SELECT * FROM london_stages WHERE MATCH('(@(authnameclean,perftitleclean,commentcclean,commentpclean) "Ackman Public Advertiser This day only Paid Mr C "/1) | (@(roleclean,performerclean) "Ackman Public Advertiser This day only Paid Mr C ")') 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 9643 matches on Event Comments, 3145 matches on Performance Comments, 1214 matches on Performance Title, 30 matches on Author, and 0 matches on Roles/Actors.
Event Comment: This play is alter'd by Mr Cumberland was very well receiv'd Mr & Mrs Barry play'd very well Alcibiades was perform'd by Mr Crofts being his first appearance upon any Stage bad figure bad voice & Play'd bad (Hopkins Diary). New Scenes, Decorations &c. Mr Crofts-a stationer in the Temple (Winston MS 10). Theatrical Review, 4 Dec.: We think ourselves oblig'd to declare that this gentleman (Crofts), by no means answered the expectations we had formed, from the accounts we had heard of him.--His voice is not bad, though it is not much above the level of common conservation; --his deportment is aukward and void of grace to an extreme; and he labors under the disadvantage of having a face destitute of expression. His gestures are extremely ungraceful, and the whole of his execution is glaringly untutored, and misconceived. His persons is very ill formed, and therefore it makes greatly against him, especially as he is the representative of Alcibiades, who was the handsomest man in all Athens, and we never remember any one's attempting to set out as a capital performer with so few requisites for the support of such an undertaking as this gentleman appears to have. Paid Dr Nares & Mr Cooke's 8 boys in the Garter, 12 nights (30th ult. incl.) #36; Master Brown 7 nights (2nd inst. incl.) #2 12s 6d.; Licence for Timon, #2 2s. (Treasurer's Book). [Larpent MS 328 of Cumberland's Timon, is one of the earliest to include scenic descriptions: "A Hall in Timon's House. The Flat Scene represents stately Folding Doors. Scene two, the Back scene is hastily drawn back and discovers a magnificent Levee Room or Salon. &c."] Receipts: #243 1s. (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Timon Of Athens

Performance Comment: Timon-Barry; Apemantus-Bannister; Alcibiades-Crofts, 1st appearance on the stage; Flavius-Packer; Lucius-Palmer; Lucullus-Hurst; Senators-J. Aickin, Inchbald, Keen; Poet-Jefferson; Painter-Davies; Jeweler-Wright; Merchant-Fawcett; Flaminius-Brereton; Caphis-Ackman; Soldier-Baddeley; Servilius-Wrighten; Lucilius-Wheeler; Hortensius-Griffith; Titus-J. Burton; Varro-Master Cape; Philotus-Jacobs; Messenger-Follett; Evanthe-Mrs Barry; In Act I: will be introduced a Grand Dance-Daigville, Atkins, Giorgi, Sga Vidini, Sga Giorgi, Miss Rogers.
Cast
Role: Caphis Actor: Ackman

Afterpiece Title: The Musical Lady

Event Comment: Two Young Lady's made their first Appearance in the Characters of Polly & Lucy Pupils of Dr Arne--Miss Wellers figure is very well for Polly but she wants Spirit & is apt to Sing out of Tune. Mrs Bradley is Tall & a good figure for Lucy and acquitted herself very well in that character they both met with Applause (Hopkins Diary). [MacMillan's note from Kemble differs slightly: Two young Gentlewomen appeared in the characters of Polly and Lucy,--brought out by Dr Arne,--Miss Weller and Mrs Bradley.--Miss Weller's figure was very well for Polly; but she is a piece of still life, sings out of tune and will never make an actress.--Mrs Bradley,--very tall, and appears to have blackguard requisites enough for Lucy, but will not do for anything else--Hopkins Diary No 7. Mrs Bradley is since married to Mr Prior the Builder.--J. P. Kemble."] Paid Renters #8 [this payment occurs each playing night of the season, 188 times in all, and will not be further noted]; Mr Carver, six days, #6 [a weekly payment outside the pay list throughout the season. Presumably to scene painter. No further noted]; Mr S. French, 6 days, #1 10s. Renters total for season #1592. Carver total for season #088 (Treasurer's Book). [see account of Miss Weller and Miss Bradley in Town and Country Magazine (Theatre XXXVIII): The first performed the part of Polly, and the latter that of Lucy. Their figures are both genteel, and their countenances expressive. Miss weller was much confused upon her first entrance; but from the melody of her voice, tho she did not raise it sufficiently in many parts, there is reason to believe, when she was got the better of her terrors of facing an audience, that she will be an acquisition to the stage, at least as a vocal performer. Miss Bradley's performance of Lucy with great spirit, vivacity and Propriety' and her singing being so well suited to the character, she so much eclipsed Polly, that the audience formed a more indifferent opinion of her abilities than she deserved."] Receipts: #220 11s. 6d. (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Beggars Opera

