lEx SItbrta SEYMOUR DURST "When you leave, please leave this book Because it has been said "Ever thing comes t' him who waits Except a loaned book." i i ________-_-*>--—« m m Avery Architectural and Fine Arts Library Gu t of Seymour B. Durst Old York Library Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2014 http://archive.org/details/recordsofnewyorkOOirel RECORDS NEW YORK STAGE, 1750 to 1860. BY JOSEPH TST_ IIREIj A-IsTID . IN TWO VOLUMES. VOL. I. X E w ro R K T. H. MORRELL, Publisher. 1 866. * Edition, 200 copies, 8vo. 60 " 4to. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1866, By JOSEPH N. IRELAND, In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States, for the Southern District of New York. Bradstreet Press, PREFACE. That one fully conscious of his literary disability, and who is neither ambitious of fame, nor hopeful ot profit from his undertaking, should venture on the publication of a large and expensive art-historical work, demands, perhaps, a few words of explanation. The collecting of theatrical memoranda has been an amuse- ment of the author since early childhood, and for nearly forty years it has been his daily habit to record the dramatic events of the metropolis. Possessing thus a large amount of ma- terial, to while away some idle moments, in 1853, he wrote and contributed to the Evening Mirror several theatrical sketches over the signature "H. N. D.," which, with sur- prise and pleasure, he found were favorably received, and which, by request of the editor, were followed by others, from time to time, for more than three years. Maintaining his incognito for a much longer period, he frequently heard these articles alluded to with commenda- tion ; had them recommended to him for perusal by different friends ; learned that they had been preserved by many inter- ested in dramatic history ; knew that they were used by anno- tates and critics, and finally heard a gentleman of literary distinction, to whom he was personally a stranger, express his iv PREFACE. regret that the author could not be found and induced to publish his articles in book form. Ultimately disclosing his secret to a friend upon whose judgment he relied, he was tempted to enlarge his original design, and, commencing with the earliest introduction of the Drama in America, to undertake the publication of his work in its present form. Trusting that the amount and correctness of the informa- tion which it contains may compensate for the poverty of its diction, and gratefully acknowledging the kindness of those who have encouraged him by placing their names on his sub- scription list, to whom he respectfully dedicates the work, he begs the critical forbearance of the public, which he knows will be cheerfully accorded him by his personal friends. J. N. I. RECORDS OF THE NEW YOEK STAGE. CHAPTER I. Dunlap's History — Corrections of Doctor Francis — Judge Daly's Inquiry — Play- house of A. D. 1733 — Nassau street Theatre, A. D. 1751) — Mr. Murray — Thomas Kean — Robert Upton. U N L A P, the principal historian of the American b3^Q stage, assumes erroneously that the acted Drama SJr^/ was introduced in America by Hallam's company of comedians, who arrived in Virginia in the summer of 1752, and after playing with success at Williamsburg, made their first appearance in New York on the 17th of Sep- tember, 1753. The late Dr. Francis, in an address before the Historical Society, in November, 1857, while noticing this mistake, stated that Hallam's company played in New York in Febru- ary, 1750. But in correcting Dunlap's error he fell into one equally great. Dunlap was right as far as he went, but he did not go far enough. His dates with regard to Hallam's company, and its first appearance in New York, are accurate, but he ignores the fact that other players had preceded him ; while Dr. Francis, knowing that plays had been performed here in 1750, wrongfully imagined that Hallam's company were the performers. The Hon. Charles P. Daly, in his "Historical Inquiry," not 1 2 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. only arrives at a correct conclusion with regard to the play- ers of 1750, but goes farther back, and in the advertisement of George Talbot, a merchant, who directs inquiries to be made at his store " next door to the Play-house," in " Brad- ford's Gazette" of October, 1733, finds just reason for inferring that the drama, at that early period, had at least found a tem- porary resting place, if not a home, in the future metropolis of America. 1 No other reference has been found respecting it, and any conjecture as to its proprietors, its performers, or the plays represented therein, would be vain and fruitless. The city, at the time, contained but 7,055 white inhabitants, and was probably unable to sustain a theatre, for we hear nothing again concerning the drama until the 26th of Feb- ruary, 1750, when, in the columns of the " New York Gazette, revived in the Weekly Postboy," a newspaper published by James Parker, appeared the following editorial notice: cc Laft week arrived here a company of comedians from Phila- delphia, who we hear have taken a convenient room for their pur- pofe in one of the buildings lately belonging to the Hon. Rip Van Dam, Efq., deceafed, in Naflau ftreet, where they intend to per- form as long as the feafon lafts, provided they meet with fuitable encouragement. " This building, belonging to the Hon. Rip Van Dam, de- ceased, once Governor of the Province of New York, was situated on the east side of Nassau street, (formerly Kip street) between John street and Maiden lane, on lots now known by the numbers 64 and 66. (1866) It was converted into a church in 1758, by a congregation of German Calvin- ist&j who in 1765, erected in its stead a more substantial build- ing, which remained standing as lately as the year 1810. Dun- lap's statement that the Old Dutch Church was built on the site of the old Theatre, has confused many readers with regard to its location, who suppose that he referred to the building now used for the United States Post Office. That church was erected in 1729, long before Van Dam's building was used for i Judge Daly's later and more thorough investigations lead to the belief that the Play-house of 1733 was principally used for the exhibition of puppet-shows and similar entertainments. SHAKESPEARE (From a very rare print) From the edition of his Poems, 1640 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 3 theatrical purposes. An advertisement in the "Postboy," be- fore referred to, reads as follows : " By his Excellency's Permiflion, At the Theatre in Naflau Street, On Monday, the 5th day of March next (1750) Will be prefented, the Hiftorical Tragedy of King Richard 3d ! Wrote originally by Shakfpeare, and altered by Colley Gibber Efqr. "In this play is contained the Death of King Henry 6th ; — tht artful acquisition of the crown by King Richard ; — the murder of the Princes in the Tower ; — the landing of the Earl of Richmond, and the Battle of Bofworth Field. " Tickets will be ready to be delivered by Thurfday next, and to be had of the Printer hereof. "P/V/, 5 millings ; Gallery, 3 (hillings. " To begin precifely at half an hour after 6 o'clock, and no perfon to be admitted behind the fcenes." At this period George II. was sovereign of Great Britain, Admiral George Clinton, Governor of the Province of New York, and Edward Holland, Mayor of the city, which included within its limits about ten thousand inhabitants. Performances probably took place but twice a week, usually on Monday and Thursday; but as the newspaper was pub- lished on Monday only, it rarely happened that the enter- tainment for the other evening was advertised therein. " Richard 3d" was announced for March 5th and 12th, the latter evening with the addition of a farce called the " Beau in the Suds f the " Spanish Friar' for the 14th and 19th ; and on the 27th, ' k For the benefit of the Charity School in this city, a Tragedy called the ' Orphan ; or, the Unhappy Marriage,' wrote by the ingenious Mr. Otway;" April 2d, "The Orphan ;" April 9th, " There will be no play acted at the Theatre in this city this week, but on Monday evening next, a comedy called the 'Beaux Stratagem' will be presented." April 16th and 23d, the " Beaux Stratagem." April 30th, " Richard 3d," with the farce of the " Mock Doctor." Judge Daly speaks of the season as terminating at this period, and not commencing again until December. Prob- 4 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. ably there was merely a cessation of newspaper advertise- ments. It was no doubt the custom then, as now, in towns of similar size, to rely on distributed handbills and conspicuous posters, for bringing an entertainment to public notice, more than on a weekly newspaper. At any rate, on the 16th of July the following appeared in the Postboy : " The heat hav- ing prevented the play last Thursday night, it is designed to be presented this evening, as it has the appearance of being moderate weather f and on the 23d is announced " The Last Night of playing this season, 1 Love for Love,' and the ' Stage Coach.' " The names of the performers are attached to none of the above plays, nor is the name of any manager mentioned, but the company is no doubt the same which reappeared on the 13th of September, as announced in the following card : " By his Excellency's Permiffion. At the Theatre in Naflau ftreet, on Thurfday Evening next (Sept. 13th, 1750), for the nrft time this feafon will be prefented a comedy called the ' Recruiting Officer/ " Thursday, Sept. 20th, " 'Cato,' wrote by Mr. Addison," which brought forth the following commendatory notice from the Postboy of the 24th : " Thurfday evening the tragedy of c Cato' was played at the Theatre in this city before a very numerous audience, the greater part of whom were of opinion, that it was pretty well performed. As it was the fulleft affembly that has ever appeared in that houfe, it may ferve to prove that the tafte of this place is not fo much vitiated or loft to a fenfe of liberty but that they can prefer a reprefentation of virtue to one of a loofe character. The 'Recruiting Officer' will be prefented this evening." Tuefday, October 2d. — The " Spanilh Friar," with a Panto- mine entertainment. Monday, October 15th, " Cato," and pantomine. OcT:. 22d and 29th, " Amphitryon, or the Two Sofias." Nov. 1 2th, the Tragical Hiftory of " George Barnwell." Nov. 19th, "A Bold Stroke for a Wife." " The houfe being new floored is made warm and comfortable, I befides which Gentlemen and Ladies may caufe their ftoves to be brought." This alludes to the general custom (wood being the sole MR. KEMBLE AS CATO {From a drawing by Wageman) RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 5 article of fuel) of using small foot stoves, with an iron pan of glowing embers placed therein to keep the feet warm, still prevailing in many country places, but unknown in the re- gions of anthracite and hot-air furnaces. December 3d and 10th, the " Beggars' Opera." " 31st, the " Fair Penitent,''* and the " Lying Valet." Monday, January 7th, 1751, Mr. Murray's Benefit. " A Bold Stroke for a Wife," the u Devil to Pay," and " Colin and Phoebe," " to be sung by Mr. Woodham and Mrs. Taylor, in pastoral dresses." Performance postponed until next day on account of bad weather. This is the first time that a performer's name is mentioned. January 14th, Mr. Kean's benefit. The " Beggars' Opera," — " with entertainments between the acts, viz., a Harlequin Dance, a Pierot Dance, and the Drunken Pealant, all bv a gentleman lately from London ; ' Mifs in her teens,' and an Oratorio, to be fung by Mr. Kean." " N. B. Thole gentlemen and ladies who pleafe to favour this benefit are delired to fend for their tickets either to the Theatre, or Printer hereof, as there will be no money taken at the doors, and the Curtain will rife precifely at 6 o'Clock. Boxes 5 millings. Pit 4 millings. Gallery 2 millings." On this occasion is first noticed the distinction of boxes, which probably (as was frequently the case in London thea- tres at the time, when a crowded house was expected on a benefit night) was no more than a portion of the pit railed off, or, as the bills expressed it, " a portion of the Pit will be laid into Boxes on this occasion." Messrs. Murray and Kean were the managers of the com- pany, and as such claimed precedence in the run of benefits. The latter was evidently a favorite, and was honored on his benefit night with an unusual crowd, some of those who had bought tickets in advance not being able to obtain admission. This occasioned so much dissatisfaction, that the publisher of the Postboy, to exculpate him from intentional wrong, issued the following card on the 21st : u Whereas feveral reports have been unkindly fpread that Mr. Kean, on his benefit night on Monday lait, had caufed a greater number of tickets to be printed than the houfe would hold, this 6 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. is to certify that (according to the beft of my knowledge) there were but 161 Pit tickets, 10 Boxes, and 121 Gallery tickets printed in all, and it is well known that as large a number have been in the houfe at one time. (Signed) James Parker. " N. B. Though it was then determined not to receive any money at the door, it was afterwards found impracticable to be followed without great offence, and fuch whofe bulinefs could not permit to come in time, have fince had their money returned. " The following was also issued by Mr. Kean himself : " Whereas it has been reported that Mrs. Taylor in playing her part at my benefit, endeavoured to perform it in a worfe man- ner than fhe was capable (!) and that it was done on account of a falling out between us : This is therefore to certify that there was no fuch difference between her and me, and that I believe her being out fo much in her part, was owing to her not getting the part in time. (Signed) - Thomas Kean." The number of tickets issued on this occasion would clearly indicate the capacity of the house, if it were certain how many were comprised in the boxes, but it is a reasonable supposition that more than ten seats were included under that designation. The benefits of Mr. Tremain, Mr. Scott, Mrs. Taylor, Miss Osborn, and Mr. Woodkam follow successively without producing any new piece, except the farce of " Da- mon and Phillida." February 25th, Mrs. Taylor advertises a second benefit with " Richard 3d," " Damon and Phillida," and the Dialogue of " Jocky and Jenny," to be sung by herself and Mr. Woodham. Her bill has the following : — N. B. " As there was not much company at c Love for Love' (the play performed for her previous benefit) the Managers took the profit arifing by that night to them- felves, and gave Mrs. Taylor another benefit, who hopes the Ladies and Gentlemen that favoured the other benefits will be fo kind as to favour her with their company." Miss Nancy George had her name up for a benefit on the 4th of March, which being "attended with bad weather and other disappointments, the company took that night to them- selves, and agreed to give her a benefit on the 11th," when the " Orphan" and the " Mock Doctor" were presented for the last time. March 18th, it is stated that " the Bad Weather prevented playing last week, therefore this evening will be RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 7 presented for the last time, the 1 Fair Penitent' and the ' Ly- ing Valet.' " March 25th and April 1st, the comedy of the "Committee." Monday, April 22d, the "Busy Body" and "Virgin Unmasked." The following announcement is from the paper of the same date : " Mr. Kean bv the advice of feveral gentlemen in town who are his friends, having refolved to quit the ftage and follow his emplovment of writing, (wherein he hopes for encouragement) and Mr. Murray having agreed to give him a night clear of all expenfes for his half of the Cloaths, Scenes, Sec — belonging to the Play Houfe, it is refolved for the benefit of faid Kean, by his Excellency's permiilion on Monday, the 29th of this month, will be performed 1 King Richard 3d' — the part of Richard to be performed by Mr. Kean, being the laft time of his appearing on the ftage. To this tragedv will be added a farce called the 1 Beau in the Suds.' " The performance on the 29th, however, was changed to the "Busy Body" and the "Virgin Unmasked," with the cele- brated ode " Britons' Charter," sung by Mr. Woodham. " As this will poiitivelv be the laft time of Mr. Kean's ap- pearing upon the ftage, he honeftlv hopes all gentlemen and ladies, and others, who are his well-wifhers, will be fo kind as to favour him with their Companv." In the summer of 1752, Kean had resumed his position on the stage, and was playing with Murray, Scott, and Miss Os- born, at Annapolis, Md. Monday, May 6th, " Sir Harry Wildair," being the sequel to the "Trip to the Jubilee," with " Damon and Phillida," for the benefit of Master Dickey Murray, " who humbly hopes that the ladies and gentlemen will be so kind as to favour him with their Company." May 13th, Messrs. Tremain and Scott's bene- fit—the "Beggars' Opera" and "Virgin Unmasked." N. B. If any Lady or Gentleman has the farce, called the J Intriguing Chambermaid,' and will lend it awhile to the Play- ers, it will be gratefully acknowledged." May 20th, Mr. Woodham's benefit — the " Busy Body" and "Hob in the Well." June 3d, Mrs. Taylor and Miss Osborn's benefit — the "Dis- trest Mother 5 ' and the " Walking Statue, or, the Devil in the Wine Cellar." 8 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. June ioth, benefit of Mr. Jago, u Who humbly hopes that all ladies and gentlemen will be fo kind as to favour him with their Company, as he never had a benefit before, and is juft out of pri- fon." He had probably been incarcerated for debt, that being accounted a crime, and punishable as such in those days. His play was the " Distrest Mother." "On Thurfdav evening next, June 13th, will be performed the Tragedy of c George Barnwell,' to which will be added the 1 Devil on two Sticks,' for the benefit of Mrs. Davis, who hopes as the plav is granted to enable her to buv off her time, that the Ladies and Gentlemen who are charitably inclined will favour her benefit, and their humble petitioner as in duty bound mail ever pray." Long before this time, and for more than thirty years after, it was a common custom for captains of vessels to bring over poor immigrants, and sell them on arrival for limited periods to those who would advance the money for their passages. They were called Redemptioners, and by agreement with their purchasers frequently earned sufficient means to buy their time previous to its expiration. Mrs. Davis no doubt belonged to this class, of whom many became the parents of aristocratic families north and south. Monday, June 17th, for the benefit of widow Ofborn. The "Diftreft Mother," and " Beau in the Suds." " As 'tis the firft time this Poor Widow has had a benefit, and having met with divers late hardmips and misfortunes, 'tis hoped all charitable, benevolent Ladies, and others, will favour her with their company." Thursday, 20th, Mrs. Leigh's benefit. Monday, July 8th, Mr. Smith's benefit — the " Recruiting Officer " and " Damon and Phillida," being the last time of acting in this town. Although Dunlap does not deign to acknowledge this com- pany of comedians, he must have been aware of its existence, for in speaking of Philadelphia, he says, " As early as 1749, it is on record that the Magistracy of the City had been dis- turbed by some idle young, men perpetrating the murder of sundry plays in the skirts of the town, but the culprits had been arrested, and bound over to their good behaviour, after RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 9 confessing their crime, and promising to spare the poor poets for the future." This was, doubtless, the company of Murray and Kean, who came from Philadelphia to New York, and which he con- siders of too low a grade to again notice. But the censures of the Philadelphia Magistrates should not have weighed with one who knew that in Great Britain all traveling act- ors, however eminent their talent, were but vagabonds in the eyes of the law. It is not probable that these pioneer Thespians were highly distinguished in their profession, but that they were entirely devoid of merit can scarcely be sup- posed, as on several occasions we hear of their being honored with overflowing audiences ; and that they were generally well patronized is shown from their playing from March 5th, 1750, to July 8th, 1751, with the exception of six weeks in the summer of the former year. A traveling company of superior grade can now (1866) rarely secure a season exceed- ing a fortnight in a town of ten thousand inhabitants. In point of numbers, they were sufficient for the perform- ance of all ordinary plays, as may be seen by the list of names, viz., Murray, Kean, Tremain, Woodham, Jago, Scott, Leigh, Smith, Moore, Marks, Master Murray, Miss Osborn, Miss George, Mrs. Taylor, Mrs. Osborn, Mrs. Leigh, Mrs. Davis, and perhaps others, for these are only those announced for benefits. In fact, they are clearly entitled to the honor (if honor it be) of being the first of whom we have any vestige of information, to introduce the acted drama in the city of New York, and the names of Murray and Kean stand at the head of the list of American Theatrical Managers. At the conclusion of their season, the company perhaps dis- banded, for on the 26th of August, 1751, the following adver- tisement appeared in the Postboy : " John Tremain having declined the Stage, propofes to follow his bufinefs of Cabinet Maker, and at the houfe of Mr. Norwood near the Long Bridge, all gentlemen and others may be fupplied at the cheaper! rates." This determination did not long continue, for he is found treading the boards again a few months later. 2 10 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. The next Manager who appeared was Robert Upton, whose treachery to his employers was justly though unwittingly punished by the neglect of the public. The following ad- vertisement, on Monday, December 23d, 1751, was the prelude to his first appearance : " By his Excellency's Permiffion, on Thurfday Evening next (December 26th) at the Theatre in Naffau St., will be prelented by a new Company of Comedians, a Tragedy called 4 Othello, Moor of Venice,' to which will be added, a Dramatick Enter- tainment wrote by the celebrated Mr. Garrick, called 4 Lethe.' " " Boxes 5 millings. Pit 4 (hillings. Gallery 2 millings." Monday, Dec. 80th, the same bill. January 6th, 1752, the " Provoked Husband," and " Lethe." « 13th, the "Fair Penitent" and "Miller of Mans- field," with the following N. B. : " Mr. Upton to his great difappointment not meeting with en- couragement enough to fupport his Company for the feafon, in- tends to fhorten it by performing 5 or 6 plays only, for benefits, and begins with Jiis own on Monday, 20th inft. His play is a celebrated Comedy called ' Tunbridge W alks,' or the 1 Yeoman of Kent,' — his Entertainment, the 1 Lying Valet :' and as hitherto encouragement has been little, hopes the gentlemen and ladies will favour him that night. " As Mr. Upton is an abfolute Granger, if in his application he mould have omitted any Gentleman or Lady's Houfe or Lodging, he humbly hopes they'll impute it to want of information, not of refpea." The custom at the time was for a beneficiary to wait upon all patrons of the theatre and solicit their attendance on his particular night. January 23d, 1752, Mr. Tremain's benefit.—" Richard 3d," by Mr. Upton, and " Lethe." Tickets of Mr. Tremain. at his lodgings in Wyncoop Street, near the Long Bridge. Wyncoop Street is the present Bridge Street, so called from the circumstance of a bridge existing for many years in Broad Street, over running water, at the junction of the two streets. February 17th, Benefit of the poor Widow Osborn. — " Richard 3d," and " Sir John Cockle at Court." February 20th. — 44 Abfolutely the laft time of performing here, for the benefit of Mrs. Upton, a Tragedy never played here, called 4 Venice Preferved,' — and ' Mifs in her teens/ with Mufick RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 11 and Dancing between the acts. N. B. The company affaire the publick they are perfect, and hope to perform to fatisfaction." Notwithstanding the above announcement, the theatre must have remained open, for on the 2d of March appeared the fol- lowing : " The plav for this night as ufual, and on Wednefday (4th), which will certainly be the laft night of attempting to perform here, (the vefTel in which Mr. Upton goes, failing the latter part of the week,) will be acted the c Fair Penitent,' and the 6 Honeft Yorkfhireman,' the part of Lavinia to be attempted bv Mrs. Tremain, and a farewell epilogue, adapted to the occafion, by Mr. Upton." The character of this Mr. Upton will be more clearly dis- played in a communication which will shortly follow, in which his name figures in a conspicuous but most unen- viable light. His company, besides himself and wife, appears to have been composed of the remnants of his predecessors', and not to have given " satisfaction." His after life is unknown. From the preceding records, it will be seen that up to this period there had been represented in New York no less than twenty plays, and fifteen farces. The first series, under Murray and Kean, included "Rich- ard 3d," "Cato," " George Barnwell," "Fair Penitent," "Dis- trest Mother," " Orphan," " Spanish Friar," " Beaux Strata- gem," " Love for Love," " Amphitryon," " Committee," " Bold Stroke for a Wife," " Busy Body," " Sir Harry Wildair," " Re- cruiting Officer," " Beggars' Opera," " Beau in the Suds," "Mock Doctor," "Stage Coach," "Devil to Pay," "Miss in her teens," " Damon and Phillida," " Lying Yalet," " Virgin Unmasked," "Hob in the Well," "Walking Statue," and " Devil on two Sticks." Under Upton's management, several of the above were re- peated, with the addition of "Othello," "Venice Preserved," " Provoked Husband," " Tunbridge Walks," " Lethe," "Miller of Mansfield," " Honest Yorkshireman," and " Sir John Cockle at Court." Shakspeare's tragedy of "Richard 3d" is the first play known to have been acted in New York, and Thomas Kean 12 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. is the first known representative here of the crook-backed usurper. Dryden's " Spanish Friar" is the first comedy per- formed here ; Gay's " Beggars' Opera" the first musical drama, and Coffey's " Beau in the Suds" (called in London the " Fe- male Parson") the first farce. Note. — Bernard, in his posthumous papers, entitled the " Early Days of the American Stage,'' asserts that Moody, afterwards the celebrated representative of Irish character, was its actual founder, in the Island of Jamaica, W. I. Being there in 1745, he joined a company of amateurs, and proposed the establishment of a regular theatre, which being acceded to, he returned to England, secured a number of actors, whose names have not transpired, and in the following winter opened the first temple to Thespis reared in the colonies. In the course of four years he amassed a small fortune, but, Lis company having become thinned, he again returned to England for recruits, when he received an offer from Garrick for Drury Lane, which changed his intention of settling in America. He had, how- ever, already engaged a company, consisting of Douglass, Morris, Kershaw, Smith, Daniels, and their wives, with a Miss Hamilton for leading actress, who carried out his original plan, and reached Jamaica in 1751, being the second professional troupe that crossed the Atlantic, and the first of which there exists any personal record. The report of Moody's great success induced the formation of Hallam's com- pany for the continental colonies, and its ultimate transfer to Jamaica in 1754-5, where the two companies wisely joined their strength, instead of wasting it in opposition. Douglass, subsequently marrying the widow of Hallam, became the leading shareholder of the concern, and with Mr. and Mrs. Morris, and its other members, came to New York in 1759. Bernard gives Mr. Morris as his authority for this statement, and it is no doubt a reliable one. DAVID GARRICK F rom an original painting by Robert Edge Pine CHAPTER II. NASSAU STREET THEATRE, A. D. 1753. HALLAM's COMPANY. FO R more than a year the Dramatic Throne of New York appears to have been unoccupied ; but in June, 1753, Hallam's company, which had played with great success in Virginia, arrived here, and on the mana- ger attempting to sway the sceptre, met with an opposition as strong as unexpected, and was denied permission to per- form. Mr. Lewis Hallam and his coadjutors tell their own story so plainly in Gaine's New York Mercury of July 2d, 1753, that we extract it bodily. 44 The Cafe of the London Company of Comedians, lately arrived from Virginia, humbly fubmitted to the Confideration of the Publick ; whole fervants they are, and whole protection they intreat. " As our Expedition to New York feems likely to be attended with a very fatal Confequence, and ourfelves haplv cenfured for undertaking it without aflurance of fuccefs, — We beg leave humbly to lav a true ftate of our cafe before the worthy inhabit- ants of this city ; if poffible endeavour to remove thofe great obftacles which at prefent lie before us, and give very fufficient reafons for our appearance in this part of the world where we all had the molt fanguine hopes of meeting a very different recep- tion ; little imagining that in a City — to all appearance fo polite as this, the Mules would be banilhed, the works of the immortal Shakefpeare and others, the greatelt geniufes England ever pro- duced, deny'd admittance among them, and the inltructive and elegant entertainment of the Stage utterly protefted againit : when without boaltino- we may venture to affirm that we are capable of fupporting its dignity with proper decorum and regu- larity. 44 In the infancy of this fcheme it was propofed to Mr. 14 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. William Hallam, now of London, to collect a Company of Comedians and fend them to New York and other colonies of America. Accordingly he aflented and was at vaft ex- pence to procure Scenes, Cloaths, People, &c, &c, and in October, 1750, fent out to this place Mr. Robert Upton in order to obtain permiflion to perform, erect a building and fettle everything againft our arrival ; for which fervice Mr. Hallam advanced no inconfiderable fum. But Mr. Upton on his arrival found here that fett of pretenders with whom he joined, and unhappily for us quite neglected the bufinefs he was fent about from England ; for we never heard from him after. " Being thus deceived by him, the company was at a ftand till April, 1752, when by the perfuafion of feveral gentlemen in London, and Virginia Captains, we fet fail on board of Mr. William Lee (Mafter of the fhip ' Charming Sallv') and ar- rived after a very expenfive and tedious voyage at York River, on the 28th of June following, where we obtained leave of his Excellency the Governor, and performed with univerfal applaufe and met with the greater!: encouragement ; for which we are bound by the ftrongeft obligations to ac- knowledge the many and repeated inftances of their fpirit and generofity. " We were there Eleven Months before we thought of re- moving, and then alking advice we were again perfuaded to come to New York, by feveral gentlemen whole names we can men- tion, but do not think proper to publifh. They told us we mould not fail of a genteel and favourable reception — that the Inhabitants were generous and polite — naturally fond of Diver- fions rational, particularly thofe of the Theatre : nay they even told us that there was a very fine Play Houfe building and that we were really expected. " This was encouragement fumcient for us as we thought, and we came firmly allured of fuccefs : but how far our expecta- tions are anfwered, we mall leave to the Candid to determine, and only beg leave to add, That as we are People of no Eftates, it cannot be fuppofed we have a Fund fumcient to bear up againft fuch unexpected Repulfes. A Journey by Sea and Land, Five Hundred Miles is not undertaken without money. Therefore if the worthy Magiftrates would confider this in our Favour, that it would rather turn out a Publick Ad- vantage and Pleafure, than a Private Injury, They would, we make no doubt grant us permiflion and give us an op- portunity to convince them 'that we were not caft in the fame mould with our Theatrical" PredecefTors ; or that in Private Life or Publick Occupation we have the leaft affinity to them." RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 15 The company brought with them a certificate from Gov- ernor Dinwiddie, of Virginia, recommending them as come- dians, and testifying to the propriety of their behavior as men. This testimonial was probably well deserved, for no printed document or traditional report has ever impeached their personal characters ; and in professional skill they no doubt could be classed with the best provincial companies of England. Several of the corps had occupied respectable positions on the London stage. Edward Holland was still Mayor of New York, and Ad- miral Clinton still nominally Governor, although he had sent in his resignation. The Cit}>- Council had strenuously opposed the licensing of the new company, but Governor Clinton probably yielded to the solicitation of Hallam, backed by some gentlemen of influence, and accorded him the necessary permission to perform; for we can hardly suppose it was the act of his unfortunate successor, Sir Dan- vers Osborn, who arrived from England on the 7th of Sep- tember, 1753, took the oath of office on the 12th, and was found lifeless by his own hand on the 13th ; or that of Lieut. Gov. De Lancey, on whom the duties of the office thereafter devolved. Be this as it may — in the Mercury of the 17th September appeared the following notice : " The Company of Comedians who arrived here the paft Summer, having obtained permiffion from proper authority to act, have built a very fine, large and commodious New Theatre in the place where the old one flood, and having got it in good order delign to begin this evening. As they propofe to tarry here but a ihort time, we hear they delign to perform three times a week." The new theatre was not only a far more commodious and convenient structure than the preceding, but was furnished in a manner every way superior to it, in scenery, dresses, and decorations. It is greatly to be regretted that no drawing or printed description exists of this the first building in New York erected expressly for dramatic representations. The following is the opening bill : 16 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. " By his Excellency's Authority. u By a Company of Comedians from London, at the New Theatre in Naflau Street. The prefent evening, being the 17th of September (1753) will be prefented a Comedy, by Sir Richard Steele, called THE CONSCIOUS LOWERS. The part of Young Bevil to be performed by Mr. Rigby. The part of Mr. Sealand to be performed by Mr. Malone. Myrtle by Mr. Clarkson. Sir John Bevil Mr. Bell. Cimberton Mr. Miller. Humphrey .......... Mr. Adcock. Daniel Mafter Lewis Hallam. And, The part of Tom to be performed by Mr. Singleton. The part of Phillis to be performed by Mrs. Becceley. Mrs. Sealand . . . . . ' . by Mrs. Clarkson. Ifabella Mrs. Rigby. Lucinda ........ Mifs Hallam. And, the part of Indiana to be performed by Mrs. Hallam. To which will be added the Ballad Farce, called DAMON AND P HILL ID A. Aegon ... .by Mr. Rigby. Corydon Mr. Clarkson. Cymon Mr. Miller. And, the part of Phillida to be performed by Mrs. Becceley. A new occafional Prologue, to be fpoken by Mr. Rigby. An Epilogue (addreffed to the Ladies), by Mrs. Hallam. Prices. — Box, 8 millings. Pit, 6 millings. Gallery, 3 millings. No perfon whatever to be admitted behind the fcenes. N. B. — Gentlemen and Ladies that choofe tickets, may have them at the new Printing Office in Beaver Street. 1 To begin at 6 o'clock." William Hallam, the originator of this company, had been the manager of the theatre in Goodman's Fields, London, where, in 17-A2, he succeeded Giffard, who the year before had there introduced Garrick to the London stage. The re- jected of the Theatres Royal created an excitement so in- tense, that Fleetwood (of Drury Lane) was glad to give both Garrick and Giffard an engagement for the next season. The loss of such attraction proved fatal to the new manager of Goodman's Fields, who, in 1750, found himself a bankrupt. Damon by Mr. Adcock. Areas Mr. Bell. Mopfus Mr. Hallam 1 Office of the Postboy. Tickets were likewise sold by Hugh Gaine, at the office of the Mercury, in Hanover square. Garrick's Birthplace Hereford RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 17 The winding up of his affairs, however, proved so satisfactory to his creditors, that they not only released a portion of their claims against him, but presented him with the wardrobe and other theatrical properties of the establishment. With this capital he conceived the idea of sending a company of players to the colonies, and engaging his brother Lewis in the scheme, he confided its entire management to his care, after dispatching the heretofore mentioned Mr. Upton to prepare the way for their reception. The company was formed on the sharing plan, and con- sisted of twelve adult individuals and the three children of Lewis Hallam. The shares were eighteen — each adult per- former being entitled to one, and the manager one in addi- tion for his services in that capacity, and one for his three children, and each shareholder being entitled to a benefit night. Four shares were assigned to the property, from which the profits of the speculation were to be realized by the originator and his brother, who were made equal partners in the scheme. The business is supposed to have resulted very favorably, for, in 1754, William Hallam arrived from England, where he soon returned with his proportion of the profits and the value of his two shares, which he sold to his brother Lewis for a handsome premium. Thenceforward his name is unconnected with the American stage. Lewis Hal- lam's family are said to have cleared by the business more than £10,000, all of which was lost to them during the re- verses of the Revolution. William and Lewis Hallam were brothers of Admiral Hal- lam, R. N., and (with another brother, George, an actor) sons probably of Adam Hallam, an old and well-known performer, and nephews of Thomas Hallam, of Lincoln's Inn Fields, who was accidentally killed by Macklin, in 1735. Lewis Hallam and wife had both been performers at Good- man's Fields — the former as principal low comedian, the lat- ter as a leading actress. On coming to America they brought with them a daughter of fifteen, and two sons — lads of twelve and ten, Lewis and Adam, the former of whom was after- 3 18 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. wards, for many years, the most prominent and favorite actor in America. A daughter, six years old, afterwards the cele- brated Mrs. Mattocks, was left in London in care of her aunt Barrington. Among the male performers, Mr. Rigbywas undoubtedly the first in consequence. He led the company in tragedy and high comedy, and was excellent in several characters of farce. His performance of the French Doctor, in " The Anato- mist," rendered that farce the most attractive one on their list for many years, and the younger Lewis Hallam ascribed to his instructions most of the skill which, in after years, ren- dered him so great a favorite. Mr. Rigby's name stands to the following characters, of which he was the first known representative in America, viz. : Romeo, Lord Hastings, Earl of Essex, Beverly, Horatio, (Fair Penitent) Valentine, (Love for Love) Lord Morelove, (Careless Husband) Colonel Stand- ard, (Constant Couple) Lord Grizzle, &c. He also played Richard 3d, in which he had been preceded by Kean and Upton. Mr. Hallam, although principal comedian, played many serious as well as comic old men. His list of parts included King- Henry 6th, Kent, (Lear) Gloster, (Jane Shore) Ben, (Love for Love) Sir Amorous Vainwit, Launcelot Gobbo, Peachum, and others. Mr. Malone was probably next in importance. He person- ated many first-class characters, serious and comic, including King Lear, Shylock, Sciolto, Sir Sampson Legend, Alderman Smuggler, Job son, &c. Mr. Singleton was a man of some literary talent, being the poet as well as the light comedian of the corps. To him were assigned the characters of Mercutio, Lothario, Gratiano, Lord Foppington, Sir Harry Wildair, Colonel Careless, Sharp, Fribble, Tattle, Edgar, Pyrrhus, Stukely, Dumont, &c. The prologue spoken at £he opening of the new Theatre was written by Mr. Singleton for the company's debut in Virginia, and was thus published in the newspapers of 1758: RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 19 '* To this New World, from famed Britannia's shore, Through boisterous seas, where foaming billows roar, The Muse, who Britons charm'd for many an age, Now sends her servants forth to tread your stage ; Britain's own race, though far removed, to show Patterns of every virtue they should know. Though gloomy minds through ignorance may rail, Yet bold examples strike where languid precepts fail. The world's a stage, where mankind act their parts — The stage a world, to show their various arts ; While the soul, touched by Nature's tenderest laws. Has all her passions roused in Virtue's cause. Reason we hear, and coolly may approve, But all's inactive till the passions move. Such is the human mind, so weak, so frail, " Reason's her chart, but passion is her gale." Then raise the gale to waft fair Virtue o'er The sea of life, where Reason points the shore. But ah ! let Reason guide the course along. Lest Passion, list'ning to some siren's song, Rush on the rocks of Vice, where all is lost, And shipwreck'd Virtue renders up the ghost. "Too oft, we own, the Stage, with dangerous art, In wanton scenes has played the siren's part. Yet if the muse, unfaithful to her trust, Has sometimes stray'd from what is pure and just. Has she not oft, with awful, virtuous rage. Struck home at vice, and nobly trod the stage ? Made tyrants weep, the conscious murderer stand And drop the dagger from his trembling hand ? Then, as you treat a favorite fair's mistake, Pray spare her foibles for her virtues' sake, And while her chastest scenes are made appear. (For none but such will find admittance here.) The Muse's friends we hope will join our cause, And crown our best endeavors with applause." Mr. Adcock was the principal vocalist; he played the sing- ing characters of Macheath, Mercury, Quaver, Sir John Love- rule, Damon, &c, and was made generally useful in other parts ; indeed, it will be remarked by looking over the casts of the pieces performed, how every individual sunk his special claim to characters for the general good — the leading mem- 20 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. bers of the company not disdaining to assume the most trivial when necessary. Master Lewis Hallam, who performed the trifling part of Daniel in the comedy, was the eldest son of the manager, and now about thirteen years of age. He had made his first appearance on the stage at Williamsburg, Va., on the occasion of his father's opening the theatre there, Sept. 5th, 1752, in the character of Portia's servant, in the " Merchant of Venice." He was unable to utter the single line he had to speak, but, bursting into tears, walked ingloriously from the stage. As he acquired confidence, he developed great versatility of talent, and during his long connection with the American stage, played almost every character of importance, in all the plays of that period, to the fullest satisfaction of his audience. Young Hallam, on the return of peace, after the war of the Revolution, was the first to wield the sceptre of theatrical management in this city. He continued an interest in the direction until 1797, when he sold out to Mr. Dunlap, and remained thereafter a salaried actor only, until the 2d of June, 1806, when he made his last appearance in New York. In the prime of life he was slightly above the middle height, erect and thin, but strong, vigorous and graceful— being an accomplished fencer and dancer. A slight cast in one eye, resulting from an injury in his youth, although scarcely per- ceptible in characters of tragedy and high comedy, materially heightened the expression and effect of his features in hu- morous parts. He was twice married — once in early life to a lady in the West Indies, and afterwards to Miss Tuke, a young and beautiful girl, whom he introduced to the stage, and who became well known in New York as Mrs. Hallam. He died in Philadelphia, November 1st, 1808, aged, according to the date of his birth, as given by himself to Mr. Dunlap 68 — according to the newspaper notice at the time, 72. Although a favorite in both tragedy and comedy, his abilities were more conspicuously shown in the latter department, in many char- acters of which he excelled all competitors — Mungo, in the RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 21 " Padlock," being instanced as one in which he was unrivaled till death. Mrs. Hallam, his mother, who afterwards became Mrs. Douglass, is described as a woman of great beauty and ele- gance, still in the prime of life, and enabled to play the youthful heroines of tragedy and comedy with due effect Far superior to any actress who had preceded her, she retained for many years all the kind feelings of the public, who re- garded her with an admiration reaching almost to idolatry. She was the original actress in New York, as far as any printed records show, of Juliet, Cordelia, Portia, Jane Shore, Calista, Mrs. Beverly, Lady Betty Modish, Mrs. Sullen, Bisarre, and many other leading parts. In after life she declined into the Duchess of York, Mrs. Heidleberg and Deborah Woodcock. Mrs. Douglass died in Philadelphia, in 1773. Mrs. Becceley was the singing actress and soubrette of the company. Miss Hallam was very young, so the juvenile walking ladies fell to her share, and in a few years she became a favorite songstress. Her progress as an actress was slow, for though under the management of her father and brother, it was not until 1772 that she reached the dignity of leading lady. Miss Hallam returned to England in 1774, and is thereafter un- known to the American stage. Mr. and Mrs. Clarkson, Mrs. Rigby, Mr. Bell, and Mr. Miller, appear to have had no distinguishing merit. The next announcement that we find, is for Sept. 24, with " Tunbrido;e Walks," a comedv, by Thomas Baker : Woodcock Mr. If alone. llillaria Mrs. Hallam. Reynard Rigby Hflinda 44 Beccelet. Capt. Squib 44 Hallam. Lucy Miss Hallam. Maideu 44 Sin<;leton. Penelope Mrs. Clarkson. Loveworth " Miller. | Mrs. Goodfellow ... 44 Right. SiDging and Dancing, by Mrs. Love and Mr. BjDUR. Prices reduced. Boxes, 6 {hillings. Pit, 5 millings. Gallery, 3 (hillings. Money will likewife be taken at the doors. The Company intend to play on Mondays, Wednefdays, and Fri- days. (Signed) Lewis Hallam. 22 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mr. Hulett had been an apprentice to William Hallam, and belonged to the Company as dancer and violinist. He was for many years after a teacher of dancing in this city. Oct. ift, The Conftant Couple; Sir Harry Wildair Col. Standard. Alderman Smuggler Clincher. Sr. . . Clincher, Jr. . Vizara .... Tom Errand . . Singleton. Rigbt. Malone. Hallam. Clarkson. Miller. Bell. Constable . . Dickey . Lady Lurewell . Lady Darling . Angelica. Parley Porter's Wife Mr. Adcock. Mast L. Hallam. Mrs. Hallam. " Rigbt. " Beccelet. Miss Hallam. Mrs. Clarkson. and The Anatomift. Mons. Le Medecin Old Gerald. . . Young Gerald Crispin. . . . Mr. Rigbt. Clarkson. M Adcock. " Hallam Doctor's Wife Angelica. Beatrice . Maid . . . Oct. 8th, and The Confcious Lovers ; The Virgin Unrhafked. Love for Love ; Goodwill Mr. Clarkson. i Quaver . Blister " Malone. Wormwood Coupee " Singleton. | Lucy . . OcT: 22d, Sir Sampson Legend Valentine . Tattle Scandal Ben Foresight .... Mr. Malone. Rigbt. Singleton Bell. Hallam. Clarkson. Jeremy . Nurse . . Angelica Mrs. Frail Mrs. Foresight \l iss Prue . Mrs. Rigbt. " Beccelet. " Hallam. Miss Hallam. Mr. Adcock. " Miller. Miss Hallam. Mr. Miller. " Adcock ! Mrs. Hallam. " Adcock. " Riobt. Miss Hallam. and Tom Thumb ; the Tragedy of Tragedies, by Field- ing. Tom Thumb King Arthur . Lord Grizzle . Noodle . . . Doodle . Mr. Singleton. " Rigbt. " Miller " Bell Bailiff Follower .... Queen Dollalolla . Princess Huncamunca Master Adam Hallam. . . . Mr. Clarkson. . . . Malone. Hallam ! Adcock ! Mrs. Adcock, who on this occasion made her first appear- ance as Mrs. Frail, is probably entitled to rank as the Second Lady in the company. She played heavy tragedy, second comedy parts, and the first line of old women. Master Adam Hallam was the younger son of the manager. He played juvenile parts for some years, and in 1762 his name stands to Scrub, Benvolio, Slango, and a few other adult char- acters, after which it is not found in any bill that we have discovered. Oct. 29th, George Barnwell . Trueman .... Thoroughgood . . Uncle .... George Barnwell ; Mr. Bell. " Rigbt. " Malone. " Adcock. Blunt . . Millwood . Maria . . Lucy . . Mr. Miller. Mrs. Hallam. " Beccelet. " Adcock. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 23 and Sharp . . Gayless . . Justice Guttle Beau Trippett Nov. 5th, The Lying Valet. Mr. Singleton. Mel>ssa . M Adcock. Mrs. Gadabout " M alone. Mrs. Trippett " Bell. I Kitty Pry . . The Diftreft Mother; Mrs. Adcock. 44 Rioby. M Clahkson. Miss Hallam. Pyrrhus Orestes Pylades Phoenix and Hob . . Old H..b . Sir Th-mas Friendly. . Mr. Singleton. '* RlGBY. " Bell. " Clarkson. Hermione Mrs. Adcock. Andromache .... 44 Hallam. Ceplii^a " Rigby. Cleone Miss Hallam. Flora, or Hob in the Well. Hallam. Miller. Ckbkson. Adcock. ! Dick . . . Flora . . . Betty . . . Hob's Mother. Mast. L. Hallam. Mrs. Becceley. Miss Hallam. Mrs. Clarkson. Nov. 1 2th, by particular defire, King Richard 3d Richard Henry 6th Prince of Wales Duke of York Richmond Buckingham . Norfolk . • Mr. Rigby. '* Hallam. Master L. Hallam. *' A. Hallam. Mr. Clarkson. " Malone. " Miller. Lord Stanley Catesby . . Lieutenant Queen Elizabeth Lady Anne . Duchess of York and The Devil to Pay. Sir John Loverule Jobson .... Footman Coachman Mr. Adcock. " Malone. " Singleton. '* Rigby. Lady Loverule Nell . . . Lucy . . Lettice . . Nov. 19th, The Beggars' Opera. Macheath . . Peachum . Lockit . . . Filch . . . Mat 0' the Mint Wat Dreary . Nov' Colonel Careless Colonel Blunt Mr. Dav . . Abel Day . . Obadiah Teague . . . Adcock. Hallam. Malone. Miller. Bell. Singleton. Nimming Ned Moll Brazen . Polly . . . Lucy . . Mrs Peachum Jenny Diver ; 26th, The Committee. Mr. singleton. Bell. Malone. Clarkson. Miller. Hallam. Bailiff Mrs. Day Ruth . Arabella Mrs. Chat Mr. Singleton. " Adcock. u Bell. Mrs. Hallam. " Adcock. *' Rigby. Mrs. Adcock. " Becceley. " Love. " Clarkson. Mr. Hulett " Clarkson. Mrs. Becceley. 44 Clarkson. " Adcock. " Love. Mr. Adcock. Mrs. Adcock. u Hallam. " Becceley. 44 Clarkson. To this bill was appended the following : N. B. — " Gentlemen and Ladies that intend to favour us with their company, are defired to come by Six o'Clock, being determined to keep to our hour, as it would be a great inconvenience to them to be kept out late, and as a means to prevent difappointment." Dec. 3d, Lord Morelove . Lord Foppington Sir Charlea Easy and Mercury . . . Charon .... JEiop .... Fine Gentleman . Old Man . . . The Carelefs Hufband ; Mr. Rigby. " Singleton. " Miller. Lady K;;>y . . . Lady Graveairs Lady Betty Modish F.dging .... Lethe. Mr. Adcock. Bell. 1 larkson. Singleton. Malone. Frenchman . Drunken Man Tattoo . . Mrs. Tattoo . Fine Lady . Mrs. Adcock. M Becceley. " Hallam. Miss Hallam. Mr. Rigby. 44 Hallam. 44 Miller. Mrs. Adcock. 44 Becceley. 24 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Dec. 5th, and The Committee ; Mifs in her teens. Captain Loveit. Captain Flash . Fribble . . . Puff . . . . Mr. Adcock. " Clarkson. " Singleton. " Miller. Jasper .... Miss Biddy Bellair Taj? . . . . . Mr. Rigby. Miss Hallam. Mrs. Adcock. Dec. 20th, Elder Wouldbe. Younger Wouldbe Richmore Trueman . Subtleman . Balderdash . Clearaccount The Twin Rivals. Rigby. Clarkson. Bell. Singleton. Miller. Malone. Adcock. Teague Mr. Hallam. Frizure Mast. L. Hallam. Constance Mrs. Hallam. Aurelia *' Becceley. Mrs. Midnight ... " Adcock. Mrs. Clearaccount . '* Rigby. Maid " Clarkson. " N. B. — Nothing under full price will be taken during the whole performance." It had probably hitherto been the custom here, as it had been in London, and still continues there, to receive half- price for admission at a certain hour of the evening, com- mencing always before the performance of the afterpiece, and sometimes at the third act of the play. Jan. 7th, 1754, The Drummer. Sir George Trueman . Tinsel Fantome Vellum Gardener .... Mr. Bell. " Miller. u Adcock. " Malone. " Hallam. Jan. 14th, King Lear. Coachman . Lutler . Lady Trueman Abigail . . . Mr. Singleton. " Clarkson. Mrs. Becceley. " Adcock. Lear Mr. Malone. Kent . . Gloster . Edgar Edmund. Cornwall Albany . Hallam. Bell. Singleton. Clarkson. Miller. Adcock. Burgundy . . . . Mr. Hulett. Usher " Rigby. Attendants Masters Hallam. Cordelia Mrs. Hallam. Regan " Adcock. Goneril " Becceley. Aranthe " Rigby. Jan. 2 1 ft, Colonel Manly . . . Courtwell . . . . Sir Amorous Vainwit Vulture Aspen Woman's a Riddle. Mr. Bell. Singleton. Hallam. Rigby. Miller. Lady Outside .... Mrs. Hallam. Miranda " Adcock. Clarinda " Clarkson. Betty " Rigby. Necessary Miss Hallam. Jan. 28th, xMr. Clarkfon's Benefit. Romeo and Juliet. Romeo . Mercutio Paris . Tibalt . Capulet . Montague Mr. Rigby. Singleton. " Adcock. " Malone. " Bell. " Hallam. Friar Lawrence . Mr. Clarkson. Balthazar Master L. Hallam. Peter [omitted.] Juliet Mrs. Hallam. Lady Capu'et .... " Rigby. Nurse " Adcock. Feb. 4th, Mr. Rigby's Benefit. The - Gamefter. Beverly Mr. Rigby. Stukely " Singleton. Lewson " Miller. Jarvis " Hallam. Dawson .... " Clarkson. Bates . Mrs. Beverly Charlotte Lucy . . Mr. Bell. Mrs. Hallam. " Becceley. •' Clarkson. