mr D. Garrick's Night. Charges #84 (Treasurer's Book). Profit to D. G. for sixth night of Inst of Garter #115 7s. 6d. Mainpiece: Not acted in 4 years. [See 2 Dec. 1767.] Garrick recovered from his illness (Winston MS 10). [Of the mainpiece: "How the managers could think of shoving Mr Cautherly into the part of Captain Plume, is, to us, a matter of surprize....The part requires elegance, vivacity and the easy deportment of an accomplish'd gentleman. We never remember to have seen this character more completely performed, than by Mr Smith at Covent Garden Theatre (who is everything that criticism can wish) nor much worse, than by Mr Cautherly, who does not possess one requisite for the character, and is the effeminate and insipid School-boy throughout the whole. To this we may add, that he was not perfect, and made a great mistake, by coming in where he should not which oblig'd him to retire again. This was an unpardonable fault, though it was the first time of his appearing in this character."--Theatrical Review, 2 Nov. Of the afterpiece: "We were not a little pleased to observe this evening, that Mr King, in the character of Sir Dingle, omitted the parody on the lines with which the third act of Otway's Orphan concludes. But we think the introducing a chine of roast beef, decorated with a flag, to be carried off in triumph by the rabble, accompanied, from the orchestra with music of the old song of that title is a pitiful addition to the performance, and intended only as a sacrifice to the caprice of the riotous inhabitants of the upper gallery. Had this Entertainment been exhibited at a French theatre it would have had some claim to merit. This seems to be a piece of stage policy, arising from a consciousness, that the whole performance is too contemptible to meet with countenance from any but the sons of riot, for which reason they are brib'd to support it, by this notable trick."--Theatrical Review, 2 Nov.] Receipts: #199 7s. 6d. (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Recruiting Officer

Performance Comment: Plume-Cautherly, 1st time; Justice Balance-Packer; Brazen-King; Worthy-Davies; Kite-Bransby; Second Recruit-Weston; Bullock-Moody; 1st Recruit-Parsons; Melinda-Mrs Reddish; Rose-Miss Rogers; Lucy-Mrs Love; Sylvia-Mrs Barry.
Cast
Role: Melinda Actor: Mrs Reddish
Role: Lucy Actor: Mrs Love
Role: Sylvia Actor: Mrs Barry.

Afterpiece Title: The Institution of the Garter

Dance: II: Comic Dance, as17710921

Event Comment: Paid 3 day's salary at #100 12s. 6d. per diem #301 17s. 6d. Salaries short-paid last week #168 8s. 6d.; Tabor and Pipe #3 13s. 6d. Louchre [Lauchery] #8 8s. Mr Abington #2; Mr King #3; (Treasurer's Book). [The payment to King was the first of 37 similar ones for extra salary amounting to #111. That to Mrs Abington was the first of weekly payments for her clothes account, amounting to #60 for the season. No further mention will be made of these items.] Receipts: #265 9s. 6d. (Treasurer's Book). [From the Middlesex Journal (7-9 Oct.) quoted by Hampden, Eighteenth Century Journal: "The Way of the World, though confessedly replete with wit and character, is not the most entertaining play in representation. It is so full of plot and intrigue, that it demands an Unusual degree of attention in the performers and audience to excite admiration. On Saturday they seemed averse to assist the author. Mr King in Witwou'd was as entertaining and full of spirits as usual. Mr Jefferson in the gay admired Mirabel (independent of the antique mode of his wig, and formal cut of his clothes, which surely were both uncharacteristic) seemed in attempting to be quite natural, to keep the entire plot of the play in his own bosom, looked more like the father than the Mirabel of Congreve. Mr Reddish was a contrast to his friend Mirabel; he seemed attentive nervous, and played the latter part of his character well....Mrs Abington's person, manner and dress were fashionable and elegant; but though the character was certainly a fine one, there was a want of that spirit best calculated to call her powers into action: her delivery was tediously formal; and had the audience been deprived of their sight they would conclude that Capt. Bobadill had got into petticoats. Her dress was no more decent than Madam Hidou's was on her first appearance last year; stays so low cut before puts modesty to the blush; and will not be countenanced by an English audience, though made after the French fashion....Mrs Greville, to convince the town that she could keep a secret, whispered it to only a few friends in the Pit....her indifference is intolerable, and should be noticed by her employer."

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Way Of The World

Performance Comment: Fainall-Reddish; Mirabel-Jefferson; Petulant-Baddeley; Sir Wilful-Yates; Witwou'd-King; Waitwell-Parsons; Lady Wishfort-Mrs Hopkins; Mrs Marwood-Miss Sherry; Mrs Fainall-Mrs Greville; Foible-Mrs Davies; Mincing-Miss Platt; Millamant-Mrs Abington; in Act III, a Cantata-Mrs Scott.
Cast
Role: Lady Wishfort Actor: Mrs Hopkins
Role: Mrs Marwood Actor: Miss Sherry
Role: Mrs Fainall Actor: Mrs Greville
Role: Foible Actor: Mrs Davies
Role: Millamant Actor: Mrs Abington
Role: a Cantata Actor: Mrs Scott.

Afterpiece Title: The Theatrical Candidates

Cast
Role: Tragedy Actor: Mrs Smith
Role: Comedy Actor: Mrs Wrighten.

Afterpiece Title: The Deserter

Performance Comment: Henry-Vernon; Russet-Bannister; Simpkin-Fawcett; Soldiers-Legg, Kear, Griffith, Carpenter; Skirmish-Parsons; Flint-Wright; Jenny-Mrs Wrighten; Margaret-Mrs Love; Louisa-Mrs Smith.
Cast
Role: Jenny Actor: Mrs Wrighten
Role: Margaret Actor: Mrs Love
Role: Louisa Actor: Mrs Smith.
Event Comment: Benefit Mrs Clive.--At the particular Desire of several Ladies of Quality. Mainpiece: Written by the late Mr Congreve. [The Stage] will be properly inclos'd, and form'd into Boxes, to prevent the Ladies taking Cold. [Tickets at Mrs Clive's House, Cecil Street, the Strand.

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Way Of The World

Performance Comment: Millamant-Mrs Clive, in which Character will be produced the Original Song, the Words by Mr Congreve, and new set to Musick by Mr Handel; Mirabel-Milward; Fainall-Mills; Sir Wilful-Turbutt; Witwoud-Chapman; Petulant-Macklin; Waitwell-Shepard; Marwood-Mrs Butler; Lady Wishfort-Mrs Macklin; Mrs Fainall-Mrs Pritchard; Foible-Miss Bennet; Mincing-Mrs Walter.

Afterpiece Title: The Devil to Pay

Cast
Role: Nell Actor: Mrs Clive
Role: Lady Loverule Actor: Mrs Pritchard

Dance: I: Le Tambourine-Mlle Chateauneuf; In IV: Muilment; V: Ballet-Denoyer, Mlle Chateauneuf

Song: III: Would You Taste the Noon@Tide Air (Comus)-Miss Edwards