Performance Comment: Macheath-Vernon; Peachum-Moody; Lockit-Bransby; Filch-Parsons; Mat@O@Mint-Kear; Beggar-Waldron; Player-Wheeler; Ben Budge-Ackman; Mrs Peachum-Mrs Love; Diana Trapes-Mrs Bradshaw; Polly-Miss Weller; Lucy-Mrs Bradley, first appearance on any stage; In Act III, a Hornpipe-Walker; To Conclude with a Country Dance-.
Cast
Role: Ben Budge Actor: Ackman

Afterpiece Title: Miss in Her Teens

Performance Comment: Fribble (with song in character)-Dodd; Capt. Loveit-J. Aickin; Flash-Palmer; Puff-Moody; Jasper-Ackman; Miss Biddy-Mrs Davies; first time, Tag-Mrs Love.
Cast
Role: Jasper Actor: Ackman

Dance: II: A Comic Dance-Daigville, Sga Vidini

Event Comment: Lethe is reviv'd with Alterations & a New Character-very well receiv'd & great Applause-Mr Garrick play'd with great Spirit & was much Applauded (Hopkins Diary). [MacMillan notes lack of Fribble parts in Larpent MS. Yet Theatrical Review, 11 Jan., describes briefly the alterations, suggesting, The character of the Fine Gentleman in the former Lethe had some strong allusions to the behaviour of Gentlemen behind the scenes at the playhouses, which custom being abolished of late years, the character had lost its importance, on which account it is altered to a Fribble, and consequently entirely new written." A methodist taylor, an Irishman, Mr & Mrs Carbine (originally Mr & Mrs Tatoo) are also new. See account also in Town and Country Magazine (Theatre NO. XXXIII).] Paid Salary list, #502 3s. 6d.; Mrs Abington's cloaths acct #2; Mr S. French 6 days #1 10s.; Rec'd, Stopages. #11 13s. (Treasurer's Book). Receipts: #245 11s. (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Merchant Of Venice

Afterpiece Title: Lethe

Performance Comment: Parts by: Garrick, Vernon, Dodd, Weston, Bannister, Baddeley, Keen, J. Aickin, Moody, Love, Parsons, Ackman, Miss Rogers, Miss Pope. Chalkstone-Garrick; Aesop-J. Aickin; Fribble-Dodd; Charon-Bannister; Old Man-Parsons; Snap-Weston; Mercury-Vernon; Frenchman-Baddeley; Bowman-Ackman; Carbine-Keen; Mrs Carbine-Miss Rogers; Fine Lady-Miss Pope (Winston MS 10).
Cast
Role: Bowman Actor: Ackman

Dance: III: The Amusements of Strasburgh-as17711118, but now By the scholars of Sg Daigville

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: Waiter Actor: Ackman
Event Comment: Tickets deliver'd out by Miss Copin for the Merchant of Venice will be taken to the Conscious Lovers (General Advertiser). This day is publish'd, Price 1s., A Letter of Complaint to the Ingenious author of a Treatise on the Passions, so far as they regard the stage; with a critical Enquiry into the theatrical merit of Mr G-k, Mr Q-n, and Mr B-y, &c. With some further remarks on Mr M-n. And a few hints on our modern Actresses, particularly Mrs C-r and Mrs P-d. Magna est Veritas, & pravalebit. Printed for C. Corbett, over against St. Dunstan's Church, Fleet St. (General Advertiser). [Illuminating discussion of actors' abilities]: The Stage is much indebted to Mr M- for his incessant successful endeavours; he not only grac'd it with his own personal merits, but rais'd up several Branches who tho' they have not yet quite eclips'd Mr Giffard's Nursery from Goodman's Fields, will certainly in time prove stars of the first magnitude.--(p. 28). Touch Messrs. Giffard and Ryan and give them better voices; there is nothing else wanting. Help Mr Delane to a new manner and judgment to display the best pipe that ever was heard. Polish a little the rough Beauties of Mr L. Sparkes, give the sensible Mr Havard a few more spirits; and mend the Humour of Hippisley, Chapman, Barrington, and Blakes if you can. Poor Yates wants nothing but a front of brass, a necessary self-sufficient Manner of pushing himself upon a Publick.--(p. 31). If Mrs Giffard's Manner was equal to her understanding, she wou'd compell everybody to acknowledge her a surprising Performer. In Lady Macbeth she is excellent; and Hermione was very near eclipsing a much more popular actress; in short in every Part she performs, the severest of her enemies cannot but own she is more than decent.--(pp. 32-33). [Gives two pages each to discussion of Mrs Clive, Mrs Woffington, Mrs Cibber, and Mrs Pritchard.