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 25 Feb. nth, Essex . . Southampton Burleigh Raleigh . . Feb. i 8th, Mrs. Becceley's benefit. The Earl of Eflex. Mr. Riobt. I Lieutenant .... Mr. Adcock. «• Bra. Queen Elisabeth. . . Mrs. Adcock. " Singleton. Countess of Rutland M Hallam. M Miller. Countess of Nottingham " Beocelet. Mr. Miller's benefit. The Sufpicious Hufband ; Ranger . StricUand . Frankly Bellamy Jack Meggott Tester . . Mr. Miller. " RlGBY. " Singleton. M Bell. " Clarkson. Mast. L. Hallam. Buckle. . . Mrs. Strictland Clarinda . Lucetta Milliner Jacinths Mrs. Adcock Mr. Adcock. Mrs. Beccelet. M Hallam. Miss Hallam. Clarkson. ind. Harlequin Feb. 25th, Harlequin Skeleton. Mrs. Hallam's benefit. The Albion Queens. Mr. Rigbt. Norfolk . Davison Morton Cecil. . and, Mr. Singleton. Rigbt. " Miller. " Bell. Gyfford . . . Douglas Queen Elizabeth. Marv of Scotland Mr. Clarkson. Mast. L. Hallam. Mrs. Adcock. " Hallam. Hippifley's Celebrated Scene of the Drunken Man, By Mr. Hallam, The Virgin Unmafked. Lucy Miss Hallam. March 4th, Mrs. Rigby's benefit. Jane Shore. Gloster. Hastings Dumont Belmour Mr. Hallam. Rigbt. Singleton. Bell. Catesby . Katcliff Jane Shore Alicia . Mr. Adcock. " Miller. Mrs. Hallam. " Adcock. March nth, and, Benefit of Mifs Hallam and her two Brothers. Romeo and Juliet ; The Stage Coach. Torlouph Rawer Macahone Mr. Hallam. Br Nicodemus Somebody u Miller. Captain Basil. . . Mr. Bell. i Landlord " Singleton. Uncle Michar .... " Clarkson. Isabella Mrs. Clarkson. Fetch " Rigby. Dolly Miss Hallam. Jolt " Adcock. March 18th. Laft Night of the Seafon. Mr. and Mrs. Love's benefit. The Beggars' Opera ; and Devil to pay. M N. B. Lewis Hallam, comedian, intending for Philadelphia, begs the favour of thofe having any demands upon him to bring in their accounts and receive their money." The benefits of Mr. Hallam, Mr. Singleton, Mr. Malone, Mrs. 4 26 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Adcock, and others, probably occurred on Wednesdays or Fridays, as they are not announced in the Postboy, which was published on Mondays only, and the plays for that even- ing are alone advertised. The comedy of " Love for Love " was given one night for the benefit of the Poor. We have given the casts of the foregoing plays in full, not only because they are the earliest on record in our dramatic history, but for the purpose of clearly showing the " business " assigned to the different members of the company. After the conclusion of the New York season, which lasted six months, Mr. Hallam visited Philadelphia, where, as in New York, his speculation resulted most prosperously. He went thence with his company to the West Indies, where he died in the Island of Jamaica, about 1756. His widow there mar- ried David Douglass, "and placed him on the theatrical throne of the Western hemisphere." Mr. Douglass is repre- sented to have been by birth and education a gentleman. He continued to manage the company until the. troubles preceding the Revolution, and last visited New York in 1773. He finally became one of his Majesty's judges in Jamaica, where he died universally respected. CHAPTER III. Cruger's Wharf Theatre, A. D. 1758 — Chapel, or Beekman Street Theatre, 1761-6. H E Nassau Street Theatre remained unoccupied for several years, and on the arrival of Mr. Douglass in New York, in 1758, was found converted into a place of worship. Selecting a new site on Cruger's Wharf, a block of buildings projecting into the East River, between what are now known as Coenties Slip and Old Slip, on a line with the.present Front Street, he caused a building suitable for his purpose to be erected thereon. The situation was probably not an eligible one, although the larger part of the population, which did not yet exceed twelve thousand white inhabitants, resided east of Broadway and below Beekman Street. Saint Paul's Church was not yet built, and where is now the Park was an open common. New York in 1756 had but one Latin school, one book- seller, and but two houses of three stories in height. Sir Charles Hardy was governor at this time, — De Lancey, lieutenant-governor, — and John Cruger, Jr., mayor of the city. Douglass had built his theatre without previously obtaining the sanction of the gentlemen in power, and on his com- pany's arrival, like his predecessor Hallam, was at first re- fused a license to act. On the 6th of November, 1758, he published a statement in Gaine's Mercury, in which he says, that u when he applied for permission to play, he had met with a positive and absolute denial ; and although in the humblest manner he begged to be indulged in acting as many plays as would barely defray the expense of coming to 28 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. the city, and enable them to proceed to another, he had been peremptorily refused. Having given over all thoughts of acting, he begs leave to inform the public that in a few days he will open a Histrionic Academy, of which notice will be given." This being considered an attempt to evade the prohibition of the magistrates gave so much offense that, on the 11th of December, he deemed it necessary to publish the following explanatory statement: " Whereas, I am informed that an advertifement of mine, which appeared fome time ago in this paper, giving notice that I would open an Hiftrionic Academy, has been underftood by many as a declaration that I had propofed under that colour to acl: plays without the confent of the Magiftracy ; " This is, therefore, to inform the publick that fuch a conftruc- tion was quite foreign to my intent and meaning — that fo vain, fo infolent a project never once entered my head ; it is an impu- tation on my underftanding to imagine that I would dare, in a publick manner, to aim an affront on gentlemen on whom I am dependent for the only means that can fave us from utter ruin. " All that I propofed to do was to deliver Diflertations on Subjects, Moral, Instructive, and Entertaining, and to endeavour to qualify fuch as would favour me with their at r tendance — To Speak in Publick with Propriety. But as fuch an undertaking might have occafioned an Enquiry into my Capacity, I thought the Publick would treat me with greater Eavour — when they were informed I was deprived of any other means of getting my Bread, nor would that have done more than barely fupplied our prefent Neceffities. " The expenfes of our coming here — Our Living fince our ar- rival, with the charge of Building, &c. (which, let me obferve, we had engaged for before we had any Reafon to apprehend a Denial), amounted to a fum that would fwallow up the profits of a great many nights acting, had we permiffion. " I (hall conclude with humbly hoping that thofe Gentlemen who have entertained an ill opinion of me from my fuppofed Prefumption, will do me the favour to believe that I have truly explained the advertifement, and that I am to them and the Pub- lick " A very humble and very Devoted Servant, " David Douglass." "Dec. 8th, 1758." Whether this tended to soften the hearts or change the opinion of the city magistrates or not, Mr. Douglass was RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 29 finally accorded the necessary permission, and on the 28th of December, 1758, the first performance took place in the Theatre on Cruger's Wharf. The play was "Jane Shore," with Mrs. Douglass (formerly Mrs. Hallam) as the unhappy heroine. Gaine's Mercury, of January 1st, states that it was " acted with great applause, to a most crowded audience." We have not been able to procure the casts of the plays during this season, but the following is from the Mercury of January 1st, 1759 : " At the Theatre, On Mr. Cruger's Wharf, This prefent Monday, will be prefented a Comedy written by Captain Farquhar, called The Inconstant, or the Way to win him ; and the farce of the Mock Doctor. On Wednefday, 3d Inft., a Tragedy, called The Orphan, or the Unhappy Marriage. On P riday, the 5th, the Comic Scenes of The Spanish Fryar ; With entertainments as will be exprefied in the bills. Tickets to be had at the Printing Office in Hanover Square, at the Coffee Houfe, and at the Fountain Tavern, and nowhere elle. " The Doors for the Gallery will be opened at Four O'clock, but the Pit and the Boxes, that Ladies may be well accommo- dated with feats — not till Five — and the Play begins precifely at Six. " Box, 8 millings. Pit, 5 millings. Gallery, 2 millings. " N. B. — No more tickets will be given out than the Houle will hold. And politively no money taken at the door." The plays that followed in succession were the " Recruiting Officer," and " Lovers' Quarrels ;" " Othello ;" " Beaux Strata- gem;" "Venice Preserved," and " Stage Coach;" "Douglas," and "Lethe;" "Tamerlane;" "the Drummer;" and "Richard 3d" and "Damon and Phillida ;" the two latter on the evening of February 7th, — " being positively the last time of acting in this city at the Theatre on Mr. Cruger's Wharf." We have no knowledge of the changes that had occurred in the company since their previous visit, save that Lewis Hallam, Sr., was dead; and that Mr. Douglass and young Lewis Hallam, now eighteen years of age, each took a prom- inent part in the performances, Mrs. Douglass being still 30 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. the leading lady. Probably Rigby and Singleton were no longer connected with it, as young Hallam spoke the Pro- logue on the opening night, referring to which Mr. Doug- lass published the following letter to the editor of the Mer- cury, of January 8th : " Sir, " Be pleafed to give the enclofed Prologue and Epilogue fpoken at the Opening of the New Theatre in this City a place in your columns. They were both written in North America, and generoufly fent us by the ingenious author, to whom we acknowledge ourfelves greatly obliged, and as we cannot im- agine the difficulty we met with in obtaining liberty to acl: here proceeded from any ill opinion thofe in authority had of a well regulated ftage, but rather from a tender regard to the miftaken notions of others — we humbly beg leave to embrace this oppor- tunity of recommending this performance to the candid perufal of fuch unprejudiced though, we doubt not, well-meaning minds. " They will be found we imagine on examination, to contain a fenfible, elegant, and impartial ftate (ment) of the true nature and ufe of Theatrical Entertainments which, as the famous Mr. Addifion exprefles it, ' were invented for the accomplifhment and refining of human nature.' u It would be ungrateful likewife on this occafion to omit making our Thankful acknowledgments to the Town for the generous Encouragement given much beyond our merit by the crowded Houfes fince we began to perform ; but if the alfidu- ous endeavours to the utmoft of our abilities to pleafe, can make any amends for our deficiencies, we flatter ourfelves with the kind continuance of their favours, which mail ever be gratefully acknowledged, by Sir, (in the name of the Company) " The Town's molt obedient Servant, " D. Douglass." The prologue was the one originally written by Mr. Single- ton, and spoken by Mr. Rigby at the opening of the Nassau Street Theatre, in 1753. The epilogue, Dunlap supposes to have been written by the same author, and was delivered on this occasion by Mrs. Douglass. It is worthy of preservation, and we here transcribe it as printed at the time : " Much has been said, -at this unlucky time. To prove the treading of the stage a crime ; Mistaken zeal, in terms oft not so civil, Consigns both plays and players to the devil ; RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Yet wise men own a play, well chose, may teach Such useful morals as the parsons preach ; — May teach the heart another's grief to know, And melt the soul in tears of generous woe. So when the unhappy virtuous fair complains, In Shakspeare, Lee, or Otway's dying strains, The narrowest hearts expanded wide appear. And soft Compassion drops the pitying tear. Or would you warn the thoughtless youth to shun Such dangerous arts, which numbers have undone, A Barnwell's fate can never fail to move, And strike with shame and terror lawless love. Then plunged in ruin, with a virtuous wife, The Gamester weeps, despairs, and ends his life. "When Cato bleeds he spends his latest breath To teach the love of country strong in death. With such examples, and a thousaDd more, Of god-like men who lived in times before. The tragic muse, renewing every age, Makes the dead heroes tread the living stage. But when to social gayety inclined, Our comic muse shall feast the cheerful mind, Fools of all sorts, and fops, a brainless crew, To raise your mirth we'll summon to your view ; Make each pert coxcomb merry with his brother, Whilst knaves concealed shall grin at one another. 'Tis magic ground we tread, for at our call Those knights appear that represent you all. Yet, hold ! methinks I hear some snarler cry, ' Pray, madam, why so partial — rat me — why Don't you do justice on your own sweet sex — Are there no prudes, coquettes, or jilts to vex ?' 'Tis granted ; vice and folly's not confined To man alone, but spreads to womankind. We frankly own — we may indeed as well — For every fluttering beau we've an affected belle. Nor has dramatic Satire's candid page Failed to chastise them justly on the stage. Thus human life's our theme, a spacious field, Which the soul's noblest entertainments yield. By men of worth admired from ancient time, Who Nature's picture never judged a crime ; 32 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. And if the soul in Nature's cause we move, Why should the friends of Nature disapprove ? We trust they do not, by the splendid sight Of sparkling eyes that grace our scenes to-night. Then bravely dare to assert the taste you've shown, Nor be ashamed so just a cause to own ; And tell our foes what Shakspeare said of old, (Our Latin motto speaks it, I am told,) That here the world in miniature you see, And all mankind are players as well as we." The motto on the proscenium of the theatre was " Totus Mundus aget Histrionem." After the Thespians vacated the Cruger's Wharf Theatre, the building, which was probably slight, and intended only for temporary occupation, was taken down, and its site oc- cupied for other purposes. In the beginning of August, 1761, his Honor Lieutenant- Governor Colden was pleased to give Mr. Douglass permis- sion to build a Theatre to perform in the ensuing winter. This was in opposition to the wishes of the Assembty, and of the Mayor, (Cruger) who endeavored, but in vain, to prevent theatrical entertainments, which they looked upon as detri- mental to good morals. The new Theatre was erected on the south-westerly side of Beekman Street, then called Chappel Street, (from St. George's Chapel, which had been erected in 1752) just below Nassau Street, at a cost of $1,625, and was calculated to hold an audience of $450. The value of scenery and wardrobe was set down at $1,000. The opposi- tion at the period of opening was so great, that Mr. Douglass was at first allowed a season of only two months, of two nights per week, or sixteen nights in all, but subsequently the time was extended and covered a term of more than five months. The opening took place on Thursday, the 19th of November, 1761, with the tragedy of the "Fair Penitent," and the farce of " Lethe and was followed on Monday, the 23d, with the performance of the comedy of the " Provoked Husband," which drew an overflowing audience. For the 26th, we copy the original bill, one of which is yet in exist- HAMLET (Act 5, Sc. /) What is he whose grief Bears such an emphasis? Whose phrase of sorrow Conjures the wandering stars and makes them stand Like wonder-wounded hearers? ' JOHN LOW IS The first actor of Hamlet (From an original in Ashmole Museum, Oxford RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 33 ence, and carefully preserved at Windust's Restaurant in Ann Street. At this period, and for a long time after, bills of the play were printed a day or two previous to the time of performance, and distributed throughout the town, not only at stores and public houses, but at private residences. " By Permillion of his Honour, the Lieutenant Governor, By a Company of Comedians, At the NEW THEATRE in Chapel Street, on Thurfday next, being the 26th day of November inftant, will be prefented a tragedy, written by Shakfpeare, called Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. Hamlet Mr. Hallam. I Lucianus Mr. Tomlinson. King " Douglass. Francisco " Tremain. Horatio " Read. Gravcdiggers. ..." Quelch Ghost " Quelch. and " Tomlinson. Polonius " Morris. Queen Gertrude . Mrs. Douglass. Laertes " Allyn. Ophelia " Morris. Marcellus '* A. Hallam. | Pla>er Queen. ..." Hallam. Guildenstern .... " Sturt. To which will be added a ballad farce, called A Wonder ! an Honest* Yorkshireman. (iaylove Mr. Quelch. Sapscull Mr. Sturt. Blunder " Allyn Arabella Mrs. Morris. Slan'/o " A. Hallam. Combrush " Douglass. Muckworm . ... " Morris. 44 Mr. Douglais will be obliged to thofe ladies and gentlemen who had not an opportunity of delivering their tickets at the 44 Provoked Hulband" to fend them to his lodgings, at Mr. Keen's, confectioner, on Hunter's Quay. Thofe ladies who would have places kept in the boxes will pleafe to fend a fenfible fervant to the theatre at three o'clock every play-day. " No money will be taken at the door, nor any perfon ad- mitted without tickets, which are to be fold by H. Gaine, Printer, Bookfeller, and Stationer, at the Bible and Crown, in Hanover Square. 44 Boxes, 8 millings. Pit, 5 (hillings. Gallery, 3 millings. The doors to be opened at four, and the plav to begin precifely at fix o'clock. 44 No perfon can be admitted behind the fcenes. New York, November 24th, 1761." This is the first intimation that we have of the performance of Shakspeare's masterpiece in the City of New York. The company now retained none of its original members, save the Hallam family, and if Mr. Tremain, whose name stands to Francisco in the tragedy, be the same person who was connected with Murray and Kean, and Upton's company, hiB position had become wonderfully changed. The Mrs. 5 34 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Hallam of this season, was undoubtedly the Miss Hallam of previous and succeeding ones, judging by the characters she played, in connection with the fact that it was not unusual at this period for ladies somewhat out of their teens to be so des- ignated, and that it has been the conceded privilege of theat- rical ladies, at all times, to call themselves whatever fancy suggests or circumstances demand. Mr. Hallam (the Master Lewis Hallam of 1753) was now the favorite hero of the stage, and probably exercised a great influence in its management. He seems to have enjoyed a monopoly of the leading parts in tragedy and comedy, with a few exceptional ones, which probably, from choice, he con- ceded to Mr. Douglass. The latter is described as a sensible though not an eminent performer. Adam Hallam was still young, and did not develop the marked ability of his brother. Owen Morris, 1 who made his first appearance in Polonius, was long after attached to the corps as the " comic old man," and continued playing as long as age permitted, and until he had become shriveled with years, and palsied in voice and action. He died in New York, November 1809, aged 90, ac- cording to Dunlap — or 84, according to W. B. Wood. His pres- ent wife was an actress of great and varied usefulness. Her line of characters ranged from Ophelia, to the Nurse in " Romeo and Juliet," and from Nell in " the Devil to Pay," to Hermione in " the Distrest Mother." She was attached to the company for several years, and was accidentally drowned (together with her maid-servant) while crossing the ferry at Kill Van Keel, in December, 1767. The second Mrs. Morris will be noticed hereafter. Of the other members of the corps, no information can be gained by which their merit may be judged. Dec. 4th, 1 761, Tamerlane; and never performed here, The Toy Shop. Dec. 1 8th, King Henry 4th ; Sir John Falstaff Mr. Douglass. Henry 4th Mr. Qlelch. | Hotspur " Hallam. 1 Mr. Morris had probably appeared with Doughss atCrugers' Wharf, in 1759. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 35 and Flora, or Hob in the Well. Hob Mr. Qoelch. | Flora Mrs. Hallam. Dec. 26th, George Barnwell ; (for many years the standard Christmas dish) and Lethe. Monday, January 4th, 1762, Venice Preferved. By particular defire, a Prologue and Epilogue, in vindication of Dramatic Entertainments, to be fpoken by Mr. Hallam and Mrs. Douglafs ; and The Lying Valet. Places in the Boxes to be taken of Mr. Douglafs, at Mr. Hampton's, near the Theatre. This is the first notice that we have of securing seats in advance, except by sending a deputy in person. " A complaint having been feveral times made that a number of Gentlemen crowd the Stage, and very much interrupt the per- formance, and as it is impollible the actors, when thus obftru&ed, can do that juftice to their parts they otherwife would, it will be taken as a particular favour if no gentleman will be offended that he is abfolutely refufed admittance at the Stage Door, unlefs he has previoufly fecured himfelf a place in either the Stage or Upper Boxes." This now seemingly singular custom prevailed at the time throughout England, and was the fruitful source of great in- convenience and frequent disturbance, the stage itself, before as well as behind the scenes, being often so crowded as to in- terrupt the business of the play, and prevent the entrance and exit of the performers. The determination of the managers, and the good sense of the public, a few years later, caused a reformaticn in the matter. The prologue and epilogue referred to above, were the old ones spoken in 1758, adapted to the present occasion. We give the Epilogue, as delivered at this time, with its amendments and additions : " Much has been said at this censorious time To prove the treading of the stage a crime. Mistaken zeal in terms not quite so civil Consigns both plays and players to the devil. Yet wise men own a play well chose may teach Such useful morals as in church the}- preach May teach the heart another's grief to know And melt the soul in salutary woe. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. " So when the unhappy virtuous fair complains In Shakspeare, Lee, or Otway's moving strains, The narrowest hearts expanded wide appear And soft compassion drops the pitying tear. Or would you warn the thoughtless youth to shun Such dangerous arts as numbers have undone A Barnwell's fate can never fail to move And strike with shame and terror, lawless love. See plunged in ruin with a virtuous wife The Gamester weeps, despairs, and ends his life. When Cato bleeds, he spends his latest breath To teach the love of country strong in death. With these examples and a thousand more Of godlike men who lived in days of yore, The tragic muse recalls the long past age And brings heroic Virtue living on the stage. But when to social gayety inclined, — Our comic muse shall feast the cheerful mind, — Fools of all sorts and fops a brainless crew. To raise your mirth we'll summon to your view ; Make e'en the coxcomb laugh to see his brother And one knave blush with shame to view another. 'Tis magic ground we tread, for at our call, Those sprites appear that represent you all. Yet hold — methinks I hear some snarler cry ' Pray madam, why so partial — rat me — why Don't you do justice on your own sweet sex — Are there no prudes, coquettes, or jilts to vex?' Granted — there are. For folly's not confined To sex ; it sways despotic all of human kind. We frankly own, indeed we may as well For every fluttering beau — a simpering belle. But oft above the dull, the pert, the vain, The comic muse exalts her moral strain ; To laugh at folly will not be confined But tries to instruct as well as please mankind. So when vile custom by false honour's breath, For one rash word would doom two friends to death, Steele's moral muse though dressed in humble sock Aimed at the monster a decisive stroke ! And showed a Bevil generous as brave Who scorned the slavish dread of death and grave, Yet feared to meet his God from such an end And nobly shunned a duel with his friend. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 37 " Thus human life's our theme, a fruitful field Of moral themes a fruitful store to yield ; Sages upheld our art in ancient time When to paint Xature was not thought a crime, For if the soul in virtue's cause we move, The friends of virtue cannot disapprove. We trust they do not by the splendid sight Of sparkling eyes that grace our scenes to night ; Then bravely dare to assert the taste you've shown, Nor be ashamed so just a cause to own ; And tell our foes what iSkakspeare said of old, (Our former motto spoke it, I am told,) That here the world in miniature you see And all mankind are players as well as we." Dunlap publishes the foregoing, with some other slight alterations. Jan. nth, 1762, Romeo and Juliet. Romeo Mr. Hallam. Uapulet ..... Mr. Morris. Mercutio " Douglass. Juliet Mrs Douglass. Benvolio "A. Hallam. Lady Capulet ..." Allyn. Friar Lawrence ..." Allyn. Nurse " Morris. In the Malquerade Scene, a Comic Dance by Mr. A. Hallam, and a Minuet by Mr. A. Hallam and Mrs. Allyn ; and in the Burial Scene a Solemn Dirge, by Mrs. Morris, Mrs. Hallam, Mrs. Allyn, Melirs. Quelch, Tremain, Sturt, &c. On several occasions hereafter we find, a father playing Romeo to the Juliet of his daughter, but we believe this is the only one on record where a mother plays Juliet to the Romeo of her son. Jan. 20th, The Recruiting Officer ; and Harlequin Collector. Harlequin Mr. Hallam. | Clowu Mr. Douglass. Jan. 25th, " Othello;" and " The Lying Valet." " For the benefit of such poor families as are not provided for by the public," resulting in a net profit of two hundred and eighty- six dollars, which sum was received by Mr. John Vande- spiegle and George Harrison, Esq., for distribution. The ac- count rendered by the manager on the occasion will show the nightly expenses of the house, exclusive of the actors' salaries, who threw them up on the present evening : 38 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. £. S. d. "Box Tickets fold, 116, at 8s. . 46 8 o Pit " " 146 " 5s. . 36 10 o Gallery " " 90 cc 3s. . 13 10 o Caih received at the doors . . . 36 12 6 £133 o 6 Charges. " To Candles. 26 lbs. of Spermaceti, at 3s. 6d. " 14 lbs. " Tallow . tc is. od. . To Mufic. Meffrs. Harrifon & Van Dienval cc Front Door-keeper, 16s. Stage door-keeper, 8s. " the Affirmants, 13s. Bill Sticker, 4s. . . . " the Men's drefTer, 4s. Stage keeper, 32s. Drummer, 4s " Wine in the Second Act, 2s. 6d " Hugh Gaine, for two Sets of Bills, Advertife- £. s. d. \* 5 3 12 1 4 17 V 2 6 5 10 £18 10 6" Balance, £114 10s., or §286^-. The above receipt was probably a full average one, but the house would have held nearly fifty pounds more. February ift, "For the benefit of Mrs. Douglafs, the tragi- cal hiftory of King Richard the Third, containing the dif- trefs and death of King Henry the Sixth in the Tower ; the Ufurpation of the Crown by Richard ; the inhuman murder of the young King Edward the fifth, and his brother the Duke of York ; the fall of the Duke of Buckingham ; the landing of the Earl of Richmond, (afterwards King Henry the Seventh) at Milford ; the battle of Bofworth Field, and death of Richard, which put an end to the contention between the houfes of York and Lancafter ; with many other hiftorical paftages." King Richard .... Mr. Douglass. | Richmond ..... Mr. Hallam. Kins Edward the Fifth [Prince of Wales] "A. Hallam. Duke of York, by a Young Master, for his diversion. King Henry Mr. Allyx. Lieutenant Mr. Sturt. Buckingham " Tomlinsox. j Queen Elizabeth . . . Mrs. Douglass. Lord Stanley " Morris. Lady Anne " Morris. Gatesby " Reed. Duchess of York ..." Craxe. To which will be added a dramatic fatire called Lethe, with the additional character of Lord Chalkftone. Mercury Mr. Stcrt. Esop " Docglass. Lord Chalkstone. Frenchman . Fine Gentleman Drunken Man Allyx. Hallam. Charon . Old Man . Tattoo Bowman . Mrs. Riot Mr. Tomlixson. 44 Morris. " Reed. " Tomlixson. Mrs. Douglass. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 39 " Tickets as ufual, and of Mrs. Douglafs, at her lodgings near the theatre. " The ceremony of waiting on ladies and gentlemen at their houfes with bills has been for lbme time left off in this Company, the frequent folicitations on thefe occafions having been found rather an inconvenience to the perlbn lb waited on, than a com- pliment." Mrs. Crane, who played the Duchess of York, has not been before noticed. She performed characters old and young, as the necessities of the Theatre required. Messrs. Adam Hallam, Allyn, and Quelch's benefits followed successively, and on the 15th Mr. Lewis Hallam solicited the patronage of the public with "Love for Love;" wherein he played Ben, and Mr. Douglass Valentine. March 22d, Mr. Morris's night. The Beaux Stratagem ; . . Mr. Hallam. Ainiwell . . " Douglass. Mrs. Sullen . . . . Mrs. Douglass. with Flora, or Hob in the Well. Hob Mr. Allyn. | March 29th, Mrs. Hallam's night. The Inconftant ; Young Mirabel . . . Mr. Hallam. Bisarre .... * . Mrs. Douglass. Old Mirabel. . . . . . ,4 Morris. and Mils in her teens. Captaiu Flash . Mr. Hallam. Miss Biddy . . Mrs. Hallam. April 1 2th, Mr. Tomlinfon's night. Hamlet ; and the Devil to pay. Jobson Mr. Tomlinson. 1 Nell . Mrs. Morris. April 19th, Mr. Reed's night. The Diftreft Mother; Pyrihus . . ,4 Douglass. Audruruache . . . ,4 Douglass. and The Mock Dodor. Gregory Mr. Douglass. Hellebore . . . . . Mr. T REMAIN!. Sir Jasper .... ' Morris. Harry . . M TOMLINSON. Leander . . 14 Sturt. James . . '• Reed. Robert . . " A. Hallam. Charlotte . . . . . Mrs. u ran e. Davy . . " Allyn. Dorcas . . " Morris. The season ended on the 26th of April with the per- formance of the " Committee f and the " Honest Yorkshire man," for the benefit of the Charity School, when the news- 40 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. paper states that " a handsome sum was raised by Mr. Doug- lass and presented to the churchwardens." The establishment, however, was not without enemies, and occasional demonstrations of ill-will were publicly made, as we gather from the following notice in Gaine's Mercury : " Theatre in New York, May 3d, 1762. A Pistole Reward will be given to whoever can difcover the perfon who was fo very rude as to throw Eggs from the Gallery upon the Stage, laft Monday, by which the Cloaths of fome Ladies and Gentlemen were fpoiled, and the performance in fome meafure interrupted." " D. Douglass." The name of Adam Hallam occurs for the last time in the bills during this season. It is found some thirty years after in the New York Directory as belonging to a shoemaker in Queen Street — could it have been that of the same indi- vidual? Dunlap states that the troubles which agitated the colonies in consequence of the Stamp Act occasioned the destruction of the Chapel, or Beekman Street Theatre, by a mob in 1764, and that a gentleman who was engaged in the work, when a boy, told him that a number of persons assem- bled in the open space opposite the theatre, and set on the boys to commence the business, which once begun, found hands enough to aid it. But the Stamp Act was not passed until March, 1765, and as mob violence became rampant after the reception of the news, causing the destruction of the seat of Sir Peter Warren, then known as Vauxhall, at the corner of Warren and Greenwich Streets, and of Ranelagh, the resi- dence of Major James, R. A., near the corner of Anthony Street and West Broadway, as well as the hanging in effigy of Governor Colden, and the destruction of his fine coach and other valuable property, it is probable that the Play House (whose tenants were not popular with the republican portion of the community, and were looked upon as special adherents of the crown, and proteges of the governor) was damaged by the rioters at the latter period, but that it was not totally de- stroyed is conclusively proven by the following advertise- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 41 ments which are extracted from newspapers of the dates pre- fixed thereto : April ioth, 1765. For the benefit of the Prifoners in the New Goal, Wednefday April ioth. At the Theatre in Chapel Street, will be prefented a Tragedy called " George Barnwell, or the London Merchant j" and " Captain O'Blunder, or the Brave Irifhman." O'Blunder, Mr. Walfh. April 9th, 1766. At the Theatre in Chapel Street, the "Twin Rivals;" and the "King, and Miller of Mansfield." Doors to be opened at 3 o'clock, and Play to begin at 6. Tickets to be had of Hugh Gaine, Bookfeller, John Keating, Merchant, and of Philip Miller, Watchmaker in the Fly. The Fly, or Vlaie, was the name given by the old Dutch in- habitants to the valley or meadows at the east end of Maiden Lane, lying between Pearl Street and the river, and was the site of the afterwards famous Fly Market, so called. May 5th, 1766. At the Theatre in Chapel St., a Comedy called the " Twin Rivals," with a long in praife of liberty, — and the " King, and Miller of Mansfield." N. B. As the Packet is arrived and has been the Mellenger of good news relative to the Repeal, it is hoped that the public has no objection to the above performance. The repeal of the Stamp Act is of course referred to here, but the Royal Government had too long insisted on its en- forcement, for the concession now to be of any service to them. We find no other advertisement relative to the Chapel Street Theatre, save one offering it to rent for storage. We conclude our chapter with the record of an event which, though having nothing to do with the subject of which we are treating, may serve to mark the size and growth of the city, for " St. Paul's" was then the most northerly church on the west of Broadway, and the grounds by which it was surrounded were known as the fields, or commons. " On Thurfday, Oct. 31ft, 1766 — The new Epifcopal Church called St. Paul's, efteemed one of the molt elegant edifices on the continent, was opened and dedicated to Almightv God. The concourle of people of all ranks and denominations, (who at- tended on the occaiion) was very great." 6 CHAPTER IV. John Street Theatre, 1767. IWP N the summer of 1767, a new Theatre was built on the J|I northerly side of John Street, near Broadway. It stood Jjfjl much longer than any of its predecessors, and was &mt) used for the purpose for which it was erected for more than thirty years. Long after, its site, and perhaps the original building, was occupied by a carriage factory, and is now covered with storehouses adjoining Thorburn's seed and agricultural establishment, and in the rear of lots Nos. 17, 19, and 21. By a renumbering of the street, the entrance lot, which is but a wide alley-way leading to the rear, is now known as No. 17, but a half century ago it was No. 15. The building was an unsightly object, principally of wood painted red, and stood about sixty feet back from the street, having a covered way of rough wooden material from the pavement to the doors. The stage was of good dimensions, and the dressing room and green room were originally under it, but after the Revolution, they were removed to a wing added for the purpose, on the west side. The auditorium was fitted up with a pit, two rows of boxes, and a gallery, and when full at usual prices would contain S800. The John Street Theatre was first opened by Mr. Douglass, on the 7th of December, 1767. We here transcribe the opening bill : " By Permillion of his Excellency, the Governor, 1 by the American Company at the Theatre in John Street, this prefent evening a comedy called 1 Sir Henry Moore. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 43 The Stratagem. Archer . . Aimwell . Sir C. Freeman Sullen . . Foigard . Gibbet . . Scrub . . . Mr. Hallam « Henry.j " MALONE.f " tomlinson. " Allyn. « WoOLLS.f " WALL.f Boniface Lady Bountiful Mrs. Sullen Dorinda . Cherry . . Gipfy . . Mr. Douglais. Mrs HARMAN.f Mils Cheer. "j" M Hallam. " AVAIN WRIGHT, j" Mrs. Wall. An Occasional Epilogue, by Mrs. Douglass. To conclude with the dramatic Satire, entitled Lethe. iEfop . . Mercury . Tattoo Frenchman Mr. Douglass. Woolls. Malone. Allyn. Fine Gentleman Drunken Man Mrs. Tattoo . Mrs. Riot . . Mr. Wall. " Hallam. Mils Hallam. " Wainwright. To begin exactly at Six o'clock. Vivant Rex et Regina. " No perfon under any pretext whatever can be admitted be- hind the fcenes. Tickets, without which no perfon can be ad- mitted, to be had at the Bible and Crown in Hanover Square, and of Mr. Hayes at the Area of the Theatre. Places in the boxes may be taken of Mr. Broadbelt at the Stage door. Ladies will pleafe fend their fervants to keep their places at four o'clock. Boxes, 8s. Pit, 5s. Gallery, 3s." The performers whose names are marked thus f made on this occasion their first appearance in New York. Young Hallam had been and was still the paramount favorite of the public, but there was now introduced to their notice a rival who was destined soon to share their applauses in an equal degree. This was Mr. John Henry, who enacted the charac- ter of Aimwell, and whom Dunlap imagines to have been as handsome an Aimwell as ever trod the Stage, and whom all writers describe as a man of extraordinarily fine personal ap- pearance. He was born in Dublin, had received a liberal education, and made his debut on the stage at Drury Lane, London, 1762, with little success, and probably appeared there again in 1780. He had joined Douglass's Company in the West Indies, and there married a Miss Storer, the eldest of four sisters, who accompanied him on his voyage to Amer- ica, and who was unhappily burned to death in the vessel, which was destroyed by fire on our eastern coast, the captain, crew, and other passengers escaping. In 1773 he gave his name to Miss Ann Storer (afterwards Mrs. Hogg, a sister of 44 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. the preceding,) and in 1786, while she was still living, trans- ferred it to a still younger sister, Miss Maria Storer, who hore it until his and her own death in 1795. W. B. Wood, who in early life saw Mr. Henry, says he was the first male performer who made any lasting impression on him, and that his John Dory in " Wild Oats" was so excellent, that it drove Hoclgkin- son's Rover, in the same piece, entirely from his mind. He thinks that he was more than a good actor, and that his im- personations of Eustace St. Pierre, Major 0' Flaherty, Dumont, and many other characters were never eclipsed by any later representative in America. With regard to " John Dory" however, the part assigned to Mr. Henry by Mr. Wood, we think that his memory deceived him, for we have before us three original John Street play bills, announcing the comedy of "Wild Oats/' in each of which Mr. King figures as John Dory, and Mr. Henry is cast for Ephraim Smooth. The bills are for 1793-4, and the earliest one gives the first performance in America of the comedy, and 1794 is the last season that Mr. Henry played. It is recorded that for many years after the Revolution, Mr. Henry was the only actor in New York who kept a coach, and that in his case frequent attacks of the gout rendered it a necessity. The panels were decorated with a representation of two crutches crossed, with motto " This or these." He retired from the New York stage at the end of the season in 1794, and died about a year after, while on board of a vessel bound to Newport. Mr. Stephen Woolls was the principal singer of the com- pany, and was listened to with pleasure for many years. He continued in the same line long after his abilities failed him, and when " snuff and snuffle" alone characterized his efforts. He was a native of Bath, England, gentlemanly in his man- ners, and amiable in disposition, and died in New York, June 14th, 1799, aged 70. He was buried in the Catholic church- yard of St. Peter's, Barclay Street. Mr. Wall was the fine gentleman of the company, with a turn for eccentric comedy that rendered his valets and other humorous parts acceptable for more than seven years. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 45 Miss Cheer, who made her appearance as Mrs, Sullen, di- vided the leading business with Mrs. Douglass, or rather took most of it, for the latter retained but few prominent charac- ters, save those of a matronly cast. Miss Cheer was a favorite member of the company until its last season before the Revo- lution. In 1794, when Mrs. Long, she reappeared in the character of Mrs. Oakley, in the "Jealous Wife." Dunlap says that " Mrs. Long was received in silence and never heard of more, time having deprived her of all that could attract attention to the moving pictures of the stage." But Dun- lap again erred, for she also appeared that season as Almeria, in the " Mourning Bride f Catharine, in " Catharine and Pe- truchio ;" Mrs. Grub, in " Cross Purposes," and other inferior parts. The representative of Lady Bountiful, Mrs. Catharine Maria Harman, was a granddaughter of Colley Cibber, and to her care were confided the principal old ladies, and certain shrew- ish Abigails. She died in 1773, and is stated to have been "a just actress and an exemplary woman — sensible, humane and benevolent." Miss Wainwright was the principal female vocalist, and played rustics, singing chambermaids, and gay, youthful comedy of all descriptions. We do not find her name after 1769. After the lapse of several years the name of Malone again appears in the bills, but standing to characters of so different a grade that we cannot imagine it to be the Malone of 1753, who was then one of the most important members of the company. Dec. nth, 1767. "A comedy written by the prefent poet laureat," (W. Whitehead) called, ' The School for Lovers. Sir John Dorilant . . Mr. Douglass. Lady Beverly . . Mrs. Harman. Modely " Hallam. Araminta . . . Mils Cheer. Belmour " Wall. Celia .... «< Hallam. The Epilogue between Mr. Hallam and Mil's Cheer. Singing by Mr. Woolls and Mils Wainwright. 46 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE and The Mayor of Garratt. Major Sturgeon and Matthew Mug By Mr. Hallam. Jerry Sneak and Lint Sir Jacob Jollup . . Mr. Tomlinson. I Mrs. Sneak Heeltap " Henry. Mrs. Bruin Dec. 14th, 1767, Richard Henry 6th . Richmond . Buckingham Mr. Hallam. " Morris. l< Henry. " Douglass Richard 3d. Prince of Wales " Wall. Mifs Wainwright. Mrs. Harman. Mr. Wall. Queen Mrs. Douglass. Lady Anne Miss Cheer. Duchess Mrs. Harman. Oberon Mr. The Oracle. Wall. | Fairy Queen .... Mrs. Douglass. Cynthia Miss Hallam. And by Command of his Excellency, the Governor, for the En- tertainment of Ten Indian Warriors that arrived here laft Friday from South Carolina, a Pantomime Ballet, called Harlequin's Vagaries. Characters principally by Hallam, Morris, and Mifs Cheer. Mrs. Morris met an accidental death by drowning on the 16th. Dec. 1 8th, The Clandeftine Marriage. [Probably its first performance in America.] Lord Ogleby . . Sterling . . . Sir John Melville. Lovewell . . . Canton . . Brush . . . . Traverse . . . Mr. Hallam. " Morris. " Douglass. " Henry. " Alltn. " Wall. 4 ' M alone. Sergt. Flower Mrs. Heidleberg. Miss Sterling Fanny. Betty . . . . Chambermaid Trusty . . . and, The Old Maid. Mr. Harlow Clerimont . Capt. Cape Mr. Alltn. " Wall. " Douglass. Hearty Mrs. Harlow Miss Harlow Mr. Tomlinson. Mrs. Douglass. Miss Cheer. " Hallam. " Storer. " Wainwright.' Mrs. Tomlinson. Mr. Morris. Miss Cheer. Mrs. Harman. To this bill was appended the following notice : " To prevent accidents by carriages meeting, it is requefted that thofe coming to the Houfe may enter John Street from the Broad- Way, and returning drive from thence down John St., into Naflau St., or forward to that known by the name of Cart and Horfe Street, as may be moft convenient." Cart and Horse Street is the present William Street, and was so called from a noted tavern of that name which ex- isted therein in 1730. Miss Ann Storer, who made her first appearance as Betty, was the sister of Henry's first wife, and bore his name during the season of 1773. She, with her sisters and mother, (who was probably the Mrs. Storer of Covent Garden Theatre, 1761-2, described by Chetwood as — " Recommending herfelf by her amiable perfon, good nature, "MY LADY SWEET, ARISE " A Cymbclfne, Act 2, Sc. 3 y Hark ! Hark ! The lark at Heaven's gate sings, And Phoebus 'gins arise, His steeds to water at those springs On chalic'd flowers that lies ; And winking mary-buds begin To ope their golden eyes ; With every thing that pretty bin : My lady sweet, arise ; Arise, arise. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 47 and excellent fweet harmonious manner in Tinging ; therefore too much defired to (how her excellence that way, to perform many fpeaking parts, but where her exalted talent is required : and then, whatever me lays or fings, Ihe doubly charms in,") had joined the company in Jamaica. The mother's name we do not find in any of the bills, but she probably superin- tended her daughters' acting, and instructed them in music ; two of them — Fanny, afterwards Mrs. Mechler, and Maria, the final Mrs. Henry, both being highly accomplished vocalists. Ann does not appear to have been a singer, but at this early age gave indications of comic talent, which afterward, in the line of old women, rendered her superior to all contempo- raries or predecessors. She disappeared from the New York stage in 1773, and after more than twenty years' absence, again came forward as Mrs. Hogg, continuing a member of the company until her death, which occurred in New York, on the 6th of February, 1816, at the age of sixty-seven, in the following singular and sudden manner. She had retired to her room for the night, and shortly after smoke was dis- covered issuing from the door On its being opened she was found lying dead on the floor, the candle which she had car- ried having fallen from her hand and ignited the boards by her side. She had expired in a fit. Whatever may have been the failings of her youth, her latter years were irreproachable, and her unexpected decease cast a gloom over players and public, by both of whom she was sincerely regretted. In Lord Ogleby Mr. Hallam made a great hit, and for forty years after it continued to be. one of his most favorite parts. Dec. 2 1 ft, Hamlet ; King Douglass. Gravediggers . . . . " MORR S Polonius " Morris. and M Tomlixson. " Wall. Ophelia . . . . . . Miss Cheer. " Henry. Queen . . . . . . Mrs. Douglass. Osrick " Allyn. riayer- Queen . . . . Miss Storer. and the mufical farce of Thomas and Sally. Sally . . . . . . Miss Cheer. Thomas 11 Wall. Porcas . . . Mrs. Harman. Dec. 28th, firft time, Cvmbeline. Cymheliue Mr. Allyn. Arviragug. . . Mr. Woolls. Posthumus " Hallam. . . " Greyillk. " Dodglass. Caius Lucius. . . . 1 ToULINSON. M Henry. Imogen . . . . . Miss Chee: . Cloten " Wall. Queen . . . Mrs. Douglass. Pisanio " Morris. Helen . . . . . . ToMUNauN. 48 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Dec. 30th, for the benefit of the Debtors in the New York City Gaol : The Mourning Bride ; and The Upholfterer, or What news ? Quidnunc Mr. Douglass. Razor " Wall. Pamphlet " Hallam. Belmour " Henry. Rovewell Mr. Woolls. Feeble " Morris. Harriet Miss Wainwright. Termagant .... Mrs. Harman. January ift, 1768, By Command of Lady Moore (the Gov- ernor's wife), The Bufy Body. Marplot Sir George Airey Sir Francis Gripe Sir Jealous Traffic Charles . . . and Col. Tamper . Major Belford Prattle . . . Mr. Hallam. " Henry. " Morris. " Douglass. " Wall. The Deuce Whisper . Miranda . Isabinda . Scent well Patch . . Mr. Allyn. Miss Cheer. " Hallam. Mrs. Tomlinson. " Harman. is in Him. Mr. Hallam. Douglass. Wall. Emily Miss Hallam. Bell ' " Wainwright. M'dlle Florival . . . Mrs. Harman. Jan. 4th, Romeo and Juliet. Romeo . Mercutio Tybalt and Capt. Flash Capt. Loveit Mr. Hallam. " Douglass. " Henry. Juliet Miss Cheer. Lady Capulet Nurse. Mifs in Her Mr. Henry. " Wall. teens. Miss Biddy Tag . . Jan. nth, Firft time, Love in a Village. Hawthorn . Sir W. Meadows . Young Meadows . Justice Woodcock Eustace. . . . Mr. Woolls. " Morris. " Wall. " Douglass. " Henry. Hodge Rosetta . Lucinda . . Mrs. Deborah Margery . Mrs. Douglass. " Harman. Miss Hallam. " Wainwright. Mr. Hallam. Miss Wainwright. " Hallam. Mrs. Douglass. " Harman. and Cont nvances. Rovewell Mr. Argus ;< Hearty " Jan. 1 8th, Don Felix Mr. Col. Britton " Don Pedro " Don Lopez " Lissardo " Woolls. Morris. Allyn. Robin Arethusa Betty. . The Wonder. Hallam. Wall. Tomlinson. Morris. Allyn. Gibby . Violante Isabella Flora Inis • • and a Pantomime, called The Witches. Harlequin Mr. Hallam. I Necromancer Pantaloon ' Morris. Petit Maitre Pierrot " Tomlinson. I Columbine . Jan. 25th, King Lear. Lear Mr. Hallam. ' Gloster " Morris. Edgar ... . . " Douglass. Edmund " Henry. Kent By a Gentleman, [First appearance on Stage.] Albany . Usher . Cordelia Regan . Goneril . Mr. Tomlinson. Miss Wainwright. Mrs. Harman. Mr. Douglass. Miss Cheer. " Hallam. y Wainwright. Mrs. Harman. Mr. Woolls. " Allyn. Miss Cheer. Mr. Allyn. " Wall. Miss Cheer. " Storer. " Wainwright. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 49 and Hob Friendly Flora, or Hob in the Well. Mr. Allyn. M WOOLLS. Flora . . Hob's Mother Feb. ift, The Sufpicious Hufband. Ranger Mr. Hallam. Strictland Douglass. Frankly " Wall. Jack Meggot " Alltn. Mrs. Strictland. Clarinda. . . Jacintha. IiUcetta . . . Miss Hallam. Mrs. Habman. Miss Storkr. " Cheer. " F. Stobeb. " Wainwbight. and The Devil to Pay. Sir John Loverule Jobson Mr. Woolls. " ToMLINSOIi. Lady Loverule . Mrs. Habman. Nell Miss Wainwbight. This is the first time we notice the name of Miss Fanny Storer, who, in 1773, occupied a prominent position as a singing actress, and after many years' absence reappeared, in 1792, as Mrs. Mechler. Feb. 8th, Love in a Vil lage and Townly's-farce of High Life Below Stairs. Lovell .... Freeman .... Lord Duke's Servant Sir Harry's Servant Philip .... Kingston .... Mr. Hallam. " Heney. " Wall. u Alltn. 11 Morris. " TOMLTNSON. Cook Miss Kitty . . . . Lady Bab's Servant . Lady Charlotte's Ser- vant ...... Feb. 15th, Capt. Plume. Capt. Brazen Sergeant Kite Justice Balance Worthy . . Bullock . . and The Recruiting Officer. Mr. Hallam. Henry. Douglass. Morris. Woolls. Tomli.vsox. Recruits Melinda Sylvia . Rose Lucy . The Citizen. Old Phil pot . . . Young Philpot .... " Sir Jasper Wilding . . " Young Wilding. ... " Feb. 22d, Pierre Mr. Jaffier " Priuli " Mr. Douglass. Hallam. " tomlinson. " Henry. Beaufort Quilldrive Maria . Corinna Mrs. Harman. Miss Storer. " Wainwright. " Hallam. Mr. Wall. " Rawobth. Miss Storeb. " Cheeb " Wainweight. Mrs. Habman. Mr. Woolls. " Malone. Miss Wainwright. Mrs. Tomlinson. Venice Preferved. Hallam. Henry. Douglass. Renault Bedamar Bel videra Feb. 29th, Teague . . Col. Careless Col. Blunt . Mr. Day . . March 3d, The Committee. Mr. Henby. I Obadiah " Douglass. Mrs. Day " Hallam. Ruth . " Mobbis. Arabella Macbeth. Macbeth Mr. Hallam. Banquo . . Duncan •* Gbeville. j Hecate. . . Macduff " Douglass. Lady Macbeth Malcolm 11 Henry. Ladv Macduff March 7th, The School for Lovers and Murphy's farce of The Apprentice. Dick Win gate. . . . Gargle .... Mr. Wall. " Mobris. " Henry. President Simon . Charlotte Mr. Mobbis. " Wall. Miss Cheer. Mr. Tomlinson. Mrs. Douglass. Miss Cheer. 14 Hallam. Mr. Morris. " Woolls. Miss Cheer. Mrs. Douglass. Mr. Woolls. M TOMLINSON. Miss Wainwbight. 50 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. March 14th, Lovegold [1st time] . Frederick .... Clerimont .... Ramillie .... James List Decoy Satin The Mifer. Mr. Hallam. Douglass. Wall. Morris. Tomlinson. Henry. Raworth. Greville. Sparkle . Furnish Charles Mrs. Wisely Mariana . Harriet Wheedle . Lappet Mr. Woolls. " Malone. " Roberts. Mrs. Douglass. Miss Cheer. " Hallam. " Storer. Mrs. Harman. and, firft time, the mufical piece of The Chaplet. Damon Mr. Palemon " Woolls. Wall. Pastora Laura March 19th, Cato. Cato . Semphronius Pore i us . Juba. . . • Mr. Douglass. Hallam. Henry. Wall. Syphax. Lucius Lucia . Marcia March 24th, The Fair Penitent. Miss Hallam. " F. Storer. Mr. Morris. " Tomlinson. Miss Hallam. " Cheer. Sciolto Mr. Horatio . " Lothario " and, firft time, Slip Sir Harry Harlow Bel ford .... Martin .... Henry. Douglass. Hallam. AHamont Calista . Lavinia . Neck or Nothing. Mr. Hallam. Henry. Wall. Morris. Mrs. Stock well Nancy . . Jenny . . By a Gentleman. Miss Cheer. Mrs. Douglass. Mrs. Douglass. Miss Hallam. " Storer. April 4th, Sir Harry Wildair Col. Standard Beau Clincher Young Clincher . Aid. Smuggler . The Conftant Couple. Mr. Hallam. " Douglass " Henry. " Wall. " Morris. Vizard . Lady Lurewell Lady Darling Angelica. Parley . Mr. Tomlinson. Mrs. Harman. " Tomlinson. Miss Cheer. " F. Storer. April 6th, By Command of Lady Moore, a new comedy by Murphy, never a&ed here, called All in the Wrong. The cast is not in the newspaper, but probably Mr. Henry personated Sir John Restless ; Mr. Hallam, Beverly ; and Miss Cheer, Lady Restless. April nth. Othello. Othello lago . Cassio . Brabantio Roderigo Mr. Douglass. Hallam. Henry. Morris. Wall. Duke . . Ludovico . Montano . Desdemona Emelia . Mr. Greville. " Tomlinson. " Malone. Miss Cheer. Mrs. Harman. April 14th, and Romeo and Juliet ; Catharine and Petruchio. Petruchio Baptista Hortensio Biondello [r. Hallam. 1 Grumio .... Mr. Morris. " Tomlinson. I Catharine .... Miss Cheer. " Douglass. | Bianca " Storer. " Wall. I Curtis Mrs. Harman. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 51 April 18th, Firft time, Mifs Wainwright's benefit. Country Lalles. Heartwell Mr. Docqlass. Modely " Hallam. Sir John English . . " Tomlinson. Freehold " Morris. Lurcher " Wall. c urbuaole Longhottom Shacklefigure Flora . Aura Mr. Henry. " Woolls. " Roberts. Miss Waixwriqht. " Cheer. Songs and Recitations, by Woolls, Wall, and Miss Wainwright. and The Citizen. Maria Miss Wainwright. April 21ft, Benefit of Mr. Morris. The Confcious Lovers. Young Bevil . . Sir John Bevil Seal and . . . Tom .... and Honeycomb . Scribble Ledger . . . Mr. Hallam. " Henry. " Douglass. " Morris. Indiana Isabella Lucinda Mrs. Seal and Miss Cheer. " Storer. " Hallam. " Wainwright. Polly Honeycomb. Mr. Morris. " Wall. " Tomlinson. Mrs. Houe.vcomb Mrs. Harman. Polly Honeycomb . Miss Wainwright. Nurse Mrs. Tomlinson. April 25th, Posthumus and Mr. Hallam's benefit. Cymbeline. Mr. Hallam. | Queen Miss Storer. High Life Below Stairs. Lovell Mr. Hallam. Freeman " Douglass. l.ord Duke Miss Kitty Mr. Henry. Miss Storer. Mr. Allyn's name is no longer found in the bills, and Mrs. Douglass was probably ill, as her characters for many weeks are given to substitutes. April 28th, Benefit of Mr. Douglafs. Firft time, Dryden's tragedy of All for Love. Marc Antony Ventidius . Dolabdla . Alexas . Serapion Mr. Hallam. " Douglass. " Wall. u Morris. " Tomlinson. Cleopatra .... Miss Cheer. Octavia .... " Storer. Charmian .... " Wainwright. Iras Mrs. Wall. Antony's children and . . . Miss Tomlinson and Miss Maria Storer. The Upholfterer. Quidnunc Mr. DouotAss. For the first the name of Miss Maria Storer is found in the bills, and, from the character assigned her, she must have been a mere child at this period. She gradually developed talent both, in singing and acting, and, after she became Mrs. Henry, was an immense favorite with the public. Dunlap says that "she possessed both beauty and talent, and until the year 1792 was the best public singer America had known. She played tragedy and comedy with spirit and propriety, although her figure was rather petite for the first, or for the 52 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. elegant females of Congreve and Cibber." Wood says that " she was a perfect fairy in figure, and that her singing and acting rendered her a prodigious favorite." He adds, that " she well needed a strong hold on public favor to protect her from the occasional disgust and resentment excited by her frequent silly and cajDricious conduct. Scarcely a week passed but a change in the performances was rendered neces- sary by some captious objection to a character, a slender box sheet, or a stinted proportion of applause." The relation that she occupied to Henry, first publicly announced in 1786, was a most extraordinary one, for whether she was the successor of a deserting or a deserted sister in his regard, that sister was still living, and decency alone should have prevented so unnatural a union. Dunlap truly says that " such instances, if rare, account for that repelling principle which keeps the cautious and the pure in private society aloof from those who delight them in public. Those who attract public attention should be able to bear the scrutiny of the public." Mrs. Henry retired with her husband from the New York stage in 1794, and was his companion on his voyage to Rhode Island when his death occurred, a shock from which she never recovered, and which preyed upon her mind till reason was destroyed. She died a lunatic, at Philadelphia, April 25th, 1795, aged probably not over forty years. May 2d, 1768. For the benefit of the three Misses Storer, " Richard 3d " was performed, with Hallam as Richard, Miss F. Storer as the Prince of Wales, Miss Maria Storer as the Duke of York, and Miss Ann Storer as Lady Anne, in which character she succeeded Miss Cheer, who was promoted to that of the Queen, vice Mrs. Douglass. Between the 2d and 3d acts of the tragedy, Foot e's Interlude, entitled "Taste," was performed, with Mr. Wall as Carmine, and Mr. Henry as Lady Pentweazle, and between the 3d and 4th acts Miss Maria Storer sang the celebrated song " Sweet Echo." The enter- tainments concluded with " Miss in her teens" — Miss F. Storer as Capt. Flash, Miss M. Storer as Fribble, and Miss A. Storer as Tag-. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 53 May 9th, Mr. Hallam's benefit. " Mr. H. in a moft re- fpeclful manner begs leave to acquaint the public, that his friends and patrons being of the opinion, that the. failure of the play of " Cymbeline" acl:ed on the 25th of April was entirely owing to a prepolfeflion which prevailed that the Houfe would be crowded and thereby prevented many from exerting their in- fluence in his favor, have advifed him to take another benefit — but as that could not be done, without contravening the eftab- lifhed rules of the company and fixing a precedent which might be attended with very troublefome confequences in the future ; He in order to obviate any objection of that nature, but more particularly to convince the town that he has no thought of im- pofing a fecond Benefit on them, has relinquifhed the profits of "Cymbeline" to Mr. Woolls and taken his night in return." This indicates that the previous benefit was not an entire failure, as it yielded enough to satisfy the claims of Mr. Woolls, who would not expect as profitable a result as one so eminently a favorite as Mr. Hallam. The entertainments on this occasion were — The Orphan of China. Zamti Mr. Douglass. Zaphimri Timurkan Hamet . Hallam. Henry. Wall. Mirvan. Morat . Octar . MandaDe and Captain O'Blunder Doctor Clyster Doctor Gallipot . Cheatwell . The Brave Irifhman. Mr. Henry. " Hallam. " Douglass. " Wall. Tradewell Marquis Lucy Betty . May 23d, Benefit of Mrs. Douglafs. Jane Shore. Hastings Gloster . Dumout Mr. Hallam. " Morris. " Wall Delmour . Jane Shore Alicia . Mr. Morris. " Tomlinson. " Greville. Miss Cheer. Mr. Morris. " Roberts. Miss Hallam. " Wainwright. Mr. Wall. Mrs. Douglass. Miss Cheer. A Cantata from Sappho, by Mr. Woolls. Song, " 'Twas when the seas were roaring " Miss Hallam. and Mifs in her teens, with call: of May 2d. May 26th, Mr. and Mrs. Wall's benefit. The Provoked Hufhand. LordTownly . . Sir F. Wronghead Manly . . . . Squire Richard . Count Bassett Mr. Hallam. " Morris. " Douglass. " Woolls. " Wall. John Moody . Lady Townly . Lady Grace . Lady Wronghead Miss Jenny May 30th, Mr. Tomlinfon's benefit. The Gamefter. Beverly Mr. Hallam. Stukely " Douglass. Lewson " Wall. Dawson 14 Woolls. Dates . . Mrs. Beverly Charlotte . Lucy . . Mr. Tomlinson. Miss Cheer. Mrs. Harman. Miss Wainwright. " Hallam. Mr. Tomlinson. Miss Cheer. " Hallam. " Wainwright. 54: RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. and The Devil to Pay. Jobson Mr. Tomlinson. | Nell Miss Wainwbiqht. Doctor .... Mr. Robbins, his first appearance on the stage. June 2d, laft night of the feafon. Benefit of Mr. Douglafs. The Earl of EfTex. Essex Mr. Hallam. , Queen Elizabeth . . Mrs. Harman. Southampton .... " Douglass. Rutland .... Miss Cheer. Burleigh " Morris. Nottingham ... " Hallam. Fanny, the Phantom ; or the Cock-Lane Ghoft. The Orator and Peter Paragraph Mr. Wall. Justice Mr. Wools. I Shadrach .... Mr. Morris. Counsellor .... " Tomlinson. | Irish Sergeant . . " Douglass. and Catharine and Petruchio. A recess of several months was followed by the announce- ment that the " American Company," as Douglass' corps had been called during the previous season, would reappear in the John Street Theatre on the 9th of January, 1769, in a favorite comedy, and other entertainments. On the 16th of January "King John" was acted for the first time in New York, with the following cast : King John .... Mr. Douglass. Paudulph .... Mr. Morris. Falconbridge .... " Hallam. Chatillon .... " Raworth. Hubert " Henry. Melun " Woolls. Earl Pembroke ..." Tomlinson. Prince Arthur . . Miss M. Storer. Earl Salisbury ..." Parker. Prince Henry . . Mrs Harman. Robert Falconbridge . " Roberts. Queen Elinor ... 41 Douglass. King Philip .... " Bterlt. Lady Constance . . Miss Cheer. Dauphin " Wall. Lady Falconbridge . " Storer. Austria " Darby. Blanche of Castile " Hallam. On the 30th, Aaron Hill's tragedy of " Zara" was played for the first time ; and February 3d, the " English Merchant," a play by Colman, was brought out, with small success. March 3d. Miss Wainwright made her first appearance this season as Polly in the " Beggars' Opera," with Mr. Hallam for the first time as Capt. Macheath. March 17th. " By particular desire of the Grand Knot of the friendly Brothers of St. Patrick;" "The Busy Body," and the " Brave Irishman with the Charter song, by Mr. Woolls. March 28th. For the entertainment of the R. W. Grand Master, the M. W., and brethren of the ancient and honorable Society of Free and Accepted Masons; "The Tender Hus- band," and the " Upholsterer." April ioth. "Othello." " The charafter of Othello to be attempted by a Gentleman, affifted by other gentlemen in the characters of the Duke and Senators of Venice, from a benevo- lent and generous defign of encouraging the Theatre, and re- lieving the performers from fome embaraflments in which they RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 55 are involved. With a new fet of Scenes. To this was added a fong by Miss Maria Storer; an Italian Song, by Miss Hallam ; and the farce of" Flora, or Hob in the Well." "The Boxes and Pit to be laid together, at 8 millings." There is good reason to suppose that the gentleman who enacted Othello on this occasion, was Major MoncriefF of the British army, as he played the character on the 27th of March, 1778, in the then so-called " Theatre Royal" in New York, when allusion was made to his having played it to a crowded audience, some years ago in this city. What the difficulties were under which the performers were laboring, is not mentioned, but Dunlap supposes that the season was not a prosperous one. May 1st. Benefit of Miss Storer and Miss M. Storer ; " Jane Shore" and the "Devil to Pay." "Tickets as usual, and of Miss Storers, in Horse and Cart Street, facing the Church," probably the Dutch Reformed, corner of William and Fulton Streets. May 25th. Benefit of Mrs. Douglass; "Richard 3d."— "A Lecture on Heads," by Mr. Douglass — Songs, " Thro' the Wood, laddie," by Miss Wainwright; and "Vain is beauty's gaudy flower," by Miss Hallam ; with the farce of " Love a la mode." "As Mrs. Douglass's ill state of health prevents her waiting on the ladies, she humbly hopes they will excuse her personal application, and favour her with their company.' This does not correspond with the announcement made by Mrs. Douglass, February 1st, 1762. May 29th. Mr. Hallam's benefit ; " The Constant Couple," and first time, Dibdin's farce of " The Padlock," in which the beneficiary made a tremendous hit as Mung-o. June loth. Benefit of Messrs. Parker and Byerly, and, ad- vertised as the last night of the season. Not acted in sixteen years, the "Drummer;" "Alexander's Feast," recited by Mr. Byerly ; and the " Padlock." One night more was added, and the season terminated, on the 17th of June, with " Love for Love," and (sixth time) the " Padlock." The company does not appear to have again played in New York until 1773. CHAPTER V. John Street Theatre, 1773— Military Thespians, 1777-1781. H E last theatrical season anterior to the Revolu- tion, and the last of Mr. Douglass's management in New York, was thus announced in the newspaper of April 12th, 1773 : " Theatre. By permiflion of his Excellency, the Governor, (Tryon) By the American Company, On Wednefday next, being the 14th of April, 1773, The Theatre in John St. will be opened with A Comedy, An Occafional Prologue, A Farce, and Entertainments which will be expreffed in the Bills of the day. Doors open at 5 o'clock. Play to begin precifely at J paft 6. Places in the Boxes may be taken at the Theatre, and it is re- quefted that Ladies and Gentlemen who fend to engage Boxes, would be pleafed to afcertain the number of feats they would have referved for them. Tickets to be had of Mr. Gaine, in Hanover Square, and at the Theatre. Boxes, 8s. Pit, 5s. Gallery, 3s. It may be neceflary to inform the public, that as the feafon is fo very far advanced, it will not be poffible to keep the houfe open longer than the end of May." The entertainments for the opening night have not been ascertained. The company had undergone some changes since its last visit — the names of Mrs. Harman, Miss Wainwright, Mr. and Mrs. Tomlinson, and Mr. Kaworth are no longer in the bills, and in their stead we find Mr. Goodman, Mr. Blackler, Mr. Francis, Miss Richardson, and the second Mrs. Morris. Mrs. Douglass (formerly Mrs. Hallam, and wife of the original RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 57 manager of the company) must now have become quite ad- vanced in years, her name appears but twice during the sea- son — once on the occasion of the joint benefit of her husband and self, and once for her son's benefit. The name of Miss Cheer, hitherto so prominent, is also rarely found. Cumber- land's comedy of the " West Indian" was played for the first time in New York, on the 16th of April. The cast is not given, but we know that Henry played Major OP Flaherty, wherein he was eminently successful, and that Hallam shared the applauses of the town in Belcour. April 19th. "The Clandestine Marriage," cast as before, with the exception of the ladies — Mrs. Morris being now the Mrs. Heidi eber g ; Miss Hallam, Miss Sterling; Miss Storer, Fanny ; and Mrs. Henry, Betty. Dancing by Mr. Francis suc- ceeded, and the farce of the " Padlock" concluded the enter- tainments — Mr. Wall being the Leander ; Mr. Woolls, Don Diego ; Mr. Hallam, Mungo ; Miss Hallam, Leonora ; and Mrs. Morris, Ursula. Mrs. Henry was the Miss Storer of the preceding season, (afterwards Mrs. Hogg) and the present Miss Storer had hitherto been designated Miss F. Storer. The present Mrs. Morris (her first season in New York) was eminent for beauty, if not for talent, and though she appears to have been en- gaged for general usefulness, playing old women and other undesirable parts, finally obtained the position of leading lady, and enjoyed an unmeasured share of public estimation. Dunlap describes her as " a tall, elegant woman, the favorite comedy lady, and the admiration of the public, her acting very spirited." W. B. Wood says that, in 1786, " Mrs. Morris was generally considered the greatest object of attraction. This she owed perhaps to a tall, imposing, well-formed per- son, and a very mysterious manner." He adds, that at a later period he " became satisfied that she had been greatly over- valued — her enunciation was wretchedly imperfect, and her education still worse. She was one of the numerous instances of personal attraction being accepted as a substitute for mental qualifications." The mysterious manner alluded to 8 58 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. in Mrs. Morris was not confined to the stage. She so disliked being seen in daylight, that her husband obtained permission from a neighbor to put up a gate in his garden by which she could pass from her lodgings in Maiden Lane to the theatre without a circuit of Broadway. On her occasionally appear- ing in the public streets, more curiosity and bustle were ex- cited than in later days by a Fanny Kemble, or Jenny Lind. Mrs. Morris seceded from the American Company with Wig- nell in 1792, while still in the height of her popularity. She was on the Philadelphia stage until 1800, when she visited England. She returnd to America, played as lately as 1806, and died in Philadelphia in 1824, aged 72. A portrait of Mrs. Morris, taken in advanced life, graces an edition of dramas published by Lopez & Wemyss, in Philadelphia. April 26th, "KiDg Lear," as before, excepting Mr. Good- man as Kent ; Miss Hallam as Cordelia ; Mrs. Morris, Gone- fil; — and the "Citizen;" Maria, Miss Hallam. Miss Hallam, after a service of twenty years in the company, was at last the leading lady. April 30th. " The Earl of Essex and first time, a comedy by Foote, called "the Buck; or, Englishman returned from Paris." May 3 d, The Stratagem. Archer Mr. Hallam. Foigard " Goodman. Boniface " Byerly. Aimwell " Douglass. Sullen " Henry. Scrub . Lady Bountiful Mrs. Sullen . Dorinda Cherry . . . Mr. Morris. Mrs. Wall. Miss Hallam. " Richardson. Mrs. Henry. and fecond time, Kane O'Hara's celebrated burletta of Midas. Midas Mr. Goodman. Sileno . Damaeteus Apollo . . Jupiter Mars Mercury . Parker. Wall. WOOLLS. Morris. Douglass. Roberts. Pan Mysis . Nysa . Daphne Juno Venus . Diana . Mr. Byerly. Miss Richardson. " Storer. Mrs. Morris. " Wall. " Henry. Mies Hallam. This piece is still occasionally performed with applause. About this period several disturbances occurred in the gal- lery, and the performers on the stage and in the orchestra were repeatedly insulted therefrom. Mr. Douglass gave notice that on a repetition of these insults the gallery would be closed. MRS. SIDDONS After the painting by Sir Joshua Reynolds RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 59 May 14th, Congreve's tragedy of the Mourning Bride. Osmin Mr. Hallam. Manuel " Douglass. Garcia "Henry. Gomales " Morris. Selim " Wall. Alonzo . Heli Zara Almeria Leonora Mr. Byerly. " Parker. Mrs. Morris. Miss Hallam. " Storer. It seems strange now that this play could ever have been popular, yet Zara was one of Mrs. Siddons's most favorite and attractive characters. May 17th, firft time, BickerftafPs opera, The Maid of the Mill. Lord Aimworth . . Sir Harry Sycamore Giles Ralph Fairfield .... Mr. Hallam. ** Goodman. " WOOLLS. " Wall. 44 Douglass. Mervin . . . Lady Sycamore Fanny . Theodosia . Patty . . . Mr. Parker. Mrs. Morris. Miss Storer. " Richardson. " Hallam. This musical drama had been brought out at Covent Gar- den in 1765, and the beauty of its melodies rendered it long a favorite. May 24th, Nat Lee's tragedy of Theodofius. Theodosius Varanes Marcian Leontine - Atticus Lucius ■ Mr. Henry. " Hallam. " Douglass. " Goodman. M Woolls. " Parker. Aranthes Pulcheria Athenais Flavilla Marina Julia and Sharp . Justice Guttle The Lying Valet. Mr. Morris. " Goodman. Melissa Kitty Pry Mr. Wall. Mrs. Morris. Miss Hallam. " Storer. " Richardson. Mrs. Wall. Mrs. Morris. " Henry. Dunlap says that for many years " Theodosius" was a very popular tragedy. The above is the only cast in New York that we have found. Probably it has never been performed during the nineteenth century. June 1 ft, firft time, Garrick's celebrated romance of Cymon and Sylvia. Cymon . Merlin . Linco Dorus . Dorilas . Damon . Mr. Hallam. *' Goodman. " Woolls. " Morris. " Wall. " Byerly. Cupid . Sylvia Dorcas Fatima Urganda Miss Storer. " Hallam. " Richardson. Mrs. Henry. " Morris. June 7th, Cymon and Sylvia ; and, fecond time, O'Brien's farce, called Crofs Purpofes. Grub . . . Francis Bevil Harry Bevil . George Bevil . Chapeau Mr. Goodman. " Douglass. M Henry. " Hallam. " Wall. Robin . Consol . . Mrs. Grub Kmily . Maid . . Mr. Morris. " Byerly. Mrs. Morris. Miss Storer. " Richardson. June 14th, Benefit of Mr. and Mrs. Douglafs. " Richard 3rd," — Miss Cheer appearing as Queen Elizabeth, 60 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Miss Hallam as Lady Anne, Mrs. Douglass as the Duchess of York, and a " Gentleman/' making his entree on the Stage, as the Earl of Richmond, — Hallam, of course, being the " Crook- backed Tyrant." Mr. Douglass delivered a prologue "in char- acter of a Master Mason," and Miss Storer sang "Eileen Aroon." " Midas" concluded the entertainments. June 21ft, Benefit of Mifs Cheer and Mr. Woolls, Milton's celebrated Mafque of Comus. — (Probably for the firft time in America.) Conius .... Elder Brother . Younger Brother First Spirit . . Second Spirit . Mr. Henry. Parker. Goodman. Byerly. Morris. Third Spirit The Lady . Euphrosyne Sabrina . Satyrs . Mr. Woolls. Miss Cheer. " Storer. " Hallam. Mr. Francis, &c. Bacchanals and Bacchantes by the whole company. and . High Life Below Stairs. Miss Kitty *..... Miss Cheer. The last time that " Comus" was revived in New York was at Burton's Theatre in Chambers Street, in 1848, with a very indifferent cast. June 28th, Benefit of Mr. and Mrs. Morris, Rowe's tragedy of Tamerlane. Prince of Tanais By a Gentleman,— His first appearance. Dervise Mr. Morris. Mirvan " Blackler: Zamor " Parker. Selima Miss Hallam. Arpasia Mrs. Morris. Tamerlane Mr. Douglass, Bajazet M Hallam. Moneses '* Goodman. Omar " Henry. Haly " Byerly. and, never played in America, Garrick's farce of The Irifh Widow. Sir Patrick O'Neal ... Mr. Goodman. I Whittle Mr. Byerly. Kecksy " Morris. Bates " Blackler. Nephew " Wall. Widow Brady .... Mrs. Morris. July 1 ft, MefTrs. Hallam and Goodman's benefit, The Conftant Couple. Sir Harry Wildair . . . Mr. Hallam. I Lady Lurewell . . . Mrs. Morris. Beau Clincher .... t( Goodman. Lady Darling .... " Douglass. Vizard " Byerly. | Angelica ... . Miss Hallam. Recitation— "Bucks have at ye all" Mr. Hallam. and Harlequin Collector. First Harlequin .... Mr. Hallam. Second Harlequin ..." Wall. Clown " Morris. Magician " Woolls. Anatomist Mr. Byerly. Statuary " Douglass. Miller " Goodman. Columbine Miss Hallam. No report of Mr. Goodman's merits has reached us, but it is RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 61 evident that he ranked as high as any gentleman in the com- pany, Mr. Hallam alone excepted, — his list of characters in- cluding Mercutio, Lewson, Kent, Hardcastle, Midas, Sir Harry Sycamore, Sir Patrick O'Neal, Beau Clincher, Foigard, and others of importance. July 1 2th. Benefit of Mr. Roberts and Mifs Richardfon, Jane Shore. Jane Shore [first time] Mrs. Morris. | Alicia Miss Hallam. July 19th. Laft Night of the Seafon. Benefit of MefTrs. Dermot and Francis. The Merchant of Venice. Shylock Bassanio Gratiano Antonio Lorenzo Mr. Hallam. Tubal Mr. Dermot. " Bterlt. Launcelot " Morris. " Hughes. Portia Mrs. Morris. " Henry. Nerissa Miss Richardson. 14 Woolls. I Jessica " Storer. Harlequin Dance Mr. Francis. and The Miller of Mansfield. The King Mr. Henry. | The Miller Mr. Morris. July 26th. The season being extended, a benefit was an- nounced towards the support of the Hospital about to be erected in New York. George Barnwell. Barnwell Mr. Hallam. Blunt Mr. Byerly. Trueman " Goodman. Millwood Mrs. Morris. Thoroughgood .... " Morris. Maria Miss Storer. Uncle " Henry. I Lucy " Richardson. Occasional Prologue By Mr. Hallam. [Written by Rev. Dr. Cooper, Provost of King's College.] and Edgar and Emmeline. Edgar Mr. Hallam. Emmeline Miss Hallam. Florimond " Wall. I Spirits. Miss Storer & Mrs. Morris. " N.B. It is hoped that all who are charitably difpofed, or wifh well to fo laudable and ufeful an undertaking, will countenance this play with their prefence, or otherwife contribute their mite to fo good a work as the providing a receptacle for the fick and needy. It is hoped by the friends of the Hofpital that the moral of the Play to be acted will have fome influence with thofe who are otherwife no friends to the Theatre." The hospital was erected quite out of town, in Broadway, between what are now known as Duane and Worth (formerly Anthony) Streets. 62 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. The following is Dr. Cooper's prologue: " With melting breast, the wretch's pangs to feel, His cares to soften, or his anguish heal ; Wo into peace by pity to beguile, And make disease, and want, and sorrow smile ; Are deeds that nobly mark the generous mind Which swells with liberal love to human kind, And triumphs in each joy to others known As blissful portions added to his own. Small though our powers, we pant with honest heart In pity's cause to bear an humble part ; We gladly give this night to aid a plan Whose object's charity and good to man. " Patrons of charity ! While time endures Be every bliss of conscious virtue yours ! The hoary father snatched from want and pain, Oft to his consort and his youthful train Shall praise the hand that raised his drooping head, When every hope, when every friend had fled, That raised him, cold and naked, from the ground And poured the healing balsam in his wound ; With kindly art detained his parting breath And back repelled the threatening dart of death. The plaintive widow shedding tears of joy, As fondly watching o'er her darling boy, Her anxious eyes with keen discernment trace The dawn of health relumining his face. Shall clasp him to her breast with raptures new, And pour the prayer of gratitude for you. In you, the long lost characters shall blend Of guardian, brother, father, husband, friend ! And sure if bliss in mortal breast can shine That purest bliss, humanity ! is thine. Let not mistaken avarice deplore Each mite diminished from his useless store, — But tell the wretch — that liberal acts bestow Delights which hearis like his can never know. Tell — for you feel — that generous love receives A double portion of the joy it gives, Beams o'er the soul, a radiance pure and even, And antidates on earth, the bliss of Heaven. This night, to youth, our moral scene displays How false, how fatal, are the wanton's ways ; Paints her alluring looks, fallacious wiles, And the black ruin lurking in her smiles ; — RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 63 Bids us the first approach of vice to shun, And claims a tear for innocence undone. While scenes like this employ our humble stage, We fondly hope your favours to engage ; No ribald page shall here admittance claim Which decency or virtue brands with shame ; No artful hint that wounds the virgin's ear, No thought that modesty would blush to hear ; — We ask no patronage — disclaim applause — But while we act and speak in Virtue's cause ; — This is our aim — and while we this pursue, We ne'er can fail of patronage from you." The season closed on the 2d of August with the first per- formance, in New York, of Goldsmith's still highly popular comedy, called " She Stoops to Conquer," thus cast : Mr. Goodman. " Morris. " Henry. " Bterly. 14 Hallam. Hardcastle Sir Charles Marlow Young Marlow . Hastings . . . Tony Lumpkin . and Mask Mr. Byerly. Old Mask 4 * Morris. Freeman " Hughes. Landlord . Diggory . . Mrs. Hardcastle Miss Hardcastle Miss Neville . Mr. Woolls. " Hughes. Mrs. Morris. Miss Hallam. " Storer. The Mufical Lady. Rossini Mr. Roberts. Lady Scrape .... Miss Storer. Sophy " Hallam. The company proceeded to Annapolis and Philadelphia, (where Mrs. Douglass died) and thence to Charleston, where they played until June, 1774. Hallam, Miss Hallam, and Woolls, sailed from Charleston for London, and Douglass re- turned to New York, intending to open in John Street in the fall ; Hallam sending out, either as a substitute for himself, or simply as a desirable recruit, his cousin, Thomas Wignell, who arrived here in October, and who afterwards became celebrated as actor and manager. But on the 24th of October, 1774, the Provincial Congress passed a resolution recommending the suspension of all public amusements, and this recommenda- tion was looked upon as law by all American Patriots. Douglass, knowing that it would be in vain to hope for patronage or support on the continent, embarked with Wig- nell and the rest of the company for the West Indies, where he finally retired from the management, wherein he was suc- ceeded by young Hallam, who ultimately associated with him- self his popular rival, John Henry. 64 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Thus ends the record of professional performances pre- ceding the grand Historical Drama of the American Revo- lution. But while that great work was in progress, and when the British army occupied the City of New York, amateurs were not wanting among its officers to keep the John Street Theatre open, under the title of Theatre Royal. From January, 1777, to June, 1781, performances took place, during stated seasons, for the benefit of various charities, or for private amusement, some of which would have done credit to a regular theatre. Surgeon-General Beaumont and Captain Delancy were the managers, and the latter, assisted by Major Andre, was the principal scene-painter. Among the performers were Majors Williams, Moncrieff, and Andre ; Captains Delancy, Seix, Loftus, Bradden, Phipps, Stanley, Madden, Adye, Fawcet, Hardenbrook, and Shreve, with Lieutenants Pennefeather, Legrange, and Butler, and Mr. Hulett and Son, of Hallam's old company. Colonel Guy Johnson was also at one time as- sociated in the management Dunlap saw several perform- ances of these military Thespians, and has expressed a favor- able opinion of them, but as we do not consider them legiti- mate subjects for our pen, we pass them over without notice. These heroes of the stage, and servants of his most stubborn Majesty, George the Third, wearied of their labors, and aban- doned the boards long before they were compelled to evacuate the city. CHAPTER VI. John Street Theatre, A. D. 1785, (Hallam and Henry, Managers) — Preliminary Performances — Formal Re-opening — William Duniap, 1787-9 — Division of the Company — William Street Theatre, 1790 — Corre's Garden, 1791. TH E records of the New York Stage for the first five years following the close of the Revolution are few and unsatisfactory. The people, who had en- dured so much in their contest with the mother country, were little inclined to welcome those who had neither shared in their sufferings nor hoped for their success. Nor did the players themselves, after the proclamation of peace, hurriedly undertake a journey into the land that (notwithstanding the occasional rebuffs they received) had flowed for them as with milk and honey. They undoubtedly were in dread of a cool reception. At length, however, as if to try the temper of the town, after having spent a few unprofitable months at Phila- delphia, Lewis Hallam, the son of Lewis Hallam, Sen., of 1753, and the successor of David Douglass, arrived in New York with a feeble company, and opened the John Street Theatre on the 24th of August, 1785. The entertainments were an- nounced as a course of lectures by Mr. Hallam, beginnng with a prologue and terminating with a pantomime, to be supported by Messrs. Hallam, Moore, Allen, Lake, Bentley, Durang, Miss Durang, and Mrs. Allen. John Durang was a native of Lan- caster, Pennsylvania, and the first native American who ob- tained reputation on the stage as a dancer. He was born January 6th, 1768, made his first appearance in the profession during the company's late sojourn in Philadelphia, and died 66 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. in that city, March 1822, leaving a numerous family of de- scendants well known to the stage. His sister, Miss Catharine Durang, became the wife of M. Busselott, a French officer, afterwards an artist attached to the American stage. Of the remainder of the corps nothing is known, save that Mr. and Mrs. Allen were the parents of the since eccentrically dis- tinguished Andrew Jackson Allen. The first benefit was that of Mr. Moore, which took place September 20th, when a regular drama was performed for the first time in New York after the Revolution, being the petit comedy of the " Citizen," with Hallam as Young Philpot, Allen as Old Philpot, Moore as Young- Wilding, and Mrs. Allen as Maria. Macklin's farce of " Love a la Mode" is first noticed on the New York stage for Mr. Allen's, benefit, Sept. 23d, with the following cast : Sir Archy McSarcasm . . Mr. Moore. Beau Mordecai .... Mr. Lake. Sir Callaghan O'Rrallaghan " Hallam. Squire Groom " Allen. Sir Theodore Goodchild . . " Bentlet. | Charlotte Mrs. Allen. Mr. Bentley, on the 27th, offered Foote's farce of the "Devil on Two Sticks," cast as follows : Asmodeus, and Doctor Squib Mr. Hallam. Aposem, and Doctor Last " Allen. Julep Mr. Bentlet. I Mrs. Maxwell Mrs. Allen. Camphire " Durang. | Margaret Miss Durang. and, for the firft time, The Flitch of Bacon. Captain Greville .... Mr. Hallam. I Justice Benbow .... Mr. Lake. Captain Wilson " Bentlet. Major Benbow .... " Allen. Tipple " Moore. | Eliza Mrs. Allen. Oa. 4th, Mrs. Allen's night. Thomas and Sally. Thomas Mr. Hallam. I Dorcas Mr. Bentlet. Squire " Moore. | Sally Mrs. Allen. and Catharine and Patruchio. Petruchio Mr. Hallam. Baptista " Bentlet. Hortensio " Lake. Grumio " Allen. Biondello \ VM1tv Tailor \ Mr ' M <>ORE. Catharine Mrs. Allen. Bianca Miss Durang. 0&. 7th, Mr. Lake's night. Lethe. Lord Chalkstone .... Mr. Allen. Tailor " Durang. Charon " Lake. Mrs. Riot Mrs. Allen. JSsop Mr. Bentlet. Mercury > „ MooRE Fine Gentleman | • • • moore. Drunken Man " Hallam. 0£t. nth, Damon and Phillida. Damon Mr. HallaTu. I Mopsus Mr. Bentlet. Corydon " Allen. Cymon " Moore. Areas " Lake. | Phillida Mrs. Allen. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 67 and Crofs Purpofes. Grub Mr. Moore. Consol Chapeau . . George Bevil Allen. Hallam. Bentlet. Harry Bevil Mr. Lake. Francis Bevil " Hallam. Mrs. Grub Mrs. Allen. Emily Miss Dcrano. oa. 14th, The Mock Dodor. Gregory Mr. Allen. Leander " Hallam. Sir Jasper " Bentley. Harry " Lake. Squire Robert Hellebore . Charlotte Dorcas . Mr. Moore. " Lake. Miss Duranq. Mrs. Allen. The performers were frequently obliged to double their characters, and in some instances to treble them, and occa- sionally a female part was represented by one of the opposite sex. Oct. 24th. First performance noticed of Hartson's tragedy, The Countefs of Salifbury. Alwin Mr. Hallam. Raymond " Moore. Morton " Bextlet. Grey Mr. Allen. Countess Mrs. Allen. Eleanor Miss Dcrano. and the first of the long-admired farce of The Ghoft. Sir Jeffrey Constant Captain Constant . Roger .... Clinch .... Mr. Moore. " Lake. " Hallam. " Allen. Trusty Mr. Bentlet. Belinda Miss Duranq. Dorothy Mrs. Allen. The season closed on the 1st of November with the " Busy- body," and " The Mock Doctor." The company presented Mr. Lawrence Embree, one of the Commissioners of the Alms-house, with £40, for the use of the poor, which, at a meeting of the Common Council, present James Duane, Mayor, and Richard Varick, Recorder, held Oct. 14, 1785, was directed to be returned to them, "as the play- house was opened without license or permission of the civil authority, and the acceptance of the donation might authorize a conclusion that the Board approved of the opening of said Theatre." The public, however, had given sufficient encouragement to induce the now regularly installed managers, Hallam and Henry, to bring on the main body of their performers, and on the 21st of November, 1785, the John Street Theatre, newly painted and decorated, was opened with the following bill, of which we present a fac-simile of the original : 68 RECORDS OP THE NEW YORK STAGE. New York, November 19th, 1785. THEATRE. By the Old American Company. On Monday Evening, the l\Ji of November, will be performed, A TRAGEDY, CALLED, THE GAMESTER Beverly, Mr. Henry, Lewfon, Mr. Wignell, Jarvis, Mr. Morris, Dawfon, Mr. Woolh, Bates, Mr. Biddle, And, Stukely, Mr. Harper, Charlotte, Mrs. Harper, Lucy, Mrs. Tuke, And, Mrs. Beverly, > Mrs. Morris. An Occafional PROLOGUE by Mr. HARPER. End of the PLAY, A FLUTE CONCERTO. To which will be Added, An ENTERTAINMENT, Called, LOVE A-la-Mode. Sir Callaghan O'Brallaghan, Sir Archy Macfarcafm, Beau Mordecai, Sir Theodore, And, Squire Groom, The Lady, Mr. Mr. Mr. Mr. Mr. Henry, Biddle, Morris, Woolh, Wignell. Mrs. Morris. The Doors will be open at Half after Five, and the Curtain drawn up precifely at, A Quarter after Six 0' Clock. Places in the Boxes may be taken of Mr. Delamater, at the Box Lobby, every Day, from Ten to Twelve in the Forenoon, and from Four to Five in the Evening ; where alfo TICKETS may be had, and at Mr. Gaine's Book-Store, in Hanover 7 Square. Ladies and Gentlemen are requefted to defire their Servants to take up and fet down with their Horfes Heads towards the Eajl-River, to avoid Confulion ; alfo as foon as they are feated, to order their Servants out of the Boxes. BOX 8s. PIT 6s. and GALLERY 4 s. No P erf on to be admitted behind the Scenes, on any Account whatever, Vivat Refpublica. * * RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 69 The performance called forth the following notice from McLean's Independent Journal : " Laft Monday Evening, the Theatre in this city was opened to one of the moft brilliant and molt numerous audience of ladies and gentlemen that ever yet graced a dramatic performance on this continent. "The play was the 'Gamefter' — the farce 'Love A-la-Mode.' All the parts were acted with great ability by our old acquaint- ance, the long approved and very refpeclable American Company, who received unremitted plaudits from every part of the houfe, which at a vaft expenfe is now repainted, beautified, and illu- minated in a ftyle to vie with European fplendour." The motto over the stage was " Quicquid agunt homines" Of the company, Hallam, Henry, Wignell, Morris, Woolls, and Mrs. Morris were sharers, the others were on salary. Thomas Wignell was the most important stranger. As before stated, he arrived in New York and joined the company before the war, but without performing here, was immediately trans- ferred to the more peaceful and profitable circuit in the West Indies. He now made his first appearance in the characters of Lewson, and Squire Groom. He is described by Dunlap as an athletic man, below the ordinary height, with a slight stoop in his shoulders, handsomely formed limbs, and remarkably small feet. His large blue eyes were rich in expression, and his comedy was luxuriant in humor, but al- ways faithful to his author. W. B. Wood adds, that he was a most amiable and well-mannered man, and that he found in him an invaluable friend and father. Mr. Wignell grew into great favor in New York, and remained a member of the American company until 1791, when, in consequence of some ill-treatment at the hands of Hallam and Henry (principally, we believe, the refusal of a promised furlough to visit his European friends), he left the concern and embarked in an opposition enterprise, for which he secured the finest theatri- cal carps ever then seen in America, and probably never surpassed since. Philadelphia was abandoned to his undis- puted sway, and for several years its stage took precedence of New York in the rank of its performers and the complete- ness and elegance of its appointments. Mr. Wignell there ?0 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. married the celebrated Mrs. Merry (formerly Miss Brunton) on the 1st of January, 1803, and, on the 23d of February fol- lowing, died unexpectedly from the inflammation of a vein in which he had been bled a few days previous, for a determina- tion of blood to the head. He was the son of an old London actor of moderate abilities, contemporary with Garrick, and was about fifty years of age at the time of his death. Harper was next in point of value. Although marked with the small-pox, he was a handsome man, with expressive eyes and fine teeth. He became a favorite in light comedy, and was the original personator in America of Charles Surface. In the year 1800, after an absence of eight years, he returned to New York, but new favorites then occupied his place, and he declined into a lower and broader range of parts. He was last seen here in 1805. His first wife, who appeared as Charlotte, was a very useful actress, and filled a widely diversified range of characters very respectably. Mr. Henry and Mrs. Morris had greatly improved during their absence. The former was now thoroughly capable of leading in either department of the drama, and the - latter soon became the paramount pet of the public. Biddle was merely passable, and Morris and Woolls had declined in abilities and in public estimation. Dunlap says that Hallam introduced to the stage two ladies of the name of Tuke, one after the death of the other. If the Mrs. Tuke in the bill was the first named, nothing is known of her theatrical re- pute — if she was the Miss Tuke who a few years later became Mrs. Hallam, Dunlap describes her at present as young, comely and awkward, but as afterwards improving in beauty and elegance, and ripening into an actress of merit. She was the first American actress who attained celebrity, and this she owed to the assiduous attentions of her husband, whose instructions raised her from comparative worthlessness to a high station in the theatre. She was first known as Mrs. Hallam in 1792, and remained with the New York company until 1806, when she retired with her husband. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 71 The newspapers of the day furnish us with few casts. On the 23d of November, Thompson's tragedy of " Edward and Eleonora," and the " Deuce is in him ," were performed ; and on the 24th, "Venice preserved," and " Catharine and Petru- chio." Dec. 7th, " The Busy Body," and, for the first time, O'Keefe's musical farce of " The Poor Soldier," thus cast : Patrick Mr. Henry. Darby Mr. Wignell. Capt. Fitzroy " Harper. Norah Miss Tike. Derinot " Woolls. Kathleen Mrs. Morris. Wignell's Darby was considered perfect, and for many years few actors were willing to follow him in it. Dec. 16th. Probably for the first time in America, Sheri- dan's brilliant masterpiece — the "School for Scandal," the cast of which we copy from the first American edition. Sir Peter Teazle .... Mr. Hexrt. i Rowley Mr. Woolls. Sir Oliver Surface ... Morris. Moses M Ryax. Joseph Surface .... " Wignell. \ Lady Teazle .... Mrs. Morris. Charles Surface .... " Harper. Lady Sneerwell ... " Williamson. Sir Benj. Backbite . . . Biddle. Mrs. Caudour. . . " Harper. Crabtree " Heard. Maria Miss Tuke. In the estimation of the public, nothing could be finer than the general performance of this comedy, — Henry, Harper, Wig- nell, and Mrs. Morris of course taking the largest share of praise. Its popularity, as is well known, has never abated to the present moment. Dec. 26th. Never performed here, a tragedy by Richard Savage, called " Sir Thomas Overbury." January 11th, 1786. "Jane Shore," and never performed here, a pantomime called " Robinson Crusoe and Harlequin Friday." Robinson Crusoe, Mr. Hallam ; Pantaloon, Mr. Wig- nell ; Columbine, Mrs. Harper. Jan. 1 6th. Hamlet. Hamlet Mr. Hallam. I Ophelia Mrs. Morris. Ghost " Henry. Queen il Harper. The Daily Advertiser of January 21st contained the follow- ing article from Mr. Henry : u A report having prevailed that the fubferiber is author of feveral pieces which have latelv appeared in favour of the Theatre, he begs leave thus publicly to difavow not only being fo, but alfo every knowledge of the writers ; alluring the inhabitants he holds the character of the gentlemen who have thought proper to 72 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. forward the petition for difcountenancing the drama in too refpectable a light, however contrary their fentiments to his intereft, to publifh anything that might give them a fhadow of offence — on this fuppofition — they are acling from their feelings. " Yet ftill he flatters himfelf, the chaftity and morality of the entertainments prefented there, the truly refpe&able audiences that nightly give fan&ion to them — the promifes made the American Company when they left the city in 1775 — their known attachment and affection for their gracious patrons — the number of years they have paffed in their fervice, and the painful idea of depriving 72 innocent perfons employed about the Theatre of their daily bread — will at length remove the veil of prejudice, and the drama appear amply capable of its proper, its original defig- nation, Delectando Pariterque monendo. " John Henry." The italics and capitals are as in the original. At this period some of the city clergy attacked the stage and procured the circulation of a petition for the purpose of putting it down. In consequence, its friends wrote in its de- fence, and some of their productions, it appears, were errone- ously attributed to Henry. A petition, signed by seven hundred names, was finally sent to the Legislature praying for the suppression of the theatre, and was there opposed by a counter petition from names fourteen hundred. The latter stated that the institution was a source of innocent and ra- tional amusement, not more exceptionable than other public amusements, and affording advantages to which no other can pretend. If the exhibitions are contrary to good morals, they are amenable to ordinary law, — if not immoral, the inter- ference of the Legislature would deprive the citizens of that which they wished, and which had been approved of by great and enlightened minds. The Legislature left the theatre un- molested. The following notice was also issued about this time : " The public are refpectfully informed that on account of a number of complaints relative to unfair preference in boxes, many of which have been lately taken without being occupied, the managers ever ready to fhow their attention to the accommoda- tion of their friends and patrons, have adopted a mode to prevent any fimilar infringement in- future, by having tickets for the night, which will be delivered by the box-keeper, on payment, RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 73 to the gentlemen taking boxes, with the number of places par- ticularized ; a meafure which they flatter themfelves will meet with general approbation. Hallam and Henry." January 23d. Never performed here, the "Orphan of China." (It was at least announced in 1768.) February 13th. " The Lyar " advertised for the first time, but not performed on account of illness. This drew forth the following apology : " The public are refpeclfully informed on account of fo many performers being indifpofed, the theatre will not be opened until Monday next, when care will be taken to prevent, if poilible, a reiteration of the difappointments that from ficknefs alone have lately prevailed. Hallam and Henry." Re-opened Monday, February 20th, with the "Fair Peni- tent," and the " Lyar." March 13th. " She Stoops to Conquer ; or, Mistakes of a Night," and, eleventh time, "The Poor Soldier." In the Daily Advertiser of same date appeared the follow- ing : " A Hint to the Managers of the Theatre. A number of your fteady frei-nds who have the profperity of the Theatre at heart, are full in opinion for the benefit of the Houfe, that the character of Tony Lumpkin, in the c Miftakes of a Night,' be performed by Mr. Wignell." The part was in the possession of Mr. Hallam, who proba- bly did not resign it. Again illness forced a closing of the doors, as we learn from the Advertiser of the 17th : " Theatre. The indifpofition of feveral performers, with the prefent ftate of the weather fo unfriendly to their recovery, renders it impoflible to perform the comedy of c She Stoops to Conquer,' this evening — the indulgence of the public is again folicited until Monday next 20th, when it will pofitively be prefented, as in the interim every meafure will be taken to pre- vent a repetition of difappointments equally unfortunate as un- avoidable. Hallam and Henry." April 6th. Marinus Willett, sheriff of the city, acknowl- edges the receipt from Mr. John Henry of " $100 for the use of distressed prisoners in the goal of the city." 10 74 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. April 21st. The "Jealous Wife," and, second time, Mrs. Brooke's beautiful musical drama of " Rosina," with the aid of Miss F. Storer. May 17th. Mrs. Kenna made her first appearance in America as Isabella, in the tragedy of that name. She was an actress of respectable ability, whose talents were neutral- ized by the companionship of a husband and son who proved to be greatly disliked by the audience. They made their first appearance on the 19th, in the comedy of " The Wonder." Don Felix Mr. Hallam. I Lissardo Mr. J. Kenna. Col. Britton " Kenna. | YiolaDte Mrs. Kenna. and The Citizen. Young Philpot Mr. Kenna. I Maria Mrs. Kenna. OldPhilpot " J. Kenna. | May 29th. Mr. Henry's benefit-—" The Maid of the Mill," and " Daphne and Amintor." Fanny, Miss F. Storer ; Patty and Daphne by a young gentlewoman, her first appearance. This gentlewoman proved to be Miss Maria Storer, soon after the third Mrs. Henry, who now made her first appearance since childhood, in 1768. She at once bounded into the favor of the audience, and for several years divided her popularity among the ladies of the company with Mrs. Morris alone. May 31st. Mr. Hallam's benefit— first time, "The Tem- pest," with the mask of " Neptune and Amphitrite." Pros- pero, Mr. Hallam ; Ferdinand, Mr. Harper ; Trinculo, Mr. Henry ; Ariel, Mrs. Morris. With the " Poor Soldier." June 9th. Mrs. Harper's benefit — "The Rivals," for the first time in America, and "High Life below Stairs." No cast of this date has been found to Sheridan's fine comedy. June 16th. Mr. Woolls' benefit — " Love in a Village," and " Comus." Rosetta, and the Lady, by the gentlewoman who played Patty for the benefit of Mr. Henry. June 22d. " The Rivals," and " Thomas and Sally." Mrs, Malaprop, and Sally by Mrs. Remington, her first appearance in America. July 6th. " Love in a Village." Rosetta, Mrs. Remington, again announced as her first appearance. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 75 July 14th. Mr. Biddle's benefit—" As you Like it." Ro- salind, with the epilogue, Mrs. Kenna. July 21st. Mr. and Mrs. Harper's benefit, and last night of the season. " Alexander the Great," and " The Poor Soldier" for the eighteenth time, a run unprecedented at this period in New York. The company played successively at Baltimore, Richmond, and Philadelphia, returning to New York in February, 1787, Hallam and Henry advertising a re-opening in John Street for the 12th of the month; but the baggage of the company being detained on the road at Amboy, a postponement took place until the 14th, when the comedy of the " Provoked Hus- band," and the farce of " Miss in her teens," were performed. On the 16th, the "West Indian" was performed, with Henry and Hallam in their original parts, Mrs. Morris as Charlotte Rusporl, and the first appearance in America of Mrs. Giffard as Lady Rusport. The lady was attached to the company during the season, but was never admired. Nothing further of interest transpired until the 28th, when O'Keefe's long- popular musical farce of the " Agreeable Surprize " was first performed, with Mr. Kenna as Sir Felix Friendly, Mr. J. Kenna as Lingo, Mr. Woolls as Compton, Mrs. Giffard as Mis. Chesh- ire, Mrs. Kenna as Laura, and Miss Tuke as Cowslip. March 12th. First time in eighteen years, " Cato." Cato, Mr. Hallam ; Marcia, Mrs. Morris ; Semphronius, by a gentle- man, his first appearance on the stage. He afterwards joined the compmy as Mr. Smallwood, proving but a feeble addition to its strength. March 23d. Mrs. Harper played Jane Shore, with Mrs. Kenna as Alicia. March 30th. Mr. Hallam as Alexander the Great, and first time in New York, Macklins farce of the " True-born Irish- man ; or, the Irish Fine Lady." CouDt Mushroom .... Mr. Wiqsell. I Murrough O'Dogherty. . . Mr. Hinrt. Counsellor Hamilton ..." Harper. Mrs. Diggerty Mrs. Morris. Lady Bab Frightful Mrs. Giffard, a character for which the critics said her personal appearance specially well adapted her. 76 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. On the 16th of April, the first public performance in a regular theatre of a play written by a citizen of America took place. Other dramas had been written — one, a tragedy, by Thomas Godfrey, of Philadelphia, entitled the "Prince of Parthia," had been published in 1765; and another, by Barnaby Bidwell, entitled the "Mercenary Match," had been enacted by the students of Yale College, under the superin- tendence of its President, the Rev. Dr. Ezra Styles, but none had as yet been performed by professional comedians. The piece was announced as a comedy, in five acts, by a citizen of America, and entitled the " Contrast," the cast as follows : Jonathan Mr. Wignell. Col. Manly " Hallam. .Tessamy " Biddle. Dimple" " Harper. Von Rough " Morris. Servant . . Charlotte Manly Maria . Letitia . . . Jenny . . . Mr. Lake. Mrs. Morris. " Harper. " Williamson. Miss Tuke. Dunlap says that it was deficient in plot, dialogue and inci- dent, but that the character of Jonathan displayed a degree of humor and knowledge of Yankee dialect, which in the hands of Wignell, caused it to be highly relished by the audience. It was played four times during the season. Its author was Royal Tyler, a native of Massachusetts, and afterwards Chief- Justice of the State of Vermont, where he died in 1825, at the age of seventy. May 7th. Mr. Hallam's benefit — Macbeth, by Mr. Hallam ; and, never performed here, Pilon's farce of the " Deaf Lover." May 18th. Mr. WignelPs benefit: Tickets to be had of him at No. 6 Maiden Lane. " Alexander the Great," and, never yet performed, a farce by the author of the "Contrast," called " May-day in Town ; or, New York in an Uproar." Pro- logue by Mrs. Morris. The entertainments were postponed until the next day, when the " Recruiting Officer" was substi- tuted for " Alexander the Great." May 23d. Mrs. Kenna's benefit— "All in the Wrong." Sir John Restless .... Mr. Henry. I Lady Restless Mrs. Kenna. Beverly " Hallam. [ Belinda " Morris. June 1st. Mr. Henry's benefit — first time, Sheridan's opera of the " Duenna ;" Don Jerome, Mr. Henry. With the opera of " Selima and Azor," by Sir George Collier ; Azor % Mr. Hen- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 77 ry; Scander, Mr. Harper; Fatima, Miss Tuke; and Selima, by a "gentlewoman," her first appearance this season. June 6th. Mrs. Morris's night — "The Fashionable Lover;" Augusta Aubrey, Mrs. Morris. An epilogue, in the character of Nobody, by Mr. Wignell, and, first time, Foote's celebrated farce of the " Author ;" Gadwallader, Mr. Hallam ; Mrs. Cad- wallader, Mrs. Morris. June 8th. Mr. Hallam's name was presented a third time for a benefit, with the "Fashionable Lover," — his previous ones having been unsuccessful. The season, which had not been a favorable one, terminated on the 9th, with the same bill. After a recess of more than six months, the John Street Theatre was re-opened on the 21st of December, 1787, with a prose tragedy, by Mr. Cumberland, called the "Mysterious Husband," and the farce of the " Deserter." " Meflrs. Hallam and Henry refpe&fully inform the public .that in compliance with the withes of many refpec~table patrons of the Theatre, there will be only two nights performance in a week, viz. Mondays and Thursdays, and on Aflembly week Mondays and Fridays. Vivat Refpublica" January 2d, 1788. "The Clandestine Marriage," and "The Guardian." Heartly, Mr. Hallam ; Harriet, Miss Tuke. January 14th. "Meflrs. Hallam and Henry refpe&fully in- form the public that there will be a performance on Monday, Wednefday and Friday of the enfuing week. Their late fevere vifitation and confequent heavy expenfe, induce them to folicit the attention of their friends and patrons to thofe three nights, which by enabling them to difcharge part of the debt unavoidably incurred, will add to the many favors they gratefully acknowledge to have received from a generous and indulgent community." We have not learned the nature of the visitation alluded to. January 16th. " The Earl of Essex." Countess of Rutland, Mrs. Morris. January 18th. " The Maid of the Mill." Patty, Mrs. Henry (formerly Miss M. Storer), now a regular member of the com- pany. February 11th. "The Earl of Essex," and the "Country Madcap." The Madcap, Mrs. Morris. February 25th. First performance in New York of General 78 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Burgoyne's comedy of the " Heiress." From the commenda- tions of the press we learn that Mrs. Morris was the represent- ative of Lady Emily, Mrs. Harper of Miss Allscrip, and Miss Tuke of Miss Alien. Of the cast of gentlemen we are not informed. March 10th. " She Stoops to Conquer," and " Selima and Azor," in which Mrs. Henry sung the celebrated bravura, " The Soldier tired of War's Alarms." The theatre was then closed until Easter. April 7th. Mrs. Henry's benefit. First time, Mrs. Cowley's comedy of " More Ways than One." Evergreen, Mr. Henry ; Arabella, Mrs. Henry ; and a grand serious pantomime called the " Convention ; or, the Columbian Father." April 14th. Mr. Harper's benefit. " Henry 4th." Sir John Falstaff, Mr. Harper, in which character he was highly esteemed, but which, unfortunately, on this night he was not permitted to perform, the whole city being wild with excite- ment, and in the height of that outbreak of popular fury known as the " Doctors' Mob." The windows of a dissecting-room in the hospital had been incautiously left open, and some of the subjects, in a mutilated state, exposed to view. This, with the supposition that the graveyards had been violated, so incensed the crowd that the building was broken into, and all con- nected with it threatened with death. Some of the more obnoxious physicians fell into the hands of the populace, but were rescued by the magistrates, and lodged in the jail for safety. The next day the crowd increased in strength, and endeavored, but without success, to force the jail, tearing down its fences, breaking its windows, and vowing destruction to every doctor in the city. Finding all argument useless, and the crowd still increasing in numbers and violence, the mayor, James Duane, who had called to his aid a party of armed citizens, at length gave the order to fire. A prompt response instantly put the rioters to flight, leaving five of their number killed, and seven or eight severely wounded. Mr. Harper's benefit was postponed from day to day, and probably resulted unsuccessfully in the end. KING HENRY IV, PART I Engraved by Adamo from a painting by Krausse (German) RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 79 April 21st. Mr. Wignell's benefit. " Love makes a man," &c. His friends solicited the public patronage on account of illness. April 24th. Mr. Henry's benefit. First time, an original play called the " School for Soldiers ; or, the Deserter." Major Bellamy Mr. Henry. Frederick Mr. Woolls. Capt. Valentine " Hallam. I Clara Mildmay Mrs. Henry. The play was first performed in Kingston, Ja., and was written by Mr. Henry from a French piece called " le Desert- eur." Dunlap afterwards prepared another version, which was performed in 1799. May 8th. Mrs. Morris's night. First time, Hugh Kelly's comedy called the "School for Wives." Mrs. Belville, Mrs. Morris; — Hunting song, "Tally ho," Mrs. Morris. Songs and recitations by Messrs. Wignell, Hallam, Harper, and Woolls, and Mrs. Sewell ; and the comedy of the " East Indian." May 15th. Mrs. Sewell's benefit. The "School for Scan- dal" with a prologue address by Master Sewell, &c. May 23d. Mr. Hallam's benefit, postponed from the 19th. " The Provoked Husband." Lord Townly, Mr. Hallam ; Lady Townly, Mrs. Motris. May 31st. Last night of the season, and benefit of Messrs. Biddle and McPherson. Dunlap says that the benefits proved very unprofitable — probably the result of the " Doctors' Mob" excitement. The company proceeded to Philadelphia, leaving at least two of its members behind. One, Mr. McPherson, was on the debtors' limits of the city. He soon after advertised G. A. Steevens' celebrated Lecture on Heads, in hopes of raising thereby sufficient means to discharge his debts. The other, Mrs. Sewell, announced the opening of a boarding and day- school — teaching reading with propriety, &c. The theatre was not reopened until the 14th of April, 1789, when the "Beaux Stratagem" and the "True-born Irishman" were performed, — with a hornpipe by Mr. Durang. On the 15th of May, the " Careless Husband" and the " Pad- lock" were advertised, but postponed to the 18th, "in conse- 80 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. quence of the indisposition of four performers; but Mrs. Henry being better, the managers flatter themselves there will be no further impediments to the entertainments." Next follow "The Roman Father," " She Stoops to Conquer," " Game- ster," "George Barnwell," "Fashionable Lover," "Heiress," "Richard 3d," "The Contrast," "Who's the Dupe?" (first time) " He would be a Soldier," (first time) " The Duenna," and " The Choleric Man," (for the first time) bringing the date down to the 29 th of June. We find no bills during July and August, but the 7th of September is marked by the production of an original comedy, written by a gentleman of this city, and entitled " The Father ; or, American Shandyism." The prologue, by Mr. Wignell; epilogue, Mrs. Henry. Col. Campbell . Rackett . . . Tattle. . . . Haller . . . Rusport . . . Campley . . Mr. Henry. " Hallam. " Wignell. " Harper. " Biddle. " Woolls. Platoon . . Jacob . . Mrs. Rackett Caroline. . Mrs. Grenade Susanna. . Mr. Ryan. " Lake. Mrs. Morris. " Henry. " Harper. Miss Tuke. It proved successful, and on the 11th was represented for the third time, for the benefit of its author, William Dunlap. Although not his earliest dramatic effort, it was the first per- formed, and was evidently regarded by him, to his latest days, with a degree of fond satisfaction not experienced towards any of his after productions. On the publication of the third edition, it received the enlarged title by which it has since been known, viz., " The Father of an Only Child " William Dunlap was born of respectable parentage, at Perth Amboy, New Jersey, February 19 th, 1766. He early devel- oped a taste for literature and the fine arts, and at the age of seventeen sailed for England, with letters to Benjamin West, for the purpose of studying the arts of design. He returned to America in 1787, and, having been a constant visitant of the theatres of London, had contracted a strong inclination for the histrionic profession, and would probably have donned the sock or buskin, had he not in boyhood had the misfor- tune to lose an eye by the accidental blow of a missile thrown at him in play. He however ventured to attempt the stage RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 81 in the character of a dramatist, and having completed a com- edy called the " Modest Soldier ; or, Love in New York," it was offered to Hallam and Henry, and by them accepted and cast for representation. But its performance was delayed from time to time, as the author finally supposed, because it con- tained no characters well adapted to the talents of Mr. and Mrs. Henry ; and offering another in which those deficiencies were remedied, it was at once accepted, cast, and played as before mentioned, under the title of " The Father," and cer- tainly merited the plaudits which were freely accorded it. Mr. Wignell was so pleased with it, that he requested Mr. Dunlap to write a trifle for his benefit, who thereupon pro- duced a continuation of the " Poor Soldier," which he called " Darby's Return," in which the comedian made a capital hit as Darby. His tragedy of "Leicester" was played in 1794, as well as a sketch written to continue the character of Shelty (from the " Highland Reel"), for Mr. Hodgkinson. In 1795, he brought out his second tragedy, "Fontainville Abbey," and in 1796 produced a musical piece founded on the story of William Tell, entitled the " Archers." In May, 1796, by per- suasion of Mr. Hodgkinson, he became interested in the man- agement of the theatre, and, in the fall of 1798, by the suc- cessive withdrawal of Messrs. Hallam and Hodgkinson, its sole director, which he continued until the spring of 1805, when, becoming bankrupt, — with the true principle of an hon- est man, he gave up every cent of property to satisfy the de- mands of his creditors, and returned in poverty to the place of his nativity. During the years 1810 and 1811, he was again connected with the theatre as assistant-manager, and in 1812 resumed his long-neglected profession of painting. From 1812 to 1816, he was Assistant Paymaster-General to the New York Militia in service of the United States, and after that was again engaged in painting — principally histori- cal or allegorical subjects, several of which were successfully exhibited. He was much interested in the formation of the National Academy of Design, of which he was at one time a promi- 11 82 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. nent officer. In 1834, a complimentary benefit was given him at the Park Theatre, which returned him a handsome sum, and a year or two after, his friends gathered together the most valuable collection of paintings ever then seen in America, which were also exhibited for his benefit. Mr. Dunlap, in addition to nearly fifty dramas, original or translated from the German, most of which will require no- tice in the present work, wrote the life of the celebrated actor, Cooke, — the life of Charles Brockden Brown, — a novel called the "Water Drinker," — a "History of the Arts of Design in America," — and a " History of the American Theatre," the latter two of which are exceedingly interesting and valuable books. Like most dependents on literature for a living, Mr. Dunlap was generally in straitened circumstances, but is rep- resented to have been throughout life an upright, honorable, conscientious, simple-minded man, whose connection with the management of the theatre was formed in the ardent hope of elevating its character, and rendering it the medium not only of amusement, but of instruction to the public — in fact, a school both of manners and morality. He died in New York, September 28th, 1839, aged seventy-three years. September 24th. Mrs. Henry's benefit. First time, an Oc- casional Prelude, respectfully intended as an Eulogium on the American Chiefs who fell in the cause of Freedom; — the recitation and vocal parts by Mrs. Henry, as the Genius of Columbia. A comedy called the " English Merchant," the epilogue by Mr. Wignell and Mrs. Morris, — and, first time, « The Dead Alive." September 28th. For the benefit of Mrs. Morris, an enter- tainment called " An Exhibition of Pictures ; or, the World as it goes ;" the recitation and prologue by Mr. Wignell, with a comedy called the " School for Libertines," and the " Poor Soldier." October 5th. Mr. Harper's benefit. First time in New York, "The Merry Wives of Windsor;" Falstaff, Mr. Harper; with " Barataria ; or, Sancho Panza turned Governor." The benefits of Mr. Woolls, Mr. Henry, Mr. Wignell, Mrs. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 83 Harper, Mr. Morris, Mr. Hallam, and Mrs. Hamilton, followed without producing anything specially noticeable. November 3d. Mrs. Williamson's benefit. The " School for Wives," and the " Fair Americans." Postponed to the 5th, with the "Provoked Husband," a comic dance by Mr. and Mrs. Durang, and the "Fair Americans." Again postponed, with a positive assurance of its taking place on the 9th, with the "Maid of the Mill," "Half an hour after Supper," and the " Fair Americans." November 24th. Mr. WignelPs benefit. " The Toy," the " Critic," and, first time, Dunlap's sequel to the " Poor Soldier," entitled " Darby's Return." Darby Mr. Wiqnell. I Clown. . . . . . . Mr. Ryan. Dermot . " Woolls. Kathleen Mrs. Morris. Father Luke " Biddle. Old Woman " Hamilton. Washington, then dwelling in New York as President of the United States, who frequently attended the theatre, and with whom Wignell was a great favorite, honored this benefit with his presence. The last night of the season was advertised for Dec. 4th, as a benefit to Mr. Morris, but the time was extended, and its termination did not take place until the 9th. This was the last theatrical season in New York that the American company remained intact and undivided. At its close, Philadelphia and Baltimore were visited, and nearly two years elapsed before its return to the city, previous to which Mr. Wignell and Mr. and Mrs. Morris had withdrawn. The former had long been at variance with Henry, who was no doubt jealous of his superior attractiveness, for Wignell was emjmatically the favorite of the public ; and Mrs. Henry, although fitful and capricious, had become a formidable rival to Mrs. Morris, who was probably anxious for a separate sphere of action. Wignell had expected a share in the man- agement, — it was now denied him. He had been promised an appointment as agent to England for the engagement of ad- ditional artists. This also was refused him, on the plea that the business of the theatre could not go on during his ab- sence. Wignell probably felt his own importance to the com- 84 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. pany, and supposed that it could not do without him, and that he could command his own terms therein. These not being complied with, he, with Mr. Reinagle, of Philadelphia, undertook the establishment of a separate company — an en- terprise which, although in every department reflecting the highest credit on his artistic taste, involved him in expenses and embarrassments which were a continued source of pain and anxiety until his death. Mr. Henry soon after visited England, and brought over Hodgkinson, whose merits caused poor Wignell's absence to be unregretted, if not unnoticed — so transient is popular favor. Dunlap says that this important division of the American company took place in 1792. It must have occurred earlier. We have a file of original play-bills of the John Street Thea- tre, running from Oct. 13th, 1791, to May, 1792, in which the names of Wignell and Morris are not once found. In February and March, 1790, dramatic entertainments were given at No. 14 William Street, but we find no record of plays or performers. Admission to front seats was 4s. ; back seats, 3s. May, 1791. Mr. Corre opened a theatre in his gardens, State Street, facing the Battery, with the " Beaux Stratagem" and « Lying Valet." Box, 6s. Pit, 4s. Gallery, 3s. CHAPTER VII. John Street Theatre, 1791-2. H E John Street Theatre was announced for re-open- ing by its managers on the 5th of October, 1791 ; but, on account of the death of a performer, (probably Mrs. Harper) a postponement took place until the 10th. The entertainments consisted of an opening prologue by Mr. Hal- lam, followed by the tragedy of " Douglas." Young Norval Mr. Martin. I Glenalvon Mr. Harper. Old Norval . .... " Henry. Lady Randolph . . . Mr3. Henry. Lord Randolph " Hallam. | Anna " Hamilton. Dancing- by Mr. Duranq. and High Life below Stairs. Lovel Mr Hallam. l Miss Kitty MissTuKE. Lord Duke " Harper. Lady Charlotte . . Mrs. Gray. Sir Harry " Henry. Lady Bab " Rankin. John E. Martin, who made his first appearance on this occasion, was a native of New York, but had lately made a successful debut in Philadelphia. He was young, of fair com- plexion, rriddle height and light figure, well educated, and had been intended by his friends for the profession of the law. He became an industrious, untiring and extremely use- ful member of the company, of which he was for several seasons assistant stage-manager. Never attaining eminence in his profession, though always respectable, he toiled on, rarely escaping a character in any piece that was presented, until a lingering consumption claimed him for the grave. He died in New York, April 18th, 1807, aged thirty-seven. Of Mrs. Gray, little or nothing is known. Mrs. Rankin was 86 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. a member of the company for several seasons, playing old women and other characters of comedy. The next bill that we find is that of Oct. 13th, which brings the whole company into requisition. The Clandeftine Marriage. Lord Ogleby . Sterling . . Sir John Melvil Lovewell . Canton . . . Brush . . . Sergt. Flower . Mr. Hallam. " Henry. " Martin. " Harper. " Ryan. " Robinson. " Woolls. Trueman . . Traverse . . Mrs. Heidleberg Miss Sterling Fanny Betty . . . Nancy and Flora ; or, Hob in the Wei Mr. Hammond. " Vaughan. Mrs. Rankin. " Henry. Miss Tuke. Mrs. Hamilton " Gray. Oct. 17th. Never performed here — a play in 5 ac~ts, written by a citizen of the United States (acted at Philadelphia and Balti- more with great applaufe) called The Widow of Malabar ; or, the Tyranny of Cuftom. Montalban . High Priest . Old Bramin Young Bramin and Mr. Hallam. " Henry. " Ryan. " Harper. French Officer Messenger Lanista . Fatima . . Prologue (written by J. Trumbull, LL.D.) Epilogue Mr. Hallam. Mrs Henry. Mr. Martin. " Robinson. Mr\ Henry. Miss Tuke. The Miller of Mansfield. Miller Mr. Hallam. King " Henry. Lord Lurewell .... " Martin. Richard Mr. Harper. Joe " Woolls. Peggy Miss Tuke. The new play was not very successful. It was a translation from the French, by Col David Humphreys, a native of Con- necticut, and a graduate of Yale, as well as an officer of the Revolution, and subsequently ambassador to Portugal and Spain. He was born in 1753, and died in 1818. Oa. 19th, The Weft Indian. Belcour Mr. Hallam. Vaughan. Henry. Harper. Stockwell . . . Major O'Flaherty. Charles Dudley . and Inkle Mr. Harper. Lady Rusport .... Mrs. Hamilton. Charlotte Rusport ... " Henry. Louisa Dudley .... Miss Tuke. Mrs. Fulmer Mrs. Rankin. Inkle and Yarico. Sir Christopher Curry Campley .... Medium .... Trudge Henry. Martin. Vaughan. Hallam. Yarico Miss Tuke. Wowski Mrs. Rankin. Narcissa " Gray. Fatty " Hamilton. oa. 24th, Othello. Othello . Iago . . Cassio . Brabantio and Young Philpot Mr. Henry. " Hallam. " Harper. " Martin. Roderigo . Montano . Desdemona Emelia Mr. Robinson. " Vaughan. Mrs. Henry. " Rankin. The Citizen. Mr. Hallam. | Maria Mrs. Henry. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 87 oa. 26th, The Wonder. Don Felix ...... Mr. Hallam. Col. Britton " Henry. Don Pedro " Heard. Frederick " Woolls. Gibby " Bisset. Liasardo Violante Isabella Flora . Inis and Skirmish Russett . Henry . Flint The Deferter — by Dibdin. Mr. Hallam. " Woolls. " Harper. " Vaughan. Simpkin Louisa . Jenny . Margaret Mr. Harper. Mrs. Henry. Miss Tore. Mrs. Rankin. M Hamilton. Mr. Martin. Mrs. Gray. " Rankin. " Hamilton. and Oft. 31ft, The Devil to Pay. Romeo and Juliet. Romeo Mr. Mercutio Capulet " Friar Laurence .... " Benvolio " Hallam. Harper. Henry. Vauqhan. Martin. Tibalt Mr. Hammond. Peter Apothecary Ryan. Heard. Juliet Mrs. Henry. Nurse and Clerimont . Capt. Cape. The Old Maid. Mr. Hallam. " Henry. Harlow . . Miss Harlow . Nov. 2d, Aubrey . Lord Abbeville Mortimer . Tyrrell . . . Bridgemore The Fafhionable Lover. Mr. Henry. " Harper. " Hallam. Martin. " Woolls. Colin McLeod Dr. Druid. . . . Augusta Aubrey Mrs. Bridgemore . Lucinda Bridgemore and O'Keefe's farce, The Prifoner at Large. Lord Esmond Jack Conner Old Dowdle Minis . . Fripon . Mr. Harper. " Martin. '• Henry. " Hallam. " Ryan. Father Frank Tough . . Rachel , Adelaide . Mary Nov. 7th, The Duenna. Hamilton. Mr. Harper Mrs. Rankin. Mr. Bisset. " Heard. Mrs. Henry. " Rankin. Miss Tuke. Mr. Woolls. " Heard. Mrs. Henry. Miss Toke. Mrs. Hamilton. Don Jerome Carlos . . . Ferdinand . . Antonio Isaac Mendoza Mr. Henry. By a Gentleman. Mr. Harper. " Woolls. " Martin. Father Paul Lopez . . Clara . . Louisa Margaret . and Jofeph Reed's farce, called the Regifter Office. Capt. LeBrush Gulwell. . . Irishman Mr. Harper. Scotsman " Robinson. j Williams " Henry. Nov. 1 2th, The School for Scandal. Mr. Ryan. " Bisset. Mrs. Henry. " Rankin. " Hamilton. Mr. Ryan. " Woolls. Sir Peter . Sir Oliver . Joseph . Charles . Sir Benjamin Mr. Henry. M Heard. " Hallam. " Harper. u Martin. Moses . Lady Teazle . Lady Sneer well Mrs. Candour Maria . . . Mr. Ryan. Mrs. Henry. " Hamilton. " Rankin. Miss Tuke. and Pilon's farce of the Invafion ; or, a Trip to Brighthelmftone. Sir John Evergreen . Charles Chameleon .... Beaufort .... Sergt. Drill . . . Mr. Henry. Tattoo Mr. Robinson. " Hallam. Lady Catharine Rouge Mrs. Rankin. " Harper. Emily 11 Gray. " Martin. Brussells " Hamilton. 14 Hammond, i Sally Miss Tuke. 88 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Nov. 18th, Zara. Osmyn Mr. Hallam. Lusignan " Henry. and, firft time, a farce called As it Should be. Nerestan Zara . Mr. Harper. Mrs. Henry. Lord Megrim Fidget . . Winworth . Mr. Harper. i Sparkle Mr. Heard. " Henry. Lucy Mrs. Hamilton. " Martin. Celia Miss Tuke. Nov. 23d, Beaumont and Fletcher's comedy, The Chances. Don John Mr. Hallam. i Peter . . . Don Frederick .... " Harper. Anthony . . Anthonio " Henry. 1st Constantia Duke " Martin. | 2d Constantia Petruchio " Hammond. | Mother-in-law Pedro " Woolls. Landlady and O'Keefe's farce, The Dead Alive. Sir Walter Weathercock Motley Edward Dennis Mr. Henry. " Hallam. " Harper. " Hammond. Humphrey . Miss Hebe Winthrop Caroline .... Comfit Nov. 28th, and, firft time, Dennis Dougherty Sir Harry Trifle . . Tom The Famionable Lover ; a farce called The Divorce. Mr. Henry. Martin. Harper. Lady Harriet Trifle. Mrs. "Aniseed. Biddy Dec. 5th. Richard 3d. Richard Mr. Henry 6th " Hallam. Henry. Richmond . Queen Elizabeth and the pantomimical romance of Robinfon Crufoe. Robinson Crusoe Friday . Captain . . Pantaloon . Mr. Ryan. " DURANG. " Woolls. " Heard. Petit Maitre . ■ . . Pierrot Pantalina Pantaloon's Daughter . Mr. Heard. " Durang. Miss Tuke. Mrs. Henry. " Rankin. " Hamilton. Mr. Martin. Mrs. Hamilton. Miss Tuke. Mrs. Henry. Miss Tuke. Mrs. Rankin. " Hamilton. Mr. Harper. Mrs. Henry. Mr. Hammond. " Harper. Mrs. Rankin. " Gray. Dec. 7th, The Tempeft. Prospero Ferdinand Hippolito Alonzo . Stephano Trincalo. Caliban . Mr. Hallam. Harper. " Martin. " Heard. " BlSSET. " Henry. " Ryan. Antonio Gonzalo Sycorax Ventoso Mr. Robinson. " Hammond. " Durang. " Vaughan. Ariel Mrs. Henry. Miranda " Hamilton. Dorinda Miss Tuke. 1 2th. Dec. Recefs ; or alteration.) Don Carlos. . Don Guzman . Muscato . . Don Ferdinand Don Pedro . . firft time, Bickerftaff's comedy, called The the Mafked Apparition. — (Probably Kemble's and Lord Duke . . . . Dec. 14th, and, firft time Crumpy . . Crossleg . . Bassa of Bagdad Crank . . . Mr. Harper. " Henry. " Hallam. " Martin. " Hammond. High Life Mr. Harper. Lazarillo Marcella Beatrice Leonarda Aurora below Stairs. I Miss Kitty . . Mr. Ryan. Miss Tuke. Mrs. Henry. " Rankin. " Hamilton. Miss Tuke. The Gamefter; in America, O'Keefe's farce of The Little Hunchback. Mr. Heard. Dr. Quinquina . . . Mr. Robinson. " Harper. Absalom " Martin. " Hallam. I Dora Miss Tuke. " Henry. ' Juggy • • . Mrs. Rankin. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 89 Jan. 2d, 1792, The Bufy Body ; Marplot Mr. Hallam. Miranda Mrs. Henry. Sir Francis Gripe ..." Heard. Isabinda Miss Tuke. Sir George Airey. ..." Harper. Patch Mrs. Hamilton. and The King of the Genii. King Mr. Woolls. Harlequin " Martin. Clown " Harper. Pantaloon " Ryan. Porter Mr. Durang. Chairman " Bisbet. Columbine (1st time) . . Miss Tuke. Attendant Mrs. Rankin. Jan. 30th, She Stoops to Conquer ; Hardcastle Mr. Henry. ^Irs. Hardcastle. . . . Mrs. Hamilton. Young Marlow .... " Harper. Miss Hardcastle. ... " Henry. Tony Lumpkin .... " Hallam. | Miss Neville Miss Tuke. and Neck or Nothing. Slip Mr. Hallam. I Mrs. Stockwell .... Mrs. Rankin. Belford " Martin. | Jenny Miss Tdke. Feb. 1 ft, The Gamefter ; and, never performed here, Jackman's farce, called All the World 's a Stage. Diggory Mr. Harper. | Sir Gilbert Pumpkin . . Mr. Henry. Charles Stanley .... " Hallam. Miss Bridget Pumpkin Mrs. Hamilton. Harry Stukely .... " Martin. | Kitty Sprightly .... Miss Tuke. February 3d. After the comedy of the " Clandestine Mar- riage," Monsieur and Madame Placide and troupe made their first appearance in New York, in a variety of feats on the tight-rope, and in the ballet of the "Two Philosophers." Alexandre Placide was the most graceful rope-dancer and the finest gymnast that had yet reached America. A French- man by birth, he had acted with applause both in Paris and London, where he had acquired, from his wonderful feats of tumbling, the soubriquet of "the great Devil." Madame Placide was also an admirable dancer and actress in panto- mime, and was for several years an invaluable aid to him. After her death he married, in Charleston, Miss Wrighten, daughter of the actress known in this country as Mrs. Pow- nall, and of James Wrighten, many years prompter of Drury Lane Theatre. By this lady he had a numerous family, among whom were Henry and Thomas Placide, Caroline, (afterwards Mrs. Waring and Mrs. Blake) Eliza, (afterwards Mrs. Asbury and Mrs. Mann) and Jane, who died unmar- ried, all well known to the American stage. Mons. Placide was a man of fine business talents, and for many years mana- ger of the Charleston Theatre, which, under his direction, 12 90 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. ranked with the first establishments in the country. With Messrs. Green and Twaits, he was also manager of the Rich- mond Theatre at the time of its terrible conflagration in 1811, which occurred on his benefit night. He died of yel- low fever in 1812. Feb. 8th, Mons. Placide's benefit. The Wonder. End of the play, Dancing on the Tight Rope, by the little Devil and Mons. Placide. A Collation on the Rope with Table, Chair, Bottle, &c, by the little Devil. Dancing on the Rope with two Boys tied to his feet, and after- wards with two Men in the fame manner ; fpringing through a hoop in different ways, &c, by Mons. Placide. Tumbling, by the little Devil and Mons. Placide. Mons. Placide will balance a Peacock's Feather. Concluding with a Dancing Ballet, called the Return of the Labourers, (with a Sabottiere Dance) by Mons. and Mad. Placide, &c. Feb. 13th, Murphy's comedy, All in the Wrong; Sir John Restless . Beverly . . . Sir Wm. Belmont Young Belmont . Blandford . . . Brush . . . . Mr. Henry. " Hallam. " Robinson. " Harper. '« Ryan. " Woolls. Robert. . . Lady Restless Belinda Clarissa Tattle . Marmalet Mr. Martin. Mrs. Henry. Miss Ti ke. Mrs. Gray. " Hamilton. " Rankin. and, never performed here, The Reftoration of Harlequin Harlequin Mons. Simonet. Pierrot " Placide. Old Man The Little Devil. Feb. 20th, Capt. Crevelt . . . Col. Talbot. . . . Sir Oliver oldstock . Mandeville .... Caleb Lover Mr. Martin. Sorcerer " Woolls. Columbine Mad. Placide. He would be a Soldier. Mr. Harper. " Henry. " Ashton. " Martin. " Hallam. Johnson . . Charlotte . . Harriet . . Lady Oldstock Mrs. Wilkins. Mr. Hammond. Mrs. Henry. Miss Tuke. Mrs. Rankin. " Hamilton. The above was the second appearance of Mr. Ashton, who had made his debut a few nights before as Hotspur. Accord- ing to Dunlap, his only powers were those of voice. Feb. 24th, The Beaux Stratagem j Archer Mr. Harper. Aimwell " Martin. Scrub u Hallam. Foigard " Henry. Boniface " Ryan. Sullen Mr. Ashton. Lady Bountiful .... Mrs. Rankin. Mrs. Sullen " Henry. Dorinda " Hamilton. Cherry Miss Tuke. and, never performed here, a pantomime called Columbine Invisible ; or, Harlequin Junior. Harlequin Junior . . . Mr. Martin. Harlequin Senior ... " Robinson. Old Man Little Devil. Lover Mr. Hammond. Constable Mons. Dumas. Pierrot " Placide. Columbine Mad. Placide. Harlequin's Mother . . Mrs. Rankin. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 91 March 2d, Mrs. Cowley's comedy, More Ways than One. Sir Marvel Mushroom Beliair Evergreen .... Feelove Carlton Mr. Hallam. " Martin. " Henry. M Heard. " Harper. David . . . Arabella . . Miss Archer . Miss Juvenile Mrs. Thompson Mr. Woolls. Mrs. Henry. Miss Tuke. Mrs. Hamilton. " Rankin. March 5th, Mr. Henry's benefit. Selima and Azor ; Prince Azor Ali . . . Scander . . Mr. Henry. Selima Mrs. Henry. " Martin. Fatima MissTuKi. " Harper. Lesbia Mrs. Hamilton. and Songs — 11 Dread Parent of Despair," from the Haunted Tower, and the " Echo Song," from Zemira .... Mrs. Henry. Hippisley's celebrated scene, " The Drunken Man" . . Mr. Henry. The Poor Soldier. Patrick Mr. Henry. March 12th, Mr. Woolls' benefit, King Henry 4th ; Falstaff . . . Henry 4th . . Prince of Wales Hotspur. Northumberland Mr. Harper. " Hammond. " Hallam. " Ashton. " Woolls. Poins . Bardolph . . Carrier Lady Percy . Mrs. Quickly Mr. Martin. " Ryan. " DURANO. Mrs. Henry. " Hamilton. Ballet of the Woodcutters Mons. and Mad. Placide, be. and The Padlock. Don Diego Mr. Woolls. March 14th, Mifs Tuke's benefit, Sheridan's comedy, The Rivals ; Sir Anthony Absolute Capt. Absolute . . Bob Acres .... Sir Lucius O'Trigger Falkland .... Mr. Heard. " Hallam. " Harper. " Robinson. " Martin. David . Lydia Languish Julia . Mrs. Malaprop Lucy . . . Mr. Ryan. Miss Tuke. Mrs. Hamilton. " Rankin. " Gray. Man and Wife ; or, the Shakfpeare Jubilee. and Cross Mr. Harper. Marcourt " Hallam. Col. Frankly " Martin. Kitchen " Ashton. Buck " Hammond. Snarl Mr. Heard. Mrs. Cross Mrs. Hamilton. Lettice " Rankin. Charlotte " Gray. Sally Miss Tuke. March 19th, Mrs. Henry's benefit. Whitehead's tragedy, The Roman Father ; Horatius Mr. Hallam. Publius Horatius .... " Harper. Valerius " Martin. Tullus Hostilius . Horatia . . . Valeria . . . Mr. Ashton. Mrs. Henry. " Hamilton. Tight Rope Mons. Placide. and Rofina. Belrille Mr. Harper. Capt. Belville " Woolls. William " Hallam. Rustic ... ..." Ryan. Irishman Rosin a Phcebe. Dorcas. Mr. Martin. Mrs. Henry. •« Gray. " Hamilton. Mr. Henry's name does not appear in the bill for his wife's benefit, nor on any subsequent occasion this season. He had probably already sailed for Europe on his recruiting expedi- tion. 92 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. March 23d, Mrs. Rankin's benefit. The Provoked Hufband ; Lord Townly ... . Mr. Hallam. Sir Francis Wronghead . . " Heard. Manly " Harper. Count Basset w Martin. Squire Richard .... " Woolls. Ballet, Two Philosophers . . John Moody . Lady Townly Lady Grace . . Lady Wronghead Miss Jenny . . Mr. Ryan. Mrs. Henry. " Hamilton. " Rankin. Miss Tuke. . . . Mons. and Mad. Plaoide, &c. and Catharine and Petruchio. Petruchio Mr. Harper. | Catharine Mrs. Rankin. March 26th, Mr. Martin's benefit. The Bufy Body ; Marplot Mr. Hallam. Sir George Avery ... " Harper. Charles " Martin. Miranda Mrs. Henry. Isabinda Miss Tuke. Patch Mrs. Hamilton. Mons. Placide on the Tight Rope. and the pantomime of Silver Rock. Harlequin Mr. Martin. Pantaloon " Ryan. Clown . . Columbine Mr. Harper. Miss Tuke. April 9th, Mrs. Hamilton's benefit. Never performed here, a comedy called Conftitutional Follies ; or, a Trip to Demarara Capt. Canefield Roebuck . . Rattle . . . Murphy. Doctor . . Coramantee . Mrs. Rattle . Mrs. Canefield Mrs. Heartfree Bina . . . Ballet, The Bird Catcher, with the Minuet de la Cour and Gavotte . . Mons. and Mad. Placide, &c, Mr. Hallam. " Harper. " Martin. " Robinson. " Hammond. Mr. Ryan. Miss Tuke. Mrs. Rankin. " Hamilton " Gray. and The Mufical Lady. Young Mask Old Mask . Mr. Martin. " Heard. Lady Scrape Miss Tuke. Sophy Mrs. Henry. April 13th, Cibber's comedy, Mr. Heard's benefit. Love makes a Man ; Don Lewis Clodio . Carlos . Don Duart Antonio Mr. Heard. u Hallam. " Harper. " Martin. " Robinson. Charino Mr. Ashton. Angelina Mrs. Henry. Honoria Miss Tuke. Elvira Mrs. Hamilton. Louisa " Rankin. Ballet, The Old Schoolmaster grown Young . . . Mons. and Mad. Placide, &c. and The Little Hunchback. Crumpy Mr. Heard. April 27th, Meffrs. Afhton and Durang's benefit. The School for Wives ; Gen. Savage Capt. Savage Belville Torrington Conolly . . Leeson . . Mr. Ashton. " Harper. " Hallam. " Heard. " Robinson. " Martin. Spruce .... Mrs. Belville . . . Lady Rachel Mildew Mrs. Walsingham . Miss Leeson . . Mrs. Tempest . . Mr. Woolls. Mrs. Henry. " Rankin. Miss Tuke. Mrs. Gray. " Hamilton. A Masonic Prologue Mr. Ashton. A Hornpipe " Durano. A Masonic Anthem Messrs. Harper and Woolls. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 93 and, firft time, with new fcenery and machinery, a pantomime, called The Birth of Harlequin ; Harlequin Macaroni Fop . . Dunderpate Dismal Mr. Duranq. Knchanter Mr. W00LL9. w Hammond. Old Man " Ryan. " Harper. Columbine Mad. Placide. concluding with An Eulogium on the Marriage State By Mr. Ashton. May 8th, Mr. Hallam's benefit. Firft time, Mifs Lee's comedy, called The New Peerage ; or, Our Eyes may Deceive us ; Vandercrab . . . Charles Vandercrab Lord Melville Sir John Lovelace . Medley Mr. Hallam. " Harper. " Martin. " Hammond. '• Ashton. Allen Mr. Ryan. Lady Charlotte Courtly . Mrs. Henry. Miss Harley Miss Tuke. Miss Vandercrab . . . Mrs. Rankin. Kitty " Hamilton. Recitation—" Bucks have at ye all " Mr. Hallam. and Rofina. May ioth. Laft performance. Benefit of Meflrs. Heard and Hammond. The New Peerage ; Tumbling, and Slack Rope Exercises ; And Ballet of " Two Philosophers" By the Placide troupe. and (fecond time) a farce written by Mr. Robinfon, of theTheatre, called The Yorker's Stratagem ; or, Banana's Wedding. Banana . Ledger. . Capt. Oakum Fingercash . Governor Frenchman . Mr. Robinson. " Martin. " Ashton. " Heard. " Hammond. " Ryan. Amant Miss Bellange . Louisa Mrs. Banana. Mrs. Fingercash Pressy . . . Mr. Harper. Miss Tuke. Mrs. Henry. " Hamilton. " Rankin. " Gray. Dunlap says that it was received with universal applause. In October, 1792, Mrs. Mechler (formerly Miss Fanny Storer) who had been absent from the stage for several sea- sons, appeared for the first time under her marital designa- tion at a Concert in Corre's Hotel, in conjunction with Mr. and Mrs. Von Hagen and Mr. Saliment. She was announced as a distinguished vocalist from England. CHAPTER VIII. John Street Theatre, 1793. H E powerful reinforcement secured by Mr. Henry during his transatlantic visit, — consisting of Mr. and Mrs. Hodgkinson, Mrs. Pownall, Mr. King, Mr. Prig- more, Miss Brett, Mr. West, Mr. West, Jr., and Mr. Robbins, arrived in America early in the fall of 1792, and immediately proceeded to Philadelphia, whence, after a triumphant season of nearly four months, they were brought to New York for the opening of the John Street Theatre on the 28th of Janu- ary, 1793. The comedy of the "Wonder" had been advertised for the initial performance ; but, owing to the illness of Mrs. Henry, (the representative of Violante) it was postponed, and Reynolds' comedy of the " Dramatist ; or, Stop him who can," performed for the first time in America, with the fol- lowing cast: Vapid Mr. Hodgkinson. I Peter Lord Scratch Ennui Floriville Willoughby Neville . Prigmore. Marianne . . King. Lady Waitfort Hallam. Louisa. Hammond. Letty . . . Martin. Mr. Ryan. Mrs. Hallam. " Hamilton. Miss Brett. Mrs. Rankin. In the afterpiece of the Padlock, Mr. West was Leander, and Mrs. Hodgkinson Leonora. The prices of admission remained as before — 8s., 6s., and 4s. Mr. Faulkner was the treasurer, and attended at the box- office daily, from 10 to 12 a. m., and on the days of perform- ance from 3 to 5 p. m. (for it must be remembered that per- formances took place but three times a week), to wait on those desirous of securing places in the boxes. Mr. Faulkner must have possessed rare business qualifications, for he RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 95 retained the post of treasurer in the establishment for more than thirty years. Mr. Hodgkinson, who made his first appearance in New York as Vapid, was born at Manchester, England, in 1767. His father was an inn-keeper there, named Meadowcraft. He ran away from the trade to which he was apprenticed, took the name of Hodgkinson, and joined the stage, where his natural musical abilities and wonderful powers of memory, and ambition to excel in every department of the drama, soon gained him favor in all the northern towns of England, and in a few years recommended him to a position on the Bath stage, where he was engaged for New York by Hallam and Henry. Probably no performer on the American stage has ever equaled him in versatility and general excellence. Low comedy was his forte, but he was capable of playing tragedy, genteel and light comedy, opera and pantomime, with almost equal ability, and his desire to monopolize the heroes in every department, caused many and bitter quarrels with his professional brethren. In 1794, he bought out Mr. Henry's interest in the estab- lishment, and continued one of its managers until the close of the season in 1798. His bickerings with his partners and managerial successor, caused him, although an immense favorite in New York, to leave the theatre in 1803, and he afterwards played principally in Charleston, S. 0. His death occurred at Washington, D. C, September 12th, 1805, at the age of thirty-eight, from yellow fever, as was generally supposed. One of his friends wrote of his last hours, that "he was in continual agitation from pain and ex- cessive terror of death, and presented the most horrid spec- tacle that the mind can imagine ; he was, as soon as dead, wrapped in a blanket and carried to the burying-field by negroes." From ill associations in early life, without the guidance of friends, he acquired loose ideas of moral duty, which clung to him through life, so that little can be said in praise of his 96 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. domestic morality, his professional honor, or his business integrity. His wife, to whom he was married after his arrival in America by Bishop Moore, (he left one in England, whom he had induced to break her allegiance to his friend Munden) was formerly Miss Brett, of the Bath Theatre, a daughter of Brett, a singer at Covent Garden and Haymarket Theatres. She was a very fair, light-haired, blue-eyed woman, and is represented to have been most lovely and amiable in private life, a devoted wife, a kind and affectionate mother, and on the stage a most excellent and versatile actress — surpassing all her contemporaries (but one) in rustic comedy and singing parts, in chambermaids and soubreltes, and equaling most of them in pathetic tragedy, and the general range of the drama. In value to the theatre she stood second only to her husband. Mrs. Hodgkinson died in New York, of consumption, in Sep- tember, 1803. Mr. King was handsome in face and person, but became dissipated in his habits and negligent of his duties. Under the drilling of Hodgkinson, he frequently rendered a part highly effective, but left to his own j udgment, he was inefficient and unreliable. He died from the effects of dissipation in 1796. Miss Brett's merits entitle her to no consideration. She was the sister of Mrs. Hodgkinson, and soon became Mrs. King. After King's death, she married a German physician, and lived many years in comfortable retirement. Mr. Prigmore, who was advertised for Lord Scratchy (origi- nally played by Quick in London) refused to appear, and Mr. Henry was obliged to read the part. He was not without merit in low comedy, and but for too exalted an opinion of his own abilities, would have proved a useful secondary per- former. He is last remembered here in 1806. Mr. West was principal singer and walking gentleman. He appears to have been in the company for only one season. The name is found in the bills afterwards, but probably belonged to the gentleman now known as West, Jr., whom Dunlap describes as being equal to nobody. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 97 Mr. Robbins was engaged as scene painter and occasional singer. In the former capacity he was connected with the theatre for many years. In the opera of the " Maid of the Mill," represented on the 30th January, Mrs. Kenna made her first appearance in five years, and Mrs. Pownall (formerly Mrs. Wrighten) her debut on the New York stage. She, as well as Mrs. Hodgkinson, had been introduced to the public on the 25th, in a concert at Corre's Hotel, where both were received with rapturous applause. The cast of the opera was as follows : Lord Aimworth. . . . Mr. Hodgkinson. Sir Harry Sycamore . . " Priqmore. Mervyn " West. Fairfield " Ashton. Giles " Woolls. Ralph Mr. Hallam. Lady Sycamore . . . Mrs. Hamilton. Fanny " Kenna. Theodosia " Hallam. Patty u Pownall. Mrs. Pownall was originally a Miss Matthews, and in early life married Mr. James Wrighten, prompter of Drury Lane Theatre. As Mrs. Wrighten she became an immense favorite with the audience of that establishment, in a line of singing characters in which she displayed unusual excellence. Her London reputation, if not that of the most finished vocalist, was certainly that of the best comic singing actress of the day. Pasquin proclaimed her " The prop of burlettas and mistress of mirth, Of female comedians an excellent sample ; Of Abigail singers, the first great example!'' She unfortunately abandoned her position on the London stage in 1787, and in a few years was obliged to resume her profession in America for a subsistence. In 1769 she was the original Diana, in Bickerstaff 's " Lionel and Clarissa," and in 1774 obtained her choicest laurels by her exquisite per- sonation of the heroine in Allan Ramsay's " Gentle Shepherd." In the " Beggars' Opera" she had personated both Polly and Lucy. When Mrs. Siddons played tlie Lady in Milton's "Comus," Mrs. Wrighten was the Euphrosyne, and when John Kemble enacted Petruchio, Mrs. Wrighten was his Katharine. Mrs. Bundle, Audrey, Nell, Flora, (Wonder) Madge, ( Love in a Village ) Queen Dollalolla, and a long list of rustics and chambermaids were represented by her, to the 13 98 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. unbounded admiration of the London public. Her voice was clear and powerful, and her acting arch, playful, and full of rich comic expression. She was the best vocalist yet heard in America, and had she been twenty years younger would have eclipsed Mrs. Hodgkinson in the estimation of the pub- lic — as it was she fully divided its favor. In 1795 she left New York for Charleston, S. C, where she died August 13th, 1796. Her daughter married Alexandre Placide, manager of the Charleston Theatre, as before stated. Portraits of Mrs. Wrighten as Peggy, Madge and Katharine, ornament Bell's Shakspeare, and British Theatre ; and a fine mezzo4int, from a portrait by Dighton, was published in 1780, which is said to be a very faithful resemblance. Feb. 4th. Love in a Village was performed with Mr. and Mrs. Hodgkinson as Young Meadows and Rosetta, and Mrs. Pownall as Madge, one of her most applauded characters. Feb. 6th, Othello ; Othello Iago . Mr. Hodgkinson. " Hallam. Cassio . . Desdemona Mr. King. Mrs. Hallam. with The Romp. Watty Cockney .... Mr. Prigmore. | Priscilla Tomboy . Mrs. Hodgkinson. Feb. 8th, never performed here, Holcroft's Comedy of The Road to Ruin, with the following fine caft : Goldfinch Mr. Hallam. Mr. Dornton . Harry Dornton Milford. . . Silky . . . Sulky . . . Henry. Hodgkinson. Martin. Prigmore. King. Its popularity has remained undiminished to the present time. Smith . . . Jacob . . . Widow Warren' Sophia. . . , Jenny . . Mrs. Ledger . Mr. Ashton. " Ryan. Mrs. Pownall. i4 Hallam. " Hamilton. " Kenna. Feb. nth, Sir John Restless . Beverly . . Sir Wm. Belmont . Young Belmont . . and All in the Wrong ; Mr. Hodgkinson. " Hallam. " Prigmore. " Martin. Lady Restless . . Mrs. Pownall. Belinda .... " Hallam. Clarissa .... Miss Brett. Tattle Mrs. Hamilton. Rofina. Belville Mr. Hodgkinson. Capt. Belville .... " West. William " Prigmore. Irishman .... Mr. King. Rosina Mrs. Hodgkinson. Phoebe .... " Pownall. Feb. 18th, The Dramatift ; and, never performed here, O'Keefe's mufical Drama, called The Farmer. Farmer Blackberry Valentine. . . . Fairly Col. Dorimont . . Jemmy Jumps . . Counsellor Flummery Mr. King. " West. " Heard. , " Ashton. " Prigmore. " Ryan Rundy Stubble . . . . Louisa . . . . Molly Maybush. . Betty Blackberry . Landlady . . . Mr. Martin. " Woolls. Mrs. Kenna. " Hodgkinson. " POWNALL.J^i " Rankin. OTHELLO " But here's my husband, And so much duty as my mother show'd To you, preferring you before her father, So much I challenge that I may vrofess RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 99 This once highly popular afterpiece has not now been heard for many years. Feb. 22d, never performed here, Mrs. Inchbald's pleafing drama, entitled The Child of Nature ; Duke Murcia. . Marquis Almanza Count Valentia . Granada . Mr. Prigmore. " King. " Hodgkinson. " Martin. | Amanthis and, firft time, O'Keefe's mufical farce of No Song, No Supper Seville .... Mr. Ryan. Peasants. ..." Hallam, &c. Marchioness Merida Mrs. Pownall. " Hodgkinson. Robin Mr. Hodgkinson. Endless " Martin. Crop " Prigmore. Frederick " West. Thomas " Ryan. William . Margaretta Dorothy . Nelly . Louisa . Mr. Robbins. Mrs. Hodgkinson. " Pownall. " Rankin. Miss Brett. Both of these pieces were long great favorites in New York, and Storace's delightful music of the latter was frequently heard as lately as 1850, but possibly may never be heard again. Feb. 25th. Mrs. Henry made her first appearance this season as Violante in the " Wonder," supported by Mr. Hodg- kinson as Don Felix ; King, as Col. Britton ; and Prigmore, as Lissardo. In the afterpiece of the " Agreeable Surprise," Mr. and Mrs. Hodgkinson were the Lingo and Cowslip. Feb. 27th, The West Indian. Belcour Mr. Hodgkinson. Varland " Prigmore. March 1 ft, Hard castle . . . Young Marlow . . Major O'Flaherty . Charlotte Rusport. She Stoops to Conquer ; Mr. Prigmore. " Hodgkinson. Tony Lumpkin Miss Hardcastle Mr. King. Mrs. Henry. Mr. Hallam. Mrs. Henry. and The Poor Soldier. Patrick Mr. Hodgkinson. I Darby . Capt. Fitzroy .... " West. Norah . Father Luke. .. .. " King. Kathleen Mr. Prigmorx. Mrs. Pownall. " Hodgkihbon. March 5th, Love in a Village ; and, never performed here, Colman's excellent farce of Ways and Means. 8ir David Dunder Random . . Scrapie . . . Tiptoe .... Mr. Prigmore. " Hodgkinson. " West. " King. Paul Peery. Lady Dunder Harriet . . Kitty . . March 8th, The Beaux Stratagem. •Archer Mr. Hodgkinson. Aimwell " West. Scrub " Hallam. Mrs. Sullen Dorinda. Cherry . . Mr. Ashton. Mrs. Rankin. Miss Brett. Mrs. Hodgkinson. Mrs. Henry. M Kenna. " Pownall. 100 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. March nth, The Earl of Eflex ; Essex Mr. Hodgkinson. Burleigh " King. Queen Elizabeth . Mrs. Kenna. Countess of Rutland " Henry. and The Devil to Pay. Jobson Mr. Prigmore. | Nell Mrs. Pownall. March 13th. More Ways than One ; Bellair, Mr. Hodgkin- fon ; and, never performed here, the grand Pantomimical Ballet compofed by Delpini, mufic by Gluck, fongs and chorufes by Mr. Reeve, entitled Don Juan Don Guzman Don Ferdinand Scaramouch Donna Anna Confidante . Alguazils . . Don Juan, or the Libertine deftroyed Sailors. Messrs Mr. Hodgkinson. " Hallam. " Prigmore. Mrs. Henry. " Hamilton. Ashton, Woolls, &c. Messrs. West, Jr., Durang, &c. Villagers ..." King, Martin, &c. Cottagers . . . Mrs. Hallam, Mrs. Kenna. Banquetting Ladies " Hodgkinson, Miss Brett, &c. March 18th. Never performed here, O'Keefe's comedy of "Wild Oats," or the "Strolling Gentleman," still one of the most popular stock pieces of the stage. Rover Mr. Hodgkinson. Sir George Thunder Harry Thunder . . Banks John Dory . . . Ephraim Smooth . Sim Prigmore. West. Heard. King. Henry. Hallam. Farmer Gammon . Lamp . . . . Trap . . . . Lady Amaranth . Amelia. . . . Jane . . . . Mr. Hammond. '* Durang. " Ashton. Mrs. Henry. " Kenna. " Pownall. April 8th, The Clandeftine Marriage ; and a pantomime called the King of the Genii. King of the Genii Mr. Woolls. Harlequin Mr. Martin. I Clown .... Mr. Prigmore. Ryan. Columbine . . Mrs. Kenna. The Weft Indian. Stockwell (1st time) Mr. Hallam. Pantaloon April 15th, Belcour Mr. Hallam, Jr. (His first appearance on this stage.) Mr. Mirvan Hallam, called in the bill Mr. Hallam, Jr., in- herited but little of his predecessors' talent. He was the son of Lewis Hallam the second, by his first wife, and possessed barely merit enough to be tolerated by his audience. He continued with the company until disabled by the illness which caused his death, Nov. 8th, 1811, aged nearly 40. The afterpiece on this occasion was Sheridan's farce of " St. Patrick's Day," or the " Scheming Lieutenant," performed for^the first time in New York. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 101 Lieut. O'Connor Doctor Rosy . . Justice Credulous Mr. Hodgkinson. I Sergeant Trounce Mr. Wist. M Martin. Lauretta . . . Mrs. Hallam. " Pbigmore. I Mrs. Bridget . . " Hamilton. April 22(1, Mrs. Hodgkinfon's benefit. Firft time here, Reynolds' comedy of Notoriety; Nominal . . . Lord Jargon . . Sir Andrew Acid Col. Hubbub. . Clairville . ■ . Blunder O'Whack and Mr. Hodgkinson. " Hammond. " Heard. " Frigmore. " Hallam. " King. Saunter . . James . . . Lady Acid Honoria . . Sophia Strange ways . . Mr. West. Mr. West, Jr. Mrs. Hamilton. " Hallam. " Henrt. The Romp. Priscilla Tomboy Mrs. Hodgkinson. May 6th, Mrs. Hamilton's benefit. The Recefs ; Carlos (his second appearance) Mr. Hallam, Jr. Muscato Mr. Hallam. | Aurora. . . . Mrs. Hamilton. Dissertation on Hobby-horses, as Squire Groom ... By Mr. Hodgkinson. and Crusoe May 8th, Robinfon Crufoe. Mrs. Henry's night. Alexander the Great. Mr. King. Alexander . . . . . Mr. Hodgkinson. Clytus " Henry. Lysemachus " Hallam, Jr. Statira (1st time) Mrs. Henry. Roxana ... " Kenna. Parisatis ... " Hallam. Hippifley's fcene of the Drunken Man, by Mr. Henry ; and, firft time in New York, a comic opera, by Henry Bate Dudley, called The Rival Candidates. Gen. Worry . . Sir Harry Muff . Byron . . . Mr. Henry. " Martin. " West. Spy • Narcissa Jenny . Mr. Prigmore. Mrs. Hodgkinson. " Rankin. May 13th, Mr. King's benefit. Firft time in America, Mrs. Inchbald's play, entitled Such Things Are. Twineall Mr. Hodgkinson. Saltan . . . Sir Luke Tremor Has well . . . Lord Flint . . Meanright . . Hallam. Jr. Prigmore. Hallam. Hammond. West. Elvirus Zedan . . . Liidy Tremor Aurelia . Arabella . Mr. Martin. M King. Mrs. Ke.nna. " Hallam. He.nry. " Such Things Are " never gained the popularity of most of Mrs. Inchbald's plays. It was last peformed in New York at the Park Theatre, in 1844. 102 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. May 17th, Mr. Martin's night. Such Things Are ; Firft time in America, a farce called Look before you Leap ; Lucas Duval Corporal Mr. Hodgkinson. " Martin. " Hammond. Lawyer . Lucette . Margaret . and a new pantomime called Harlequin Fifherman. Harlequin Pantaloon Clown . . Lover . Mr. Martin. " Heard. " Ryan. " Hammond. Magician . Servant . Columbine Sylph . . Mr. Ryan. Mrs. Hallam. " Kenna. Mr. Robbins. " Bisset. Miss Brett. Mrs. Kenna. May 20th, Miss Brett's benefit. A comedy never yet performed, called The Wedding ; Commodore Welldon Quibble .... McSkinflint . . . Lovejoy .... O'Banter .... Mr. Hallam. " Hodgk nson. " Prigmore. " Martin. " King. Crackjaw . . Toupee . . . Mrs. Sugarcane Dinah Julia. . . . Mr. West. " Ryan. Mrs. Rankin. " Hamilton. " Hallam. and The Agreeable Surprise. Laura Miss Brett. The comedy was the production of Dunlap, and was one of his acknowledged failures, never having been repeated. Tickets of Miss Brett, at Mr. Hodgkinson's, Ann Street, near Broadway. May 22d, Mrs. Pownall's benefit. Never performed in America, Mifs Lee's popular comedy, The Chapter of Accidents. Woodville Governor Harcourt Captain Harcourt . Lord Glen more . Grey Vane Mr. Hodgkinson. " Prigmore. " Martin. " Kino. " Heard. " West. Jacob Gawky Miss Mortimer Cecelia . . Bridget . . Warner . . Mr. Hallam. Mrs. Hallam. " Henry. " Pownall. " Hamilton. In the course of the evening Mrs. Pownall sang the fine hunting song of "Tally ho!" in character of Diana, and the ballad of the " Primrose Girl," which was afterward frequently repeated, by request. The evening's entertainment con- cluded with the operatic farce of The Waterman. Tom Tug Bundle Robin . Mr. Hodgkinson. " Ashton. " Prigmore. Mrs. Bundle Wilhelmina Mrs. Pownall. " Hodgkinson. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 103 Tickets of Mrs. Pownall at Mr. Gilfert's, 14 Dey Street. George Gilfert was a popular organist and music teacher of New York, and attached to the orchestra of the theatre. He was the father of the more celebrated Charles Gilfert, the first lessee of the Bowery Theatre. May 29th, Mr. Oakley . . Major Oakley Charles . . . Russett . . . Lord Trinket Sir Harry Beagle Mr. Ashton's benefit. The Jealous Wife ; Mr. HODGKINSON. I ASHTON. Prigmore. Hammond. Martin. Captain O'Cutter Paris . Mrs. Oakley . Lady Freelove Harriet . . Toilet . . . Mr. King. " Durang. Mrs. Pownall. " Kenna. " Hallam. " Hamilton. and Comus . . . Elder Brother . Younger Brother Comus. Mr. Hodgkinson. I The Lady Miss Brett. " Martin. Sabrina Mrs. Rankin. 11 Hammond. I Euphrosyne . . . " Hodgkinson. Bacchanals— Messrs. Woolls, Robbins, West, Bisset, &c. Bacchantes— Mesdames Hallam, Hamilton, &c. The above cast of the " Jealous Wife " is the first found. May 31ft, Mr. Prigmore's benefit. Firft time in America, Mrs. Inchbald's farce of Animal Magnetifm ; Marquis Delancy Doct. Mundungus Lafleur . . . Mr. West. " Prigmore. " Hodgkinson. Jeffrey Constance Lisette . Mr. Martin. Mrs. Hallam. " Pownall. Firft time in America, a farce by the Rev. Henry Knapp, called Hunt the Slipper ; Billy Bristle " Winterbottom Capt. Clement Glib . . . Mr. Prigmore. I Miss Winterbottom. . Mrs. Rankin. " Ashton. Harriet " King, " West. [Late Miss Brett.] " Martin. Maid " Kenna. and, firft time in America, the grand ferious pantomime, per- formed with extraordinary succefs in London, called The Death of Captain Cook. Capt. Cook Lieutenant Terreoboo Croondo . Mr. Hodgkinson. " Prigmore. " Bobbins. " Martin. Perea Mr. West. Koah M King. High Priest ..." Heard. Emai Mrs. Kenna. June 3d, Mr. Weft's benefit. The Chapter of Accidents ; and Midas. Midas Mr. Prigmore. Apollo 44 West. Pan " King. Mysis Mrs. Rankin. Nysa " Hodgkinson. Daphne .... " Pownall. Tickets of Mr. Weft, at Mrs. Fortune's, next to the Play Houfe. 