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Conscious Lovers

Afterpiece Title: The Dragon of Wantley

Dance: New entertainments-Salomon, Sga Padouana, Salomon's son

Event Comment: For Mainpiece New Scenes, Dresses, Music, Machinery, and Decorations (playbill). This piece was written by Mr G. which he wrote in a hurry & on purpose to Shew Some fine Scenes which were design'd by Mons DeLoutherberg particularly a Burning Palace &c. which was extremely fine & Novel. Mr Weston Play'd very well, The Music by Mr Dibdin. the worst he ever Compos'd. The Piece was very well receiv'd (Hopkins Diary). [MacMillan's note from Kemble differs slightly in wording.] Paid for supernumary soldiers #1 12s. (Treasurer's Book). [The afterpiece reviewed, but not well liked by the Westminster Magazine.] Receipts: #219 11s. 6d. (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: A Christmas Tale

Performance Comment: Parts by: Vernon, Bannister, Parsons, Hurst, W. Palmer, Wright, Griffith, Mas. Blanchard, Kear, Mrs Wrighten, Mrs Hunt, Miss Platt, Weston, Champness, Dimond, Ackman, Burton, Wrighten, Fawcett, Blanchard, Scott, Mrs Johnston, and Mrs Smith. Dances-Como, Grimaldi, Atkins, Giorgi, Sga Crespi, Mrs Sutton, Sga Giorgi; With a Prologue, after which a New Overture=-; Tycho-Weston; Floridor-Vernon; Bonoro-Bannister; Faladel-Parsons; Nigromant-Champness; Radel-Dimond; Camilla-Mrs Smith; Robinette-Mrs Wrighten; Messengers-Griffith, Mas. Blanchard; Good and Evil spirits in various characters-Hurst, Ackman, W. Palmer, Wright, Wrighten, Courtney, Miss Platt, Mrs Johnston, Mrs Bradshaw, Mrs Millidge, Mrs Scott, Fawcett, Mrs Hunt, Mrs Smith, Kear, Burton; Prologue-Palmer in character of Christmas; unassigned-Blanchard, Scott (Edition of 1774).

Afterpiece Title: Miss in Her Teens

Performance Comment: As17731009, but Fribble (with song)-Dodd; Flash-Palmer; Loveit-Davies; Puff-Moody; Jasper-Ackman; Tag-Mrs Love; Miss Biddy-Miss Jarratt.
Cast
Role: Jasper Actor: Ackman
Event Comment: The People flock'd about the doors by Two o'clock. there never was a greater Overflow-Mr G. was never happier in Lear -the Applause was beyond description 3 or 4 loud Claps Succeeding one another at all his exits and many Cry'd out Garrick for Ever &c., &c. House (Hopkins Diary). [Kemble's note differs slightly.] Paid Mr Short, Chorus Singer #1 10s. (Treasurer's Book). Hannah More wrote to Mrs Gwatkin: The eagerness of the people to see Garrick is beyond anything you can have an idea of. You will see half a dozen duchesses and countesses a night in the upper boxes: for the fear of not seeing him at all, has humbled those who used to go, not for the purpose of seeing but being seen; and they now courtsy to the ground for the worst places in the house" (Hampden, Journal). [Letter to David Garrick, Esq on his appearance in Lear last night 13 May: The correspondent who signs himself Stock Fish and who claims to have been one of the survivors of the Black Hole of Calcutta, and who took a young lady from the country to see Garrick's last performance, blames him for endangering the lives of his majesties subjects for not providing proper bars, lanes, and queue lines to handle the crowds: "I went with intention to get into the Pit as the most eligible Part of the House (for your Boxes are always engag'd) and we got to the Door in Vinegaryard about five o'clock. Here the Passage to the first Door was too full for me to entertain any Hopes of getting in that Way, we therefore made for Catharine-street but the Multitudes of People waiting for the Opening of the Gallery-doors, rendered it impossible for us to get along through the Court; we therefore made a Circuit, and at length arrived opposite the Door in Catharine-street, where it was with Difficulty we could keep our Stands on a Foot Pavement....You will be absolutely inexcusable, if after this Warning you neglect to adopt some Method for the Security of the Lives of his Majesties Subjects on similar Occasions.--What think you of the following Scheme, viz. To keep the outer Doors next the Street shut, till the inner ones are opened ; and then, by a Proper bar, to prevent more than one at a Time entering, who shall there pay Entrance-money, and receive the Tickets of Admission through the inner Doors' (Public Advertiser 18 May).] Receipts: #308 1s. (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: King Lear

Afterpiece Title: The Spleen

Event Comment: Mainpiece [1st time; C 5, by Hannah Cowley.] Miss Younge had a song [Wake, thou son of dullness] composed by Michael Arne. Authors of Prologue and Epilogue unknown]: New Scenes and Dresses. Account-Book, 16 June: Paid Mrs Cowley for suspending the publication of the Belle's Stratagem #100. Public Advertiser, 1 Apr. 1782: In a few Days will be published The Belle's Stratagem. A spurious Copy having been published in Ireland [in 1781] make[s] it necessary to observe that the above is the genuine Comedy, as performed at Covent Garden Theatre. Ibid., 9 Apr. 1782: This Day is published The Belle's Stratagem (1s. 6d.). Receipts: #213 19s. (212.15.6; 1.3.6)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Belles Stratagem

Afterpiece Title: Cross Purposes

Event Comment: Afterpiece [1st time; P 2 (?), by James Wild. MS: Larpent 1000]: The greatest part entirely new, with a few Select Scenes from the most approv'd Compositions. With new Scenery, Machinery, Dresses and Decorations. The Dresses entirely new. The new Music composed by Shield, the rest selected from Harington, Dr Arne, Eley, Reeve, Pepusch, Galliard, George Ware, Hook, &c. The Scenery and Machinery entirely new painted by Richards, Hodgins, Walmsley, Lupino, Pugh, Phillips and Malton. The Dances entirely new, composed by Byrn. Account-Book, 23 Apr. 1795: Paid James Wild in full for Dr Faustus #40. European Magazine, Jan. 1794, p. 49: Dr Faustus has afforded entertainment to three if not four generations. It was first produced at Drury-lane in 1723, by Mr Thurmond, a dancing-master, and was afterwards succeeded at Lincoln's inn-fields, in the same year, by Mr Rich's more splendid performance [entitled The Necromancer; or, Harlequin Doctor Faustus], which received improvement at different revivals of it. At the latter end of 1766 [at Covent Garden] Mr Woodward made some alterations, and it was revived with great success. It is again brought forward with applause, and recalls to the remembrance of those who formerly saw it with delight, the recollection of the most enchanting period of life. The opening scene of Tartarus . . . was first introduced in the speaking pantomime of The Mirror [at Covent Garden, 30 Nov. 1779). Receipts: #352 13s. 6d. (324/13/6; 28/0/0)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Jane Shore

Afterpiece Title: HARLEQUIN AND FAUSTUS or The Devil will have his Own

Performance Comment: The following is a short Description of part of the Scenery, Business and Characters: I. A Representation of Tartarus, exhibiting the Punishments of Sisyphus, Tantalus, Ixion, Titius, Phlegyas, &c. &c. (design'd and executed by Richards; music by Shield). Lucifer-Cubitt; Pillardoc-Richardson; Asmodius-Townsend; Orchus-Blurton; Bclial-Linton; Ades-Street. II. The Study of Dr Faustus (painted by Hodgins). Dr Faustus-Farley; Zany-West. III. A Landscape and Water Mill (painted by Walmsley). Harlequin-Boyce; Pierrot-Follett; Miller-Hawtin; Taylor-Simmons; Bridemen-Cranfield, Ratchford, Blurton, Wilde, Rayner, Jackson, &c.//Miller's Wife-Miss Leserve; Bridemaids-Mrs Follett, Mrs Watts, Mrs Ratchford, Mrs Cranfield, Mrs Crowe, Mrs Lloyd, &c.; Colombine-Mme Rossi; Philidel (the Celestial Spirit)-Mrs Mountain. IV. A View of a Country Inn: The Bull and Dog (The Machinery invented by Hodgins). Landlady (with a song in character)-Mrs Henley. V. A Representation of tht Scaffolding prepared for erecting the New Theatre-Royal, Drury Lane, as it appeared in July. Irish Song in character by Rock. Which changes to a View of the above Building, as it will appear when completed (designed and painted by Malton). Playhouse Glee (composed by Dr Arne) by Blanchard, Bernard, Davies, Linton, Street, Spofforth, &c. VI. A View of Smithfield on a Market-Day (painted by Hodgins and Phillips). A New Glee (composed by Shield [singers not listed]). VII. The Garden of Faustus (painted by Pugh). Zephyrus-Byrn//Flora-Mlle St. Amand. VIII. A Tobacco Warehouse, which changes to an Equestrian Figure by Roubiliac. IX. A Street, in which is introduced two Irish Sedan Chairs (designed by Hodgins). Harington's Stammering Glee by Blanchard, Townsend, Cubitt. X. A View of a Garden and Tent, which changes to a Canal, in which will be introduced the celebrated piece of machinery, The Peacock. XI. A Farm Yard, which changes to a Chinese Bridge. XII. The Infernal Regiom, with a Shower of Fire. XIII. The Temple of Glory (designed and executed by Hodgins). Aerial Spirits-Byrn, Holland, Mlle St. Amand, Cranfield, Ratchford, King, Blurton, Wilde, Mrs Castelle, Miss Kirton, Miss Leserve, Mrs Follett, Mrs Watts, Mrs Blurton .
Event Comment: Mainpiece [1st time; C 5, by Lady Eglantine Wallace. Prologue by Joseph Jekyll (World, 14 Apr.). Epilogue by Thomas Morris, with five lines added by Edward Topham (Public Advertiser, 15 Apr.)]: With new Scenes and Dresses. Public Advertiser, 26 Apr.: This Day is published The Ton (18d.). "On the next representation we hope the other performers will not give the audience reason to believe that the prompter has a part in the play from his frequent audibility" (Public Advertiser, 9 Apr.). Receipts: #295 18s. 6d. (294.9.0; 1.9.6)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Ton Or Follies Of Fashion