104 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. This Mrs. Fortune was the mother of the young lady whom Jefferson the comedian married, a few years later. June 5th, Mr. Henry's benefit. The Merchant of Venice ; Shylock Mr. Henry. Launcelot . . . Mr. Prtgmore. Gratiano " Hodgkinson. j Portia (1st time) . Mrs. Henry. Bassanio " Martin. Nerissa .... " Kenna. Antonio " Hallam. Jessica .... " Hallam. and, firft time in America, Macready's farce of The Irifhman in London, or the Happy African. Murtough Delany Mr. Cullooney . Capt. Seymour . Edward . . . Frost .... Mr. Henry. " King. " West. " Martin. " Heard. Cymon .... Mr. Hallam. Caroline . . . Mrs. Hallam. Louisa .... " Kenna. Cubba .... " Hamilton. June 7th, Meffrs. Durang and BifTet's night. The Fafhionable. Lover. Colin McLeod Mr. Bisset. concluding with a new mifcellaneous comic Pantomimical Enter- tainment, in grotefque characters, called The Grateful Lion, or the Lilliputian's Power. " * S|J * Meffrs. Durang and BifTet refpectfully inform the pub- lic, that the above entertainments are fo arranged as to require but a few minutes interval, and notwithstanding their variety, the audience will be difmifTed at an early hour ; and in order to render this entertainment more worthy of their attention, there's no pains fpared in completing the machinery and decorations for this pantomime, and trusts it will give particular fatisfaction to thofe ladies and gentlemen who intend honoring the Theatre this night." " Vivat Respublica." This was probably the last night of the season. CHAPTER IX. John Street Theatre, 1793-4. TH E theatre was re-opened by Messrs. Hallam and Henry on the 13th of November, 1793, with the " Dramatist," and the " Romp," cast as before, with the exception of Mr. Kenna as Willoughby, vice Hammond, and of Mrs. Miller, as Letty and Miss La Blond, who was prob- ably no other than Mrs. Rankin under a new name. On the 20th, Mrs. Melmoth made her first appearance on the Ameri- can stage as Euphrasia in the " Grecian Daughter," with tri- umphant success,. although her great size operated strongly to her prejudice, and nearly turned the feelings of her audience to mirthfulness rather than tears. This lady (who had given readings in New York the previous winter) was the daughter of a respectable farmer, of Surrey, England, and was deceived into a sham marriage while at boarding school, by Mr. Pratt, well known in the literary and theatrical world as Courtney Melmoth, whose assumed name she continued ever after to bear. She played one season at Covent Garden, where she opened as Roxana, Oct. 4th, 1774, and one season at Drury Lane, where she first appeared as Lady Macbeth, Nov. 25th, 1776. Her greatest triumphs, however, were on the boards of the Edinburgh and Dublin theatres, where she was an ac- knowledged favorite for many years. No actress of tragedy in New York could at this time at all compete with her, yet she was past the prime of life, and her unfortunate bulk adapted her to a very limited range of parts. In Lady Mac- beth, Lady Randolph, Alicia, Elvira, Constance in "King 14 106 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. John," Margaret of Anjou, and other matronly characters, she displayed powers rarely equalled. She was also very effective in comedy, in characters like Mrs. Rackett, Widow Volatile, &c, and in 1812, played Mrs. Malaprop in the Olympic Circus. Age finally compelled her to abandon the stage, and her last years were spent as a teacher of youth. We well recollect her little seminary in Washington Street, near the Albany Basin. Throughout her entire residence in America she sustained an unblemished repute, and won the regard and respect of all who knew her. She died September 28th, 1823, aged seventy-four, and her remains repose in the bury- ing ground of St. Patrick's Cathedral in this city. Portraits of Mrs. Melmoth as Roxana and Queen Elizabeth were engraved for Lowndes' edition of British Dramas. Dec. 7th, Venice Preferved. Pierre Mr. Hallam. Priuli Mr. King. Jaffier " Hodgkinson. I Belvidera Mrs. Melmoth. Dec. 13th, firft time here, Hannah More's tragedy of Percy. Percy Mr. Hodgkinson. Earl Douglas .... " Hallam. Lord Raby " King. Sir Hubert " Prigmoee. Edric Mr. Martin. Harcourt " Ashton. Elwina Mrs. Melmoth. Birtha " Hallam. Dec. 1 8th, firft time here, Mrs. Inchbald's comedy called Pll tell you what ! Mr. Hallam. Sir Harry Harmless Mr. Hammond. Lady Euston . . . Mrs. Hallam. Lady Harriet Cyprus . " Kenna. Young Lady. ..." Hodgkinson. Bloom " Miller. Hodgkinson. Prigmore. Ashton. Martin. King. Col. Downright . Anthony Euston . Mr. Euston. . . Sir George Euston Charles Euston . Major Cyprus . . Dec. 26th, Such Things Are. Twineall Mr. Hodgkinson. | Arabella Mrs. Melmoth. And, firft time, a trifle written for the purpofe of reftoring Mrs. Pownall to the ftage (after a retirement of many weeks caufed by the accidental fracture of her leg) entitled Needs Muft ; or, the Ballad Singers. Hardwell Mr. Prigmore. | Delia Mrs. Hallam. Anthony " Martin. Marian " Pownall. Rushbrook .... " Bergman. In this piece Mrs. Pownall appeared on crutches and intro- ' duced several favorite ballads. She was not able to perform RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 107 in a regular play for many weeks after. Mr. Bergman was a singer, and a late addition to the company, having appeared but once before. Dec. 28th, Mr. Richards was announced to appear for the first time in New York as Barbarossa. Richards was the assumed designation of Sir Richard Crosby, an Irish baronet, whom reverses of fortune had thrown upon the stage. His height was more than six feet, but his face was inexpressive, and his bearing the reverse of majestic. His manners, however, were those of a gentleman, and as he had the advantage of a good education, his readings were correct if not spirited, and in serious old men, in his latter days, he was always respectable. After the first season or two, he resumed his surname of Crosby, without the prefix of " Sir." He returned to England and died there in 1806. Jan. 6th, 1794, The Belle's Stratagem; Doricourt Mr. Hodgkinson. Hardy Mr. Prigmorb. Flutter " Hallam. Letitia Hardy . . Mrs. Hodgkinson. Sir Geo. Touchwood . . " King. | Widow Racket ..." Mblmotb. and, Cymon and Sylvia, with Mr. and Mrs. Hodgkinfon. Jan. 17th, Richard 3d. Richard Mr. Hodgkinson. | Prince of Wales. ■ . Mr. Martin. Henry 6th " Henry. Tressell " King. Richmond " Hallam. Queen Elizabeth . . Mrs. Melmoth. Buckingham .... " Prigmors. 1 Lady Anne .... " Hallam. Jan. 1 8th, The Belle's Stratagem; and, for the rirrt time in America, O'Keefe's comic opera in three acts, called The Highland Reel. 8helty Mr. Hodgkinson. Capt. Dash .... Mr. Hammond. McGilpin Prigmore. Laird of Raasay . . " Kknna. Sergt. Jack .... " King. Laird of Coll ... M Ashton. Charley " Martin. Moggy McGilpin . . Mrs. Hodgkinson. Sandy " Bergman. Jenny 44 Hallam. For nearly forty years the "Highland Reel" stood second in popularity to no afterpiece on the stock list of the theatre, and Moggy McGilpin was a favorite character, not only with Mrs. Hodgkinson, but with Mesdames Oldmixon, Darley, Barnes, Hackett, G. Barrett, Hilson, Blake, Clara Fisher and many others. 108 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGB. Jan. 24th, The Fair Penitent 5 Sciolto Horatio . Lothario Mr. Henbt. " Hodgkinson. " Hallam. Altamont .... Mr. Mabtin. Calista Mrs. Melmotb. Lavlnia " Hallam. and Feb. 3d, The Highland Reel — reduced to two acts. Love in a Village. Madge Mrs. Pownall, her first night of resuming her regular duties. About this time Mrs. Long, who had been the admired Miss Cheer from 1767 to 1773, made her reappearance as Mrs. Oakley in the comedy of the " Jealous Wife," dissipating all the pleasant recollections of the few who still bore her in mind. Feb. 8th, The Mourning Bride; Osmyn Mr. Hodgkinson. Manuel " Richabds. Heli " King. Gonzales Zara. . Almeria Mr. Kenna. Mrs. Melmoth. " Long. and The Irimman in London. Delany Mr. Henbt. Feb. 8th, for the fecond time in America, Cumberland's tragedy of The Carmelite. St. Valori . Hildebrand De Courci . Montgomeri Mr. Hodgkinson. " Richabds. " King. " Mabtin. Gyfford Raymond . Fitz Allan. Matilda Mr. Ashton. " Hammond. " Kenna Mrs. Melmoth. This tragedy was very favorably received, but remained popular only while in the hands of its original performers. Matilda, Lady of St. Valori, was first represented by Mrs. Siddons, whose brilliant talents made it one of her most effective characters. Feb. 17th, Macbeth. Macbeth Mr. Hodgkinson. Macduff " Hallam. Woodville . . Jacob Gawky . and O'Dogherty . . Hamilton . . Count Mushroom Major Gamble . Banquo . . Lady Macbeth Feb. 19th, The Chapter of Accidents; Mr. Hodgkinson. " Hallam. Cecelia Bridget The Irifh Fine Lady, Mr. Henbt. " Riohabdb. " Mabtin. " Pbigmoke. Mrs. Diggerty. . Lady Kinnegad . Lady Bab Frightful Katy Farrel . . Mr. Riohabdb. Mrs. Melmoth. Mrs. Henbt. " Pownall. Mrs. Henbt. " Kenna. " MlLLEB. " Hallam. SHAKESPEARE {From a print published 1776) RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE . 109 Feb. 2ift, not performed here in twenty years, Bickerstaff's opera of Lionel and ClarifTa ; or, a School for Fathers ; Lionel Mr. Hodgkinson. Col. Oldboy . . . Sir John Flowerdale Harman . . . Jessamy .... Prigmorb. Kino. Hammond. Martin. Jenkins Clarissa . Diana . . Lady Oldboy Jenny . Mr. Woollb. Mrs. Pownall. " HODGKINSON. " Hamilton. " Hallam. and Feb. 26th, and Petruchio . . . Feb. 28th, Cato Mr. Hallam. The Irishman in London. Lionel and ClarifTa ; Catharine and Petruchio. Mr. Hodgkinson. I Catharine . . Mrs. Long. Cato i Portlus . . Juba . . . Semphronius Marcius . I Syphax Mr. Ashton. Henry. I Lucius " Kenna. Hodgkinson. Decius " Woolls. Richards. Marcia Mrs. Melmoth. Martin. Lucia " Hallam. and The Highland Reel. March 3d, firft time on any ftage, an operatic fpectacle written by Mrs. Hatton (a fifter of Mrs. Siddons and the Kembles) en- titled Tammany ; produced with new and brilliant fcenery by Charles Ciceri. Tammany Columbus Perez Ferdinand Wegaw . Mr. Hodgkinson. " Hallam. " Kino. " Martin. " Prigmorb. Indian Dancers Maoana Zulbt . Messrs. Ddrang i Miller. Mrs. Hodgkinson. " Hamilton. Overture and Accompaniments By Mr. Hewitt. Dunlap pronounces the piece a "melange of bombast."' Mr. Ciceri, whose name first appears in our records, in connec- tion with the scenery of this spectacle, was a native of Milan, whose life and adventures would fill a volume. He was long the artist of the establishment, and was a most excellent machinist. " He was a man of exemplary habits, active mind, quick discernment, fertile in resources, and firm in purpose." He became at length an importer of French merchandise, and finally retired with a handsome competence to his native Italy. March 1 2th, Widow Brady The Irifli Widow. . . . Mr§. Wilson (her first appoarance.) March 14th, a tragedy, written by Shakefpeare, called Julius Caefar ; — u with the death of Brutus and CaiTius at the Battle of 110 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Philippi, and the remarkable orations of Brutus and Antony, over the Body of Caefar." Julius Caesar Marc Antony Brutus . . Cassiua . . Octaviua Casca Treborius . Pindarus Decius Brutus Mr. Richards. " hodgkinson. " Hallam. " Henry. " Martin. " King. 44 WoOLLS. " Hammond. " ASHTON. Metellus Clmba Lucius Cinna . . Marcellus. Titinius . Lucilius . Artimedorus Portia Calphurnia Mr. Ryan. 44 Bergman. " Prigmore. " BlSSET. " DURANG. " West. " O'Reilly,, Mrs. Melmoth. M Hallam. This is the first cast of "Julius Caesar" found in New York. March 17th, Tamerlane. Tamerlane Bajazet . Moneses . Mr. Hodgkinson. I Axalla Mr. Martin. " Hallam. Arpasia Mrs. Melmoth. " King. Sellma " Hallam. March 26th, fir ft time in twenty years, The Beggars' Opera, alterations). (with Macheath . . Peachum Lockit . . . Filch . . . Mat 0' the Mint Mr. Hodgkinson. " Prigmore. " Ashton. " Martin. " King. Polly .... Lucy. .... Mrs. Peachum . Mrs. Coaxer. . Mrs. Slammekin Mrs. Hodgkinson. " Pownall. " Miller. " Hamilton. " Wilson. James Hewitt was at this time leader of the orchestra, a position that he filled most acceptably. His son was after- wards a popular music dealer in this city, and an officer in the Mexican War. March 31ft, The Beggars' Opera ; and Crofs Purpofes. Chapeau Robin . Mr. Hallam. 44 Martin. Grub . . Mrs. Grub Mr. Prigmore. Mrs. Long. April 9th, never performed in America, O'Keefe's comedy, called The World in a Village. Doct. Grigsby . Jolly boy . . . Alebut .... Charles Willows . William Bellvue . Capt. Mullenahack Sir Henry Check . Capt. Vansluisen . Mr. Hodgkinson. 44 Hallam. Prigmore. 44 King. " Martin. " Richards. " Ashton. 44 Ryan. Jack Mr. Bergman. Hedgeworth .... " Hammond. Briers " Woolls. Willows " Heard. ' Louisa Mrs. Henry. Maria " Hallam. Mrs. Alebut .... 44 Pownall. Mrs. Bellvue. ... " Kenna. Although revived on several occasions, this comedy has proved but moderately successful. April 15th, Mrs. Henry's night. Firft time in America, Colman's celebrated drama called The Surrender of Calais ; Eustache de St. Pierre La Gloire . . Ribbemont . . John de Vienne O'Carroll . . King Edward 3d John D'Arie . Mr. Henry. " Hodgkinson. " Martin. > > 44 Richards. " King. " Hammond. 44 Ashton. Sir Walter Mauny Sergeant . 1st Carpenter Old Man . . Queen Philippa Julia . . . Madelon . . Mr. Woollb. " Prigmore. 44 Hallam. 44 Heard. Mrs. Hallam. 44 Henry. 44 Hodgkinson. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Ill and Inkle . . Sir C. Curry Inkle and Yarico. Mr. Kino. " Henry. Trudge Mr. Hallam. Yarico Mrs. Hallam. St. Pierre was the last new character portrayed by Mr. Henry, and he is said never to have appeared to better advantage. April 24th, firft time on any ftage, a tragedy by William Dunlap, entitled The Fatal Deception ; or, the Progress of Guilt ; Karl of Leicester Henry Cecil Dudley Cecil . Edred . . . Mr. Hallam. " Hodokinson. M Kino. " Richards. Howard Elwina Matilda Mr. Martin. Mrs. Hodokinson. " Mblmoth. and a farce in continuation of the " Highland Reel," entitled Shelty's Travels, — also written by Dunlap. Shelty Mr. Hodokinson. The tragedy was the first written in America and produced in a regular theatre by professional actors. It was afterwards played and published under the title of " Lord Leicester." April 26th, Mr. Afhton's benefit. Firft time in New York, Mrs. Inchbald's comedy of Every One has his Fault ; Lord Norland . Sir Robert Ramble Capt. Irwin Placid . . . . Solus . . . . Harmony Mr. Richards. " Martin. " Hodokinson. " Hallam. " Priqmore. " Ashton. Hammond Edward . Lady Elinor Irwin Mrs. Placid . . Miss Wooburn . Miss Spinster . Mr. Duranq. A Younq Gent. Mrs. Melmoth. " Pownall. " Hallam. M Hamilton. Masonic Ode — Music composed by Hewitt, Sung by Messrs. Richards, Priomore, Bergman and Bobbins. and No Song, No Supper. April 28th, Mrs. PownalPs night. A comedy never performed in America, called Liberty Reftored ; or, All 's Right at Laft ; A la Grecque Ibrahim . Mastapha Azim Selim Orloff Muley . Mr. Hodokinson. " Kino. " Martin. " Priqmore. " Bergman. " Hallam. " Ashton. Ismael . Old Man Son. . Alexina Lauretta Fatima Paulina Mr. Hammond. " Heard. " West. Mrs. Mr 1, moth. " Hamilton. u Wilson. '* Pownall. and, firft time in America, Dibdin's comic operetta called The Wedding Ring. Zerblno Mr. Priqmorb. Pandolfo " Richards. Henrioo 44 Kino. Lisetta Mrs. Pownall. MargaretU .... " Hodokinson. 112 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Tickets as ufual, " and at Mrs. Pownall's, fecond houfe, right hand fide, down Murray Street." April 29th, Mrs. Hodgkinfon's night. Never performed in America, McNally's comic opera called Robin Hood ; or, Love in Sherwood Foreft ; Robin Hood . . Little John . . . Baron Fitzherbert Edwin . . . . Ruttekin . . . Will Scarlet . . Mr. King. " Prigmore. " Richards. 44 Bergman. " hodgkinson. " Martin. Allan-a-Dale Clorinda . Angelina . Stella . . Annette Mr. Ashton. Mrs. Hodgkinson. " POWNALL. " Hallam. " Wilson. with The Lyar. Young Wilding Mr. Hodgkinson. May 3d, Mrs. Melmoth's benefit. Southern's tragedy of Ifabella ; — (probably firft time in New York;) tJiron . . . Count Baldwin Carlos . . . Villeroy Belford . . . Mr. Hodgkinson. " Richards. " King. *' Hallam. " Hammond. Sampson Pedro . Child . Isabella Nurse . Mr. Prigmore. " West. Mast. Pownall. Mrs. Melmoth. " Hamilton. and, firft time here, BickerftafF's farce of The Sultan. Solyman Osmyn . Mr. Richards. " Prigmore. Elmira Mrs. Hallam. Ismena " Pownall. Roxalana " Melmoth. Mrs. Melmoth's acknowledged tragic merit did not shield her from ridicule for undertaking the girlish and romping Roxalana. May 5th, Mrs. Hallam's benefit. Never a&ed in America, Reynolds' comedy called How to grow Rich ; Pave Hippy Latitat Warford . . . . Sir Thos. Roundhead Sir Charles Dazzle Mr. Hodgkinson. " Hallam. " Martin. " King. " Richards. " Ashton. Plainly . . Smalltrade . Lady Henrietta Rosa . . . Miss Dazzle . Betty . . . Mr. Hammond. 44 Prigmore. Mrs. Hallam, 44 Hodgkinson. 44 Wilson. 44 Hamilton. Recitation— 41 Shelah's Voyage to America, with her Lamentation for the Loss of her Cow." Mrs. Melmoth. and The Highland Reel. Tickets as ufual, and of Mrs. Hallam, 18 John Street. May 7th, Mr. Henry's benefit. Jane Shore; Hastings Gloater . Dumont . Mr. Hodgkinson. 44 Hallam. 44 Henri. Belmour Mr. Martin. Jane Shore .... Mrs. Henry. Alicia 44 Melmoth. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 113 and, never performed, a comedy called The Guardians Outwitted, altered from Mrs. Centlivre's Bold Stroke for a Wife. Col. Feignwell . . Perriwinkle Obadiah Prim . Freeman Sir Philip Modelove Mr Hallam. " Prigmore. M Henry. " Martin. " A3HT0N. Tradelove . Simon Pure Anna Lovely Mrs. Prim. Betty . . Mr. King. *f WOOLLS. Mrs. Henry. " Hamilton. 44 Kenna. U Mr. Henry refpeclfully informs the public, the comedy of the Bold Stroke for a Wife has repeatedly been applied for, but from the vein of licentioufnefs that ran through it, in common with other productions of the beginning of this century, it was thought improper to be brought forward. He has at length, with great care and attention, altered and reduced it to two a£ts ; and while lufficient is retained to render it one of the molt laughable enter- tainments on the ftage, he pledges himfelf that everything has been carefully expunged which could give offence to Morality, or force a blufh from the cheek of Modefty. ' " Vivat Refpublica." This was probably the last appearance on the stage of Mr. and Mrs. Henry, as we find their names no longer in the bills. Henry was entirely superseded in popular favor by Hodgkinson, and his wife was eclipsed in tragedy by Mrs. Melmoth, in opera by Mrs. Pownall and Mrs. Hodgkinson, and in the comedy of high life was nearly, if not quite, equaled by Mrs. Hallam. Finding themselves thus fallen in public estima- tion, Mr. Henry parted with his interest in the Old Ameri- can Company for $10,000, and at the end of the season re- tired from the concern. His death and that of his wife occurred soon after. Their residence in New York was for many years at No. 5 Fair Street — now Fulton Street — east of Broadway. May 1 2th, Mr. King's night. A comedy by O'Keefe (never a£ted here) called the Young Quaker ; or, the Fair American ; Young Sadboy Old Sadboy Chronicle Capt. Ambush Spatterdash Clod . . . Shadrach Malsuhi . . and Mr. Hodgkinson. " Richards. " Prigmore. " Martin. M KfNG. " Hallam. M Hammond. " WOOLLS. Lounge Twig . . . , Lady Rounceval , Dinah Primrose Araminta. Pink . . . . Judith. . . . Mrs. Milleueur . Mr. West. 41 Durang. Mrs. Miller. *' Hallam. " Hodgkinson. " PO W.N ALL. 44 Hamilton. 44 Kenna. Robinfon Crufoe. "Tickets as ufual, and of Mr. King, Wall Street near Broadway." 15 114 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. May 19th, Mr. Martin's night. Never performed in America, a comedy written by Mrs. Cowley, called A Bold Stroke for a Hufband ; Don Julio . Don Y'incentio Don Caesar . Don Carlos . Don Garcia Gasper . . Mr. Hodgkinson. Victoria Mrs. Wilson. " Martin. Olivia " Hallam. " Prigmore. Laura " Kenna. " King. Minette " Pownall. " Hammond. Marcella " Hamilton. " Richards. Sancha " Long. Flora ; or, Hob in the Well ; Hob Mr. Hallam. Dick " Martin. Roger Mr. Prigmore. Flora Mrs. Kenna. and a new pantomime, called Trick upon Trick ; or, Harlequin Shepherd. " Tickets of Mr. Martin, No. 14; facing the Theatre." May 23d, Mrs. King's night. The Beggars' Opera; Macheath Mr. King. | Polly Mrs. Pownall. and Mrs. Inchbald's comedy (probably for the firft time) called The Midnight Hour. Marquis . General . Nicholas Sebastian Matthias Mr. Hodgkinson. " Richards. " Prigmore. " Martin. " Hammond. Ambrose Mr. West. Julia Mrs. Wilson. - Flora " Pownall. Cicely " Hamilton. May 28th, Mrs. Long's night. The Gamefter ; Beverly Mr. Hodgkinson. Stukely " King. Lewson Mrs. Beverly. and Animal Magnetifm. Tickets of Mrs. Long, No. 39 Liberty Street. June 2d, Mr. Hallam's night. The New Peerage ; Vandercrab Charles . . Mr. Hallam. " Hodgkinson. Lady Charlotte Miss Harley . The Poor Soldier ; Mr. Hallam. Mrs. Melmoth. Mrs. Melmoth. " Hallam. Patrick Mr. Hodgkinson. Darby " Hallam. Norah Mrs. Wilson. Kathleen " Pownall. and Harlequin Collector. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 115 June 4th, Mr. Prigmore's night. A mufical, hiftorical play, in three a&s, for this night only, called The Patriot ; or, Liberty Aflerted ; The Overture and Songs By Mr. Hewitt. William Tell Melchdale Edwald . . Grisler . . Werner . . Lieutenant . Mr. Hodgkinson. Provost Mr. Ashton. Prigmore. 1st Bowman .... " West. " King. Austrian Soldier . . " Hammond. " Richards. Serena Mrs. Wilson. " Hallam. Lucella " Kenna. " Martin. Marina " Melmoth. The Guardians Outwitted ; Obadiah Prim .... Mr. Prigmore. | Anna Lovely . . and a pantomime, for this night only, called Nootka Sound. Capt. Douglas Sam Stern . Tom Grog . Lieutenant . Mr. Prigmore. " Robbins. '* Woolls. " Bergman. Don Guzman. Don Frederick Alknomook . Wampumpoo. Mrs. Hallam. Mr. King. " Martin. " West. " Miller. Mr. Heard's benefit. June 7th, " Mr. Heard moft refpe£fiully informs the public in general, that a long feries of illnefs prevents him the happinefs of appear- ing before his friends — even on his benefit night. He therefore folicits that kind patronage which the Benevolent will ever (hew Infirmity, and which at prefent he cannot claim, except from long fervice and fthcere gratitude." The Rivals ; Bob Acres Mr. Hodgkinson. Capt. Absolute Hallam. Lydia Languish Julia .... Mrs. Hallam. " Melmoth. Collins' Ode on i he Passions By Mrs. Melmoth. and The Devil to Pay. June nth, Mrs. Wilfon, and MefTrs. Miller, Bergman and Durang's benefit. The Patriot ; A comic opera, called Patrick in Pruflia ; or, Love in a Camp ; — being the fecond part of the Poor Soldier ; Capt. Patrick . . Marshal Fehrbellin Rupert .... Father Luke . . Darby .... Mr. King. 44 Ashton. " Woolls. M Richards. " Prigmore. Quiz Mr. Bergman. Adjutant ' Hammond. Mabel Flourish ..." Martin. Flora Mrs. Wilson. Norah " Pownall. and a ballet, called The Huntrefs ; or, Tammany's Frolics. Tammany Mr. Ashton. | Huntress Mrs. Wilbow. Dancers and Hunter* — Messrs. Dorang, Miller, West, &o. 116 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE, June 20th, Meffrs. Woolls' and Richards' night. Burgoyne's comedy of The Heirefs; Clifford Mr. Hodgkinson. Sir Clement Flint Lord Gayville . Alscrip ... Blandish . . , Rightly . . . Richards. Martin. Prigmore. Ashton. King. Prompt. . . Lady Emily . Miss Alscrip . Miss Alten Mrs. Blandish Tiffany . . and No Song, No Supper. Mr. Woolls. Mrs. Hallam. " Pownall. " hodgkinson. " Miller. " Wilson. The season, which had been an unusually prosperous one, and remarkably prolific in new and important pieces, did not terminate until the 28th of June. CHAPTER X. John Street Theatre, 1794-5 Ricketts' Amphitheatre. E S S R S . Hallam and Hodgkinson, the new partners in the management of the Old American Company, reopened the theatre in John Street on the evening of December 15th, 1794. Harmony, however, did not prevail in their councils. Hodgkinson was exacting, monopolizing, and imperious in his actions and deportment. A conscious- ness of being the all-engrossing favorite of the public ren- dered him almost unbearable. Hallam, on the contrary, whose waning abilities had already been perceived by the public, was jealous and envious in the highest degree of his partner's more favorable position, and in an underhanded way frequently endeavored to lower him in public estimation. During the en- tire period of their connection, discord reigned supreme in the theatre. The company engaged for the season (from which Mr. and Mrs. Henry, Mr. and Mrs. Kenna, Mrs. Long, and Messrs. Heard, Hammond, Bisset and West had retired) con- sisted of Messrs. Hodgkinson, Hallam, King, Richards, Martin, Prigmore, Marriott, Munto, Ashton, Woolls, Carr, Hallam, Jr., Berwick, Durang, Nelson, Lee, Leonard, Miller, McKnight, Solomons, Humphreys, and Ryan (the prompter), with Mes- dames Melmoth, Pownall, Hodgkinson, Hallam, Marriott, Solomons, Wilson, Miller, Hamilton, King, and Durang, Mad- ame Gardie, and Misses Chaucer, Harding, and Solomons. Mr. Faulkner was still treasurer, and Mr. Hewitt leader of the orchestra, which was the best yet heard in New York. Per- formances were usually given only on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, though occasionally another evening was added. 118 RECORDS OF THE NEW YOFK STAGE. The opera of " Love in a Village " was presented on the open- ing night, with the first appearance in New York of Mr. Carr as Young Meadows, Mr. Munto as Eustace, and Mrs. Solomons as Luanda; with the support of Hodgkinson as Hawthorn, Hallam as Hodge, Mrs. Hodgkinson as Rosetta, and Mrs. Pownall as Margery. In the after-piece of " The Liar," Mr. Hodgkinson personated Young Wilding, and Miss Chaucer made her debut as Miss Grantham. To the bottom of the bill was appended the following notice : " Box 8s. Pit 6s. Gallery 4s. " Places in the Boxes may be taken of Mr. Faulkner every day at the Box Office, from Ten to Twelve A. M., and on the days of performance from Three to Five P. M., where alfo Tickets may be had, and at Mr. Gaine's Book Store at the Bible, in Hanover Square. The doors will be opened a quarter after Five, and the curtain drawn up precifely a quarter after Six o'clock. " *- # * Ladies and Gentlemen will pleafe to fend their fervants at 5 o'clock to keep places. Vivat Refpublica." Mr. Munto, Mrs. Solomons and Miss Chaucer were nearly worthless additions to the company, and Mr. Benjamin Carr, whose voice was pleasing, and who had a competent knowledge of music, possessed no attractions as an actor, and was merely acceptable as a skillful singer. He soon left the stage, and became an eminent teacher of his art, principally in Phila- delphia, where he died in 1836. Dec. 17th, Venice Preferved. Pierre Mr. Marriott [from Edinburgh, his first appearance.] Jaffier Mr. Hodgkinson. | Belvidera. . . . Mrs. Meimoth. Mr. Marriott's performance received little applause, and he soon subsided into a lower range of parts. Dec. 19th. First night of a grand serious pantomime (music by Pellesier) entitled " Sophia of Brabant," with the debut in New York of Madame Gardie as the heroine, who was received with unbounded applause., The critics of the day pronounced her face, figure and action enchanting, and her appearance M RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 119 and manners as prepossessing beyond any example on our stage. Madame Gardie was the wife of a musician in the orchestra, who was the son of a wealthy nobleman of Rochelle. He had been discarded by his father for his connection with the lady, who was an accomplished actress and vocalist, as well as a dancer and pantomimist. Seeking refuge in St. Domingo, they were obliged, on the insurrection of the blacks there, to fly to America, where, for a time, the wife's exertions principally procured them a competent support. On the excision of the ballet establishment from the theatre, their resources became greatly reduced, and he resolved on return- ing to France, where his father was now willing to receive him, but his wife refused to accompany him, a separation being agreed on, but whether for a temporary period or in perpetuity is unknown. This seems to have driven the wretched man to madness, and in his desperation he murdered the woman he appears to have adored, and killed himself. These events occurred in the year 1798, in a house situated on the corner of Pearl and Broad Streets. Dunlap gives many additional details, and describes Gardie as reserved and mel- ancholy, but of exemplary habits as a husband, a father and a man. Dec. 22d, never a&ed here, Garrick's alteration of Wycherly's Country Wife, entitled The Country Girl. Moody Mr. Hodgkinson. Will Mr. Miller. 8parki8h " Martin. Peggy Mrs. Hodgkinson. Harcourt " Marriott. AliUiea " Solomons. Belville ... . . " Hallam, Jr. Lucy " Pownall. Dec. 24th, The Carmelite ; with the firft performance here of Dibdin's mufical farce, called The Quaker. Lubin Mr. Nelson [his first appearance.] Steady Mr. King. I Gillian. . . . . Mrs. Hodqkinson. Easy " Ashton. Floretta " Solomons. Solomon " Hodgkinson. I Cecily " Miller. Dec. 26th. The School for Wives. A Sea Song by Mr. Solo- mons, his first appearance. Concluding with the first per- formance in New York of the still popular afterpiece written 120 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. by Morton, entitled The Children in the Wood. The accom- paniments and additional songs by Mr. Carr. The original music by Dr. Arnold. Walter Mr. Hodgkinson. Lord Alford Sir Rowland Apathy . . Gabriel . . Oliver . . Carr. Marriott. Nelson. Martin. Lee. The Children j Miss Harding. ' " I " Solomons. [Their first appearance.] Lady Helen .... Mrs. Solomons. Josephine " Hodgkinson. Winifred .... " Hamilton. It proved the most popular production of the season, and was repeated many times. Miss Harding was a ward of Hodgkinson, and at the time appeared an innocent, blue-eyed, lovely child. She became a pleasing actress in light char- acters, was afterwards known as Mrs. G. Marshall, and ulti- • mately became Mrs. Clark — a popular personator of old women in the Boston and southern theatres. Jan. ift, 1795, The Rival Queens; Alexander . Lysemachus Clytus . . Mr. Hodgkinson. " Hallam, Jr. " Marriott. Roxana Mrs. Melmoth. Statira " Marriott. Parisatis Miss Chaucer and Harlequin's Animation ; or, Triumph of Mirth. Harlequin Clown . Pantaloon Lover Mr. Martin. " Hodgkinson. " Ashton. " DURANG. Gladiator Mr. King. Mirth Mrs. Solomons. Pantalina .... " Hamilton. Columbine .... Mad. Gardie. Mrs. Marriott, who personated Statira, was a young and pretty woman, but, like her husband, of little value as an artist. Jan. 2d, The Country Girl ; and The Children in the Wood. In the latter, by request, Mrs. Melmoth appeared as Lady Helen, a character she retained to the end of the season. Jan. 7th, Never acted here, Cobb's opera of The Haunted Tower ; Music by Storace. Accompaniments by Mr. Pellesier. Lord William . . Baron of Oakland . Edward . . . . Charles . . . . Hugo . . . De Courcy . . and Marquis . Nicholas Mr. Hodgkinson. " King. " Martin. " Carr. " Richards. " Hallam, Jr. Robert. . Lewis . Lady Elinor Adela . Cicely . . Maud . . Mr. Nelson. " Berwick. Mrs. Pownall. " Hodgkinson. " Solomons. " Hamilton. The Midnight Hour. Mr. Hallam, Jr. " Hallam. Julia Mrs. Marriott. Flora " Pownall. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 121 January 14th. Macbeth was revived with unufual care, with Locke's mufic, and new fcenery by Ciceri. Selections of Scotch mufic, arranged by Mr. Carr, were given between the a£ts. Macbeth Mr. Hodqkinson. Duncan . Macduff . Malcolm Donalbain Lenox . Seyward Seyton . Richards. Hallam. Martin. Miller. King. Munto. Ashton. Fleance . Apparition 1st Assassin Hecate 1st Witch 2d Witch 3d Witch. Lady Macbeth Miss Hardino. " Solomons. Mr. Lee. " WOOLLS. Mrs. Hamilton. Mr. Nelson. " Berwick. Mrs. Melmoth. The Witches' Dance was led by Madame Gardie and Mr. Durang ; and the whole strength of the company, principals included, was embodied in the vocal parts. January 26th, Holcroft's comedy of Love's Frailties. — (An- nounced in the bills as the fineft production fince The School for Scandal.) Craig Campbell Muscadel Sir Gregory Oldwort Seymour James . . Mr. Hallam. " Hodqkinson. " Prigmore. " Marriott. " Martin. Lady Fancourt Lady Louisa . Paulina . . Nanette . Mrs. Wilkins. Mrs. Hallam. M Marriott. " Hodqkinson. " Pownall. " Miller. February 16th, firft performance of Dunlap's tragedy called Fontainville Abbey, taken from Mrs. RadclifPs Romance of the Foreft. Marquis Lamotte Peter Mr. King. " Hodqkinson. " Richards. Madame Lamotte Adeline . Mrs. Melmoth. " Hodqkinson. It was favorably received, but its career was a short one. February 18th, Wild Oats ; and Prince Hoare's farce of The Prize, with the admired mufic of Storace. Dr. Lenitive Heartwell . Caddy . . Label . . Mr. Hodqkinson. " Hallam, Jr. " Ashton. " Martin. Juba . Mrs. Caddy Caroline . Mr. Carr. Mrs. Miller. " Potvnall. " The Prize" has continued a favorite afterpiece until quite lately, and Harwood, Jefferson, Spiller, Placide, Browne, and Master Burke, have delighted in the character of the Doctor, while Caroline was no less a favorite with the general run of singing actresses. February 25th, never performed here, Cumberland's comedy called The Jew ; or, the Benevolent Hebrew ; Sheva .... Sir Stephen Bertram Frederick Bertram Charles Ratcliff Jabal .... and Oen. Worry . . Biron .... Mr. Hodqkinson. " Richards. " Fawcett. " Martin. M Hallam. Saunders . . Eliza Ratcliff. Mrs. Ratcliff . Dorcas Mrs. Goodison Mr. Ashton. Mrs. Hallam. " Hamilton. " Miller. Miss Chaucer. The Rival Candidates. Mr. Richards. 44 Carr. Narcissa Mrs. Hodqkinson. Jenny " PoWNALL. " The Jew" was for forty years a popular play, and Sheva 16 122 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. a character attempted by our most prominent comedians. Its last representative, that we remember, was Professor J. W. S. Hows, in 1835. Mr. Fawcett, who made his appearance as Frederick Ber- tram, was a young man who had opened in the tragedy of " Mahomet" a few nights before. He possessed no distinguish- ing merit. March 2d, The Gamefter; Beverly Mr. Hodgkinson. I Mrs. Beverly .... Mrs. Melmoth. Lewson " Marriott. | Charlotte " Marriott. and the new mufical farce of The Purfe. Will Steady .... Mr. Hodgkinson. I Theodore Mr. Fawcett. Baron " Richards. Page Miss Harding. Edmund " Carr. Sally Mrs. Hodgkinson. Mr. and Mrs. Hodgkinson secured for this farce the same popularity in New York that Bannister and Mrs. Bland gained for it in London. March 9th. Mrs. Spencer made her first appearance in New York as Juliet, with slight success. She was more favorably received on the 13th, when she appeared as Lady Henrietta, in " How to Grow Rich." On the latter evening Mrs. Hatton's opera (so called) of " America Discovered," or " Tammany the Indian Chief," reduced to two acts, was re- vived, with Hodgkinson as Tammany, Hallam as Columbus, and Mrs. Hodgkinson as Manana. March 1 6th, never performed here, Waldron's comedy en- titled, Heigho for a Hufband ! Justice Rackrent . . . Mr. Prigmore. I Maria Mm. Spenceb. Timothy " Hallam. Charlotte " Marriott. Frank " Martin. Dorothy " Pownall. Squire Edward ..." Hallam, Jr. Mrs. Millclack ..." Miller. Gen. Fairlove .... " Marriott. and The Highland Reel. March 20th, Every One Has His Fault ; and, firft time here, a grand ferious Pantomime, entitled La Foret Noire. La Terreur . . . . . Mr. Hodgkinson. Peasant . . . Mr. Woolls. " Hallam. Lucille . . . Mad. Gardie. "■Confidante . . . . Mrs. Hamilton. March 2 1 ft, George Barnwell ; George Barnwell . . . Mr. Martin. . . Mrs. Marriott. and the farce f The Spoiled Child, written by Prince Hoare. Harding. Old Pickle . . . . . Mr. Prigmore. Tag Miss Pickle . . . . Mrs. Hamilton. . " Lee. MR. FAWCETT AS TOUCHSTONE (From an original drawing, i8rg> RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 123 This is the first cast found of this still favorite farce, by which it would seem that Miss Harding was the earliest rep- resentative here of the mischievous urchin, (originally played in London by Mrs. Jordan) and successfully followed by Miss Fontenelle, Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Poe, Mrs. Young, Mrs. Barnes, Miss Clara Fisher, Miss Watson, Kate Bateman, and innumer- able others, none of whom, probably, have surpassed, if equaled, the excellence of Clara Fisher, now Mrs. Maeder. March 27th, King Lear ; Lear Mr. Hallam. Edgar Edmund . Kent . . Gloster . Albany . Cornwall Hodgkinson. Hallam, Jr. Prigmore. Richards. Marriott. Fawcett. Burgundy Mr. Ashton. Gentleman Usher . . " Martin. Peasant " Woolls. Cordelia Mrs. Hallam. Regan " Marriott. Goneril " Hamilton. Arantbe ..... Miss Chaucer. and Murphy's elegant petit-comedy, entitled Three Weeks After Marriage. Sir Charles Rackett Drugget .... Lovelace . . . Woodley. . . . Mr. Hodgkinson. " Prigmore. " Martin. " King. Lady Rackett Mrs. Drugget. Nancy . Dimity. . . Mrs. Hallam. u Miller. " King. " Pownall. Still occasionally revived, and always with applause. April 15th, The Duenna ; Don Jerome . Ferdinand . Carlos . . Antonio . Father Paul Mr. Richards. Isaac Mendoza . . . Mr. Prigmore. " Hodgkinson. Lopez " Martin. " Nelson. Clara Mrs. Hodgkinson. • " Carr. Louisa " Pownall. " King. Margaret " Miller. with the Bufy Body, reduced to two a£b. Marplot . . . Sir George Airey . Sir Francis Gripe . 20th. Mr. Hallam. Charles Mr. Martin. " Hallam. Jr. Miranda Mrs. Hallam. •• Prigmore. Patch " Hamilton. April 20th, Mr. Hodgkinfon's benefit. Never performed here, a celebrated comedy by Mrs. Cowley, called The School for Greybeards ; Don Henry . Don Alexis . Don Caspar. Don Octavio Don Sebastien Peter . . . Mr. Hodgkinson. " Hallam. 44 Prigmore. " Martin. " Hallam, Jr. " Ashton. Antonia Mrs. Hodgkinson. Seraphina .... " Hallam. Rachel " Pownall. Viola M Marriott. Clara " King. Carlotta " Miller. Sbelty's Travels — Written by Dunlap, and related by Mr. Hodgkinson. and No Song, No Supper. April 22d, Mr. Carr's benefit. The Highland Reel ; Shelty Mr. Hodgkinson. | Sandy Mr. Carr. Pantomimic Interlude entitled Poor Jack, with New Muiic, and an Overture compiled from Naval Melodies, by Mr. Carr. Poor Jack Mr. Dlrang. I Landlady Mr. Lei. Ben Bobatay .... 44 Munto. Orange Girl .... Mad. Gardie. and Children in the Wood. 124 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. April 24th, Mrs. Hodgkinfon's benefit. A comedy (never acted here) called Know Your Own Mind, " written by Mr. Murphy, and efteemed equal to any production of this century, The School for Scandal not excepted." Dashwould . . . Millamour . . . Sir John Millamour Bygrove .... Capt. Bvgrove . . Malvil .... Sir Harry Lovewit Mr. HODGKINSON. " Hallam, Jr. " Richards. " Prtgmorb. " Fawcett. " Marriott. " Martin. Charles . Robert. . Lady Bell. Lady J ane Miss Neville Mrs. Bromley Madame Larouge Mr. King. " Munto. Mrs. Hodgkinson. " Marriott. " Hallam. " Hamilton. " Pownall. The comedy was brilliantly successful, and for many years retained great popularity ; and it is remarkable that, notwith- standing its extraordinary merit, it has been so long left to sleep undisturbed, its last performance that we remember having been at the Park, in 1838, with Charles Mathews and Madame Vestris. April 27th, Mrs. Hallam's benefit. Never a&ed here, Cumberland's comedy of The Natural Son ; Sir Jeffrey Latimer Blushenly . Major O'Flaherty . Jack Hastings . . Rueful .... Mr. Richards. " Hodgkinson. " Kino. " Hallam. " Marriott. Dumps Mr. Prigmore. David " Ashton. Lady Paragon . . . Mrs. Hallam. Miss Phoebe Latimer . " Hamilton. Penelope Miss Chaucer. . . By Mr. Hallam. Hippieley'a Soene of the Drunken Man and Selima and Azor. May 2d, Mrs. Melmoth's benefit. Firft time in New York, Murphy's tragedy of Zenobia. Rhadamistus Pharasmanes Teribazus . Megistus. . Tigranes. . Mr. Hodgkinson. " King. " Fawoitt. " Richards. " Marriot. Zopiron Mr. Ashton. ' Zenobia ..... Mrs. Melmoth. Zelmira " Marriott. Ariadne " "Wilson. Irene Miss Chaucer. May 6th, never performed here, Mrs. Cowley's comedy, entitled Which is the Man ? for the benefit of Mr. Hallam. Beauchamp . . Lord Sparkle . Bobby Pendragon Fitzherbert . . Belville . . . Tom .... and Skirmish . . Henrj . . . Mr. Hodgkinson. " Hallam, Jr. " Hallam. " Richards. " Martin. u DURANG. Lady Bell Bloomer Sophy Pendragon Julia .... Kitty .... Clarinda . . . , Mrs. Johnson Mrs. Hallam. " Hodgkinson. " Marriott. " Pownall. " Hamilton. " Miller. The Deferter. Mr. Hallam. u Hodgkinson. Louisa Mrs. Hodgkinson. Jenny " Pownall. May 8th, Richard Mr. Hodgkinson. " Satan's Soliloquy to the Sun" Mrs. King's benefit. Richard 3d ; I Richmond . . . . . Mr. King. By Mrs. Melmoth. and, firft time here, a comedy altered from the Country Lanes, and entitled The Farm Houfe. Modely Mr. Hallam, Jr. Heartwell " Martin. Freehold " Marriott. Shacklefigure . Flora . . . Aura . . . . Mr. "Woolls. . Mrs. King. " Marriott. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 125 May nth, Mr. Martin's benefit. Know Your Own Mind j Pantomimical Ballet By Madame Gardie, kc. and Edgar and Emmeline. Edgar Mr. Hodgkinjon. Florimond " Martin. Emmeline Mrs. Marriott. Klfina .... . Miss Hardi.no. Tickets of Mr. Martin, 197 Broadway. The bills had the announcement of " Never performed here" appended to the farce, but it was advertised, and no doubt performed, in 1773. May 22d, Mrs. Marriott's benefit. The Earl of Ellex ; Interlude of 44 The Birdcatcher" ... By Madame Gardie, Mr. Durang, kc. and a Farce written by Mrs. Marriott, called The Chimera. Lord Aberford Capt. Rupert Frolic . . Mr. Priqmore. " Marriott. " Martin. Miss Martin Matilda . Dolly . . Mrs. Hamilton. " Marriott. " Miller. May 25th, benefit of Mr. Hallam, Jr. Firft time in America, a comedy written by Reynolds, entitled The Rage. Gingham . . . Darnley .... Hon. Mr. Savage . Sir Paul Perpetual Sir George Gauntlet Flush .... Mr. Hodgkinson. " Hallam. " Hallam, Jr. " Prigmore. " Marriott. " Richards. Signor Cygnet Ready .... Mrs. Darnley. . Hon. Mrs. Savage Clara Sedley . . Mr. Martin. " Munto. Mrs. Melmoth. " Wilson. " Marriott. May 29th, benefit of Mr. Faulkner, Box Book-keeper. The Rage ; Jack in Diftrefs — with Madame Gardie ; and a new farce by O'Keefe, called Modern Antiques ; or, the Merry Mourners. Cockletop Frank . Joey Napkin . Hearty . Mr. Priqmore. 44 Martin. " Hallam. 44 ASHTON. " MONTO. M'-s. Cockletop Belinda . . Mrs. Camomile Nan . . . Flounce . . Mrs. Hamilton. " Marriott. " Wilson. 44 Miller. " King. June ft, Mr. Fawcett's benefit. The Critic, for the firft time this feafon ; Puff Mr Hodgkinson. 8ir Fretful Dangle .... Leicester . . . Raleigh . . . . Don Whiakerandos Prigmore. King. Richards. Munto. Martin. >neer . . Prompter. Governor. Mrs. Dangle Tilberina . Confidante Mr. Fawcett. 44 Humphreys. Mr. Woolls. Mrs. Hamilton. Mrs. Mill;;;. " Hamilton. Irifhman in London ; Murtough Delany Mr. Richards. and Garrick's fele&ion from the Winter's Tale, entitled Florizel and Perdita. Floriiel . Polixenes AntigoDui Autolycus Camillo . Mr. Fawoett. " Richards. " Marriott. 44 Hodgkinson. 4> Munto. Clown . . Perdita Mopsa . . Dorcas. . Shepherdess Mr. Durang. Mrs. Marriott. 44 Wilson. M Miller. Mad. Gardie. 126 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. June 3d, for the benefit of Mrs. Miller and Mifs Harding. Farquhar's comedy of the Inconftant, altered and reduced to three a&s, by Mr. Hodgkinfon. Young Mirabel . Old Mirabel. . Duretete . Dugard . . . Petit . . . Mr. HODGKINSON. <; Prigmore. " Hallam. " Fawcett. " Martin. Bravo . Page . Bisarre Oriana Lamorse Mr. Ashton. Miss Harding. Mrs. Melmoth. " Marriott. " Wilson. Of A Scene from the Regifter Office, called The Authorefs ; Gulwell Mr. Ashton. | Mrs. Doggerel . . . Mrs. Miller. Melpomene Doggerel Miss Harding. and The Children in the Wood. Tickets of Mrs. Miller, No. 4 Lumber Street, corner Cedar Street. Lumber Street is now Trinity Place. June 5th, Mr. King's benefit. He would be a Soldier ; Capt. Crevelt .... Mr. King. | Harriet Mrs. King. and the admired Paftoral of the Gentle Shepherd, as altered from the text of Allan Ramfay, for Drury Lane. Symon Mr. Nelson. Peggy Mrs. Pownall. Jenny " Wilson. Mause " Miller. Elspa " Hamilton. 35 Chapel Street (now College Patie . . . Roger . . Bauldy . . Sir W. Worthy Glaud . Mr. Carr. " Martin. " HODGKINSON. " Richards " Prigmore. Tickets of Mr. King, No. Place). June 1 8th, Benefit of Mr. family of Mr. Ryan, Prompter. Humphreys, and the diftrefTed A comedy, called The Benevolent Merchant Freeport. . . . Lord Falbridge Sir William Douglass Spatter .... Owen and Mr. HODGKINSON. " Martin. " Richards. " Prigmore. " W00LL8. Tripwell . . Lady Alton . Amelia. . . Molly . . . Mrs. Goodman Mr. Munto. Mrs. Melmoth. " Hallam. " Pownall. " Hamilton. The Critic. Tickets of Mr. Humphreys, No. 4 Barley Street, now Duane Street. The "Benevolent Merchant" was a comedy of the elder Colman's, and was played originally at Drury Lane, under the name of " The English Merchant." June 23d, benefit of Mrs. Marriott, in confequence of her previous attempt proving a failure. A new comedy in two acts, entitled Try Again ! Sidney . Du Chesne Antoine . Picard . Mr. Martin. " Marriott. " Barwick. <; Munto. La Fourbe Mr. Pbigmore. Lauretta Mrs. Marriott. Rosalie " Hallam. Marinette " Millbk. A grand ferious Pantomime, called Tyranny Supprefled j Capt. Douglass. Terizabes Mr. Prigmore. " Martin. Mrs. Douglas . . . Mrs. Marriott. Mellamor Mad. Gardie. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 127 and No Song, No Supper. June 25th, Mr. and Mrs. King's benefit. The Young Quaker, and a mufical piece in two a&s, with new fcenery, &c, called The Demolition of the Bastile, or Liberty Triumphant. Mods. Mereau de St. Merry (with Marseilles Hymn) . . . Mr. Hodgkinson. La Braint Mr. Hallam. Leontine Mr. Martin. Henry Dubois .... " King. Sophia Mrs. Wilson. De Lany " Fawoett. Matilda " Pownall. June 27th. Last night of the season, which ended the en- gagements of Mesdames Pownall, Marriott, Miller, Hamilton, and Wilson ; and Messrs. Richards, Martin, Marriott, Carr, Fawcett, Nelson, Berwick, and others. Several of the gentle- men re-appeared ; of the ladies, we believe, none, — Mrs. Pownall being the only one of whose after-life we have any knowl- edge. She went South, and died at Charleston in the ensuing year. During the past season a circus, bearing the designation of the New Amphitheatre, under the direction of Mr. Ricketts, a skillful equestrian, was in successful operation in the lower part of Greenwich Street. Admission to the Boxes, $1. Pit, 50cts. CHAPTER XI. John Street Theatre, 1796. URING the fall of 1795, the yellow fever pre- vailed with great violence in New York, causing 732 deaths in a population of less than 50,000. The thickly-settled area of the city then occupied but a small portion of its now incorporated limits. On the east side of the town, above Peck Slip, Water Street and Cherry Street skirted the margin of the river. Division Street was in part built on as far as Jefferson Street, but the houses were few and scattering in the neighborhood of Market and Pike Streets — then George Street and Charlotte Street. Houses faced the Bowery as far north as Grand Street, but Broadway was unoccupied above Leonard Street. Greenwich Street was partially built up to Laight Street, and at that point was the most westerly street in the city. At this period, when New York was deserted by most of its inhabitants, and those who remained were clothed in mourn- ing, Messrs. Hallam and Hodgkinson visited Boston with their company, and the theatrical season here did not com- mence until the evening of Wednesday, February 10th, 1796, when Mr. and Mrs. Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. Tyler, Mr. Jefferson and Mrs. Brett made their first appearance in New York. An opening address, written by Mr. Milne, 1 was delivered by Mr. Hodgkinson, but was not announced in the bill, of which the following is a fac-simile : 1 Mr. Milne was an English teacher of elocution residing in the city, a man of taste and literary culture, and on terms of close intimacy with Mr. Hodgkinson. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 129 N E W - Y O R K, February 9, 1796. THEATRE. The Public are refpe&fully informed, The Entertainments for the Seafon will commence on Wednesday, February 10th, with the celebrated C O M E D Y of the Provok'd Hufband, Or, A Journey to London. Lord Townly, Sir Francis Wronghead, Squire Richard, John Moody, Count Baflet, Poundage, Conftable, James, William, And, Manly, Lady Grace, Lady Wronghead, j Mifs Jenny, Myrtilla, Trufty, Andy Lady Townly, {Her first Appearance) To which will be added, From England, his firft Appearance, From England, his firft Appearance, ( From' England, \ his firft Appearance, (Her firji Appearance) \ From England, her firft Appearance, Mr. H A L L L A M, Mr. JOHNSON, Mr. JEFFERSON, Mr. P R I G M O R E, Mr. H A L L A M, jun. Mr. W O O L L S, Mr. LEE, Mr. LEONARD, Mr. D U R A N G, Mr. TYLER. Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. TYLER, BRETT, H A L L A M, M U N T O, D U R A N G, JOHNSON. the FARCE of the SPOIL' D CHILD. Little Pickle, Old Pickle, John, Thomas, And, Tagg, Maria, Sulan, And, Mils Pickle, Nights of Performance Mifs HARDING, Mr. P R I G M O R E Mr. LEE, Mr. D U R A N G, Mr. JEFFERSO Mrs. M U N T O, Mrs. D U R A N Mrs. BRETT. Wednesday, N, Friday, and this Week, are Saturday. N. B. A Report having been circulated, that no Number of Places lefs than a whole Box could be taken, the Managers beg Leave to inform Ladies and Gentlemen, there is no fuch Rule exifting. PLACES in the BOXES may be taken of Mr. Faulkner at the Box- Office, from Ten to Twelve, A. M. and on the Days of Perform- ance, from Three to Five, P. M. where alfo Tickets may be had, and at Mr. Gaine's Book-Store, at the Bible, in Pearl-Street. The Doors will be opened a Quarter after Five, and the Curtain drawn up a Quarter after Six o'Clock. Vivat Refpublica. 17 130 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. An "N.B." attached to the newspaper advertisement, in- formed the public that u the house had been newly orna- mented and thoroughly aired." So valuable an addition to the company had not before been made in a body, for most of them were not only creditable to the stage professionally, but personally. John Johnson was a most respectable man, and a creditable actor in the first line of old men. He had played with success in London, and in New York was long a favorite. He died at the age of 60, while attached to the Park Theatre, October 25th, 1819, leaving a widow and one daughter, afterwards Mrs. Hilson, long the pride and ornament of the New York stage. His wife, whose debut proved a signal triumph, was a daughter of Major Ford, of the British army, and had been, as she was again a few years later, a successful actress at Covent Garden. Tall and elegant in her person, refined in her manners, highly cultivated in her mind, exquisitely tasteful in costume, and with singular ease and gracefulness of carriage, she particu- larly excelled in the delineation of the fashionable, high-bred lady ; yet her tragic merit was so great that she was not un- frequently styled the Siddons of America. Respected and admired, both as a woman and an actress, her visit to Eng- land in 1806, which was extended through a period of ten years, was a source of great regret to all American play-goers. She subsequently returned here, and died in the arms of her beloved and most worthy daughter, at Whitestone, L. I., June 16th, 1830, aged about sixty years. Joseph Tyler, who made his first appearance as Manly, was a fine-looking man, of dignified and gentlemanly manners. In serious elderly characters, requiring an aristocratic bearing, he bore away the palm from all competitors ; and, possessing a voice of rare excellence, he was intrusted with many im- portant singing parts, and in these, after Hodgkinson's seces- sion, he had no rival. He also died in New York, of disease of the heart, at the ripe age of 72, on the 26th of January, 1823, having appeared the previous night as General Wash- ington, in the " Glory of Columbia." In early life he is said RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 131 to have been a barber's apprentice, and in later years he was the popular host of a summer resort in New York, known as Washington Garden. Mr. Joseph Jefferson soon became a favorite of the first importance. He was the son of an eminent English actor and manager, and was born in Plymouth, England, in 1774. He remained in New York until 1803, when he removed to Philadelphia, and was permanently engaged in that city for a period of twenty-seven years, and during the whole time was justly considered as one of the brightest ornaments of the stage, occasionally during that period giving New Yorkers a brief opportunity of witnessing his delightful and irresistible delineations. Mr. Jefferson's last engagement here was at the Chatham Garden Theatre, where he opened on the 22d of July l J£24,'as'£oto and Fixture. On the 5th of August in that year, for his benefit, he appeared as Sir Benjamin Dove, in the "Brothers," and Sancho, in "Lovers' Quarrels," being the last characters he personated on the New York stage. Owing to the great depression of theatricals in Philadel- phia, in 1830, he left that city and sought other situations ; but newer actors, not better ones, were absorbing what little attention was given to the drama, and wearied with disap- pointment and oppressed with grief at the rapidly succeeding deaths of his wife and three children, his health finally gave way, and sinking under an accumulated load of sorrows, he died at Hamsburg, Pa., August 6th, 1832, aged fifty-eight years. Though tall and slender, he was well formed, with a hand- some face and pleasing, gentlemanly manners. In low or eccentric comedy he has been rarely equaled, yet his excel- lence in other lines was very great. Speaking of his Farmer Ashfield in " Speed the Plough," an eminent critic remarked " that no man possessed such happy requisites for exhibiting the character in the true colors of nature as Mr. Jefferson. In the rustic deportment and dialect, in the artless effusions of benignity and undisguised truth, and in those masterly 132 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. strokes of pathos and simplicity with which the author has finished the inimitable picture, Mr. Jefferson showed uniform excellence ; and as in the humorous parts his comic powers produced their customary effect, so in the serious overflow- ings of the honest farmer's nature — the mellow, deep, impress- ive tones of the actor's voice vibrated to the heart and pro- duced the most intense and exquisite sensations. Mr. Wemyss truly says of him, " that he was the model of what a gentleman should be — a kind husband, an affectionate father, a warm friend, and a truly honest man." By his wife, formerly Miss Fortune of New York, whom he married in 1800, he had a large family of children, of whom his daughter Elizabeth, (successively Mrs. S. Chapman, Mrs. Richardson and Mrs. C. B. Fisher) is well known here as the pre-eminent favorite of the Park Theatre during the season of 1834-5. His daughter Jane, (Mrs. Anderson) and his sons, John and Thomas, all died in the bloom and freshness of youth ere the promise of their talent was fully developed. His son Joseph (who married Mrs. Burke, the sweetest uncul- tivated warbler New York has ever known) became a very excellent actor in "old men," and died in Mobile in 1842, also leaving a son of the same name, who during the run" of "The American Cousin" in 1858, in the character of Asa Trenchard won a fame that has carried him with success over nearly every corner of the globe where the English language is spoken. Two other daughters, Mrs. Wright (formerly Mrs. Ingersoll) and Mrs. McKenzie, have been on the stage with- out attracting much attention. Mrs. Brett was the mother of Mrs. Hodgkinson, and a creditable actress of old women and coarse chamber- maids. She retired from the stage on the death of her daughters in 1803. Mrs. Tyler added to the numbers rather than the strength of the company, but was occasionally useful. These performers had all made their American debut at Boston, when the old American company occupied the Fed- eral Street Theatre there, in the fall of 1795. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 133 Feb. 12th. Inkle . Trudge . Medium Yarico . Narcissa and, Inkle and Yarico ; Mr. Tyler. | Sir Christopher *' Hodgkinson. Wowski. . . " Jounson. Patty . . . . . [her first appearance in New York] . . [her first appearance on any stage] Mr. King. Mrs. Hodgkinson. " Brett. Miss Broadhdrst. " A. Brett. The Guardian. Heartly Mr. H ALLAH. Young Clackett ..." Jefferson. Harriet Lucy Mrs. Hallam. " Brett. Miss Broadhurst came to America with WignelFs great company in 1794, and had already appeared at Annapolis and Philadelphia. Dunlap represents her as an amiable and genteel young lady, with science and fine quality of voice as a musician, but neither personal beauty nor skill as an actress to recommend her. The Thespian Dictionary says that " she made her debut at Covent Garden as Polly, in 1791, evincing that artless simplicity which is the charm of youth ; possess- ing a good figure, pleasing face, and a voice clear, sweet and of great compass, and that she married and settled in Amer- ica." Miss Arabella Brett was the youngest sister of Mrs. Hodg- kinson, and had as yet scarcely passed beyond the bounds of childhood. As a singer she had many requisites of excel- lence, and was soon an acknowleged favorite ; as an actress she was rapidly improving when she was seized with con- sumption and hurried to an early grave in September, 1803, a few days before the death of Mrs. Hodgkinson. On Saturday, February 13th, Mr. and Mrs. Cleveland made their first appearance in the tragedy of " Mahomet," in the characters of Zaphna, and Palmyra. Dunlap says they were genteel and useful performers, young and handsome, but in talent not above mediocrity. They were in New York but a single season. Feb. 15th, The Surrender of Calais 5 Eustace St. Pierre La Gloire . . . O'Carrol . . . Mr. Hodgkinson. " Jefferson. " Tyler. Queen Philippa Julia Madelon . . Mrs. Ttler. 14 Johnson. " Hodgkinson. and The Midnight Hour. Marquis Mr. Tyler. I Julia Mrs. Cleveland. Sebastien " Jefferson. I Flora " Hodgkinson. Feb. 17th, The Earl of Eflex j Queen Elizabeth . . [Her first appearance this season] . . . Mrs. Melmoth. and the opera of Rofina. With new orchestral accompaniments by Mr. Pellesier. ° elville Mr. Tyler. I Rosina Miss Broadhurst. S™ c " Johnson. Phoebe Mrs. Hodgkinson. wu,,am " Jefferson. Dorcas " Brett. 134 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. It will be perceived that Mrs. Hodgkinson was the suc- cessor of Mrs. Pownall in some of her most favorite characters. Monsieur Victor Pellesier, who arranged much of the music for the theatre, was a performer on the horn in the orchestra — a short old gentleman, and so near sighted as to be nearly blind, yet apparently always cheerful and happy. He composed the music for Dunlap's opera of "Sterne's Maria," and several other pieces. Feb. 19th, I'll Tell You What ! Sir Harry Harmless . . Mr. Jefferson. | Mrs. Euston. . . . Mrs. Johnbon. and, The Children in the Wood. The Children by Miss Harding and Master Stockwell. Little Stockwell had made his debut the previous season during the latter part of the run of this piece, and for several years after was kept constantly employed in the most promi- nent of children's characters. He will perhaps be more memorable as the stepfather of the beautiful Mrs. George Barrett, whose mother (Mrs. Catherine Henry) he married in Boston in 1810, and who, in the days of her girlhood, was known as Miss Stockwell. Feb. 22d, By particular defire, The School for Soldiers ; or, the Deferter ; Major Bellamy . . . Mr. Hodgkinson. Frederick Mr. Woolls. Bellamy " Hallam. Jr. Hector " Johnson. Capt. Valentine ..." Cleveland. Mrs. Mildmay . . . Mrs. Ttler. Col. Valentine ..." Prigmore. | Clara " Cleveland. The Merry Girl ; or, the Two Philofophers ; The Philosophers Messrs. Durang and Jefferson. The Merry Girl . . . [Her first appearance this season] . . Mad. Gardie. and The Purfe. Feb. 24th, never performed here, Holcroft's comedy of The Deferted Daughter ; Cheveril Mr. Hodgkinson. i Donald Mr. Johnson. Mordent " Ttler. Lady Ann .... Mrs. Melmoth. Item " Prigmore. Joana " Johnson. Clement " Cleveland. Sarsnet " Hodgkinson. Grime " Jefferson. Mrs. Enfield .... " Brett. Lenox " King. | Betty " King. and The Agreeable Surprife. Lingo Mr. Hodgkinson. I Mrs. Chesshire . . . Mr. Lee ! Sir Felix Friendly . . " Johnson. Laura Miss Broadhubst. Eugene " Ttler. I Cowslip Mrs. Hodgkinson. The farce was changed to " the Padlock" (Miss Broadhurst being indisposed), with Tyler as Leander, and Hallam in his ever favorite part of Mungo. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 135 Feb. 26th. " Robin Hood," with Miss Broadhurst as Angelica ; and " The Irish Widow," with Mrs. Johnson as Mistress Brady. Feb. 27th. " A Bold Stroke for a Husband," with Jefferson as Don Vincentio, and Mrs. Hodgkinson as Minette [vice Mrs. PowDall) ; and " Don Juan," with Mad. Gardie as Donna Anna. Feb. 29th. "The Carmelite;" and "The American Captive;" (altered from " The Sultan ") Roxalana, Mrs. Hodgkinson ; Ismena, Miss Broadhurst. March 3d, performance by a French troupe. Pygmalion ; a Lyric Scene of J. J. RoufTeau ; Pygmalion .... Mr. Yal. | Galatee .... Mrs. Yal. " The Two Huntfmen and the Milkmaid" — a grand comic pantomime dance, compofed by Mons. Francifquy and executed by Mellieurs Francifquy, Dubois, Val and Madame Val. And the " Cooper," a grand pantomime dance, by the fame ; concluding with a Triple Allemande by Madame Gardie, Mad- ame Val and Mons. Francifquy. They reappeared on several occasions, but never after with- out the support of the regular company. March 14th, firft time in New York, Cumberland's long- admired comedy of The Wheel of Fortune ; Penruddock .... Mr. Hodgkixsox. j Sydenham .... Mr Tyler. Governor Tempest . . " Prigmore. Lawyer Weazle ... " Johxsox. Sir David Daw . . . Jeffersox. Mrs. Woodville . . . Mrs. Tyler. Woodville " Kixg. Emily Tempest ... " Johxsox. Henry Woodville . . " Clevelaxd. Dame Dunckley . . . " Brett. with The Spoiled Child. Hodgkinson was not specially adapted to the character of Penruddock, but a few years later Cooper appeared in it with unbounded applause, and rendered the play extremely popu- lar. Its last revival was at Wallack's in 1854. March nth, The Young Quaker ; and No Song, No Supper. Robin . . ... Mr. Hodgkixsox. I Margaretta . . . Mrs. Hodgkixsox. Endless " Jeffersox. Dorothy Miss Broadhurst. Frederick " Tyler. | Nelly Mrs. Brett. March 14th, The School for Scandal ; and The Quaker. Steady Mr. Tyler. | Flor >;ita Miss Broadhurst. March 1 6th, The Deferter's Daughter; and, firft time here, Dibdin's burletta of Poor Vulcan ; or, Gods upon Earth. Yulcan Alias Crump, the Blacksmith . . . Mr. Hodgkinson. Mars Pike, the Sergeant " Kino. Mercury " Drug, the Apothecary . . Mrs. Munto. Adonia i4 Joe, the Shepherd Mr. Jefferson. Apollo " Wiseman, the Attorney ... " Duraxg. Bacchus '* Gauge, the Exciseman. ..." Lee. Jupiter " Stud, the Sportsman .... " Tyler. Venus " Maudlin, the Landlady . . . Miss Broadhurst. One of the Graces ... 11 Grace, the Barmaid .... Mrs. HuDGKiNaON. 136 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. March 1 8th, Know your own Mind. Millamour . . . Dashwould . . Malvil .... Sir Harry Lovewit Charles .... Mr. Hallam. Lady Bell. " Hodgkinson. Lady Jane . " Cleveland. Miss Neville . " Tyler. Mrs. Bromley " Jefferson. Mad. Larouge Mr. and Mrs. Val, in the ballet of The Cooper. Mrs. Hodgkinson. Miss Broadhurst. Mrs. Cleveland. " Brett. Mad. Gardie. and No Song, No Supper. In the comedy the fascinating Madame Gardie played the amusing but odious character of Madame Larouge, in broken English. March 26th. " Jane Shore," with Mrs. Johnson as the heroine, and Mrs. Mel moth as Alicia ; with a new pastoral pantomime, called " The Whims of Galatea ; or, the Power of Love ;" with new scenery painted by Mr. Jefferson. Damon Mr. Francisquy. Dorilas " Jefferson. Alexis " Durang. Strephon " Munto. Palemon " Leonard. Damaeteus " MoKnight. Cupid Mast. Stockwell. Sylvia Mis. Cleveland. Laura " Munto Phillida " Durang. Phillis Miss A. Brett. Galatea Mad. Gardie. March 28th. Lord William Edward Lewis . . and The Haunted Tower. Mr. Tyler. I Lady Elinor .... Miss Broadhurst. " Jefferson. Adela Mrs. Hodgkinson. " Johnson. Cecily Miss A. Brett. The Liar. Papillion Mr. Jefferson. March 30th, nrft time in New York, Column's celebrated mufical play of The Mountaineers ; or, Love and Madness ; Count Virolet Octavian Kilmallock Roque . Lope Tocho Ganem . . [his first appearance on the stage] Hodgkinson. King. Johnson. Hallam. Cleveland. Bulchazin Muley Sadi .... Floranthe. Agnes .... Zorayda . . . Mr. Hogg. . Mr. Tyler " Jefferson. . Mrs. Cleveland. " Hodgkinson. " Johnson. and The Irifh Widow. Hodgkinson made a decided impression in Octavian, but the most applauded portions of the play were in the hands of Jefferson and Mrs. Hodgkinson. The piece was popular for many years, and Octavian long a favorite character with Mr. Cooper, but the elder Booth has probably excelled in it every actor known to the American stage. It has not of late years been brought forward. John Hogg who made his debut in Virolet was so unsuc- cessful that he did not again appear this season. He gained but little favor from the, audience, until several years later, when he made his mark in the line of honest, blunt, bluff old countrymen and other comic parts, in some of which he had RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 137 points of rare excellence. He, as well as Mr. Tyler, was at one period the host of a popular place of resort in the city, and his friends delighted to designate him as " honest old Hogg." He died in New York, February 14th, 1813, aged 43. April 8th, The Mountaineers ; and, for the firft time here, Garrick's farce entitled Bon Ton. Prologue By Mr. IIallam. Sir John Trotly . . . Mr. Priomore. Davy Mr. Jefferson. Lord Minikin .... " Cleveland. Lady Minikin . . . Mrs. Cleveland. Col. Tivey " King. Miss Tittup .... " Johnson. Jessamy " Hallam, Jr. Gimp " Munto. Popular as this farce was for many years, it has long been totally forgotten. April nth, The Maid of the Mill. Lord Aiiuworth . . . Mr. Tyler. I Lady Sycamore . Giles " Hodqkinson. Fanny .... Fairfield " JOHNSON. Patty .... April 1 8th, firft time on any ftage, Dunlap's (fo-called) opera of The Archers ; or, the Mountaineers of Switzerland, — with original mufic by Mr. Carr. Mrs. Brett. " Hodqkinson. Miss Broaduurst. William Tell . Walter Furst . Werner . . . Arnold Melcthal Duke Leopold . Gesler . . Mr. Hodqkinson. " Johnson. " Hallam, Jr. " Tyler. " Kinq. " Cleveland. Lieutenant . . Conrad . . Tell's Son . . Portia (Tell's Wife) Rodolpha . . . Cecily .... Mr. Jefferson. " Hallam. Miss Harding. Mrs. Melmoth. Miss Broaduurst. Mrs. Hodqkinson. The new play which was not without merit, was very favor- ably received by the press and the public. April 2ift, Madame VaPs benefit. Children in the Wood and a new ballet pantomime, called Rural Waggifh Times. April 22d, The Archers, and The Critic. Puff .... Sneer .... Don Ferolo . . . . . . Mr. Hodqkinson. I Mrs. Dangle .... Mrs. Cleveland. . . . . " Cleveland. Tilberina " Hodqkinson. . . . . " Jefferson. CoDlidante .... " Brf.tt. Italian Singers Mr. Tyler, Miss Broaduurst and Miss A. Brett. April 25th, Mrs. Hallam's benefit. Romeo and Juliet ; Romeo Mr. Hodqkinson. Peter Mercutio " Hallam. Juliet Friar I^wrence ..." Tyler. Lady Capulet Prince " Hallam, Jr. Nurse . . . . and Three Weeks After Marriage. Sir Charles Rackett . . Mr. Hodqkinson. I Lady Kackett . . Droggett ...... " Johnson. | Mrs. Druggett . . Mr. Jffferson. Mrs. Johnson. " Tyler. " Brett. Mrs. IIallam. " Brett. April 27th, Mrs. Cleveland's benefit. The Roman Father ; and, never a£ted here, The Sicilian Ro- mance; — Cafts not given. May 4th, Mifs Broadhurft's benefit. The School for Greybeards ; and, firft time here, a musical romance, entitled The Prifoner. Marcus . Bernardo Pasqual . Mr. Hodqkinson. M Tyler. " Kinq. " Jefferson. Lewis Mr. Johnson. Clara Miss Broadhurst. Nina "A. Brett. Theresa Mrs. Munto. 18 138 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. May 6th, Mrs. Hodgkinfon's benefit. Firft time in New York, Reynolds' comedy of Speculation. Tanjore . . . Aid. Arable. . Capt. Arable . Jack Arable . Sir Felix Faintly Mr. Hodqkinson. " Prigmore. " Tyler. " Jefferson. M Cleveland. Project . . Meanwell . . Lady Project. Cecilia. . . Emmeline. . Mr. Johnson. '* Liz. Mrs. Melmoth. " Hallam. " Johnson. Mr. Hodgkinson sung his favorite new " Bow-wow" song. "Speculation" lived about twenty years, and will probably never be raised from the dead. May 9th, Mrs. Brett's benefit. Never performed here, Rey- nolds' drama of Charlotte and Werter. Werter Mr. Hodqkinson. Sebastian " Cleveland. Albert " Hallam. Lenthrop Mr. Johnson. Charlotte ..... Mrs. Johnson. Laura " Munto. and Slaves in Algiers. May nth, Mr. Woolls' benefit. The Mountaineers ; and, never performed here, the farce of Crochet Lodge. May 1 8th, Mr. Tyler's benefit. Tancred and Sigifmonda ; Tancred Mr. Hodqkinson. I Rodolpho . Osmond " Tylee. Sigismonda Sififredi " Cleveland. I Laura . . Mr. Kinq. Mrs. Johnson. M Tyleb. and O'Hara's farce of The Two Mifers. Gripe Mr. Hallam. Hunks " Johnson. Lively " Tyler. Osman " Jefferson. Ali . . . Mustapha. Harriet . Jenny . . Mr. Priqmorb. " King. Miss Broadhurst. 44 A. Brett. May 20th, Mrs. Johnfon's benefit. Firft time here, Cumber- land's Comedy of Firft Love ; or, the French Emigrant ; Sir Miles Mowbray Frederick Mowbray David Mowbray . Lord Sensitive. . Billy Bustler . . Mr. Johnson. " Hodqkinson. " Jefferson. " Tyler. *' Munto. Wrangle . . Lady Ruby . Sabina Rosni Mrs. Wrangle Kate . . Mr. Cleveland. Mrs. Johnson. " Hodqkinson. " Tyler. " Brett. and, Thomas and Sally. Tickets as ufual, and of Mrs. Johnfon, No. 1, South Side of Albany Bafon. May 23d, Mr. Jefferfon's benefit. Speculation ; and, firft time, Birch's fine drama of The Adopted Child. Michael . . Sir Bertrand Le Sage. . Record . . Mr. Jefferson. " King. " Tyler. " Johnson. Boy Miss Harding. Clara Mrs. Hodqkinson. Lucy Miss A. Brett. Nell Mrs. Brett. May 25th. Mrs. Melmoth's benefit. Franklin's tragedy of The Earl of Warwick. Margaret of Anjou^ Mrs. Melmoth. and The Poor Soldier. May 30th. Mr. Hodgkinfon's benefit. Much Ado About Nothing. Benedict Don Pedro Don John Leonato . Claudio . Mr. Hodgkinson. " Johnson. " Hallam, Jr. " Tyler. " Cleveland. Dogberry .... Mr. Hallam. Verges " Jefferson. Beatrice Mrs. Johnson. Hero " Cleveland. Ursula " Munto. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 139 We believe this is the first record that we have of the per- formance of this charming comedy of Shakspeare's. June 3d. Mr. and Mrs. Tyler's benefit. The Child of Nature ; and, firft time here, O'Keefe's farce of The Son-in- Law. Arionelli (the Singing Mafter) by Mr. Tyler, — a character in which he gained great applaufe, and which he retained until his death. June 8th, Mr. Cleveland's benefit. Love Makes a Man j Mr. Don Lewis Don Duart Carlos . Clodio . Charlno Mr. Prigmore. " Hallam, Jr. " hodgkinson. " Cleveland. " Johnson. Antonio . Governor Sancho Angelina , Louisa King. 11 Tyler. 44 Jefferson. Mrs. Jounson " Cleveland. and a new national pantomime, The Independence of America. President Governor Senator Officer . Mr. Hallam, Jr. " Tyler. M Cleveland. " Jefferson. America Mad. Gardie. Britannia Mrs. Cleveland. Goddess of Liberty . . " Hallam. Old Woman .... M. Fkancisquy. June 13th. Mr. Johnfon's benefit. A comedy by M. P. Andrews, called Better Late than Never ; and The Farmer. June 2 1 ft. Benefit of MelTrs Gill, Vincent, Handafy, Munto, and Mafter Stockwell. Shakfpeare's comedy of As You Like It ; Jacques Mr. Hodqkinson. Duke, Sen " Tyler. Duke Frederick ... " King. Orlando " Cleveland. Touchstone .... " Hallam. Labeau Mr. Jefferson. Adam " Johnson. Rosalind Mrs. Jounson. Celia " Cleveland. Audrey " Brett. Dancing, by Master Stockwell and Master Gabdie. and The Adopted Child. June 25th. Laft night of the feafon. Benefit of Mifs Ara- bella Brett and Mifs Harding. Inkle and Yarico ; and, Catharine and Petruchio. Tetruchio Mr. Hodqkinson. | Catharine Mrs. Jounbon. CHAPTER Xll. John Street Theatre, A. D. 1796-7. H E New York Theatre was re-opened on the 26th of September, 1796. An addition had been made to the managerial firm, which now consisted of Lewis Hal- lam, John Hodgkinson and William Dunlap. Mrs. Hallam had been withdrawn from the company in consequence of some indiscretions which rendered her performance disgust- ing to the public, and annoying to her fellow performers. Madame Gardie, Miss Broadhurst, Mr. Prigmore, and Mr. and Mrs. Cleveland also retired. Mr. King was attached to the Virginia company, and died in October. Sir Richard Crosby, who had played under the designation of Mr. Richards, returned as Mr. Crosby; Mr. Martin also rejoined the com- pany, to which were added Mr. and Mrs. Seymour, Mr. McGrath and Mr. J. D. Miller. An Occasional Address, written by Mr. Milne and spoken by Mr. Hodgkinson on the opening night, preceded the comedy of the "Wonder," in which Mr. Hodgkinson played Don Felix, and Mrs. Johnson, Violante. The farce was the " Poor Soldier," with Hallam as Darby, and Mrs. Hodgkinson as Kathleen. Colman's play called the " Battle of Hexham," produced on the 7th of October, was the first novelty. It was received with applause and continued to be performed for several years. Jefferson's Gregory Gubbin was a masterpiece in its way. The cast stood thus : Gondibert . Barton . . Montague . Somerset . Lieutenant . La Varrenne Mr. Hodgkinson. " Johnson. " Crosby. " Miller. " Tyler. " Hallam, Jr. Fool .... Gregory Gubbin Prince of Wales Queen Margaret Adeline Mr. Hallam. " Jefferson. Miss Harding. Mrs. Melmotb. ,k Johnson. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 141 Mr. Miller, a native of New York, and afterwards a wealthy grocer and an alderman, was "a good-looking young man" with little talent for the stage, on which he remained but two or three years. On the 14th, Mrs. Seymour made her first appearance in America as Narcissa, in " Inkle and Yarico." Her second character was Rosina, and her third, Molly Maybush, in the "Farmer," on the 20th October, when her husband made his first appearance as Farmer Blackberry. Mrs. Seymour was an illiterate woman, but she was called a great beauty, and her strong, powerful voice found many admirers, although it lacked sweetness and cultivation. Besides many singing parts she afterwards played a long list of chambermaids and rustic characters. Her engagement in New York terminated in 1804, but she played for many years afterwards in Phila- delphia and New Orleans as Mrs. Bloxton. Mr. Seymour was of no value to the company. The " Grecian Daughter" was played on the 24th, with the following fine can: : Dyonisius Mr. Hodgkinson. I Phocion Mr. Tyler. Evander " Hallam. Melanthos .... " Crosby. Philotas " Martin. I Euphrasia .... Mrs. Melmoth. Oct. 31st, Mr. Dunlap produced a new tragedy, entitled "The Mysterious Monk," — afterwards published as "Ribbe- mont ; or, The Feudal Baron." It proved successful, and was repeated occasionally for a few years. Ribbemont Mr. Hodgkinson. I Jacques . ■ . . . Mr. Johnson. Manuel " Tyler. Francis " Mcnto. Theodore " Martin. I Countess Mrs. Melmoth. November 18th. After the comedy of " The Young Quaker," in which Hodgkinson played Young' Sadboy ; Hallam, Clod ; Martin, Spatterdash ; and Mrs. Johnson, Dinah Primrose ; the farce of "My Grandmother," by Prince Hoare, was per- formed for the first time here, with the following excellent cast: Vapour Mr. Hodgkinson. Souffrance .... Mr. Martin. Dicky Gossip .... " Jefferson. Florella Mrs. Hodgkinson. 8ir Matthew Medley . . " Johnson. Charlotte Miss A. Ubetx. Woodley - Tyler. 1 The popularity of this farce was for thirty years nearly unbounded. Dicky Gossip was among the most favorite characters of Jellerson, Twaits, Hilson, Barnes and Roberts, 142 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. while Vapour was equally a favorite with Hodgkinson, Har- wood, Simpson, Moreland and Thayer. Dec. 19th. For the firft time on any ftage, a mufical drama by Elihu Hubbard Smith, entitled Edwin and Angelina, or The Banditti -> the Songs partly from Goldfmith, and partly original ; mufic by Pellesier. Edwin Mr. Tyler. I Hugo Mr. Miller. Ethelbert " Martin. Walter " Munto. Sifred " Hodgkinson. | Angelina Mrs. Hodgkinson. This production, which the Biographia Dramatica pro- nounces " not uninteresting," but which Dunlap says " though like its author, pure and energetic, was not sufficiently dra- matic in its structure," did not attain popularity. Doctor E. H. Smith was the son of Doctor Reuben Smith, of Litchfield, Conn., and born there in 1771. He was distinguished for his private virtues, his professional skill, and his literary culture. In connection with Docts. Edward Miller and Samuel L. Mitchell, he established and edited "The Medical Reposi- tory," a work of eminent scientific ability. He fell a victim to yellow fever in New York, September, 1798. Docts. Smith, Miller and Mitchell, with Charles Brockden Brown, Noah Webster, James Kent, William Johnson, Richard Alsop, and the Rev. Samuel Miller were the friends and companions of Dunlap, and his literary critics and advisers. To them he submitted his dramatic works previous to their performance. Dec. 30th. Cobb's opera, called the "Siege of Belgrade mufic by Storace, — accompaniments by Pellefier, — was pro- duced in fine ftyle, with new drefles, and new fcenery painted by Mr. Jefferfon. The Seraskier .... Mr. Tyler. Count Cohenberg . . . " Hodgkinson. Leopold " Jefferson. Peter " Munto. Usef " Johnson. Iamael " Seymour. Anselm Mr. Magrath. Michael " Miller. Lilla Mrs. Seymour. Catharine . . . . ■ " Hodgkinson. Fatima " Munto. Ghita Miss A. Brett. This opera was for thirty years an ever-attractive per- formance. Its last representation at the Park, was in 1840, with Braham as the Seraskier, and Mesdames Bailey and Maeder as Lilla and Catharine. January 6th, never performed here, Holcroft's comedy, en- titled The Man of Ten Thoufand ! Dorrington Hairbrain . Herbert . Curfew. . Consol . . Lord Laroon Mr. Hodgkinson. i Major Rampart . . . Mr. Crosby. Hallam. Jefferson. Johnson.' Tyler. Martin. Hudson " Hallam, Jr. Sir P. Pitiful ..." Munto. Lady Taunton . . . Mrs. Tyler. Annabel " Seymour. Olivia " Johnson. RECORDS OF THK NEW YORK STAGE. 143 It was repeated several times during the season, and for several successive seasons, but Las now slept quietly for more than forty years. January 9th. The Rival Queens, with Mefds. Melmoth and Johnfon ; — and, firft time, a farce by Dunlap, called Tell Truth and Shame the Devil ! Semblance Mr. Johnson. Tom Holton. . . . Mr. Jefferson. Whitely " Tyler. Susan Mrs. Hodokinson. This was received with great applause, and when Mr. and Mrs. Johnson played at Covent Garden, was brought out there for the lady's benefit, May 18th, 1790 — the characters represented by Messrs. Johnson, Murray, H. Johnson and Mrs. Litchfield. January 16th. Never performed, a ferious drama by John Blair Linn, a popular poet of the day, entitled Bourville Caftle. The mufic by Carr, harmonized by Pelleuer. Charles Bourville . . Mr. Hodqkinson. Alfred ...... " Tyler. Guthrum " Crosby. Bernard " Johnson. James Mr. Jefferson. Strabo " Mdnto. Marcia. Mrs. Tyler. Julia " Hodqkinson. It was performed on the 25th, for the third time, for the author's benefit. Mr, Linn, we think, died in 1804, having been for some years pastor of a church in Philadelphia. January 30th. A Mr. Collins made his first appearance in America as Killmallock in "The Mountaineers." He subse- quently played several important characters, but appears not to have been a man of much note. His real name was Phipps. February ift, first time here, a comedy by Mr. Milne, called The Comet ; or, He would be a Philofopher. Plotwell Mr. Hodgkinson. i Lady Candour . Mrd. Seymodb. Belmont " Tyler. Emily " Johnson. Sir Credulous Testy " Johnson. I Fanny M Hodqkinson. Prologue by Mr. Martin. Epilogue by Mrs. Johnson. This piece was originally played at the Haymarket, and was afterwards cut down to a farce, and in America became very popular. It has been frequently played as " The Eclipse." February 20th, never performed in America, Holcroft's comedy entitled The School for Arrogance. Count Conolly Villers Mr. IIodqkihson. Sir I'aul Peckham " Johnson. Sir Samuel Sheepy . . " Jefferson. McDermot " Crosby. Dorimont .... " Tyler. Edmond . Picard. Lady Peckham Lucy . . . Lydia . . Mr. Hallam, Jr. " Martin. Mrs. Mklmotii. " Johnson. " Seymour. The comedy was favorably received, but has not now been heard of in fifty years. 144 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. February 29th, The Faftiionable Lover. Mortimer . . . . . . Mr. Hallam. I Tyrrel . ... . . . Mr. Martin. Aubrey. ..... " Tyler. | Colin McLeod ..." Hodgkinson. Bridgemore ...... " Johnson. Augusta Aubrey . . . Mrs. Johnson. Dr. Druid " Crosby. | Mrs. Bridgemore . . " Brett. On this occcasion a riot occurred in the Theatre, caused by the surreptitious appearance of Mrs. Hallam, who, while Hodgkinson was on the stage engaged in the performance, stealthily advanced to the footlights by his side, and ap- pealed to the audience for their aid and protection, charging upon him her forced retirement from the boards. Parties were at once formed, and for a while discord reigned su- preme. A large majority of the audience, however, finally supported Mr. Hodgkinson's view of the subject, Mr. Hallam promised again to withdraw his wife, and the play proceeded to its termination with applause. The next night, notwith- standing his apparent triumph, Mr; Hodgkinson was so loudly hissed (probably by the emissaries of Hallam) that he refused to continue the performance, and declined attending to his duties either as actor or manager for the remainder of the season. April 7th, never performed here, Morton's capital comedy of The Way to get Married. — (Still occalionally played with great applaufe.) Tangent Capt. Faulkner Toby Allspice . Dashall . . . Caustic . . . McQuery . . Mr. Martin. " Tyler " Jefferson. " Hallam, Jr. " Johnson. " Crosby. Landlord .... Solicitor . . . . Lady Sorrell. . . Julia Faulkner . Clementina Allspice Fanny Mr. Munto. " WOOLLS. - Mrs. Brett. " Johnson. " Seymour. " Munto. The Theatre was closed during Passion Week, re-opening on Monday, April 17th, for the benefit of Mrs. Hodgkinson, with a new farce by Mrs. Inchbald, called Next-Door Neigh- bors, cast as follows : Sir George Splendorville. Lord Hazard . . . . Manly Blackman Mil ford Bluntly Mr. Hallam, Jr. " Miller. " Tyler. " Johnson, " Crosby. " Jefferson. Henry Lucre Lady Caroline . . . Lady Bridget Squander Eleanor Evans Mr. Martin. " Munto. Mrs. Seymour. " Tyler. " Johnson. " Brett. Mrs. Hodgkinson also appeared as Priscilla Tomboy and Moggy McGilipin. April 2 1 ft, Mr. Martin's benefit. The Sufpicious Hufband ; Ranger . Bellamy. Strictland Frankly . Tester Mr. Hallam. " Martin. " Collins. " Tyler. , " Johnson. Jack Meggott Mrs. Strictland Clarinda . . Jacintha . Lucetta . . Mr. Jefferson. Mrs. Melmoth. " Johnson. " Munto. " Brett. with the pantomime of Alonzo and Imogine. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 145 April 24th, Mrs. Johnfon's benefit. Firft time in thirty years, Cymbeline ; I Cymbeline . Posthumus Cloten . Belariua Iachimo Mr. Collins. Hallam. Jeffekson. Ceosby. Tyler. Guiderus Pisanio Philario Queen . Imogen Mr. Mrs Martin. Johnson. Hallam, Jr. Tyler. Johnson. and, firft time in New York, Prince Hoare's admired mufical farce of Lock and Key. Old Brummagem. . . Mr. Johnson. Ralph Mr. Jefferson. Capt. Cheerly . ... " Tyler. Laura. . ) p u ahl _ \ Mrs. Seymour. Capt. Vain " Martin. ! Fanny . J rr0DaDiy j « Hodqkinson. April 25th, Mrs. Melmoth's benefit. The School for Wives ; and, Ariadne abandoned by Thefeus in the Ifland of Naxos — a ferious pantomime. Mrs. Bellville, and Ariadne by Mrs. Melmoth. May 5th, Mr. Johnfon's benefit. King Lear; Lear Mr. Hallam. | Cordelia Mrs. Johnson. Firft time in New York, a farce by the Rev. John Rofe, called A Quarter of an Hour before Dinner ; Mr. Mcnto. Jefferson. Johnson. Level Mr. Tyler. I Col. Modish Lord Simper .... " Hallam, Jr. Plainwell . . ' . . Sir Wm. "Wealthy . . " Collins. John .... Mrs. Level Mrs. Melmoth. and, Half an Hour after Supper, with the following performers, and probably caft to the characters that we have afligned them. Sturdy . . Bentley . . Capt. Berry Frank . . Mr. Johnson. Martin. Hallam, Jr. Jefferson. Tabitha . Eliza . . Susina Nanny Mrs. Sturdy Mrs. Brett. Miss A. Brett. " Harding. Mrs. Hodqkinson. " Tyler. May 10th, Mr. Hodgkinfon's benefit. Never performed in America, Reynolds's comedy called Fortune's Fool. Ap-Hazard. Sir Bamber Blackletter. Sir Charles Danvers. Tom Seymour. . . . Mr. Martin. Johnson. Hallam, Jr. Jefferson. Orville Lady Danvers Mrs. Seymour Miss Union . Mr. Mcnto. Mrs. Johnson. " Melmoth. " Brett. and Selima and Azor. Azor Mr. Tyler. | Selima Mrs. Hodqkinson. May 15th, Mr. Tyler's benefit, and firft performance in New York of O'Keefe's comic opera of Fonta.'nbleau Sir John Bull Sir Shenkin Lord Winlove Henry . Lackland . Col. Epaulette , or, John Bull in Paris, — thus cast : Mr. Johnson. Lapoche Mr. Martin. " Jefferson. Lady Bull Mrs. Brett. " Mcnto. Miss Dolly Bull ..." Johnson. " Tyler. Kosa " Hodqkinson. " Hallam. Celia " Seymour. " Hallam, Jr. Mrs. Casey .... " Melmoth. The character of Sir Shenkin Ap G-riffin was afterwards transformed by the author into Squire Tallyho. May 17th, benefit of Mrs. Brett and Mrs. King. The Siege of Belgrade ; and, never performed in America, O'Keefe's farce, called the Doldrum ; or, 1797 and 1804. Sir Marmaduke Septimus . . Capt. Septimus Capt. Slash Gyp. . . . Mr. Johnson. Jefferson. Tyler. Collins. Martin. Flam . Looby . . . Mrs. Auburn. Emmeline Jenny . . Mr. Hallam, Jr. " Ml'NTO. Mrs. Brett. 44 Collins. 44 King. 19 146 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mr. Hodgkinson re-appeared on the 22d, as Odavian, for the benefit of Miss A. Brett and Miss Harding. On the same occasion, " The Tragedy of Tragedies," with the " Life and Death of Tom Thumb the Great," was revived. Tom Thumb .... Mast. Stockwell. Glumdalca .... Mr. Crosby. King Arthur .... Mr. Johnson. Queen Dollalolla . . Mrs. Seymour. Lord Grizzle .... " Jefferson. Princess Huncamunca. Miss A. Brett. May 29th. Benefit of the Box Bookkeeper, whose name in the bills was now spelled Falconer. Love Makes a Man ; and the farce of The First Floor. Whimsey Mr. Johnson. Furnish Mr. Crosby. Johnoy Whimsey . . " Martin. Charlotte .... Mrs. Seymour. Tim Tartlet .... " Jefferson. Mrs. Pattipan ..." Brett. May 31st. Benefit of Mr. Hallam, Jr. The School for Scandal. Sir Peter Teazle, Mr. Hallam ; Lady Teazle Mrs. Hallam ; (her first appearance this season) previous to which the lady addressed the audience in the following prologue, written by Mr. Milne : " These flattering plaudits cannot fail to raise A wish to merit such transcendent praise ; It can but be a wish, for ah! my heart Knows merit could not claim a thousandth part : But like the lavish hand of heaven, you Give largely e'en though nothing should be due. O'ercome with joy, my anxious throbbing heart, Disdaining all the little tricks of art, Conceals those feelings in a grateful breast Which may be felt, but cannot be expressed. Time has now swept ten rolling years away Since flattering plaudits graced my first essay ; Young, giddy, rash, ambitious and untaught You still caressed, excusing many a fault; With friendly hand safe led me through the way Where lurking error watches to betray : And shall I such advantages forego With my consent? I frankly answer, No : I may through inadvertency have strayed But who by folly never was betrayed ? If e'er my judgment played the foolish part, I acted not in concert with my heart. I boldly can defy the world to say From my first entree to the present day, Whate'er my errors, numerous or few, I ever wanted gratitude to you. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 147 On your indulgence still I'll rest my cause ; Will you support me with your kind applause ? — You verify the truth of Tope's fine line, ' To err is human ; to forgive, divine !' " June 2d. Mr. and Mrs. Munto's benefit. Never performed here, The Bank Note ; or, a Leflbn for Ladies ; and a farce in which Mrs. Hallam will appear. June 5th. First time in New York, Colman's comedy of the Spanish Barber; and Two Strings to Your Bow. The casts are not found, that of the former was probably — Count Almaviva . . . Mr. Tyler. I Tallboy Mr. Jefferson. Doctor Bartolo ..." Johnson. Rosina Mrs. Hodgkinson. Figaro " Martin. June 7th. Never performed, a drama called the Man of Fortitude, purporting to have been written by Mr. Hodgkin- son, but which Dunlap claims to have been stolen bodily from a manuscript called "The Knight's Adventure," left by him in the pretended author's hands, with additions and in- terpolations. It was thus cast : Sif Bertrand .... Mr. Hodgkinson. Peasant Mr. Johnson. Carlos " Jefferson. Spectre " Ttler. Sancho " Martin. Traveller " Woolls. Bernard " Miller. Captive Mrs. Johnson. and The Mogul Tale. Great Mogul .... Mr. Ttler. Johnny Atkins . . . Mr. Hodgkinson. Doctor " Johnson. Fanny Atkins . . . Mrs. Hodgkinson. June 14th. Laft night of the feafon. Mrs. Hallam's benefit. " Mrs. Hallam feels a confidence that the public patronage will not be withheld on account of her not participating in the fatigues of the feafon, as her abfence was in oppofition to her in- clination, and has been the caufe of considerable pecuniary loss." Pieces to be performed not advertised. Thus ended a season that had proved a constant scene of discord and crimination between the two older managers, which their new partner, Dunlap, in vain endeavored to pre- vent or allay. The result was that Mr. Hallam disposed of his interest in the concern to Hodgkinson and Dunlap, and remained connected therewith only as a salaried actor, his wife by agreement being also engaged. Mr. Dunlap's History gives minute details of these events as they transpired. CHAPTER XIII. John Street Theatre, 1797 — Solee's Company — Greenwich Street Theatre— Wignell and Reinagle's Company — Mrs. Merry — Mr. Cooper — Last Perform- ance in John Street. HE Old American Company, during the summer and fall of 1797, visited Newport and Boston, and in return their territory was invaded by the managers of the Philadelphia, Boston, and Charleston Theatres. An advertisement from the latter was thus issued : " The inhabitants of the City of New York, and its vicinity, are refpeclfully informed that a company of comedians engaged by Mr. Solee of the City Theatre, Charlefton, S. C, and com- pofed of moft of the principal performers of the Bofton and Charlefton Theatres, are arrived in town on their way to Phila- delphia, and having permiflion of Meffrs. Hodgkinfon and Dun- lap to open the Theatre, John St. , for two nights only, the firft performance will be this evening, Auguft 18th, 1797, when will be prefented the comedy of The Wonder ! Don Felix . Col. Britton. Don Pedro . Don Lopez . Frederick Mr. Barrett. " Williamson. " Hughes. " Crosby. " Dowine. Liflardo Violante Ifabella Flora . Inis . Mr. Jones. Mrs. Barrett. " Graupner. " Jones. " Hughes. with the farce of The Spoiled Child. Little Pickle Old Pickle . Tag . . . John . . Mrs. Williamson. Mr. Hughes. " Jones. " Dickson. Mifs Pickle . . . Mrs. Allen. Maria .... Mifs Arnold. Sufan Mrs. Graupner. Margery .... " Hughes. Being the first appearance of all in New York, Mr. Crosby alone excepted. Mr. Giles Leonard Barrett, the representative of Don Felix, had seen his best days, and though his figure was still fine, his action graceful and his general performance respectable, his face was inexpressive, and his standing below that of RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 149 Hodgkinson, and of the new stars, Fennell and Cooper, who were soon after pitted against him. He made his American debut at Boston, Dec. 28th, 1796, as Ranger, in the "Sus- picious Husband," played in the Park Theatre in 1798-9, and last appeared here at a summer theatre, in Vauxhall Garden, 1808. In England he had been a popular leading performer in several provincial establishments. He died at Boston, where he had been a great favorite, Nov. 18th, 1809, aged 65 years. His son, Mr. George Barrett, who retired from our stage in 1855, will be remembered as one of our very best light comedians. Mrs. Barrett (who had played in England as Mrs. Rivers) was a skillful and accomplished actress, but rather beyond the period of life adapted to such characters as Violante. In tragedy she was more highly esteemed. Her height was tow- ering, but her figure was well proportioned and her bearing majestic. She was said to have been a pupil of Macklin, and made her debut in London as Portia. She commenced her vocation in America at Boston, as Mrs. Beverly, in the " Game- ster," January 2d, 1797. She was at the Park, in 1798, and again played there, in "old women," during the season of 1821-2. She was engaged for the latter line at the first opening of the Bowery Theatre, in 1826, but had then too " far declined into the vale of years " to sustain it effectively, and another actress was substituted. She died at Boston in 1832. Mr. J. B. Williamson was an actor of considerable ability having held a leading position in the Haymarket Theatre, London, 1783. He first appeared there as Hamlet, and made his American debut as Othello, at Boston, 1796. He played in New York only during this short summer season. His death occurred at Charleston, S. C, March 28th, 1802. His wife (formerly Miss Fontenelle) was an excellent comic actress in romps and mischievous boys. She was the original Moggy McGilpin, in the "Highland Reel," in which character she appeared at Covent Garden in 1788. Her American debut was at Boston in 1796, and her final exit from the stage of life, 150 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. at Charleston, S. C, Oct. 31st, 1799. She was little known in New York, but was highly praised by the few who saw her. Mr. and Mrs. Jones had first appeared in Boston, 1794. The gentleman was reputed a good low and eccentric comedian. He also died at Charleston soon after his arrival there, in 1797. His wife was admired in Boston, in chambermaids and rustics. Mrs. Graupner (previously Mrs. Heelyer) was the wife of a German musician in the orchestra. She was a favorite vocalist and walking lady, and was long attached to the Boston Theatre, where she first appeared in 1794. Miss Arnold was young and beautiful. She was afterwards Mrs. Poe, and mother of the unhappy poet, Edgar Allen Poe. She became a very pleasing comedienne and songstress, and was attached to the Park Theatre in 1809. Mr. Dickson, or as his name commonly appeared in the Boston bills, Dickinson, never became familiarly known to New Yorkers. He was born in London, 1774, — made his American debut at Boston as Saville, in the " Belle's Stratagem," 1794, — became afterwards eminent as an actor of comic old men, — was manager of the Boston Theatre 1806, and continued so with various partners for many years, — married Miss Har- rison, sister of the more celebrated Mrs. Powell, of the Boston Theatre, — retired from the stage in the character of Cosey, in "Town and Country," April 14th, 1817, — and died in Boston, April 1st, 1853, aged 79 years : — admired as an actor, approved as a manager, and respected as a man. The next performance by the new company was on the 20th of August, and consisted of " The Mountaineers," and " The Spoiled Child f — the tragedy thus cast : Octavian Mr. Barrett. Bulchazin Muley . . Mr. Crosby. Roque " Hughes. Floranthe Mrs. Hughes. Kilmallock " Collins. Agnes " Arnold. Lope Tocho .... " Villiers Zorayda " Tubbs. Mr. Villiers, who made his first appearance as Lope Tocho, was a native of England, and for several years an admired low comedian in Boston, where he first played in America. He married the youngest Miss Westray (afterwards Mrs. T waits), and died about 1804. The third performance was advertised for the 22d, but ROGER KEMBLE From an original painting owned by Mrs. Siddons (Father of Mrs. Siddons and John Philip Kemble) RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 151 postponed to the 24th, when "The Gamester" was thus performed : Beverly Mr. Barrett. i Bates Mr. Clocgh. Stukely " Collins. Mrs. Beverly . . . Mrs. Barrett. Lewson " Downie. Charlotte " Jones. with The Romp. Priscilla Tomboy Mrs. Williamson. Mrs. Barrett made a powerful impression in Mrs. Beverly, and Mrs. Williamson's " Romp " was warmly applauded by an audience familiar with Mrs. Hodgkinson's merit in the same part. On the 30th, Mrs. Whitelock made her first appearance in New York, as Isabella, in " The Fatal Marriage." Mrs. Elizabeth Whitelock was one of the many children of Roger Keinble, and of course sister to the matchless Mrs. Sid- dons, whom she closely resembled, and in many parts is said to have closely imitated. She was born in 1761, and in early life apprenticed to a mantua-maker. Her sister's great success induced her to attempt the stage, and having played at various provincial theatres, she was engaged at Drury Lane, in 1783, where she remained until her marriage with Mr. Charles E. Whitelock, in whose theatre at Newcastle she was afterwards leading actress. In 1791, she became a favorite at the Haymarket, London, and in 1794, being one of Wignell's engagements for Philadelphia, made her first appearance in America at that city, as Isabella. In 1800, she played again in London, and was afterwards at Boston, whence she came to New York in 1802 as the leading lady at the Park Theatre, where, though really a fine actress, she never superseded Mrs. Melmoth, Mrs. Johnson, or Mrs. Merry in the favor of the public. Mrs. Whitelock's person was large and heavy, and bore, as did her countenance and voice, a marked resemblance to the house of Kemble. She visited America again in 1812, and played in Boston, a city that had always held her in the highest estimation. She is represented to have borne an exemplary character, and to have graced society as well as the stage. She died in 1835, at the age of 74, in her native land, where she had lived for many years in comfortable retirement. Mr. Whitelock made his first appearance in New York, 152 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. September 2d (postponed from September 1st), as Sir Oliver Surface, in " The School for Scandal," to the Joseph of Mr. Wil- liamson, the Charles of Mr. Barrett, and the Lady Teazle of Mrs. Barrett. Mr. Whitelock, a most excellent actor in serious fathers and Irish characters, was well known in England, where, many years before, he had had the management of several provincial theatres, in connection with the celebrated Munden. He made his American debut at Philadelphia, with Wignell's company, took the management of the Boston Theatre in 1800, which proved an unfortunate speculation, made his first appearance at the Park Theatre, as Major O Flaherty, in "The West Indian," October 27th, 1802, and was last in America in 1812. He returned with his wife to England and died there. Sept. 5th, The Roman Father ; Horatius Mr. Whitelock. Publius ...... " Barrett. Valerius " Downie. Tullus Hostilius ... " Crosby. Ventidius Mr. Collins. Volcinius " Sully. Horatia Mrs. Whitelock. Valeria " Hughes. with The Highland Reel. Moggy McGilpin Mrs. Williamson. The name of Sully is first noticed in the above. Its pro prietor, Matthew Sully, was a very popular comedian of Charleston, S. C, who appeared at the Park, June, 1806, and died at Augusta, Ga., April, 1812. Sept. 8th, by permiffion of the author, John D. Burke, a drama performed with great applaufe in Bofton, entitled Bunker Hill ; or, the Death of General Warren. Gen. Warren Lord Percy Abercrombie Gen. Prescott Gen. Putnam Mr. Barrett. " Whitelock. " Williamson. " Downie. " Hughes. Sir Wm. Howe . . . Mr. Sully. Harman " Clough. American Grenadier . " Crosby. Elvira Mrs. Barrett. Anna " Hughes. The success of the play, though not at all equal to the author's expectations, was more than commensurate with its deserts. Mr. Burke was a native of Ireland, lately arrived in America. He published a History of Virginia, and was the author of three dramas, "Bunker Hill," "Bethlem Gabor," and " Joan of Arc." He was killed in a duel with Coquebert, a Frenchman, in 1808. - Sept. 13th. Mr. and Mrs. Barrett were announced as Mr. RECORDS OP THE NEW YORK STAGE. 153 and Mrs. Oakley ; and Mr. Jones as Barnaby Brittle, in the farce of that name. Sept. 16th. Morton's play of "Columbus, or a World Dis- covered," was announced with new scenery painted expressly for the occasion. Cast not found. Sept. 21st. "A young gentleman " made his first appearance as Douglas, with Mr. and Mrs. Whitelock as Old Norval and Lady Randolph; and Mrs. Williamson as Roxalana, in "The Sultan." Oct. 2d. Ticket night. "Jane Shore." Jane Shore\n& Alicia, by two young ladies, their first appearance on the stage. Repeated on the 7th. Oct. 17th. Announced as positively the last night, with the attendance of the President of the United States, (John Adams) and one fourth of the net proceeds for the poor sufferers in Philadelphia, (by yellow fever) — the entertain- ments to consist of " Bunker Hill," the song of " Jacob Gawky's Rambles," by Mr. Jones, and " The Sultan." The season (which lasted much longer than the two nights originally engaged for) had been a most unprosperous one, attributable not only to bad management (Mr. Solee being a Frenchman, almost unacquainted with the English tongue) but to the presence of an opposition company under the direction of Wignell and Reinagle of Philadelphia, who occu- pied Ricketts' Circus, in the lower part of Greenwich Street, which had been fitted up for a summer theatre, and where a combined excellence of acting was exhibited, superior to any before seen in New York. The opening of the latter establishment was announced as follows : New Theatre — Greenwich Street. Managers .... Wignell and Reinagle. The public are refpe&fully informed that the entertainments of the Theatre in Greenwich Street will commence on Monday, Auguft 2ift, 1797, with an Occafional Addrefs ... By Mr. Wignell. After which, Otway's tragedy of 20 154 records of the new york stage. Venice Preserved. Pierre .... Mr. Cooper. Jaffier .... " Moreton. Priuli .... Mr. Warren. Bedamar ... " L'Estrange. Belvidera . . . Mrs. Merry. Father Luke . . Mr. Doctor. Kathleen's Mother " Mitchell. Kathleen . . . Mrs. Byrne. Duke " Warrell. A grand pantomimic ballet, entitled Dermot and Kathleen. Dermot .... Mr. Byrne. Patrick .... " Warrell, Jr. Darby .... " Blissett. and the farce of Who's the Dupe ? Gradus .... Mr. Harwood. | Old Doiley . . Mr. Warren. The opening was postponed until the 23d, when all of the above performers (Wignell excepted) made their first saluta- tions to a New York audience. Mrs. Merry, as the most dis- tinguished, deserves our first notice. This lady, better known to fame in England as Miss Brun- ton, was the eldest daughter of Mr. John Brunton, manager of the Norwich Theatre, and was born May 30th, 1769. Her father had no intention of preparing her for the stage, and she had seldom visited the theatre ; but accidentally dis- covering that she was letter perfect in several characters, he was induced to bring her forward on his benefit night at Bath, where, in February, 1785, she made her first theatrical attempt in " The Grecian Daughter." She was received with astonishment and rapture, and repeatedly performed the char- acter, as well as Horatia in " The Roman Father," and Pal- mira in " Mahomet," to crowded and admiring houses. The report of her triumphs soon reached London, and she was immediately engaged by Mr. Harris, and on the 17th of Octo- ber, 1785, first appeared at Covent Garden as Horatia, intro- duced by a prologue from the pen of Arthur Murphy, spoken by Mr. Holman. Her success there was even greater than at Bath — learning poured forth her praise in deep and erudite criticism, poetry lavished its sparkling encomiums, and per- sonal anecdote, bon mots and epigrams filled every magazine. The reputation thus quickly acquired she firmly retained, and continued in the highest favor until her retirement in 1792, on her marriage with Mr. Robert Merry. This gentleman, well known to the literary world as the RKCORDS OF THK NEW YORK STAGE. ' 155 author of the Delia Crusca poetry, had a fine face and person, and united to a naturally brilliant genius and amiable dispo- position, elegant manners and a superior education. Al- though his pecuniary affairs were at a low ebb, he being a bon vivant and addicted to all the extravagances of high life, the pride of his family forced him to withdraw his wife from the stage, but poverty afterward staring them in the face, the offer of high terms induced them to visit America, and in the character of Juliet, on the Philadelphia stage, December 5th, 1796, Mrs. Merry was first presented to the Western hem- isphere. Mr. Merry dying suddenly in 1798, she married, on the first of January, 1803, Mr. Wignell, who survived the union only seven weeks. Surrounded with admirers and llattered by all who knew her, she once more, on the 15th of August, 1806, entered the matrimonial state with Mr. Warren, of Philadelphia. For nearly two years nothing occurred to mar the felicity of this match, when, contrary to any antece- dent prognostic, she was seized in her confinement with epi- leptic fits, which terminated her existence on the 28th of June, 1808, at Alexandria, Va. Mrs. Merry played several engage- ments at the Park Theatre, which will be noticed in their order. Her person was rather under size, but her figure was elegant, and her action and deportment graceful and easy. Without possessing great beauty of countenance, she had highly expressive features, and, with a fine, clear articulation, her sweetness of voice struck every ear like a charm. Entirely devoid of stage rant, she read with perfect ease and freedom, laying her accent and emphasis naturally, and with critical correctness. In America she has since been equaled in pathos by Mrs. Duff, and surpassed in sublimity by Fanny Kemble, but excepting these two, every tragic actress seen here would suffer by comparison with this highly gifted woman. Other mem- bers of the Brunton family became distinguished as European performers — Mrs. Merry's brother occupied a respectable posi- tion for many years, and her sister, who married the Earl of Craven, and her niece, famous as Mrs. Frederick Yates, were prominent favorites in the British metropolis. 156 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Thomas Abthorp Cooper next deserves our attention. He was horn in 1776, his father being an Irish gentleman, who died in the service of the East India Company while our hero was still a child. Intrusted to the guardianship of William Godwin, young Cooper acquired, under his supervi- sion, a superior classical education. His attention being turned to the stage, Holcroft became his dramatic preceptor, and his first essay in public was made in Edinburgh, at the age of seventeen, as Malcolm, in "Macbeth," resulting however, in an entire failure. In nowise disheartened, he pursued his studies with renewed vigor, and before he was nineteen had passed the ordeal of a London audience, in the characters of Hamlet and Macbeth, with triumphant success. His first ap- pearance on the American stage was at Philadelphia, Decem- ber 9th, 1796, as Macbeth, and his first appearance at the Park Theatre, New York, where for many years admiration for his talents knew no bounds, occurred on the 28th, of February, 1798, in the part of Hamlet. With a handsome face and noble person, a fine mellow voice, unusual dignity of manner and grace of action, and in his declamation most forcible and eloquent, as a tragedian he was without a rival. In 1806, he became manager of the Park Theatre, and afterward associated with him Mr. Stephen Price, with whom he continued several years, till he resigned management for the more profitable career of starring. His first wife, formerly Mrs. Upton, a daughter of David Johnson, Esq., of New York, died in 1808, and by his marriage, in 1812, with the most beautiful and brilliant belle of the city, (the Sophy Sparkle of Irving's Salmagundi) Miss Mary Fairlie, daughter of the celebrated wit, Major James Fairlie, and grand-daughter of Gov. Robert Yates, Mr. Cooper became allied to some of the most eminent families of the State, and his society was eagerly courted by all who made pretensions to taste or fashion. ' For thirty years Mr. Cooper was the paramount favorite of the public, successfully resisting the encroachments of all rivalry, even Cooke's visit leaving his professional repute un- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 157 affected ; but the subsequent appearance of Kean, Booth and Macready, and the discovery of his many faulty readings, threw him into comparative neglect and into a line of char- acters in which he was ultimately superseded by younger and fresher actors. Notwithstanding the accumulation of a large fortune in the exercise of his profession, his extravagant style of living, and fondness for the gaming as well as the dinner table, finally reduced him to comparative poverty, and a benefit for his family, under the patronage of influential individuals, was given in almost every city in the Union. An entertainment for this purpose took place at the Bowery Theatre, November 7th, 1833, which yielded a gross amount of $4,500, the largest sum then ever received for a single night's performance at any theatre in America. His last appearance on the Park stage, the scene of his greatest triumphs, was for the benefit of Mr. Barry, January 29th, 1833, when he played Iago to Mr. Forrest's Othello, Mr. Barry personating Cassio, Mr. Clarke Brabantio, Mr. Placide Roderigo, Miss Clara Fisher (now Mrs. Maeder) Desdemona, and Mrs. Sharpe Emilia, a combination of excellence that has never been surpassed in America. Mr. Cooper appeared for the last time in New York at the Bowery, in the character of Marc Antony, November 24th, 1835, though he afterward played repeatedly at the South. His daughter's marriage with the son of President Tyler gave him a claim on the liberality of that gentleman, who ulti- mately provided him with a situation in the Custom House of New York. A portly old gentleman, with rubicund face and silvery hair, clothed in summer in an entire suit of white, with an eye-glass hanging jauntily from his neck, and a certain inde- scribable air of high breeding about him, was for several years, frequently observed in the neighborhood of Wall Street, by many who little imagined that in his person was once con- centrated all the matchless elegance of the tragedian Cooper. He died at his country residence, Bristol, Pennsylvania, April 21st, 1849, aged nearly 73 years. 