Afterpiece Title: Hob in the Well

Event Comment: Mainpiece [1st time in London; DR. POEM 5, by William Mason, 1st acted at Crow Street Theatre, Dublin, 30 Mar. 1764]: Written on the Model of the ancient Greek Tragedy. The Overture and all the Music composed New by Dr Arne. With a New Scene designed and executed by Dahl [recte Dall]. The Dresses, Decorations, &c. all entirely New. Books of the Lyrical Part of the Drama to be had at the Theatre. 'But I had rather talk of Caractacus; I agree that he will not suffer by not being sputtered by Barry, who has lost all his teeth. Covent Garden is rather above Drury Lane in actors, but both sets are exceedingly bad, so bad-that I almost wish Caractacus was not to appear. Very seldom do I go to the play, for there is no bearing such strollers" (Walpole [to the author, 8 Oct. 1776], IX, 419-20). "I attended Caractacus last winter, and was greatly interested, both from my friendship for Mr Mason and from the excellence of the poetry. I was out of all patience; for though a young Lewis played a subordinate part very well, and Mrs Hartley looked her part charmingly, the Druids were so massacred, and Caractacus so much worse, that I never saw a more barbarous exhibition" (Walpole [13 July 1777], X, 81-82). Public Advertiser, 7 Dec. 1776: This Day is published the Lyrical Part of Caractacus (6d.). [The publisher, J. Wilkie, states that he also has the "whole Drama, as altered by the Author, 18d." Ibid., 9 Dec., contains an advertisement from Mason stating that this version is unauthorized.] Ibid., 12 Dec.: This Day is published [by A. Ward of York] a new Edition of Caractacus, now altered for Representation at the Theatre-Royal in Covent Garden (1s. 6d.). Receipts: #163 10s. (163.6; 0.4)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Caractacus

Afterpiece Title: Polly Honeycombe

Event Comment: Benefit for Watson, Roberts, Kaygill and Palmer. House charges #84. [Deficit to beneficiaries #50 6s.] Bower's and Veal's deficiency of benefit received #61 5s. 6d. Rec'd from Mr Rowland 1 year's rent to Lady Day last (taxes and bills deducted) #30 6s. 1d. Paid Ridley Dorman for attending practices #10 10s.; Mr Larbor for attending Guidetti #2 2s. Mr Williams for 2 nights in Musical Lady #1 1s. (Treasurer's Book). Receipts: #33 14s. (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The London Merchant Or The History Of George Barnwell

Performance Comment: George-Cautherly; Thorowgood-Havard; Uncle-Burton; Trueman-Packer; Blunt-Ackman; Maria-Mrs Palmer; Lucy-Mrs Bennet; Millwood-Mrs Hopkins; In Act I, Song-Mrs Vincent.
Cast
Role: Blunt Actor: Ackman

Afterpiece Title: The Register Office

Cast
Role: Williams Actor: Ackman

Dance: End: Double Hornpipe-Walker, Miss Tetley

Entertainment: BBucks Have at Ye All-J. Palmer

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: Blunt Actor: Ackman

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: [In mainpiece the playbill retains Mrs Wells, but she "was so ill last night that she could not perform the part of Jane Shore. It was undertaken by Mrs T. Kennedy" (Public Advertiser, 21 Dec.).] Afterpiece [1st time; P 2, by John O'Keeffe]: The Pantomime, and the whole of the Scenery, Machinery, Dresses, &c. designed and invented by Loutherbourg, and executed under his superintendance and direction by Richards, Carver, Hodgins, Catton Jun., Turner, assisted by two other celebrated artists [all subsequent playbills have "a celebrated artist"; he was the Rev. Matthew William Peters (Public Advertiser, 16 Dec.)]. The Music entirely new, composed by Shield. Books containing a short account of the Pantomime, as well as the Recitatives, Airs, Duets, Trios and Chorusses, and a Description of the Procession, to be had at the Theatre. Nothing under Full Price will be taken. [This was the last theatrical piece for which De Loutherbourg designed the scenery. For a detailed account of it see "De Loutherbourg and Captain Cook", by Ralph G. Allen, Theatre Research, IV, 195-211.] Account-Book, 17 Oct.: Paid De Loutherbourg on acct. #120; 20 Dec.: Paid Goodwin for copying Music #10 14s.; 14 Feb. 1786: Paid O'Keeffe in full for Omai #40. Receipts: #309 19s. (302/7; 7/12)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Jane Shore

Afterpiece Title: Omai or A Trip round the World

Event Comment: [The Public Advertiser published a long New Historical Epilogue, intended by the Author as a proper sequel to the Tragedy of the Brothers. It speaks of the authentic history in the play, and of the effective moral lesson, closing: @As public woes a Prince's crimes pursue,@So public blessings are his Virtues' due.@Shout Britons, shout!--auspicious Fortune Bless!@And cry, Long live--OUR title to success!@ This was followed by a Letter from Mr Booth in the Shades to Dr Young, on his Tragedy call'd the Brothers (an elaborate puff). In it Booth forgives Young for withdrawing the play from rehearsal thirty years earlier, and thus precluding his playing the part of Demetrius: "And I the more readily pardon you, as you have not disgraced me by giving the part to any of my successors, till this Garrick appeared, whose reputation, I can assure you, is by no means confined to your world, and who, I am told, hath more than supply'd my place, hath rendered the loss even of Betterton himself very supportable." He then lets Young in on a secret that there will be a performance of his play in the shades by all the old actors as soon as Curll can steal a copy of it for them.] We are assured that on Thursday the 22nd instant will be publish'd a Comedy in 2 acts, call'd The Rehearsal; or, Bayes in Petticoats, witten by Mrs Clive, and to be performed that evening, after the Mourning Bride, for her Benefit at Drury Lane. Mr Yates's Benefit will be on Thursday the 5th of April, when the tragedy of the Gamester will be played, being the twelfth day. A new farce will be added to it, the preparing of which has oblig'd Yates to defer his Benefit till the above day. Receipts: #150 (Cross)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Brothers

Event Comment: Author's night. Afterpiece: Not acted in 2 years. [See 16 May 1769.] Theatrical Review, 29 Feb.: A tolerable representation of the ceremony of drawing the tickets, at Guildhall, is introduc'd, and the whole together is rendered a very diverting performance. Rec'd Stopages, #11 6d.; Paid salary list #500 18s. 6d.; Mrs Abington's cloaths acct, #2; Mr S. French 6 days #1 10s. (Treasurer's Book). This day publish'd (From the Subscription Quarto, a neat pocket edition) Dramatic Genius, in Five Books...Printed for T. Becket. Receipts: #252 11s.; Charges: #73 10s.; Profit to Murphy: #179 1s. (Treasuer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Grecian Daughter

Afterpiece Title: The Lottery

Performance Comment: Lord Lace-King; Stocks-Parsons; Lovemore-Bannister; Whisk-Ackman; Irishman-Hartry; Lady Lace-Mrs Abington; Mrs Stocks-Mrs Bradshaw; Jenny-Mrs Millidge.
Cast
Role: Whisk Actor: Ackman
Event Comment: Benefit for Baddeley. Miss Sherry made her first appearance upon this Stage in Lady Macbeth, a Sensible Speaker pretty good voice Short Clumsy Figure met with Applause--The Farce very well receiv'd (Hopkins Diary). Afterpiece: A Farce by George Downing. Paid 6 day's salary at #82 19s. 9d., #497 18s. 6d.; Mrs Abington on Cloaths acct, #2; Mr S. French 6 days #1 10s. (Treasurer's Book). Receipts: #135 1s. 6d. Charges: #68 12s. Profits to Baddeley: #66 9s. 6d. (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: Macbeth

Performance Comment: Macbeth-Reddish, 1st time; Macduff-Aickin, 1st time; Ross-J. Aickin; Duncan-Bransby; Malcolm-Cautherly; Banquo-Packer; Donalbain-Mas. Cape; Seyton-Ackman; Lennox-Fawcet; Captain-Davies; Angus-Keen; Witches-Parsons, Moody, Baddeley; Hecate-Champnes; Lady Macduff-Mrs Reddish; Lady Macbeth-a Young Gentlewoman; 1st appearance. Vocal Parts-Champnes, Kear, Mrs Scott, Mrs Wrighten, Mrs Fitzgerald, Mrs Dorman; With a proper Dance-Daigville.
Cast
Role: Seyton Actor: Ackman

Afterpiece Title: The Humours of the Turf

Dance: End: The Sailors Revels, as17711008

Event Comment: To the Printer of the Public Advertiser, Mr Woodfall: Why don't you constantly, every day, print a list of the Mistakes which the guessing Messieurs Ledger and Gazatteer make in their account of the playbills? Woodward, says the Gazetteer, is to play Harlequin, and Miles the Clown this evening [Friday 14 Oct.] in Harlequin Sorcerer; Tenducci and Brent the Shepherd and Shepherdess. The Ledger informs me that Woodward will play Lissardo in the Wonder, when you say Dyer; and that Mrs Younger is to play Inis, when you advertise Mrs Green will play that character. I dare say, Mr Garrick very shortly will make his appearance in the Gazetteer or Ledger. Your Humble Servant, &c. [Garrick was in France at this time.

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Relapse Or Virtue In Danger

Afterpiece Title: Thomasand Sally

Dance: TThe Knife Grinders (perform'd but once), as17631012

Event Comment: This piece was greatly Cut & Alter'd. the 5th Act Entirely left out & many Airs interspers'd all through; got up with a vast deal of trouble to everbody concern'd in it but particularly to Mr Coleman, who attended every Rehearsal & had alterations innumberable to make. Upon the Whole, never was anything so murder'd in the Speaking. Mr W. Palmer & Mrs Vincent were beyond Description bad; & had it not been for the Children's Excellent performance, (& particularly Miss Wright who Sung delightfully) the Audience would not have Suffer'd'em to have gone half thro' it. The Sleeping Scene particularly displeas'd. Next day it was reported, The Performers first Sung the Audience to S leep, & then went to Sleep themselves (Hopkins). Fairies pleas'd--Serious parts displeas'd--Comic between both (Cross Diary). This piece of Shakespear's was greatly cut and altered,--the fifth act entirely left out,--and many airs introduced--got up with a vast deal of trouble to all concerned, but particularly to Mr Colman, who attended every rehearsal, and had alterations innumerable to make. Upon the whole, I believe, never was piece so murdered as this was by the singing speakers, in which Mrs Vincent and Mr W. Palmer were beyond description bad; and had it not been for the children's excellent performance (particularly Miss Wright, who ran away with all the applause and very deservedly) the audience would not have suffered them to have gone half thro' it.--The sleeping particularly displeased. The next day it was reported, the performers sung the audience to sleep, and then went to sleep themselves (Hopkins Diary-MacMillan). Overture and airs composed by the most eminent English masters. Book of the play sold at the theatre, 1s. [See "A Midsummer Night's Dream in the Hands of Garrick and Colman," PMLA, June 1939.] Receipts: #98 7s. (MacMillan)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: A Midsummer Nights Dream

Performance Comment: Characters-Vernon, Bransby, W. Palmer, Burton, Parsons, Hopkins, Yates, Love, Baddeley, Ackman, Clough, Mrs Vincent, Miss Young. Fairies-Miss Rogers, Miss Ford, Miss Wright, Mas. Cape, Mas. Raworth. Theseus-Bransby; Egeus-Burton; Lysander-Vernon; Demetrius-W. Palmer; Quince-Love; Bottom-Yates; Flute-Baddeley; Starveling-Parsons; Hippolita-Mrs Hopkins; Hermia-Miss Young; Helena-Mrs Vincent; Snout-Ackman; Snug-Clough; Oberon-Miss Rogers; Titania-Miss Ford; Puck-Mas. Cape; Fairies-Miss Wright, Mas. Raworth; (Edition of 1763) Characters-Hopkins; In Act V, a Fairy Dance-Mas. Clinton, Miss Street, Miss Rogers, Miss Ford, others; Overture, Airs- by the most eminent English Masters.
Event Comment: A few hisses at the End of the Farce (Hopkins Diary). [Public Advertiser: A correspondent, who was at Drury Lane Theatre Thursday evening, remarks that the Ridicule of the Head-Dresses in Mr Garrick's last Epilogue, and in his performance of Sir John Brute, has had its proper Effect; for the Ladies have lowered their Main Top-Gallant Sails from nine inches to twelve; so that they are not present above three quarters of a yard higher than they ought to be.] Paid salary list 4 days #416 4s. 4d.; Tallow chandler #35 9s. 9d.; Mr Parsons on note by order #25; Settre and Co., Mercers #9 6s. 10d. Receipts: #252 13s. 6d. (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Runaway

Afterpiece Title: The Spleen

Event Comment: Farce in two acts never performed before. Full prices. [See advertisement to Reed's 1761 edition where he accuses Foote of taking the character of Mrs Cole in the Minor from Mrs Snarewell.] A new farce wrote by one Reed, a ropemaker, brought out by Mr Foote--went off tolerable--hissed a little at the end (Hopkins MS Notes). [See advertisement for the Universal Register Office General Advertiser 18 Oct. 1750: This Office being much approv'd and encouraged especially by Ladies and Gentlemen in the Country, we have daily enquiries by those who are just come to town, and many letters from those in the country to procure houses and lodgings, both furnished and unfurnished, for single Gentlemen, Ladies, and Families for the winter; and also boarding houses as well in French Families as in English Families." Announces its books open to any who wish to register there. The afterpiece met with trouble from the Licenser. Larpent MS 189 and 196, indicate the exceptionable passages to be those using profanity, and those of Mrs Snarewell's capable of double entendre, principally about the comfort she received from Mr Watchlight who was called twice out of bed to pray-"so ernest in his ejaculations, &c."

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Conscious Lovers

Afterpiece Title: The Register Office

Performance Comment: Actors only: Irishman-Moody; Frenchman-Blakes; Scotchman-Foote; Capt Le Brush-King; Gulwell-Packer; Harwood-Austin; Frankly-Baddeley; Williams-Ackman; Lord Brilliant-Castle; Trickit-Fox; Maria-Miss Reed; Prologue-. Lady Wrinkle and Mrs Snarewell-not permitted to be played ($Genest, IV, 612).
Cast
Role: Williams Actor: Ackman
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

Event Comment: Benefit for Mrs Barry. King Arthur oblig'd to be deferr'd on account of Mr Barry's illness. Tickets deliver'd for The Distressed Mother will be taken. Pit and Boxes are laid together. Send servants by Four o'clock. Afterpiece: Not acted these seven years. [See 21 April 1760.] The Farce hiss'd. Mrs Barry Sir Harry (Hopkins Diary). Paid Salary list #333 19s.; Mrs Abington's Cloaths Acct, #1; Mr S. French 6 days, #1 10s. (Treasurer's Book). Receipts: #296 14s. Charges: #65. Profit to Mrs Barry: #231 14s. (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Constant Couple

Performance Comment: Sir Harry Wildair-Mrs Barry (being positively the last time of her appearing in that character); Col. Standard-Aickin; Beau Clincher-King; Smuggler-Parsons; Clincher Jr-Weston; Vizard-Packer; Dicky-Waldron; Tom Errand-Ackman; Angelica-Miss Rogers; Lady Darling-Mrs Cross; Parley-Mrs Love; Lady Lurewell-Mrs Egerton; 1st time. New Epilogue in character of Sir Harry Wildair spoken-Mrs Barry.
Cast
Role: Tom Errand Actor: Ackman

Afterpiece Title: The Upholsterer

Music: II: The Amusements of Strasburgh-Daigville, Sga Vidini, Daigvilles scholars, as17711118

Event Comment: Benefit for Author of the Farce. Rec'd Stopages #29 18s.; Paid 6 days salary at #87 11s. 4d. per diem, #525 8s. Mr King 6 night's extra salary #3; Mr Clinch 30 nights not on the list #12 10s.; Chorus 2 nights (this incl.) #3 16s. (Treasurer's Book). Receipts: #185 2s. 6d. Charges: #84. Profits to author of Farce: #101 2s. 6d. (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: The Mourning Bride

Performance Comment: Osmyn-Barry; Gonzales-Packer; Garcia-Davies; King-J. Aickin; Heli-Hurst; Selim-Fawcett; Alonzo-Ackman; Perez-Keen; Leonora-Mrs Johnston; Zara-Miss Younge; Almeria-Mrs Barry.
Cast
Role: Alonzo Actor: Ackman

Afterpiece Title: The Deserter

Cast
Role: Soldiers Actor: Ackman, Fawcett, Kear, Courtney
Event Comment: Mainpiece: With New Dresses and Decorations. N.B. After this night the Meeting of the Company will be laid aside for sometime. The Play was New drest in the Habits of the time & they look'd very well & was applauded (Hopkins Diary) Paid 3 days salary list at #91 16s. 4d. per diem, #275 9s.; Sundry salaries not on list last week as per partners in Memorandum Book, #44 8s.; Mr Granier for last week 12s. 6d.; Mr J. French on acct #5 5s. Receipts: #226 3s. (Treasurer's Book)

Performances

Mainpiece Title: As You Like It

Performance Comment: Orlando-Reddish; Oliver-Packer; Jacques-Jefferson; Touchstone-King; Amiens (with Songs)-Vernon; Adam-Moody; Duke, Sen-Hurst; Silvius-Wheeler; LeBeau-Ackman; Charles-Keen; Jaques de Bois-Fawcett; Corin-Hartry; William-Messink; Celia (with Cuckow Song)-Mrs Baddeley; Phoebe-Mrs Davies; Audry-Mrs Bradshaw; Duke Frederick-Bransby; Rosalind-Miss Younge; In V a New Dance of Forresters-Atkins, Como, Giorgi; and a Song-Mrs Scott.
Cast
Role: LeBeau Actor: Ackman

Afterpiece Title: The Meeting of the Company

Afterpiece Title: The Wedding Ring

Dance: I: A Dance-Giorgi's Scholars