158 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mr. Moreton, whose real name was Pollard, was a native of America. He had resided in England, and in India, where he was assistant cashier of the Calcutta Bank. An impru- dence not reflecting on his moral character lost him his situ- ation, and returning to England, he was engaged by Wignell, and made his first appearance on the stage at Annapolis, in 1793. In a short time his early good breeding and close study made him the first high comedian in America. Mr. W. B. Wood, who was familiar both with the English and American stage, pronounced him the best actor of easy comedy he had ever seen — Lewis, the prince of Vapids, alone excepted. In youthful tragedy, previous to the arrival of Cooper, he was also unapproached. This was his only visit to New York, his theatrical career being a brief one. He died of consumption at Philadelphia, April 2d, 1798, while still a young man. Mr. William Warren was the next most valuable member of the company, and the best actor of old men that our West- ern world had then seen. He was born in the city of Bath, England, in 1767. His father was a cabinet-maker, and in- tended him for the same trade, but disliking the business, he joined a strolling company, and at the age of seventeen made his debut as Young Norval. After many vicissitudes, he finally became an esteemed member of the York company, under Tate Wilkinson, in 1788, remaining there till he was engaged, in 1796, for Philadelphia, where he first appeared as Friar Lawrence, and Bundle in " The Waterman." In con- nection with Mr. Wood and others, he was long a manager of the Philadelphia Theatre, having, in 1806, married the widow of Wignell, whom we have alluded to as Mrs. Merry. After a long career of prosperity, his latter days were clouded by misfortune, and he retired from the management of the Chestnut Street Theatre, on the 31st, of December, 1829. In November, 1831, he played an engagement at that establish- ment, making his last appearance on the stage as Sir Robert Bramble, on the 25th, of that month, giving melancholy evi- j dences of decay, both mental and physical. He died at Bal- H WILLIAM WAR REM AS "llERR WEIGF.L. WILLIAM WARREN AS " J EF PERSON SCATTERING HATKINS." RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 159 timore, October 19th, 1832, aged 66 years, surviving his old friend and partner, Jefferson, but a few weeks. A distinguished critic, in 1812, remarked of him, that "he was the only stock actor in America who would be able to maintain in any theatre in Britain the same rank that he held here." His private character as son, brother, husband, father and friend, was such as to command universal esteem. His children, who have attempted the stage with success, were Hester, (subsequently Mrs. Willis and Mrs. Proctor, now deceased) Annie, (Mrs. D. Marble) Mary Ann, (Mrs. J. B. Rice) and a son, William Warren, Jr., the long popular come- dian at Boston. In the ballet, Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Byrne were the most dis- tinguished dancers yet seen in America, and had been em- inent on the boards of Coveut Garden, where the former had made his debut in 1786. They were not appreciated in America, and soon after returned to England, where Mr. Byrne died in 1842, at the age of 75. Beyond the character of the profession in which they were engaged, there was nothing in their course of life to distinguish them from the most respectable and worthy members of the commuuity. Mr. Blissett was one of the best of actors in a small part, or French character, and was also one of Wignell's original en- gagements. As Dr. Cains, Dr. Dablancoeur, Jerri/ Sneak, Canton, Shecpface and Bagatelle, he was perfection. He re- turned to England in 1821, and some few years after inherited property on which he retired in ease and independence. In the afterpiece, Mr. John E. Harwood made his first ap- pearance on the New York stage as Gradus. Intended for the practice of the law, his education was of the highest ex- cellence, and by nature he was calculated to shine either on or off the boards. High comedy was his forte, but increasing corpulence compelled him to adopt a broader line, and he was perfectly at home in any character of humor. His Fal- staffw&s the best seen in America until the arrival of Cooke. He had first appeared at Annapolis and Philadelphia, in 1793-9-1, and was afterward on the Park stage for several 160 RECORDS OF THE NfW YORK STAGE. years. His wife was Miss Bache, a granddaughter of our great Franklin, and her taste for extravagance, which harmo- nized with his own, was the cause of innumerable difficulties and embarrassments. To gratify the pride of her family, he for a while left the stage and engaged in the business of book- selling which his poor management rendered unprofitable. Mr. Harwood died at Germantown, Penn., September 21st, 1809, aged 38 years, leaving at the time no equal in comedy on the American stage. On the 25th of August, 1797, Mr. Bernard, from London and Dublin, made his first appearance in America as Gold- finch in " The Road to Ruin," with Mr. Warren as Old Dorn- ton. John Bernard belonged to the old school of actors, and was the intimate associate of the most eminent men of fashion, wit and literature of his time. He was the son of a lieu- tenant in the navy, — born at Portsmouth, England, in 1756, and, contrary to the wishes of his family, determined on attempting the stage. Leaving home surreptitiously under an assumed name, he made his first public attempt in the village of Chew Magna, May, 1773, as Jaffier. Connected with various strolling companies, through the various difficulties, discouragements, and embarrassments inseparable from tbem, he finally worked his way up to a prominent situation at Co- vent Garden, playing comedy of various grades with perfect success, and was the first gentleman enjoying a metropolitan reputation who was induced to cross the Atlantic. Mr. Wig- nell took him to Philadelphia, and he remained there six years, after which he went to Boston, where in 1806 he be- came joint manager with Mr. Powell. In 1807 he made his first bow in the Park Theatre as Lord Ogleby, and afterward played several temporary engagements there. He is last recol- lected at the Commonwealth Theatre, formerly a circus, on the easterly side of Broadway, corner of White Street, where he played in conjunction with a very brilliant company. His benefit and last appearance there took place December 9th, 1813, when he personated Dashwould, in " Know your own RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 161 Mind," and Mungo, in " The Padlock." He afterward returned to Europe, and died in destitute circumstances at London, No- vember 29, 1828, aged 72 years. His son, W. B. Bernard, born in America, is the author of " The Nervous Man," and other successful dramas, and edited his father's entertaining "Retro- spections of the Stage." Sept. 4th, The Way to Get Married. Tangent Capt. Faulkner Toby Allspice . Caustic . . . Dashall . . . McQuery . . Mr. Moreton. Cooper. Harwood. Warren. Wignell. L'Estrakge. CeolTrey Mr. Francis. Ned " Blissett. Lady Sorrell .... Mrs. L'Estrange. Julia Faulkner . . " Merry. Clementina Allspice. . M Francis. Fauny " Doctor. Sept. 8th, Toward the relief of the unfortunate fufferers by the late dreadful fire at Albany, will be performed the tragedy of The Revenge. Zanga [His first appearance in New York] . . . Mr. Fennell. Alonzo Mr. Moreton. Manuel " Wignell. Carlos " Cooper. Leonora Mrs. Merry. Alvarez " Warren. I Isabella " Hervjjy. Mr. James Fennell was a perf ormer of great excellence, and might have enjoyed the honor of being the finest tragedian on the American stage, had he combined ordinary discretion with his great natural abilities. His height was six feet two inches ; his face was pleasant, not handsome. He had an ex- cellent classic education, and, under the assumed name of Cam- bray, had first appeared in Edinburgh in 1787 with great suc- cess, but becoming involved in quarrels with his brother actors, he left that city for London, and played at Covent Gar- den, without creating much of a sensation. He finally came to America, and made his debut at Philadelphia in 1794, re- ceiving the highest encomiums of the press, and playgoers in general. He shone conspicuously both as Othello and Iago ; his Glenalvon was a masterly personation, and as Zanga he soared beyond all competition. But he was extravagant, dis- sipated, and reckless, continually projecting schemes for ad- vancing his own interests at the expense of others' pockets, repeatedly in jail, and forever disappointing managers and audiences. He first appeared at the Park Theatre in 1800, and was there again in 1802. He finally sunk into imbecility, and on his last appearance, in 1814, seemed to have become a driveling idiot. He died at Philadelphia in June, 1816, aged nearly 50. 21 162 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. The next performance was Romeo and Juliet, on the 11th, with the following fine cast : Romeo . . . Mercutio Benvolio . . Tybalt . . . Friar Lawrence Capulet . . Mr. Moreton. " Bernard. " Fox. " WlGNELL. " Warren. " Morris. Montague. Peter . . . Apothecary . Juliet . . Lady Capulet Nurse . . . Mr. Warrell. " Blissett. " Francis. Mrs. Merry. " L'Estrange. " Hervey. The funeral dirge was rendered by Mrs. Oldmixon, Mrs. Warrell, Mrs. Warren, Mrs. Green, Mrs. Anderson, Miss Mil- bourne, Messrs. Darley, Warrell, Jr., L'Estrange, and others. Several of these performers will be met with hereafter on the boards of the Park or other New York theatres, and will then be noticed. Mrs. Warren, (the first wife of the comedian) the Warrell family, Mr. and Mrs. L'Estrange, and others, are never after heard of in New York. Mr. L'Estrange is said to have lived beyond the age of 80 years. Sept. 15th, Firft time in New York, Morton's play, entitled : Columbus, or a World Discovered. With entirely new Scenery, Machinery, and Drefles. The Prologue By Mr. Wignell. The Mufic arranged The Pageant and Proceflions The principal part of the Scenery defigned and executed by, or under the direction of The Temple of the Sun The Scene of the Volcano defigned . . . Mr. Reinagle. Mr. Byrne. Mr. Milbourne. . . " Mr. J. J. Holland. " Mr. J. Richards, [of Theatre Royal, Covent Garden,] and executed by Mr. Milbourne. Columbus Alonzo . Harry Herbert Dr. Dolores . Bribon Roldan . Valverde . Mr. Cooper. " Moreton. '* Wignell. " Harwood. " Francis. « Fox. " Darley. Mofcoco . Orozembo Telafco . Catalpo . Cora . Nelti . . Mr. Blissett. " Warren. " L'Estrange. " Warrell. Mrs. Merry. " Francis. and the Farce of The Author. Cadwallader . Mrs. Cadwallader Mr. Bernard. Mr. Fennell. Mrs. Bernard. Young Cape, [her firft appearance] Of the artists connected with the "getting up" of the above drama, we have not heretofore noticed Mr. Reinagle, the mu- sician and composer, and joint partner with Mr. Wignell* He was distinguished in his profession, and for many years leader of the Philadelphia orchestra. His son, Hugh Rein- agle, was afterward an eminent artist in the scenic depart- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 163 ment. The family name stands high in European repute. Milbourne was an excellent scene-painter, brought by Wig- nell from England in 1792 for his theatre in Philadelphia, which he ornamented and furnished with scenery far sur- passing in merit any stage decorations then seen in the country. Mr. Holland was a fresher addition to the same depart- ment, and his taste, skill and industry soon rendered him second to none in the Union. Mr. Richards was a brother-in-law of Wignell, and secre- tary to the Royal Academy of London. He furnished the model of the Chestnut Street Theatre, and presented to the managers a beautiful drop-curtain and several fine scenes. Of the performers, Mr. William Francis is mentioned in Theatrical Biography as being unknown, until connected with Wignell's company, but that he had been in early life a dancer. Perhaps he had appeared in that capacity on the John Street stage in 1773, a dancer of that name having then been there. He was now an excellent representative of bluff and blustering old men and other comic parts, and still occasionally joined the dance. In Philadelphia, he was a member of the stage for more than thirty years, and his dancing academy was long the most fashionable in the city. He last played in New York in 1812. He retired from the profession in 1826, and died of gout, the same year, at his residence in Philadelphia, aged 69 years. Dunlap speaks of Mrs. Francis as always respectable in her profession, and in private life a model of cheerful benev- olence. Having no children, Mr. and Mrs. Francis adopted and educated several orphans who lived to attest their pa- rental care and beneficence. The forte of Mrs. Francis was in old women, and in certain characters of broad humor, such as Clementina Allspice, Sally Downright, Mrs. Candour, Nelly, (No Song) Beatrice, (Anatomist) &c, in which at the time she was unsurpassed. She was for many years on the Philadelphia stage, but we believe never re-appeared in New York. She died of paralysis, in 1834, at the age of 68. 164 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mr. Fox had been brought up as an engraver, was still quite young, and had both vocal and histrionic abilities. He will be found in New York again, in 1799, on the Park stage. Mr. Darley, a favorite vocal performer both in England and America, had been bred a buckle-maker in Birmingham, but his uncommon sweetness and power of voice induced him to appear in public, first as a concert singer and then on the stage of that city, whence he was transferred to the boards of Covent Garden, London, where he succeeded Charles Ban- nister in several of his most favorite vocal characters. He came with Wignell to America in 1792, and after an agree- able sojourn of some ten years, returned to England, and re- appeared professionally, but finally renounced the stage and for many years was the host of a popular place of public entertainment. He died in 1819,' aged 66 years. His son, Mr. John Darley, will hereafter be met with as a prominent and esteemed member of the profession. In the afterpiece of " The Author," Mrs. Bernard (formerly Miss Fisher) made her first appearance in the amusing char- acter of Mrs. Cadwallader. She was the second wife of her husband, married in 1795, and died in Boston, 1805, scarcely known to the playgoers of New York. Sept. 22d, was performed the comedy of the " Country Girl," Harcourt and Peggy, by Mr. and Mrs. Marshall; with the operetta of "Bosina," Belville and Rosina, by Mr. and Mrs. Marshall, their first appearance in New York. This couple also came over in 1792, and were both valuable in their re- spective lines. Mr. Marshall was the leading singer, and also played fops and Frenchmen. He had been well known at Covent Garden as the successor of Wewitzer in his French parts. He returned to England in 1801, became totally blind, received an annuity from the theatrical fund for several years, and died in 1819. Mrs. Marshall was admired for her skill in singing, as well as for personal beauty. She was also a great favorite as a genteel comedienne, and as the repre. sentative of boys and romps. She was originally a Miss Webb, and after revisiting England, and an unhappy separation from RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 165 her husband, contracted a second marriage with a Mr. Wil- mot, by whose name she afterward appeared in New York. Next to Mrs. Merry, she was the most admired lady in Wig- nell's company. The Merchant of Venice. Sept. 25th, Shylock. . . . Duke .... Bassanio . . Antonio. Gratiano . . Lorenzo Mr. Cooper. 44 Morris. 11 Moreton. 44 Warren. 44 Bernard. 44 Marshall. Tubal . . Old Gobbo Launcelot Portia Nerissi. . Jessica Mr. Bltssett. 44 Francis. 44 Harwood. Mrs. Merry. 44 Francis. 44 Warrell. Sept. 27th, Mr. Hardinge's name appeared, cast to the part of Ralph, in "Lock and Key." He was the general repre- sentative of Irishmen and old men, afterward well known in Philadelphia. His wife was also a pleasing member of the company. Sept. 29th, Othello. Othello . Iago Cassio Roderigo Mr. Fennell. Warren. Moreton. Bernard. Duke . . Brabantio Desdenionr Emelia Mr. L'Estrangi. ' 4 Morris. Mrs. Merry. Francis. Oct. 2d, " Henry 4th." Fal/laff, Mr. Harwood. • Oct. 9th, Mr. Bernard played Ruttekin, in " Robin Hood ;" and on the 12th, Mrs. Inchbald's comedy of " Wives as they Were, and Maids as they Are," was performed for the first time in America. Cast not given. Oct. 1 6th, For the benefit of the Diftrefled Sufferers (by yellow fever) in Philadelphia, Every One has his Fault. Sir Robert Ramble Lord Norland Capt. Irwin Placid .... Solus .... Mr. Bernard. 44 Cooper. 44 Fennell. 44 Moreton. 44 Harwood F.dward . . . . Lady Elinor Irwin Miss Spinster . Mrs. Placid . . Miss Wooburn . Mrs. Marshall. 44 Merrt. 44 Francis. 44 Oldmixon. 44 Hardinge. Nov. 1st, Mrs. Marshall played Rosalind, in " As You Like It," with Mr. Bernard's Touchstone; and, on the 17th, "A Cure for the Heartache" was performed for the first time in Amer- ica. Cast not given. Nov. 22d, Messrs. Cooper and Bernard took a benefit, when the former personated Hamlet, with Mrs. Marshall as Ophelia, and Mrs. Merry as the Queen. Nov. 25th. Mr. Fennell and Mrs. Merry's night. "The Orphan," Mrs. Merry as Monimia, Warren as Acaslo, Cooper as Chamont, Marshall as Polydore, and Fennell as Castalio. Nov. 27th. Probably last night of the season. Mrs. Old- 166 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. mixon gave a grand concert for her benefit, combining the musical powers of Mr. and Mrs. Hodgkinson, Mr. and Mrs. Marshall, Miss Broadhurst, Mrs. Warren and Mrs. Oldmixon. Mr. Reinagle presided at the piano-forte, and Mr. Gilling- ham, afterward of the Park Theatre, led the orchestra. The daughters of the latter, Miss Louisa Gillingham and Mrs. Emma Gillingham Bostwick, will be remembered as very charming concert-singers, and members of the choir in the Church of the Ascension. Mrs. Oldmixon at this time was the most brilliant and sci- entific vocalist in America. She had neither youth nor per- sonal beauty to recommend her ; in fact, a peculiar twist in the position of her mouth gave her face almost a ludicrous appearance ; but she possessed great skill as a comic actress, a remarkably fine voice, and a thorough musical education, and, with these aids, ranked as one of the most popular artistes of the time. She was a favorite on the London stage as Miss George as early as 1785, where she was the original Wow ski in "Inkle and Yarico." She married Sir John Oldmixon, a noted beau of Bath, from whom, it is said, Mrs. Cowley drew her celebrated character of Lord Sparkle, in " Which is the Man f* She played chambermaids and country girls with very great spirit and effect, and in one line of old women, the dash- ing, fashionable dowager, eclipsed all contemporary effort. Although younger and fairer singers were more pleasing to the multitude, the critics of the day awarded her a position as a songstress in advance of every one before heard here. She made her first appearance in America with Wignell's company, in 1793, and first appeared at the Park Theatre, as Mrs. Can- dour, Dec. 3d, 1798. Mrs. Oldmixon was on the New York stage, at different periods, until 1814, and after that time re- sided principally at Philadelphia or Germantown, where she kept a seminary for young ladies, and where she finally died at an advanced age, in the winter of 1835-6. This was the only visit to New York of Wignell and Rein- agle's company. Mr. Morris, one of its members, who had played here in 1759, now made his last appearance. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 167 A new theatre had been erected in New York, and a promise made to have it in readiness for the fall season of 1797, which was not fulfilled. The John Street Theatre was therefore re- opened on the 11th of December, 1797, with the following announcement : " The Managers of the Old American Company refpectfully acquaint the Public in general that performances will commence this evening. Impelled once more to appear in the old Theatre, they feel it necellary to give an affurance that the molt careful examination of the building has been attended to, and the houfe newly decorated, fo as to make it an object worthy general pat- ronage, until the New Theatre is ready for their reception." " The Young Quaker," and " The Purse," were performed with their usual casts. Dec. 13th. Mr. J. Simpson, from the Dublin and Boston theatres, made his first appearance in New York as Old Hardy, in " The Belle's Stratagem," the same part in which he had made his American debut at Boston, December 26th, 1796. He was an actor of old men and Irish characters, from which latter circumstance he gained the soubriquet of " Irish" Simpson. He was last on the Park stage in 1801, and died soon after. He must not be confounded with Edmund Simp- son, afterward manager of the Park Theatre. Dec. 15th. In the afterpiece of the " Adopted Child," his step-daughter, Miss Ellen Westray, made her first appearance in New York as Clara. Radiant with youth and beauty, easy and graceful in her deportment, with a soft, musical voice, and an exuberance of natural, artless gayety, she soon won every heart. She became Mrs. John Darley in 1801, and, with the exception of a season or two at Boston, remained on the New 'York stage, enjoying unbounded favor, till she removed to Philadelphia in 1819, where she continued until her retire- ment, about the year 1832, playing once, during that period, a brilliant star engagement at the Chatham Garden Theatre. In coquettish comedy ladies, Mrs. Darley was extremely happy; her refinement of manner and propriety of dress always lent additional attraction to her assumptions of fashionable social life, but her greatest excellence was 168 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. found in the gentler heroines of tragedy, or the pathetic characters of the domestic drama. Ophelia, Desdemona, Jessy Oatland, and Cicely Homespun, were perfect in her hands, and, as a vocalist, she could warble the music of her day with great sweetness and expression. Mrs. Darley died in Philadelphia in 1848, at the age of 69, as deeply regretted as she had been throughout life respected and admired. Dec. 16th. "The Suspicious Husband" was announced with the first appearance in New York of Mr. Chalmers, from the Philadelphia Theatre, as Ranger, and the first appearance in two years of Mr. Hogg, as Jack Meggott. Chalmers had been engaged by Wignell as a first-class light comedian, (a position he had filled in Europe) but he soon became idle and care- less, and lost rank in the estimation of the audience. He then transferred himself to New York, where, though capable of making himself a favorite, his engagement was ended for want of attention to his business. He returned to England in 1805, and died at Worcester of apoplexy, August 22d, 1810, having been found speechless in the street. Dec. 18th. Hodgkinson and Mrs. Melmoth appeared in " The Carmelite," and Master Stockwell as Tom Thumb. Dec. 20th, Love in a Village ; Hawthorn Mr. Hodgkinson. | Rosetta Mrs. Hodgkinson. Young Meadows ... " Tyler. Justice Woodcock . . " Simpson. Hodge ■ ..." Hallam. with a farce, never performed here, entitled A Good Spec — Land in the Moon ' Lucinda . ... Miss E. \V estray. Mrs. Deborah . . . Mrs. Brett. Madge .... " Seymour. Ben Bunker . Old Bunker . Old Spec . . Charles Modish Jasper Lunfre . Blander Bubble Mr. Martin. " Tyler. " Johnson. " Hallam, Jr. " Jefferson. " Simpson. Slapdash Mr. Prigmore. Miss Bubble .... Miss J. Westray. [her first appearance.] Miss Glib Mrs. Brett. Miss Prattle .... " Collins. Betty Miss Harding. Miss Juliana Westray was the elder sister of Miss Ellen Westray, and though generally ranking a shade lower in point of merit, was nevertheless a good and versatile actress, giving her principal attention at this time to comedy of a bolder or coarser character. In later life she displayed marked ability in many of the first characters of tragedy, for which she was better fitted than for the gay, airy, elegant, rattling heroines of comedy. On the 30th of January, 1804, RECORDS OF TTTE NEW YORK STAGE. 169 she married Mr. W. B. Wood, afterward for many years mana- ger of the Philadelphia Theatre, and was perhaps somewhat indebted to her husband's position for her long-retained situ- ation of leading actress there. After an extended career of rarely equaled approbation, Mrs. Wood died in Philadelphia, November 12th, 1836, aged 58 years. Mrs. Wood and Mrs. Darley, both by their talents and virtues, occupy a very prominent position in American theat- rical history, and though almost forgotten in New York, must still be remembered with respect and affection by many citizens of Philadelphia. A younger sister, Miss E. A. West- ray, was afterward Mrs. Villiers and Mrs. Twaits. Dec. 27th, The Dramatift ; Vapid Mr. Chalmers. Peter Mr. Hoao. Lord Scratch .... " Johnson. Lady Waitfort . Mrs. SiMrsoN. Ennui " Jefferson. Marianne .... " Hallam. Floriville " Hallam, Jr. Louisa " Johnson. and The Waterman. Tom Tag [His first appearance in New York.] Mr. Williamson. Mr. Hogg, who had failed so decidedly in 1796, now formed an acceptable part of the company ; and in the character of Lady Waitfort we first notice the name of Mrs. J. Simpson, a good actress of middle-aged and old women, though not equal to her successor, Mrs. Hogg. Mrs. Simpson had been the -wife of Anthony Westray, of London, who, dying, left her with three young children to support. These children were severally the young ladies to whom we have alluded. Mrs. Westray took to the stage for a livelihood, and played at Bath and several provincial towns, and four years after mar- ried Mr. Simpson, of the Theatre Royal, Dublin, with whom she came to Boston in 1796, where she made her first ap- pearance as Mrs. Rackett, in " The Belle's Stratagem." She was on the New York stage at intervals until 1809, and after- ward played for many years at Philadelphia, where her son- in-law, Wood, was manager. She died in that city at the age of 75, in 1832. Mr. Williamson (not the tragedian who had played under Solee) was a favorite singer, who had been at Covent Garden in 1795, and in Boston, with Powell's company, 1796, and was now warmly applauded here in Tom Tug-. 22 170 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Dec. 29th, Firft performance by the old American Com- pany of Morton's capital comedy, a Cure for the Heartache. Old Rapid . . . Young Rapid . Vortex .... Sir Hubert Stanley- Charles Stanley . Farmer Oatland . Mr. Johnson. " Hodqkinson. " Simpson. " Tyler. " Martin. " Prigmore. Frank Oatland Bronze . . Heartly . . Miss Vortex . Ellen Vortex Jessy Oatland Mr. Jefferson. " Hallam, Jr. " Fawcett. Miss J. Westray. Mrs. Hallam. " Hodqkinson. It was well played throughout, though Jefferson probably bore the palm for highest excellence. Dec. 30th, Notoriety. Nominal Col. Hubbub O'Whack . Mr. Chalmers. I Lady Acid .... Mrs. Simpson. " Simpson. Honoria Miss E. Westray. " Williamson. Sophia Strangeways . " J. Westrat. Jan. 1 ft, 1798, Sophia Strangeways Jane Shore ; Gloster Mr. Hastings " Fawoett. Chalmers. Jane Shore Alicia . , Mrs. Johnson. Melmoth and The Highland Reel. " At the requeft of many of his friends, Mr. Jan. 5th, Cooper has confented to perform one night during his vifit to New York." Venice Preferved. Pierre Mr. Cooper. | JafEer .... Belvidera Mrs. Melmoth. Mr. Hodqkinson. Jan. 10th, The Earl of Effex ; Essex Mr. Hodqkinson. Southampton .... " Tyler. Queen Elizabeth Countess Rutland Mrs. Melmoth. " Johnson. and The Oracle ; or Daphne and Amintor. Amintor Mast. Stockwell. | Daphne Miss Hogg. Mindora Miss Harding. In this little musical piece we first notice the name of Miss Hogg, a young and pretty child, with considerable and well- trained juvenile talent. Accustomed to the stage from in- fancy, as she reached womanhood she became a pleasing and very popular actress, and though never attaining the first rank, her artless, unassuming personations were always wit- nessed with satisfaction by an audience that ever regarded her with peculiar affection. She possessed a fine voice, and sang the ballads of the day with taste and feeling. In 1804 she married Mr. Claude, a young American actor, and last appeared on the Park stage, July 22, 1816, as Miss Jenny, in " The Provoked Husband." Jan. 1 2th, Firft performance by this company of Wives as they Were, and Maids as they Are ; Sir W. Dorillon Lord Priory . Bronzely . . Sir Geo. Evelyn Norberry . . Mr. Hodqkinson. " Simpson. " Chalmers. " Williamson. " Fawcett. Oliver .... Nabson. . . . Miss Dorillon . . Lady Priory . Lady Mary Raffle Mr. Prigmore. " Hogg. Mrs. Johnson. " Hodgkinson. " Simpson. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 171 Petruchio . Jan. 13th, Plotwell . . . Sir Credulous . . Belmont . . . and Tom Thumb King Arthur Lord Grizzle Noodle . . Doodle . Merlin . . Catharine and Petruchio. Mr. Chalmers. | Catharine . . The Comet ; Mr. Hodukinson. " JOUNBON. " Tyler. Lady Candour Emily . . . Jenny . Tom Thumb. Mast. SlOOKWELL. Mr. Johnson. u Jefferson. " Martin. " Hoao. " Tyler. Ghost of Old Thumb Glumdalca . . . Queen Dollalolla. . Princess Huncamunca Cleora Mustachia. Mrs. Jounson. Mrs. Simpson. " Johnson, iiodukinson. Mr. Lee. " Priqmoiu: Mrs. Shymour. Miss A. Brett. Mrs. Collins. " Brett. This was the last performance that took place on the boards of the John Street Theatre — a building erected specially for dramatic performances, and first used for that purpose on the 7th of December, 1767. CHAPTER XIV. New Park Theatre, A. D. 1798— Greenwich Street Pantheon. H E New Theatre, as it was styled for many years — the Theatre, Park, as it was afterward designated by its managers — or the Park Theatre, as more commonly called by the public, stood in Park Row, about two hundred feet east of Ann Street, and nearly opposite the present fountain, on lots now numbered 21, 23 and 25. It occupied a space of eighty feet front by one hundred and sixty-five feet deep, running through to Theatre Alley in the rear, where a wing was attached. It was one of the most substantial buildings ever erected in New York, and though externally devoid of architectural pretension, was in its interior harmoniously proportioned and admirably well adapted for the purposes of sight and sound. The plans for its construction were originally furnished by Marc Isambard Brunei, the celebrated French engineer and builder of the Thames Tunnel, who, during the stormy days of the French Revolution, was an exile in America. It is doubtful if they were ever carried out — that for the exterior, which included a range of fluted pilasters by way of ornament, certainly was not, and for many years the front wall remained perfectly plain and barn-like in appearance. 1 1 Beamish, the biographer of Brunei, says: "However fit the designs of. this theatre may have been to exhibit an unusual amount of talent and resource, and to whatever extent the execution of them may have served as an introduction to more general architectural practice, the work failed to procure Brunei any direct pecuniary benefit. Unfortunately this building was burnt down in 1821, and there remain no authenticated drawings to show the peculiarities of its construction." The building, when burnt, had none of its original peculiarities, having been entirely remodeled by Mr. Holland, in 1806. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE 173 An engraving of the original design may be seen in the New York Directory for 1796. The Park Theatre was first projected in the year 1795, and was intended to be ready for occupation in October, 1797. Its estimated cost was raised by a subscription of one hundred and thirteen shares of $375 each, making the sum of $42,375. Its actual cost, owing to the inexperience and mismanagement of its builders, amounted to more than $130,000. After several years profitless ownership, the original proprietors parted with it to Messrs. Beekman and Astor, who held it until its destruc- tion, in 1848. Its first lessees were John Hodgkinson and William Dunlap, who opened it to the public, in an unfinished state, on the 29th of January, 1798. The nights of performance at this period were Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Satur- days. Mr. Hodgkinson was stage manager; Mr. Dunlap, treas- urer ; Mr. Falconer, box-office keeper ; Mr. Hughes, prompter ; Messrs. Ciceri and Audin, scene-painters; and Mr. Hewitt, leader of the orchestra, which consisted of Messrs. Pellesier, Gilfert, Everdell, Nicolai, Samo, Ulshoeffer, Henri, Lilrecheki, Dupuy, Nicolai, Jr., Adet, Honrnan and Dangle. One of these musicians was the father of a gentleman of spotLess integrity, who has occupied with distinction a high judicial position, and the descendants of several are numbered among our most respected citizens. NEW THEATRE. The Public is refpectfully informed the New Theatre will open THIS EVENING, Monday, January 29th, 1798, With an Occasional Address, to be delivered by MR. HODGKINSON. And a Prelude, written by Mr. Milne, called ALL IN A BUSTLE; Or, the New House. THE. CHARACTERS BY THE COMPANY. 17-i RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. After which will be prefented Shakfpeare's Comedy of AS YOU LIKE IT. Mr. Hodgkinson. La Beau . . . Mr. " Hallam. " Martin. " Tyler. M Fawcett. " Johnson. Prigmore. Jacques . Touchftone . Orlando . Banifhed Duk Ulurping Duke Adam Amiens . . Oliver Charles . To which w Hogg. Lee. La Beau Corin William . Sylvius . Jacques de Bois Rofalind Celia . . Phoebe . Audrey . Mrs. Mils Mrs. Hallam, Jr. Simpson. Jefferson. Miller. Seymour. Johnson. Broadhurst. Collins. Brett. Will Steady Edmund . 11 be added a Musical Entertainment, called THE PURSE} or AMERICAN TAR. Mr. Hodgkinson. Page Malt. Stockwell. " Tyler. Sally Mrs- Hodgkinson. Places for the boxes will be let every day at the Old office in John Street, by Mr. Falconer, from ten to one, and on the Play Day, from three to four in the afternoon. Tickets are alfo to be had at the above office, any time pre- vious to Monday, four o'clock, after which they muft be applied for at the New Theatre. Gentlemen are particularly requefted to purchafe tickets at the offices, the Doorkeepers being prohibited in the ftricteft manner from receiving any money, and a difcharge from their fituations being the certain confequence of a deviation from this rule. Subfcribers will be made acquainted with the mode adopted for their admiffion by application to the Box-office. No name can be regiftered on the Box-book unlefs certificates for the number of feats wanted are taken at the time of applica- tion. The offenfive practice to ladies, and dangerous to the houfe, of fmoking fegars during the performance, it is hoped, every gentleman will confent to an abfolute prohibition of. Ladies and gentlemen will pleafe to direct their fervants to fet down with their horfes' heads towards the New Brick Meeting, and take up with their horfes' heads toward Broadway. The future regulations refpecting the taking of feats will be placed in the Box-office for general information. Jf^r" The doors will be opened at Five, and the curtain drawn up at quarter-pall Six. Ladies and Gentlemen are requefted to be particular in fending fervants early to keep boxes. Boxes, 8s. Pit, 6s. Gallery, 4s. Vivat Respublica. "UNDER THE GREENWOOD TREE" As You Like It, Act 2, Sc. 5 Under the greenwoo.l tree Who loves to lie with me, And tune his merry note • Unto the sweet bird's throat, Come hither, come hither, come hither: Here shall he see No enemy, But winter and rough weather. Who doth ambition shun, Who loves to live i' the sun, Seeking the food he eats, And pleas'd with what he gets, Come hither, come hither, come hither; Here shall he see No enemy, But winter and rough weather. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 175 The opening address was from the pen of Elihu Hubbard Smith. Dunlap's History informs us that the amount received for admission on this occasion was $1,232, and such was the pres- sure of the crowd that many slipped in without tickets. The receipts for the next night fell to $513, and on the third to $265, and for the succeeding week averaged only $333 each evening. The Daily Advertiser of January 31st contained the follow- ing editorial : " On Monday evening laft, the New Theatre was opened to the molt overflowing houfe that was ever witnefled in this city. Though the Commiflioners have been conftrained to open it in an unfinifhed state, it ftill gave high fatisfaction. " The eflential requilites of hearing and feeing have been hap- pily attained. We do not remember to have been in any Theatre where the view of the ftage is fo complete from all parts of the houfe, or where the actors are heard with fuch diftincl:nefs. The houfe is made to contain about 2,000 perfons. The audience part, though wanting in thofe brilliant decorations which the artifts have defigned for it, yet exhibited a neatnefs and fimplicity which were highly agreeable. The ftage was everything that could be wifhed. The fcenery was executed in a moft mafterly ftyle. The extenfivenefs of the fcale upon which the scenes are executed, the correctnefs of the defigns, and the elegance of the painting, prefented the moft beautiful views which the imagina- tion can conceive. The scenery was of itfelf worth a vifit to the theatre. " The company are known to the public, and they played with great fpirit. We indeed think it the beft company of comedians which has yet appeard on the boards of any Theatre in this place, and we prefume they will this feafon receive an uncommon (hare of public patronage. u Great credit is due to the Meffrs. Mangins, 1 who were the architects of the houfe, for their fkilful and commodious arrange- ments, and too much cannot be faid for the fcience of Mr. Ciceri as the machinift, and for his tafte as fcene-painter. They are artifts who would do honor to any country, and a great acqui- fition." The corner-stone of this theatre was taken uninjured from the ruins after its conflagration, and is carefully preserved at 1 Mods. Brunei is not here even mentioned. 176 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Windust's restaurant, in Ann Street. The following was the inscription : " The Corner-Stone of this Theatre was laid on the 5th day of May, A.D. 1795. Jacob Morton, Carlisle Pollock, I Committee. William Henderson. J Lewis Hallam, John Hodgkinson, Managers.' Mr. Hallam, it will be remembered, had retired from the management previous to the opening of the house, and never had a voice in its direction. On the next play night — January 31st — Milne's prelude was repeated, with Sheridan's comedy of the " School for Scan- dal," thus cast : Sir Peter Teazle . Sir Oliver Surface Joseph .... Charles . . . Sir Benjamin . . Crabtree . . Careless Rowley. . Mr. Hallam. " Simpson. " Tyler. " Hodgkinson " Martin. " Johnson. " Seymour. " Woolls. Moses . Snake . Trip . . . Lady Teazle . Lady Sneerwell Mrs. Candour Maria . Mr. Jefferson. " Hogg. " Miller. Mrs. Hallam. " Tyler. " Brett. " Seymour. Messrs. Hallam and Woolls were the only members of the company who were connected with it at the opening of the John Street Theatre, in 1767. Monday, February 5th, Mrs. Melmoth made her first ap- pearance as Queen Elizabeth, in the "Earl of Essex." Feb. 14th, The Spanifh Barber. Count Almaviva Lazarillo . . Doct. Bartolo . Basil . . . Mr. Tyler. " Hodgkinson " Johnson. " Prigmore. Argus . Tallboy Notary . Rosina . Recitation — " Alexander's Feast" Mrs. " " The Mirror" [Written by Mr. Milne] .... Mrs. Daphne and Amintor, By Miss Harding, Miss Hogg, and Master Stockwell. The Earl of Warwick. Mr. Martin. " Jefferson. " Hogg. Mrs. Hodgkinson. Melmoth. Johnson. Feb. 1 6th, Warwick . King Edward Pembroke . Suffolk . . Mr. Hodgkinson. " Tyler. " Hallam, Jr. " Martin. Buckingham . . . Margaret of Anjou . Lady Elizabeth Grey Lady Clifford . . Feb. 2 1 ft, The Man of Fortitude. Sir Bertrand Carlos . . Velasco Sancho . . Mr. Chalmers. " Jefferson. " Williamson. " Martin. Peasant Spectre Captive Mr. Miller. Mrs. Melmoth. " Johnson. " Tyler. Mr. Fawcett. " Johnson. " Hodgkinson. Mrs. Johnson. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 177 Mr. Cooper and the managers of the Philadelphia Theatre (to whom his agreement bound him for nearly two unexpired years) being openly at variance, the former entered into an engagement with Messrs. Hodgkinson and Dunlap for his ap- pearance in New York, which was heralded by the following announcement : "Mr. Cooper, by certain unforefeen circumftances, being prevented from the future exercife of his profeflion, for nearly the term of two years, unlefs he pays the penalty of his article to Meifrs. Wignell and Reinagle ; the managers of this theatre propole to appropriate this his firft night's performance toward the difcharge of the fame." Feb. 28th, Hamlet. Hamlet [His firft appearance here] King Polonius Laertes Horatio Ofrick Rolencrantz Guildenftern Mr. Fawcett. Johnson. Hallam, Jr. Martin. Jefferson. Hogg. Miller. ift Gravedigge Player King Ghoft . . Bernardo Ophelia . Queen . Player Queen Mr. Mr. Cooper. Prigmore. " Tyler. " Hallam. " Seymour. Mrs. Hodgkinson. M Melmoth. " Brett. The young actor was received with enthusiasm. The re- ceipts of the evening amounted to $895. The penalty in his bond to Wignell and Reinagle, £500 sterling, was made up by his New York friends, and he became a member of the New York company. His second appearance was on the 2d of March, in King John. King John Falconbridge. Hubert . . King Philip . Dauphin . Mr. Cooper. " Hodgkinson. " Hallam. u Tyler. " Martin. Prince Arthur Constance. Queen Elinor Lady Falconbridge Blanche . Miss Harding. Mrs. Melmoth. 14 Simpson. " Brett. Mies E. Wbstray. March 9th, Romeo and Juliet. Romeo llercutio Benvolio Tybalt. Capulet Montague Paris . March 19th. Goldfinch . . Old Dornton . Harry Dornton Mr. Cooper. " Hallam. " Martin. " Hoqo. " Fawcett. " Prkjmore. " Miller. Prince . Friar Lawrence Peter . . . Apothecary . Juliet . . . Lady Capulet Nurse. Mr. Hallam, Jr. " Tyler. 11 Jefferson. • " Johnson. Mrs. Johnson. " Simpson. " Brett. Mr. Chalmers' benefit and laft appearance. The Road to Ruin. Mr. Chalmers. " Hodgkinson. 14 Cooper. Silky Mr. Jefferson. Widow Warren . . . Mrs. Simpson. Sophia 41 Hallam. and Recitations and Songs, by Messrs. Chalmers, Hodgkinson, Williamson, Mrs. Melmoth, Mrs. Johnson, Miss Broadhurst, kc, Harlequin's Vagaries. Clown Mr. Jkfferson. 23 178 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. March 23d. Firft time, Morton's drama of Zorinfki. Zorinski . Cassimir . Rodomsko Zarno . . Radzano . Mr. Cooper. " Tyler. " Hallam. " Hodqkinson. " Martin. Witzki Mr. Jeffbrbon. O'Currough .... " Simpson. Rosolia Mrs. Hallam. Winifred " Hodqkinson. Rachel Miss Broadhurst. March 28th, Douglas. Young Norval Old Norval . Lord Randolph March 30th, Andre .... Gen. Washington Bland .... McDonald . Melville . . Seward . . . Mr. Cooper. I Glenalvon .... Mr. Hallam. " Hodqkinson. Lady Randolph . . . Mrs. Melmoth. " Tyler. I Anna Miss J. Westray. Never performed, Dunlap's tragedy, entitled Andre. Mr. Mr. Hodokinson. " Hallam. " Cooper. " Tyler. " Williamson. " Martin. British Officer . American Officer Mrs. Bland . . Honora Children . . . Hogg. " Miller. Mrs. Melmoth. " Johnson. Miss HOGQ. Mast. Stookwell. It was repeated a few times, and afterward reconstructed, and called "The Glory of Columbia — her Yeomanry," still occasionally performed at the minor theatres. In April, Mr. Cooper appeared as Lord Hastings, in " Jane Shore." A new comedy, never performed, was produced, under the title of " The Lad of Spirit, or the Fool of Fashion." Also, a play called "Joan of Arc," written by Mr. Burke; and Madame Gardie re-appeared in several fascinating dances. On the 30th of April Mr. Simpson, took his benefit, bringing out, for the first time, O'Keefe's comedy of the " London Hermit." Tully . . . Young Pranks Old Pranks Peregrine Whimmy . Barleycorn Toby Thatch Mr. Simpson. " Hodqkinson. " Johnson. " Williamson. " Prigmore. " Hogg. " Jefferson. May 2d. Mrs. Johnfon's benefit Natty Maggs Barebones . Poz. . . John Grum Diana . . Mrs. Maggs Kitty Barleycorn The Weft Indian Mr. Hallam, Jr. " Martin. " Fawcett. " WOOLLS. Miss E. Westray. Mrs. Simpson. " Hodgkinson. Major O'Flaherty [First time] Mr. Hodgkinson. Belcour Mr. Cooper. Lady Rusport . . . Mrs. Simpson. Stockwell .... " Hallam. Charlotte Rusport . . " Hallam. Varland " Jefferson. Louisa Dudley ..." Johnson. " Satan's Address to the Sun " Mrs. Melmoth. and, firft time here, a farce by Andrew Franklin, called The Wandering Jew ; or, Love's Mafquerade. Sir Sol. Swallow. Major Atall . . Capt. Marall . . Toby .... Mr. Johnson. i Lady Swallow . . . Mrs. Simpson. " Martin. Camilki " Johnson. " Williamson. I Lydia Miss Broadhurst. " Jefferson. i Susan Mrs. Collins. May 4th. MefTrs. Martin and Hallam, Jr.'s, benefit. Love Makes a Man ; Carlos Mr. Hodqkinson. Claudio " Hallam. Lewis " Simpson. Duart " Hallam, Jr. Monsieur Mr. Martin. Louisa Mrs. Melmoth. Elvira " Hallam. Angelina " Johnson. nd Selima and Azor. RKCORDS OF THE NKW VOUK STAGE. L70 May 1 2th. Mr. Jefterfon's benefit. Firft time here, a drama by M. P. Andrews, entitled The Myfteries of the Caftle ; Hilario . . Carlos . . . Fractioso . Count Montoni Montauban Cloddy. . . Mr. Hodqkinson. " COOPER. " Johnson. " Hallam, Jr. " Tyler. " Jefferson. Valoury . Bernardo . Fisherman Julia Constantia Annette . Mr. Simi-son. " Hoao. M WOOLLS. Mrs. Johnson. ** Seymour. " hodqkinson. and Ways and Means. May 14th. Mrs. Melmoth's benefit. Never acted here, Jephfon's tragedy, The Count of Narbonne. Countess Mrs. Melmotu. "The Portrait Painter"— an Address written by Mr. Milne, with Sketches of a Beau, a Belle, a Miser, an Epicure, a Real Fine Lady, &0. — to be delivered by Mrs. Melmotu. May 25th. Mr. Hallam's benefit. The New Peerage ; . . . Mr. Hallam. 1 Lady Charlotte . . . Mrs. Melmotu. . . " Hodqkinson. I Miss Harley .... " Hallam. The Mifer. Lovegold .... Mr. Hallam. June 1 ft. Mrs. Hodgkinfon's benefit. Never performed here, a drama by M. G. Lewis, entitled The Caftle Spectre. Vandercrab Charles . and, Earl Osmond Reginald . Percy . . . Father Philip Motley . . . Mr. nODGKINSON. Hallam. Martin. Johnson. Jefferson. Hassan Mr. Tyler. Kenric " Hallam, Jr. Angela Mrs. Hodgkinson. Evelina M Hallam. Alice " Simpson. The play was long a popular one, but, fortunately, has for many years been forgotten. June 4th. Benefit of Mrs. Brett and Mrs. Seymour. A new play by Boaden, called the Italian Monk. Schedoni Vivaldi Ansaldo Spalatro Paulo . Carlow Stiletto Carvino Mr. Hodqkinson. " Cooper. " Tyler. " Prig more. " Jefferson. " Fawcett. " Williamson. " Martin. Priest . . . Elena di Rosalba Olivia . Marchioness Fioresca . Murgaritone Abbess Gradisca . Mr. Hooo. Mrs. Hodgkinson " Melmotu. M Simpson. Miss Broadhurst. Hardini;. Mrs. Collins. " Brett. June 8th. Mifs Broadhurft's benefit. Firft time, a comedy by Holcroft, called "Knave or Not?" &c. June nth. Meilrs. Hallam, Jr., and Martin's benefit. (Sec- ond attempt.) Tamerlane ; Tamerlane Bajazet Mr. Hodqkinson. " COOl'ER. Arpasia Mrs. Mklmoth. Selima w Hallam. and, firft time in New York, Burgoyne's farce, called The Maid of the Oaks. Dup«ly ... Sir Harry Grovely . Old Grovelj . . . Old worth .... Ir. Mautin. " Hallam, Jr. M Hallam. " Tyler. Hurry Mr. Jefferson. Lady Bab Mrs. Hallam. Maria Miss E. West*ay. 180 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. June 13th. Benefit of the Mifles Weftray. The Deferted Daughter ; Joana Miss E. Westray. | Sarsnet Miss J. Westray. and, firft time in New York, Mrs. Inchbald's petit comedy, The Wedding Day. Sir Adam Contest . . Mr. Jefferson. | Lady Contest. . . . Miss J. Westray. This was the first performance of these young ladies that made a fixed impression on the mind of their manager, Dun- lap. June 26th. Mr. and Mifs Hogg's benefit. The Clandeftine Marriage ; Lord Ogleby .... Mr. Hallam. | Mrs. Heidleberg. . Mrs. Hogg. Occasional Address Miss Hogg. Masonic Song . Mr. Tyler. | Masonic Epilogue . . Mrs. Hogg. and A Quarter of an Hour before Dinner. Tickets of Mr. Hogg, No. 22 Little Chappel Street, back of the College — now College place. This was Mrs. Hogg's first appearance at the Park Theatre, and her first in New York for twenty-five years. She will be remembered as Miss Ann Storer, of 1767, &c. June 29th. Mrs. Tyler's laft benefit. " She Stoops to Conquer," — followed by a Variegated Mafque, called u The Federal Oath; or, Americans, Strike Home;" — written by Anthony Pafquin, for the exclufive purpofe of ferving Mrs. Tyler, on her laft appearance in a public character. Tickets of Mrs. Tyler, at her Gardens, Greenwich — the prefent corner of Spring and Hudfon Streets. July 2d. Laft night of the Seafon — for the benefit of Madame Gardie, who appeals to the public for their fupport ; the profits of her benefit being the only remuneration fhe will receive for her fervices — referring to the misfortune of lofing nearly the whole of her falary from the theatre where fhe had been engaged during the winter. In the early fall of 1798 the yellow fever prevailed in New York with an unprecedented violence, 2,086 deaths occurring from that disease in a population of little more than 50,000. The theatre was now under the sole management of Mr. Dun- lap, Mr. Hodgkinson having given up his situation both as manager and actor. During the recess its appearance under- went an entire change, being finished in the superb style originally intended by its proprietors. RECORDS OK THE NEW YORK STAGE. 181 Owing to the prevailing sickness, the opening was deferred until the 3d of December. The company was materially changed. Mr. and Mrs. Hodgkinson were engaged at Boston, and Mr. and Mrs. Johnson had returned to England. The following is a list of performers engaged for the season, with the weekly salary of each, according to a schedule in Dunlap's History : Mr. Hallam $25. Mr. Barrett Mr. Cooper Mr. Jefferson Mr. Tyler Mr. Bates Mr. Martin Mr. Hallam, Jr Mr. Hogg . . .... Mr. Leb Mr. Miller Mr. Seymour $25. Mrs. Oldmixon. 00. Mrs. Hallam . 25. Mrs. Barrett . •23. Mrs. Melmoth . 20. Mrs. Hogg . . 00. Mrs. Seymour . 18. Miss J. Westray 16. Mrs. K. Westray 13. Mrs. Collins 12. Miss Hogg . . 12. Miss Bates . . $37. 25. 00. 20. 14. lfi. 13. 12. 12. 4. 00. The amount paid to Mr. and Mrs. Barrett is not stated. It was probably the same as that heretofore given to Mr. and Mrs. Johnson, viz. : $50. Neither is the salary of Mr. Bates mentioned. The orchestra numbered fourteen performers, and received $140 per week. The box-office keeper received $14, and the prompter $10 per week. The rent, scenery, lights, printing, wardrobe, properties, doorkeepers, officers and nu- merous incidental expenses caused the average weekly outlay of the establishment to reach nearly $1,200. Mrs. Oldmixon, it will be seen, received the highest salary. She engaged for the first comic singing characters, and her choice of serious ones — the best comic old women, and the best chambermaids. On the opening night, Mr. Cooper delivered the occasional address ; aftor which the " School for Scandal" was performed, with the first appearance on the Park stage of Mrs. Oldmixon and Mr. Barrett. The cast is considerably varied from the preceding season : Sir Peter Teazle . Sir Oliver Surface Joseph Surface . Charles Surface . Sir B. Backbite . Crabtree . . . Mr. Hallam. " Tyler. " Martin. <; Barrett. " Miller. " Jefferson. Careless Moses . . . Lady Teazle . Lady Sncerwell Mrs. Candour Maria . . . Mr. Hallam, Jr. " Hogg. Mrs. Hallam. " Hogg. " Oldmixon. " Seymour. With High Life below Stairs. December 5th. A second opening address (written by a lady) was delivered by Mrs. Melmoth, and Mr. Bates made his first appearance in "Inkle and Yarico," thus cast: 182 RECORDS OF THK NEW YORK STAGE. Inkle . . Sir C. Carry Medium Trudge . Mr. Tyler. " Hallam. " Hogg. " Bates. Yarico . Narcissa Patty . Wowski Mra. Hallam. " Seymour. " Hogg. " Oldmixon. Mrs. Oldmixon realized the expectations of audience and manager, but Mr. Bates was a comparative failure, for Hodg- kinson was well remembered in Trudge, and Jefferson and Hallam were both his superiors in low comedy. December 7th. " Hamlet " was announced, with Mr. Cooper as Hamlet, Mr. Bates as Polonius, and Mrs. Oldmixon as Ophe- lia ; with the farce of " The Sultan," Mrs. Oldmixon as Rox~ alana ; but the lady was taken suddenly ill, and the theatre was not opened. December 10th. Mr. Dunlap brought out his own version of Kotzebue's " Stranger," which had a very successful run. It was thus first played : Stranger . . . Baron Steinfort . Count Wintersen Francis . . . Solomon Peter .... Tobias .... Mr. Cooper. " Barrett. " Hallam, Jr. " Martin. " Bates. " Jefferson. " Tyler. Couht's Child Stranger's \ Children j 1 Mrs. Haller . Countess . Barbara . Mast. Stockwbll. " G. Barrett. Miss Hogg. Mrs. Barrett. " Melmoth. " Seymour. Mrs. Barrett was fortunate in having an original part for her first appearance. She played with touching pathos, and was loudly applauded. Master George Barrett (afterward the celebrated light comedian) here made his debut on the stage as one of the Stranger's children. Dec. 17th. The Stranger — for the third time — and Love a la Mode. Sir Archy Mr. Bates. I Beau Mordecal . . Mr. Martin. Squire Groom ..." Cooper. Sir Theodore .... " Hogg. Sir Callaghan ..." Barrett. Charlotte There is no name assigned to Charlotte. The character was probably represented by Miss White, a young lady who played during the balance of the season, and for several succeeding ones. Dec. 19th. Firft time, Morton's comedy, entitled Secrets Worth Knowing. Rostrum Egerton Greville April . Plethora Mr. Martin. " Cooper. " Barrett. " Tyler. " Hallam, Jr. Undermine . Nicholas Rue. . Mrs. Greville. . Rose Sidney . Sally Downright Mr. Bates. * 4 Jefferson. Mrs. Barrett. " Seymour. " Hogg. This comedy is still played with applause. "The Wheel of Fortune" was played on the 21st, with Cooper as Penruddock (first time at the Park) ; Bates as Gov. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 183 Tempest; Mrs. Melraoth as Mrs. Woodville; and Mrs. Hallam as Emily. Dec. 24th. Secrets Worth Knowing; and, never played in New York, an Englifh farce, by John Dent, called The Telegraph. Sir Peter Curious Deputy Feedwell M ;ijor O'Donnelly Fertile .... Drainma . . Mr. Jefferson. " Hogg. " Hallam, Jr. " Martin. " Miller. Gardener ■ Lady Curious Emily . Edging . . Maid . . . Mr. Woolls. Miss J. Westray. " White. Mrs. Seymour. Miss Bates. This is announced as the second appearance of Miss White, and is the first that we have found of Miss Bates. Dec. 26th, Romeo and Juliet. . . . . Mr. Cooper. | Juliet . (first time) . Miss E. Westray. Romeo Mrs. Oldmixon, to whom the character of Nurse belonged, being ill, Mrs. Hogg was substituted in her stead, and Mrs. Tyler (who gave up the profession last season) consented to play Lady Capulet. The farce was the " Mock Doctor." Gregory . . . Sir Jaaper . . Dec. 28th Hastings . . . Dumont . . . Mr. Bates. " Hogo. Mr. Coofer. M Barrett. Charlotte Miss Bates. Dorcas Mrs. Seymour. Jane Shore; Gloster . Jane Shore Mr. Hallam, Jr. Mrs. Barrett. with, firft time, Gil Bias. Dec. 31ft. Firft time in New York, Beaumont and Fletch- er's comedv of Rule a Wife and Have a Wife ! Leon . . . Michael Perez Duke of Medina Don Alonzo . Don Juan . Cacofogo . Mr. Cooper. " Barrett. " Martin. " Hallam, Jr. 11 Tyler. " Hogg. Margaretta Estifania . Clara . . Altea . . Old Woman Maid . . Miss E. Westray. Mrs. Barrett. M Hoog. Miss J. Westray. " White. " Bates. Leon proved a great success with Mr. Cooper, and was for many years one of his most admired personations. January 9th, 1799. Firft time in New York, Holcroft's comedy, callec' He's Much to Blame ! Lord Vibrate . . Sir George Versatile Delaral .... Thompson . . Dr. Gosterman Williams .... Mr. Bates. u Coofer. " Barrett. " Tyler, " Martin. " Jefferson. Harry . . . Jenkins . I-ady Vibrate Lady Jane . Maria . . . Lucy . . . Mr. Hogg. " Miller. Mrs. Oldmixon. Miss J. Westray. " E. Westray. Mrs. Seymour. January nth. Firft time, Dunlap's opera, called Sterne's Maria; or, the Vintage. Mufic by Pcllefier. Yorick ... Henry Sir Harry Metland . Latlenr . . . . Mr. Coofer. " Tyler. " Hallam. Jr. M Jefferson. Pierre Mr. Hogg. Maria Miss E. Westray. Nannette Mrs. Oldmixon. Lilla " Seymour. It proved a success, and was several times repeated. Mr. Bates played Falstaff, in " Henry IV.," on the 21st, with 184 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Barrett as Hotspur, and Cooper as Prince Hal; — and the "Siege of Belgrade" was thus revived on the 23d. Seraskier Cohenberg Useph Leopold . Mr. Tyler. " Barrett. " Bates. " Jefferson. Peter Mr. Hogg. Catharine Mrs. Oldmixon. Lilla " Seymour. Ghita Miss E. Westray. Cooper, Hallam and Mrs. Melmoth appeared in "Macbeth" on the 1st of February, Barrett refusing to play Macduff. Feb. 4th. Reynolds' comedy of The Will, for the firft time in New York. Sir Solomon Cynic Howard . Mandeville . . Veritas . . . Mr. Bates. " Cooper. " Tyler. " Martin. Realize . . . Mrs. Rigid . . Albina Mandeville Mr. Jefferson. Mrs. Hogg. Miss E. Westray. This comedy is still occasionally performed. Albina Man- deville was a favorite character with its original representative, Mrs. Jordan ; and in New York, Mrs. Barnes, Mrs. Darley, Mrs. Hilson, Clara Fisher, Mrs. G. Barrett, Mrs. Blake, Miss Rock and others have delighted in its embodiment. February 11th. A new comedy, by Dunlap, was produced, with no success. It was called The Natural Daughter. Sir Stephen Sternford Sir Stately Perfect . Sir Richard Rusport Col. Rusport . . . Charles Sternford . Fortescue .... Blandish .... Mr. Bates. " Jefferson. " Hallam, Jr. " Barrett. " Martin. " Tyler. " Hogg. Lady Rusport . Lady Warrington Lady Lucy Veer Mrs. Meredith . Miss Darwin. . Emily Rusport . Mrs. Seymour. " Hogg. Miss Westray. Mrs. Barrett. " Oldmixon. Miss E. Westray. February 18th. "The Stranger" was performed for the eighth time (a long run for the period), and the farce of the " Shipwreck " was given for the first time. Cast not found. Feb. 24th. Firft time in New York, Ben Jonfon's comedy, entitled Every Man in his Humor. Mr. Kitely . . . Bobadil . . Just. Clement Knowell . . Young Knowell Downright Wellbred . . Mr. Hallam. " Barrett. " Perkins. " Tyler. " Martin. " Hallam, Jr. " Miller. Brainworm Stephen . Formal Matthew . Dame Kitely Bridget . Tib . . . Baths. " Jefferson. " Woolls. " Hogg. Mrs. Hallam. Miss E. Westray. Mrs. Hogg. March 11th. Mr. Dunlap produced one of his most suc- cessful adaptations from Kotzebue, entitled "Lovers' Vows," which was played with triumphant applause. All concerned in the representation exerted themselves to the utmost, but Mr. Cooper and Miss E. Westray gave a charm to their per- formances which raised them greatly in public esteem. The piece was thus first played : RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 185 Frederick . . Baron Wildenheim Count Cassell Arnand . . . Christian . Mr. Cooper. " Tyler. " Jefferson. " Martin. " Bates. Hubert Landlord .... Amelia Wildenheim Theodosia Friberj; Cottager's Wife . . Mr. Hoaa. I'EKKINS. Miss E. Westray, Mrs. Mklmoth. " Hoao. So well satisfied were the performers and the public with this translation that, many years after, it was frequently played in preference to the London copy. On the 1st of April the indefatigable manager and author pro- duced his play of " Count Benyowski," with the following east : Governor Mr. IIallam. liftman *' Bates. Benyowski . . " Cooi-er. Stephanoff .... " Barrett. Crustiew " Tyler. Ghiroinin . Kudrin Athanasia. Fedora . Mr. Martin. " Jefferson. Mrs. Babbitt. OLDMIXON. It was played at intervals for some fifteen years. The manager produced another play of his own on the 13th of April, entitled the "Italian Father," which was also very favorably received. The cast was as follows: Michael Brazzo Beraldo . . Hypolito . Ludovico . Mr. Tyler. " C'OOl'ER. " Martin " Bates. Fool Beatrice Astrabel Leonora Mr. Jefferson. Miss E. Westray. Mrs. Barrett " Oldmixon. He states that he considers this the best of his original pro- ductions. In the month of April, Mr. Fennell attempted some per- formances at Lailson's Greenwich Street Circus, re-named the "Pantheon." He announced himself as Zariba, in the "Re- venge," with a Mrs. Dan vers as Leonora, supported by several secondary members of the Park company, but received no encouragement from the public. At the Park, the " Heir-at-Law" was played, for the first time, on the 24th of April ; and on the 1st of May Mr. Fen- nell made his first appearance there as Jqffier, in "Venice Preserved," to Cooper's Pierre, and Mrs. Melmoth's Belvidera. May 6th. u Laft night of performing for the benefit of the Leflee, the parties in whofe name the bill of the night is made out, being hereafter alone refponfible." Firft time, Dunlap's adaptation of Schiller's Don Carlos ; Philip 2d . . Don Carlos Marquis Posa. Duke of Alva Count Lerma Duke of Feria with Mr. Fennell. " Cooper. " Martin. " IIallam, Jr. " Tyler. " Miller. Dominick , Prior . . . Princess of Eboli Duchess . Marchioness . Elizabeth . Mr. Hogg. M Perkins. Miss E. Westray. Mrs. Ho<;<; . Miss White. Mrs. Barrett. The Prize. Caroline Mrs. Oldmixon. The play was a failure, and never repeated. 24 186 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. May ioth. Mrs. Melmoth's benefit. Firft time, a play by M. G. Lewis, entitled The Minifter, from Schiller's " Cabal and Love Count Koseuiberg . . Mr. Barrett. Marshal Ingelheiin , " Jefferson. Cassimir " Cooper. Munster " Tyler. Warbeck . ... " Hogg. Walter Mr. Martin. Baroness Mrs. Melmoth. Elizabeth Munster . . " Hogg. Julia Miss E. Westray. Catharine .... " White. Another version of Schiller's play was afterward given, under the title of the " Harper's Daughter." May 13th. Mrs. Barrett's benefit. Firft time in America, Shakfpeare's play of Henry the 8th. Henry 8th ... Cardinal Wolsey Cromwell May 15th. Mr. Hallam. " Barrett. " Cooper. Queen Katharine Anne Bullen. . Lady Denny . Mrs. Barrett. " Hallam. " Hogg. Mr. Bates' benefit. Columbus — for the firft time at the Park. Columbus Alonzo Harry Herbert Doct. Dolores Bribon Mr. Cooper. " Martin. " Barrett. " Bates. " Jefferson. Valverde Mr. Miller. Orozembo .... " Tyler. Salasco " Hallam. Cora Mrs. Barrett. Nelti " Oldmixon. May 17th. Mr. and Mrs. Hogg's benefit. The Merchant of Venice; Shylock Antonio Bassanio Lorenzo Mr. Cooper. " Hallam. " Hallam, Ji\ " Tyler. Launcelot .... Mr. Bates. Portia Mrs. Barrett. Nerissa " Seymour. Jessica Miss Westray. and Fielding's farce of The Lottery. Stocks Mr. HOGG. Mrs. Stocks Jack Stocks .... " Jefferson. Chloe . . Lovemore .... " Perkins. Jenny. Mrs. Hogg. " Hallam. " Seymour. May 20th. Mrs. Hallam's benefit. Firft time, Holcroft's comedy, The Follies of a Day. Count Almaviva Don Guzman Doctor Bartholo Figaro . . . Anthonio . Basil . M r, Martin. Jefferson Bates. Barrett. Hallam. Hallam, Jr. Hannibal Miss E. Westray. Countess Mrs. Barrett. Susan " Hallam. Marceline " Hogg. Agnes Miss J. Westray. The present operatic version of Beaumarchais' "Marriage of Figaro " is but slightly altered from the above. May 22d. Mr. Jefferfon's benefit. A comedy by Waldron, called the Prodigal, altered from Jofeph Mitchell's "Fatal Extravagance;" Belmour Courtney Mr. Cooper. " Tyler. Bargravc Mr. Miller. Louisa Mrs. Barrett. and, firft time, called Prince Hoare's peculiarly conftructed drama, Three and the Deuce ! Percival, Peregrine, and Pertinax Single Mr. Barrett. Justice Touchit Frank Woodbine McFloggan . Humphrey Grizzle Mr. Martin. Bates. Hallam, Jr. Jefferson, Milford " Hogg. Emily Mrs. Hallam. Phoebe Miss E. Westray. Taffline Mrs. Oldmixon. This farce long enjoyed great popularity. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 187 May 30th. Mrs. Seymour's benefit. Firft performance of Mrs. Cowley's "Town Before You," and Hugh Kelly's " Romance of an Hour." Cafts of neithci found. June 3d. Mr. Cooper's benefit. Firft time here, Shakfpeare's Coriolanus ; Coriolanus Cominius ■ Meneniua . Sicinius Mr CoorER. " Tyler. " Bates. " Perkins. Tullus Aufldius , , , Mr. Martin. Volumoia. . Mrs. Barrltt. Virgilia Miss B. Westray. Valeria .... "J. Westray. and Don Juan. Don Juan Ferdinand Scaramouch Mr. Cooper. " Tyler. " Jefferson. Donna Anna Catharina. Viletta. . Miss E. Westray. Mrs. Oldmixon. 44 Seymour. June 5th. Mr. Martin's benefit. Firft time, Mils Lee's play of the " Myfterious Marriage." Caft not found. June 7th. Mr. Barrett's benefit. Firft time here, Burke's Bunker Hill ; Gen. Warren Gen. Prescott Gen. Putnam Gen. Gage Mr. Barrett. " Hallam, Jr. " Bates. 44 Hogg. Lord Percy . Sir W. Howe . Gen. Abercrombie Elvira .... Mr. Hallam. " Jefferson. 44 Martin. Mrs. Barrett. and Colman's New Hay at the Old Market. Sylvester Daggerwood Mr. Barrett. This farce was afterward altered, and played under the title of the hero's name. June 14th. Mrs. Hallam's benefit. Firft time in New York, a comedy from Kotzebue, by Dun- lap, called The Indians in England ; or, Nabob of Myfore ; Sir John Seymour O'Brian . . . Jack Trunion Mu8caffery . . Samuel . . . and Prospero . . . Ferdinand . . Alonzo Trinculo . . . Stephano . Tyler. Hallam. Bates. Hogg. Jefferson. Baderda Fazir . . . Gurli . . . Lady Seymour Amelia . . The Tempeft. Mr. Hallam. " Tyler. * 4 Martin. " Bates. 44 Jefferson. Caliban Ariel . llypolito Miranda Dorinda Mr. Barrett. 44 Martin. Mis. Hallam. 44 Hogg. Miss E. WkoTRAy, Mr. Lee. Miss E. Westray. 44 J. Westray. Mrs. Oldmixon. 44 Hallam. At this date died Mr. Stephen Woolls, who joined the old American company in 1767 as one of the sharing members. Ee had continued a playing member thereof from that time to his final sickness, except during his visit to England, in 1774. Mr. Hallam's interest in the company having been ex- tinguished by purchase, Mr. Woolls was the last who continued to receive an income from the manager on account of his old share, which he had disposed of for a stipulated life annuity 188 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE, July 4th. Firft time, Dunlap's adaptation from the French, entitled The School for Soldiers. Bellamy Mr. Cooper. Soleby Mr. Jefferson. Major Bellamy ... " Tyler. Frederick " Lee. Col. Valentine ..." Hogg. Mrs. Mildmay . . . Mrs. Melmoth. Capt. Valentine ..." Martin. Clara Miss E. Westray. Mr. Henry's version of the same play, it will be remembered, was performed in 1788. This ended the season, which, taken altogether, had not been an unprosperous one. Dunlap mentions the amount of the receipts on several occasions. The opening night yielded $780 ; the second night only $267. Washington's birthday, with Cooper and Miss E. Westray in " Romeo and Juliet," on a stormy night, $610. The tenth performance of the " Stranger" attracted $624, and the first night of " Lovers' Vows," $622. The first night of " Benyowski," $800, and the only night of "Don Carlos," $676. Previous to the close of the season, Mr. Fennell once more attempted to open the Greenwich Street Pantheon, and on the 1st of July issued the following bill : The Roman Father; Horatius Mr. Barrett. I Valerius Mr. McDonald. Publius Horatius . . " Fennell. Horatia . Mrs. Barrett. Tullus Hostilius ..." Hallam, Jr. | Valeria " Perkins. and The Spoiled Child. Little Pickle Miss J. Westray. Tag Mr. Macginnis. | Miss Pickle .... Mrs. Hogg. His season proved a short one, this being, it is believed, the only night. C HA P TE h A V Park Theatre, 1799-1800— Cone's Mount Vernon Gardens, 1800- Park Theatre 1800-1801— Mount Vernon Gardens, 1801. R. D U N L A P re-opened the Park Theatre on the 18th of November, 1799. Mrs. Oldinixon, Mr. and Mrs. Barrett, Mr. Bates, Miss J. Westray and Mrs. Collins were not in the company. Mr. and His. Hodgkinson, Mr. Crosby, Mr. Fox, Mr. Dykes, Mrs. Brett, Miss A. Brett and Mr. and Mrs. Perkins were the substitutes. Mr. Hodgkinson returned as a salaried actor only, but, with his wife, received $100 per week, the highest amount yet paid to any two per- formers in America. Some other salaries were raised. The list for the season stood thus, according to Dunlap Mr. Cooper . Mr. Hallam Mr. Jefferson Mr. Martin . Mr. Tyler . . Mr. Fox . . . Mr. Hallam, Jr. Mr. Hoao Mr. Perkins Mr. Lee . . . Mr. Seymour Mast. Stockwell Mrs. Melmoth .... . . . . $25« 25. Mrs. Ha t .lam .... . . . . 25. 25. Mrs. Seymour .... . . . . 16. 25. Miss E. Westray . . . . . . . 18. 25. Mrs. noiio .... . . . . 14. 18. Mrs. Brett . . . . 14. 18. Miss A. Brett . . . . . . . 14. 14. Miss Hakdino ... . . . . 10. 12. Mrs. Perkins .... . . . . 10. 12. Mrs. King . . . . 6. y. Miss Hoao . . . . 4. 4. The salaries paid to Messrs. Dykes and Crosby are not men- tioned. The opening pieces were the " Heir-at-Law " and the "Old Maid." The following is the first cast of the comedy that we have found, although played the preceding season: Lord Duberly Doctor Pangloss Dick. Dowlas . . Heory Morland Steadfast . . Mr. Hallam. " Hodgkinson. u Martin. 41 Hallam, Jr. 44 Tylkr. Kenrick . Zekiel Homespun Lady Duberly Caroline Dormer Cicely Homespun Mr. Hoao. 44 Jefferson. Mrs. Hooa. Miss E. Westray. Mrs. Hodgkinson. In the afterpiece, Hodgkinson played Capt. Cape, and Mrs. Hogg, Ttie Old Maid. 190 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. November 20th. Mrs. Melmoth re-appeared in "The Carme- lite," as Matilda, when Mr. Fox made his first appearance iu this theatre as Monlgomeri. In the afterpiece of " The Poor Soldier" Mr. Fox played Bagatelle, and Miss A. Brett (her first appearance in sixteen months) Norah. Mr. Fox possessed considerable merit both as actor and singer. He had appeared with Wignell's company in Greenwich Street. November 27th. Mr. Cooper appeared as Macbeth. Nov. 29th. Firft time, a tranflation from the German of Kotzebue, entitled Self-immolation ; or, Family Diftrefs. Robert Maxwell . . . Mr. Hodgkinson Flood Mr. Dykes. Harrington .... " Hallam. Dumfries '* Hallam, Jr. Walwyn . . . . " Martin. Landlord " Perkins. Dempster " Fox. Arabella .... Mrs. Hodgkinson. John Hartop .... " Hogg. Jane ...... Miss A. Brett. Jew M Jefferson Blind Lady .... Mrs. Brett. It was unsuccessful. Dunlap does not even allude to it. Mr. Dykes probably made his first appearance on this night. He afterward became a good actor of comic old men ; was iu New York in 1808, and again in 1819, and will be remem- bered in the West as one of the pioneers of the drama in that region, when it was little more than a wilderness. November 30th. Mrs. Hallam made her first appearance as Dinah Primrose in " The Young Quaker." December 4th. Mr. Cooper played Hamlet. December 11th. The manager's comedy of " False Shame," as adapted from the German, was first played, and received such general approbation that it was repeated again and again to well-filled houses. Its characters were thus as- signed : Baron Mr. Tyler. I John Mr. Jefferson. Capt. Erlach .... " Hodgkinson. Baroness Mrs. Hodgkinson. Wieland " Cooper. Adelaide " Hallam. Frelon " Fox. Madam Moreau . . " Melmoth. Visct. Maillac ..." Martin. j Emmy Miss E. Westray. "Never was part better suited to Mr. Hodgkinson than Erlach, and never was part better played," says Dunlap, while Miss E. Westray made another triumphant hit in the character of Emmy. News of the death of Washington, on the 14th of Decem- ber, reached New York on the 20th, (railroads and electric telegraphs were not at that time) and the theatre, in conse- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 191 quence, was closed until the 30th, when it was re-opened — hung in black — with a play called "The Robbery," translated by Dunlap from Monvel, and a monody written by Charles Brockden Brown, and spoken by Mr. Cooper. The play was performed twice with the cast annexed: Marquis Granville . Mr. IIai.lam. Charles Granville . . Mr. Hallam, Jr. Count Raimond . " Hodgkinson. Louis M Jeffekson. Orlando 44 Cooper. Charles u Fox. Count Germain . . ." Tyler. Julia Mrs. Melmoth. Lord Edmund ... 4 Martin. Clementina .... " Hodqkinson. January 10th, 1809, was specially devoted to the memory of Washington. "Gustavus Vasa, or the Deliverer of his Country," was performed, an ode recited, &c. January loth. The Stranger, Mr. and Mrs. Hodgkinson appearing for the first time as The Stranger and Mrs. Haller. January 24th. Dunlap's translation called the " Wild Goose Chase," since superseded by the English operetta " Of Age To- morrow," was thus first played, and with great success : Willinghurst ... Mr. Hodqkinson. i Madam Bromback Mrs. Hogg. Pitfleberg " Hogg. Nanette Miss Harding. Hans Molkus ..." Jefferson. | Lisette Mrs. Hodqkinson. On the 5th of February, another comedy from the German, by Mr. Dunlap, called the "Force of Calumny," was very suc- cessfully produced. Its cast is thus recorded : Morland Mr. Hodgkinson. i Kroll Mr. Perkins. Edward Smith ..." Cooper. Piltz " Dykes. Count S.charfeneck . " Hall\m, Jr. Thomas " Crosby. Young Scharfeneck . " Jefferson. Mrs. Elfield . . Mrs. Melmoth. Capt. Elfield .... " Tyler. Jane Miss E. AVestray. Prompt ' Hogg. Emilia .... Mrs. Hodgkinson Allbrand " Martin. f | Eve " Brett. Reynolds' lively and amusing comedy called " Laugh when You Can" was thus first presented to the New York public, on the 13th of February : Gossamer .... Mr. Hodgkison. Charles ... Mast. Stockwell. Mortimer " Martin. Emily Miss E. Westray. Bonus " Hogc Mrs. Mortimer , . . Mrs. Hodqkinson. Delville " Fox. Miss Gloomly . . " Hogg. Sambo " Jeffeuson. Dorothy " Seymour. It was well played by the principals, and for half a century remained a favorite with actors and audiences. March 3d. Kotzebue's play, translated by the manager entitled the "Count of Burgundy," was brought out, with less success than had attended most of his other translations. Henry Mr. CoorER. Halwyll Mr. Flooo. Brother Peter ..." Hom.KiNSON. i Bruns " Crosby. Count Werdenberg " Hallam. Elizabeth Mrs. Hodgkinson. jjlonay " Tyler. i Matilda . . «« Melmoth. Benedict u martin | Gertrude " Brett. 192 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. On the 10th Mr. Cooper, took his farewell benefit previous to his return to England, when he appeared as Young Norval. He had been dissatisfied with his situation since the return of Mr. Hodgkinson, whose attractiveness in the German dramas had kept him somewhat in the shade. March 12th. A version of Kotzebue's " Virgin of the Sun," probably by Dunlap, was first played, with unusual attention to scenic effect, and proved very attractive. It was thus cast: Mr. Rolla . Ataliba Telasco Alonzo Valasquez Diego . Hodgkinson. Hallam. Cbosby. Martin. Fox. Jefferson. Zorai Mr. Hallam. High Priest .... " Tyler. High Priestess . . . Mrs. Melmoth. Cora " Hodgkinson. Idali Miss E. Westray. Amazilli " Harding. Genest, in his " English Stage," praises this translation. It preceded the performance of Reynolds' more celebrated play of the same name at Covent Garden by twelve years. Sheridan's still more popular translation, " Pizarro, or the Death of Rolla," which yet retains possession of the boards, was first played on the 26th, with great applause. Dunlap restored the final scene as written by Kotzebue, instead of Sheridan's substitution. Rolla Mr. Hodgkinson. i Ataliba Mr. Hallam. Pizarro " Tyler. Orozembo .... " Jefferson. Alonzo " Martin. Blind Man .... " Hogg. Valverde " Hallam, Jr. Cora Mrs. Hodgkinson. LasCasas " Crosby. Elvira " Melmoth. April 2 1 ft. For Mrs. Hodgkinfon's benefit. Firft time, a drama from Kotzebue, entitled, The Corficans ; or, the Dawnings of Love. April 23d. Mr. Dunlap's benefit. Pizarro, — and an original fketch (a fequel to the "Stranger") called the Stranger's Birthday. Baron Hochstein [the Stranger] Mr. Hodgkinson. Baron Steinfort . . . Mr. Tyler. I Boy Mast. Stockwell. Francis " Martin. Girl Miss Hodgkinson. Conrad " Jefferson. Rose " E. Westray. Baroness Hochstein [Mrs. Haller] Mrs. Hodgkinson. In this little drama, Mrs. Hodgkinson, first presented her eldest daughter to the notice of the public. A succession of benefits followed, amongst the most notice- able of which was Mrs. Melmoth's, on the 5th of May, when she appeared as Mandane, in Hoole's tragedy of " Cyrus " (its only performance on record in New York), and presented RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 193 Dibdin's farce from Kotzebue, called the "Horse and the Widow," for the first time, with the following cast : Count de Sans Chateau Mr. Hogg. Feirett Mr. Jkfferson. Touchwood .... 44 Fox. Peter " Hallam, Jr. Kilruddery .... 44 Martin. Mrs. Touchwood . . Mrs. Melmoth. Miss E. Westray's took place on the 6th, when she appeared as Rosamond, in the play called " Henry the Second and Fair Rosamond ;" Mr. Hallam's on the 9th, when he played Lord Ogleby ; and Mr. Hodgkinson's on the 19th, when he brought out the tragedy of " Peru Revenged, or the Death of Pizarro," written by Murphy, and played at Covent Garden under the title of "Alzuma." The theatre being closed for the summer, Joseph Corre, proprietor of the "Mount Vernon Gardens," Broadway, just above the Hospital, where now is found the north-west corner of Leonard Street, announced the commencement of dramatic entertainments on his premises on the 9th of July, 1800, with a concert of music, recitations, and the farce of " Miss in Her Teens," in which Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Martin, Mr. Hogg, Miss Brett and Mrs. Seymour appeared. On the 11th of August, Mr. and Mrs. Hodgkinson made their first appearance in the farce of the "Purse;" and on the 25th, Dibdin's comedy of "Five Thousand a Year" was first played in America, for Mrs. Hodgkinson's benefit, with the annexed cast : Georpe Fervid . . . Mr. Hodgkinson. i Truepenny .... Mr. Hogg. 8ir Matthew Maxim Jefferson. Lady Maxim . . Mrs. Hogg. Frederick Fervid . . 41 Hallam, Jr. Lady Julia . . Miss Brett. Henry Hastings ... 44 Fox. | Aurelia Mrs. Hodgkinson. On the 5th of September, Mrs. Hallam appeared as Lady Rackett, for the younger Hallam's benefit ; and on the 8th, Mrs. Barrett made her first appearance for a twelvemonth, as Millwood, in " George Barnwell," for the benefit of Mr. Fox. Mr. Barrett also appeared, and gave a " Lecture on Heads." On the 10th, Hodgkinson brought out, for his benefit, a drama by Mrs. Rowson, called "Columbia's Daughters," in which he played Dick Rhymer ; Jefferson, Jack Acorn ; Fox, Lord Courtland ; Hogg, Folio ; Mrs. Hogg, Miss Acorn ; Mrs. Hodgkinson, Jemima, and Miss Brett, Melissa. Mr. and Mrs. Barrett took their benefit on the 17th, with the "Wonder" and "Jason and Medea," the lady making a powerful impression in the Greek heroine. The season here 25 194 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. ■ terminated on the 19th of September, with the " Poor Soldier," for the benefit of Mr. Crosby. The following sketch of the new manager is derived from Dunlap : "Joseph Corre was a Frenchman by birth, and in the year 1776 was the cook of Major Carew, of the British army. His face and figure were rotund, and his pleasant manners made him universally popular. After the retirement of the British, he rose to be the landlord of the City Tavern, in New York, and established those long-celebrated public gardens in State Street, both of which he kept with reputa- tion and success." In his managerial efforts he was equally prosperous, and he is pronounced by his biographer to have been an honest, industrious, thriving and worthy man, although not eminent for literary qualifications, nor specially fitted to direct the public taste, except in matters of cuisine. The New York Theatre re-opened on the 20th of October, 1800, with Lovers' Vows" and "Fortune's Frolic." Frederick and Amelia Wildenheim by Mr. and Mrs. Hodgkinson ; Robin Roughmd by Mr. Jefferson. On the 24th, Dunlap's famous drama, from Kotzebue, en- titled " Fraternal Discord," and considered by himself superior to all his other translations, was played for the first time, and with a success that gave it along lease of the stage. This piece, in America, has always obtained a preference over the foreign version. It was thus originally cast: Capt. Bertram Philip Bertram . Doct. Bloomfield Jack Bowline Semblance Mr. Hodgkinson. Tyler. Maktin. Jefferson. Hogg. Crispin . . Trippett . . Charlotte . Mrs. Grimkin Mary . . . Mr. Fox. " Hallam, Jr. Mrs. Hodgkinson. " Hogg. Miss Brett. On the 31st a brilliant addition was made to the company, in the person of Mrs. Elizabeth Powell, whose first appearance took place in the character of Angela, in the " Castle Spectre." This lady was from the Boston Theatre, where she had first appeared, when Miss Harrison, in " Gustavus Vasa," on the first opening of a theatre in Boston, February 3d, 1794. Clapp says that " her impersonation of Shakspeare's heroines entitle her to rank among the highest in her profession ;" and Dunlap, that " she was an elegant woman and a good actress, and will long live in the memories of the public of Boston, RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 195 as well as in the affections of those who knew her private worth;" and "that her success in New York was injured by Mr. Hodgkinson, who wished his wife to be first tragedienne, as well as first opera singer, first comedy lady, first romp and first chambermaid." Having played but one season here, she can scarcely be said to be identified with our stage, but her stately figure and classic style can still be remembered with pleasure by some of our few remaining octogenarians. Be- coming the wife of Mr. Snelling Powell, afterward manager of the Boston Theatre, she continued, after his death, in 1821, to share the management of that establishment for several years. Mrs. Powell was born in the county of Cornwall, Eng- land, 1774, and died in Boston, December, 1843, in the seven- tieth year of her age. Mr. S. Powell, as manager and actor, held a prominent position in Boston, where he first appeared in 1794, but on the New York stage his situation was subordinate. His first ap- pearance here was as Muley, in the " Castle Spectre," on the night of his wife's debut. Mr. Powell died at the age of sixty- three, in Boston, where he was highly respected for the most sterling qualities that can adorn a man. Mr. and Mrs. Powell's daughter Elizabeth became the wife of the celebrated come- dian, H. J. Finn. On the night of November 3d, Mr. Fennell, who, impelled by pecuniary embarrassments, had arranged with the manager for a benefit, made his first appearance in New York for three years, in the character of Pierre. Mr. Cooper's absence from the company left an opening which he willingly consented to till, and he soon after took a regular situation in the estab- lishment, to the great gratification of its patrons, i Nov. 5th. Morton's sterling comedy of " Speed the Plough," which still attracts appreciative audiences, and ► affords vast scope for the exercise of comic talent, was first i played in New York, and with a cast of excellence rarely surpassed at the present time : Sir Abel Handy . . Mr. Hooo. I Gerald Mr. Powell. | | ,r Philip Blandford 44 Tylek. Evergreen .... 11 Hallam, Jr. Bob Handy ..." Hodgkinson. Lady Handy . . Mrs. Hogg. . Farmer Ashfield . . " Jefferson. Miss Blandford . . . " Hodgkinson. ' Morrington .... " Hallam. Daine Ashfleld ... 44 Brett. Henry 44 Martin. Susan Ashfleld ... 44 Hallam. 196 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Nov. 10th. Mr. Fennell made his first regular appearance in his best character, Zanga, in the " Revenge," supported by- Mrs. Powell, as Leonora. Nov. 17th. M. (t. Lewis's comedy of the "East Indian," originally acted at Drury Lane, for the benefit of Mrs. Jordan, was brought forward and acted a few times, after which we do not recall its revival until 1831. It was thus first played : Lord Listless . . . . Mr. Jefferson. Lady Clara Modish Mrs. Melmoth. Rivers M Hodgkinson. Mrs. Ormond . . Powell. Beauchamp . Martin'. Zorayda ... HODGKINSON. Walsingham . . . Hallam. Miss Chatterall Hogg. Modish .... Ttler. Mrs. Blaball . . Brett. Squeezem Hogg. Mrs. Slipslop . . Miss Brett. Friponeau Fox. Miss Tiffany . . . Harding. Frank Powell. Anne Mrs. King. Nov. 27th. The Merchant of Venice. Shylock .... . Mr. HODGKINSON. Portia . Mrs. Powell. Bassanio .... Fennell. Nerissa .... . Miss Harding. Launcelot . . Jefferson. Jessica .... . Mrs. HODGKINSON. Nov. 29th. Mr. Harper, of the old American Company, made his first appearance in eight years, as Charles Surface, having been the original representative of that character in America. It had since been better played by other actors, and Mr. Harper's efforts were in consequence coldly received. He now occupied the mortifying position of a declining fa- vorite, and was soon after compelled to personate characters he would once have disdained to look at. Dec. 1st. Mr. Fox took his benefit, announcing that he was in danger of arrest for debt, and calling on his friends to his rescue. The play on the occasion was " Othello," finely ren- dered by Fennell as the Moor ; Hallam as lago ; Tyler as Cassio; Martin as Roderigo ; Mrs. Powell as Desdemona; and Mrs. Melmoth as Ernelia. Dec. 5th. A musical piece, of which Dunlap gave the words, and Hewitt contributed the music, called the " Spanish Castle; or, the Knight of Guadalquiver," was brought out with a powerful cast, only to be condemned. Montalvan Sebastien Anselmo Algiziras Florenzo O'Tipple Pero . Mr. Fennell. " Hallam. " Ttler. " Martin. '• Fox. " hodgkinson. ** Jefferson. Pedro . Hugo . Juan . Manuel Olivia . Henerica Lissette Mr. Hogg. " Crosbt. " Hallam, Jr. " Powell. Mrs. HODGKINSON. Miss Brett. " Harding. Mrs. Harper, formerly Miss Smith, the second wife of the RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 197 performer of that name, made her first appearance in New York on the 12th, as the Marchioness Merida, in the "Child of Nature." Her talent was feehle, and was soon graduated to the rank called useful. She played till 1805. Jephson ? s tragedy of "Braganza" was played on the 17th, with the following cast, probably its first representation in New York: Don Juan .... Mr. Hopgkixson. Pizarro Mr. Hallam, Jr. Almada " Tyler. Antonio " Hogq. Yalasque " Fennell. Ramirez " Crosby. Lorenzo " Martin. Louisa Mrs. Powell. Mrs. Jefferson, the wife of the comedian, made her first appearance on any stage, as Louisa Dudley, in the "West Indian," on the 22d of December. She was the daughter of Mrs. Euphemia Fortune, for many years proprietress of a boarding-house adjoining the theatre in John Street. She removed with her husband to Philadelphia, where for many years she personated the walking ladies of comedy with grace and propriety, and as a wife and mother received the highest encomiums. Mrs. Jefferson died in that city, in January, 1831, at the age of fifty-six. The name of her mother is still re- tained among her descendants, Mrs. Jefferson's great-grand- daughter, Miss Euphemia (or Effie) Germon, who inherits much of the histrionic talent of the family, being her name- sake. Jan. 19th, 1801. Mr. William Charles White, a native of Worcester, Mass., made his first appearance in New York, with tolerable success, as Young Norval. He had played at Boston, when a mere lad, in 1796, with great, but injudicious, ap- plause; had since studied law, and was now a tall, handsome young man. His promise of merit was not fulfilled. He became the author of three plays represented in Boston — | "The Clergyman's Daughter," "The Poor Lodger," and | "Alonzo." Jan. 23d. Cumberland's translation, from Kotzebue, of " Joana of Montfaucon," was brought out, but, notwithstanding the excellence of Mrs. Powell as the heroine, with Hodgkin- son as Lazzara, Fennell as Albert ', and Mrs. Hallam as Eloisa, failed of success. 198 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Feb. 9th. Mr. White made his third appearance, as Romeo, to Mrs. Powell's Juliet, but with less applause. Feb. 11th. Dunlap's play of "Abaallino," translated from Zschokke, was first represented, and, owing to the novelty of its construction, and the excellent acting of Hodgkinson, as the hero, attracted more than usual attention. It was fre- quently repeated, and is even yet occasionally played. Its characters were thus first distributed : Absellino ) Flodoardo \ ' Andreas Gritti Dandoli . . Canari . . Mr. Hodgkinson. " Tyler. " Hogg. " Hallam. Grimaldi . Parozzi . Memno Rosamunda Iduella Mr. Harper. " Martin. " Jefferson. Mrs. Hodgkinson. " Jefferson. On the 13th of April, Joanna Baillie's sublime tragedy of "De Monfort" was first attempted on our stage; but, though commanding the highest admiration of all literary critics, failed, as it ever has done, of success in representation. It was thus cast: Mr. Hodgkinson. i Bernard .... Mr. De Monfort Renzevelt Count Friberg Manuel Jerome . . Hodgkinson. Martin. Harper. Powell. Hogg. Bernard . Grimbald Jane de Monfort Countess Friberg Abbess Tyler. " Hallam, Jr. Mrs. Melmoth. " Jefferson. " Hogg. Hodgkinson was every way unsuited to the character of the hero, and beautifully as Mrs. Melmoth read her part, it required an accommodating imagination to identify her with the noble Jane de Monfort. Reynolds" comedy of " Life," by many thought to be the best of his comedies, was first played on the 22d, with the annexed cast : Marchmont Torpid . . Craftly Clifford . Lackbrain tr. Tyler. " Hodgkinson. " Simpson. " Fox. " Jefferson. Primitive Jonathan Mrs. Beiford Rosa Mrs. Decoy . Mr. Hogg. " Powell. Mrs. Powell. " Hodgkinson. " Hogg. About this time the manager's translation called " Abbe de 1'Epee, or Deaf and Dumb," was brought out, Mrs. Powell making a decided feature of her part of Julio, Mr. Harper being unequal to the character of the Abbe, and Mr. White making a complete failure in St. Alme. Mr. Hodgkinson was afterward substituted for Mr. Harper, and Mr. Martin for Mr. White, and all went well. A Mr. Laurence about, this time frequently displayed his skill in dancing, — also Mr. Huggins. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 199 May 4th. Mrs. Melmoth took her benefit, playing with great effect, Hermione, in the " Distrest Mother." May 6th. Benefit of Mr. Hewitt, leader of the orchestra, who brought out a musical trifle, composed by himself, en- titled " The Cottages," thus cast : Squire Belmont Papilotte . Mr. Tyler. " Fox. Patty Miss Brett. Margaret Mrs. Brett. May 13th. Mr. Hallam's benefit. School for Scandal ; and, for the firft time, Prince Hoare's drama, entitled The Captive of Spilberg. Korowitz Mr. Hodqkinson. Canzeman . . " Fox. Kourakim .... " Jefferson. Mousic '* Simpson. May 15th. Mr. Hodgkinlbn's benefit. Firft time, Maflinger's powerful play of A New Way to Pay Old Debts. Sir Giles Overreach . Mr. Hodgkinson. Justice Greedy Lord Lovell .... " Tyler. Wellborn " Hallam. AUworth ...... " Fox. Marall " Martin. Liebstoff .... Mr. Hallam. Jr. Ivan Mast. Stockwell. Eugenia Mrs. Hodgki.nson. Moola Miss Brett. Tapwell Lady AUworth . . Margaret Overreach Froth Mr. Jffferson. " Hogg. Mrs. Melmoth. " Hodqkinson. " Hogg. Mr. Hodgkinson failed again in the character of Sir Giles, which, in America, has had but four acknowledged representa- tives — viz., Cooke, Kean, Booth and Davenport. "The Bulse of Diamonds; or, What is She?" an anonymous English comedy, was brought out by Hallam, for his benefit on the 18th, with the following cast : Sir Caustic Oklstyle Belford ... Period Jargon Bewly Mr. Hallam. " Martin. " Hodqkinson. M Jefferson. M Fox. Ap Griffin Garnet . . Lady Mutable Mrs. Dorville Mrs. Garnet . Mr. Simpson. " Hogg. Mrs. Hallam. " Hodqkinson. " Hogg. May 20th. Mr. Martin's benefit. Wild Oats, Little Hunchback, and the ferious pantomime of Jafon and Medea. Medea Mrs. Melmoth. Jason Mr Creon " Fury " Hodgkinson. Hogg. Martin. Creusa Nurse . Jefferson. Brett. May 22d. Mr. Tyler's benefit. Life, and Otway's farce, called The Cheats of Scapin. 8capin Mr. Hodqkinson. Gripe " Hogg. Shiftly " Simpson. Leander Mr. Fox. Lucia Miss Brett. Clara " Hardino. O'Keefe's comedy, " The Lie of the Day," reduced from his play called "The Toy," was produced for Mr. Jefferson's benefit, on the 25th, with the following cast : 8ir Carrol O'Donovan Young O'Donovan . Aircourt .... Alibi Metheglin . . . Mr. Crosby. " Hallam. Jr. " Hodgkinson. " Jefferson. 44 Hogg. Larry Kavanah Ladv Arable Sophia . . . Katty Kavanagh Fib .... Mr. Martin. Mrs. Jefferson. 44 Hallam. 44 Hogg. Miss Bbett. 200 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. June 1st. Mr. Hallam, Jr., brought out Mrs. Inchbald's play, translated from Kotzebue, called " The Wise Man of the East." It was cast as follows, but received no especial marks of favor : Ava Thoana . Claren forth . Metland . Tim Starch . Sparklefinger Lawley Mr. Hodgkinson. " Martin. " Hallam. " Jefferson. " WlLMOT. " Hogg. Bankwell. . . . Lady Mary Diamond Hrs. Metis nd. . . Ellen Rachel Starch . Ruth Starch . . Mr. Crosby. Mrs. Jefferson. " Melmoth. " Hodgkinson. " Hogg. " Hallam. The name of Wilmot will be observed in the above as that of an individual who had appeared a few times as "a gentleman." Of his merits we have found no record. He afterward mar- ried the beautiful and favorite Mrs. Marshall, of the Phila- delphia Theatre. Mr. Simpson took his benefit on the 8th of June, when his step-daughter, Miss Elizabeth A. Westray, made her first ap- pearance in New York as Angela; in " The Castle Spectre." Miss E. A. Westray possessed both intellectual and executive capacity, excelling in heavy tragedy her more versatile sis- ters Mesdames Wood and Darley, though, as a general actress, inferior to either. She afterward played in Boston, where she married Mr. Villiers, a favorite low comedian, who did not long survive his marriage. In 1805, she returned to New York, a girlish widow, and her youth and misfortune natu- rally exciting the interest and sympathy of the public, she soon became one of the main attractions of the theatre. Though greatly admired by the gallants of the day, she again bestowed her hand on a genuine son of Momus — Twaits — with whom she was content to share the vicissitudes of an actor's life. She was still improving as a tragedienne, and promised to attain the highest distinction, when death suddenly ter- minated her brief career, on the 13th of December, 1813, at the early age of 26. After a recess for a few nights, the Theatre was re-opened on the 29th of June, with Mr. Cooper's first appearance since his return from England, in his favorite and highly applauded character of Hamlet. On the 1st of July, Mrs. Merry, whom we have noticed as a member of Wignell's Philadelphia company during its per- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 201 formance in Greenwich Street, made her first appearance on this stage as Belvidera, followed on succeeding nights by Juliet, Beatrice, Calista, Monimia and Horatio,, in " The Ro- man Father," the latter being played for Cooper's benefit, to his Horatius, on the 13th. This was the first regular "star" engagement made for the New York Theatre — its terms were one hundred dollars per week and a clear benefit, and proved a profitable speculation for the manager. The weather was extremely warm, but the opening night yielded $646, and the benefit $884. For Mr. and Mrs. Hodgkinson's benefit, on the 15th of July, Monsieur and Mrs. Placide made their first appear- ance ; the lady as Mrs, Strictland in " The Suspicious Hus- band," and Columbine in the pantomime of the " Magic Chamber," in which her husband appeared as Pierot, the Clown. Mrs. Placide (the second) was the daughter of Mrs. Pownall, previously Mrs. Wrighten, and was highly accomplished in singing and dancing, and maintained an enviable rank as a comic actress. She continued on the stage for many years, and after Placide's death was long attached to the Philadel- phia theatre, as Mrs. Lafolle, having married a musician of that name. She died in that city, in 1823, aged about 50. This lady was the mother of our noted favorites, Henry and Thomas Placide and Mrs. Blake, and grandmother of Mrs. J. W. Wallack, Jr. Mrs. Wrighten, Mrs. Placide, Mrs. Blake and Mrs. Wallack, four generations in direct succession (Mrs. Wallack being the daughter of Mrs. Blake by her first husband, Leigh Waring), afford a strong argument to the advocates of the position that hereditary talent is more generally transmitted through the female than the male line. To return to our record: a Mr. Story next appeared in sev- eral vocal parts, and, in conjunction with Miss E. A. Westray, took a benefit on the 20th of July, when his wife made her first appearance as Little Pickle, and Messrs. Darley (senior and junior) appeared in a Grand Concert. 26 202 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mr. Darley, the elder — one of the finest of English ballad singers — we have already noticed. Mr. John Darley, Jr., came with his father to America, and occasionally sung at the Philadelphia Theatre as early as 1794. He afterward became a Lieutenant of Marines in the United States service, but finally returned to the stage, and made his first appearance in New York on the before-mentioned occasion, and about the same time married Miss Ellen Westray. He had a manly, well-proportioned person and a handsome face, and though not warmly attached to his profession, possessed great merit as a singer, and in a French character, or a light walking gentleman, played with ease and vivacity. He joined the Park company in 1804, and was for many years greatly admired here, but removed to Philadelphia in 1819, and con- tinued playing there until 1840. Having, with the aid of his accomplished wife, acquired a competence, he lived in com- fortable retirement for several years previous to his death, which occurred in 1853, at the age of 78. His son, Mr. Felix 0. C. Darley, has long been a resident of New York, and is widely known as an artist of the highest merit in his own peculiar line. A Mr. Robertson, from England, appeared on several occa- sions during the season, in " Antipodean Whirligigs," imita- tions of birds, &c. ; and Mr. Hopkins Robertson, afterward a popular performer, for the first time left his seat on the tailor's board of the theatre to walk its stage, appearing in several trifling characters, one of which was Buckle in the " Suspicious Husband." Mr. and Mrs. Placide, Mr. and Mrs. Hallam, Mr. Fennell, Mr. Robertson and the manager, received benefits during the season, which ended with the month. Corre's Mount Vernon Gardens opened on the 10th of August, 1801, with " The Child of Nature" and a grand con- cert. The performers were the principal members of the Park company, with the addition of Mr. and Mrs. Placide, Miss Broadhurst, Mr. and Mrs. Simpson, Miss E. A. West- ray, Mr. Story and the Messrs. Darley. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 203 Mr. Story took his benefit on the 25th, playing Tom Tug, in "The Waterman," and on the 26th, Mr. Darley, Sr., ap- peared as Hawthorn, in " Love in a Village." Sept. 7th. Mr. and Mrs. Hodgkinson's benefit took place, when Milton's masque of "Comus" was represented as fol- lows : Younger Brother . . " Hallam, Jr. Satyrs and Bacchantes . . . Messrs. Dakley, Mr. and Mrs. Placide, &c. We do not remember its revival again until 1848, at Bur- ton's Chambers Street Theatre. Mr. and Mrs. Placide took their benefit on the 9th, Mon- sieur appearing on the tight rope in Le Fete Champetre, and his wife as Miss Kitty, in " High Life Below Stairs." The season ended on the 11th September. Comus . . Good Spirit . Elder Brother Mr. Hodgkinson. " Hallam. " Hogg. The Lady . Sabrina Euphrosyne Miss E. A. Westrat. Mrs. Jefferson. " Hodgkinson. CHAPTER X VI. Park Theatre, 1801-2— Mount Vernon Gardens, 1802— Park, 1802-3. H E theatrical season commenced on the 16th of November, 1801, with "Lovers' Vows," in which Mr. Cooper resumed his original part of Frederick, and " Fortune's Frolic," with Jefferson as Robin Roughead. The company suffered the loss of Mr. and Mrs. Powell, but was otherwise little changed. Mr. Cooper's salary was raised to §50 per week. Hodgkinson made his first appearance on the 18th as Capt. Bertram, in " Fraternal Discord," followed by " The Prize," with Jefferson as Doctor Lenitive, and Mrs. Hodgkinson, Caroline. On the 20th, after the performance of " The West Indian," in which Cooper played Belcour, and Hodg- kinson Major OP Flaherty, Fawcett's pantomimic drama of " Obi, or Three-Fingered Jack," was thus brought out : Jack Mr. Hodgkinson. Tuckey Mast. Stockwell. Capt. Orford . ..." Hallam, Jr. Rosa Mrs. Hodgkinson. Planter " Tyler. Obi Woman ... " Hogg. Sam " Hogg. Quashee's Wife . . Miss Brett. Quashee " Martin. The piece was long a great favorite, particularly at holiday times, and in minor theatres. Nov. 23d. "Wives as They Were," and the farce of "The Village Lawyer," produced anonymously at the Haymarket, London, in 1787, and rendered long popular by the excellent acting of Bannister, Jr., as Scout. It was thus cast here : Sheepface .... Mr. Jefferson. Charles Mr. Fox. Scout " Martin. Mrs. Scout. . . . Mrs. Hogg. Snarl " Hogg. | Kate Miss Brett. " Tom Thumb" was a favorite afterpiece at this period, Master Stockwell being the representative of the little hero. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 205 Dec. 2d. " Hamlet" — Hamlet, Mr. Cooper — and, first time, a farce by Dunlap, entitled, " Where is He ?" which afterward enjoyed much favor. Commodore Scud Major Oldstyle . West .... Dec. nth, De I'Epee . D'Arlemont St. Alme . Franval Dupre . . Mr. Hogg. Block Mr. Jefferson. " Hodqkinsom. Louisa Mrs. Hallam. " Martin. Mrs. Oldstyle ..." Hoqg. Abbe de I'Epee, or Deaf and Dumb. Mr. Ttler. M Cooper. 11 Martin. " Hodqkinson. " Hallam. Dubois Dominique . Theodore . Mad. Franval Marianne . Mr. Jefferson. " Hoqg. Mrs. Hodqkinson. " Hoqg. Miss E. A. Wbstrat. Dec. 23d. Gen Burgoyne's drama, entitled, " Richard Cceur de Lion," its first performance on the Park stage. Richard Blondel Sir Owen Florestan Seneschal Guillot Mr. Hodgkinson. M Martin. " Ttler. " Fox. " Hoqq. " Jefferson. Antonio Matilda. Laurette Colette . Julie . Dorcas . Miss Harding. Mrs. Hodqkinson. Miss Brett. " E. A. Westrat. " Hoqq. Mrs. Brett. This piece has been repeated at different times, but never attained popularity. The first prominent novelty of the season was Colman's comedy of the " Poor Gentleman," whose intrinsic merit still commands the applause of admiring audiences, and whose diversity of character renders it one of the most frequently chosen vehicles for the combination of the most opposite lines of talent. It was thus originally played on the 8th of January, 1802 : Sir Robert Bramble Doct. Ollapod . . Frederick . . . Lieut. Worthington Sir Charles Cropland Corporal Foss . . Humphrey Dobbins Mr. Jefferson. Hodgkinson. Cooper. Ttleb. Hallam, Jr. Martin. Hogg. Farmer Harrowby . Stephen Harrowby . Miss Lucretia McTab Emily Worthington. Dame Harrowby . Mary Harrowby. . Mr. Hallam. " Wilmot. Mrs. Hoqg. " Hodqkinson. " Simpson. Miss Brett. The comedy called " Modern Magic " was thus first played on the 25th : Goodwin . . . Erlen .... Ensign Erlen Herman Sharp .... Baron Boldenstern Mr. Hodqkinson. " Ttler. " Cooper. M Hoqq. " Hallam, Jr. " Fox. Selby . . . Mrs. Erlen . . Countess Apewitz Mad. Lupnitz . Sophia . . . Emily . . . Mr. Martin. Mrs. Melmoth. " Simpson. " Hogq. Miss E. A. Westrat. " Harding. It was not very successful. On the 29th, Mr. Bland, a brother of Mrs. Jordan, made his first appearance in America as Tony Lumpkin, under the assumed name of Wilson. He was a good singer and come- dian, and gave much satisfaction in several humorous parts. The celebrated Mrs. Bland, formerly Miss Romanzini, the best English ballad singer of the day, was his wife. 206 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. February 10th. Reynolds' comedy called "Folly as it Flies," was first played in New York, and was for several years received with great favor. It was last revived, after a sleep of a quarter of a century, at Wallack's Theatre in 1854. It was thus first cast : Sir Herbert Melmoth Leonard Melmoth Tom Tick . . . Doctor Infallible Peter Postobit . Shenkin . . . Mr. Tyler. " Fox. " Hodgkinson. " Martin. " Jefferson. " Wilson. Curitor . . Pinchwell . Capias . . Lady Melmoth Georgiana . Dame Shenkin Mr. Hogg. '• Shapter. " "WlLMOT. Mrs. Hodgkinson. " Jefferson. " Simpson. We here first notice the name of Mr. Shapter, who was for several years after a very useful if not ornamental member of the establishment. Monk Lewis's long popular melo-Drama, called " Adelmorn, the Outlaw," was first played on the 25th, thus cast : Adelmorn Ulric . . . Sigismond Father Cyprian Hugo . . Lodowick Brenno . . Mr. Hodgkinson. " Cooper. " Tyler. " Martin. " Hogg. " Jefferson. " Hallam, Jr. Ghost of Count Rod- erick . . . Mr. Herman . Qrill a . . Innogen . Dame Bedra Hallam. Miss Harding. " Brett. Mrs. Hodgkinson. " Hogg. March 8th. Column's operatic romance of " Blue Beard, or Female Curiosity," was brought out with great success, and its charming music by Kelly soon found its way to every ear, and almost every tongue. It was thus played, and both in singing and acting deserved the applause it abundantly re- ceived : Abomelique. Ibrahim . Selim . . Shacabac . Mr. Tvler. " Jefferson. " Hodgkinson. " Wilson. Fatima Irene Beda . Mrs. Hodgkinson. Miss Brett. " E. A. Westray. Schiller's " Fiesco " was unsuccessfully produced on the 25th, thus: Fiesco . . . . Andreas Doria . Gianetto Doria . Verrina . Mr. Cooper. " Hallam. " Martin. " Tyler. Bourgonino Muley Hassan Leonora . Julia Doria . Mr. Fox. " Jefferson. Mrs. Hodgkinson. " Jefferson. The admirable Mrs. Merry commenced an engagement on the 19th of April, as Juliet, and was most enthusiastic- ally received. She afterward appeared as Calista, Belvidera, Alicia, Isabella, Lady Teazle and Euphrasia, for her benefit on the 8th of May. Her opening night yielded $1,000; her benefit §900 ; and her whole engagement averaged over $800 per night. Cobb's charming operetta of " Paul and Virginia," with its RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 207 artless and innocent hero and heroine, and the delightful music of Reeve and Mazzinghi, was first played with great applause on the 7th of May, thus cast : Paul . . Capt. Tropic Don Antonio Diego . Dominique Mr. Hodqkinson. «< Tyler. " H allam, J r. " Hogo. " Jefferson. Sebastien Alamba . Virginia Mary . Jacintha Mr. Wilmot. " Wilson. Mrs. Hodqkinson. Miss Brett. " Harking. The name of Darley (probably the elder) appears in the bills May 10th, when he was announced for a song in the fourth act of " Alexander the Great," and also on the 12th, in the opera of the " Duenna," thus played for Mr. Tyler's benefit : Don Jerome Ferdinand Carlos . . Antonio Father Paul Mr. Ttler. " Hodqkinson. " Wilson. " Fox. " Darley. Mendoza Lopez . Louisa . Clara Margaret Mr. Jefferson. '? Hallam. Miss Brett. Mrs. Hodqkinson. " Hogg. On this occasion, Mr. Crosby made his only appearance for the season as Old Wilding, in the " Liar." May 19th. Mr. Hogg, on his benefit night, brought out O'Keefe's farce called the "Irish Mimic," which was thus per- formed : Cyprus . . Capt-. Clifford Parrotts . Mr. Hogg. Colin . . . " Martin. Mrs. Malcolm " Hodgkinson. I Julia Malcolm Mr. Jefferson. Mrs. Hogq. " Hallam. May 21st. McNally's celebrated comedy, called the "Fol- lies of Fashion," was played for Mrs. Hodgkinson's benefit. Its cast was admirable : Sir Buzzard Savage Capt. Douglass . Welford . . . . Ordeal . . . Cheaterly .... Col. Staff ... Nicholas . . . . Mr. Hogq. " Cooper. " Hodqkinson. " Tyler. " Martin. " Hallam, Jr. " Jefferson. Widow Volatile . Mrs. Melmoth. Lady Flippant Sav age " Hallam. Clara Constance Grace Honor Muslin " Hodgkinson. Miss E. A. Westray. " Brett. " Harding. Mrs. Hogq. June 4th, for Miss Brett's benefit, we find the first cast on this stage of Shakspeare's " Henry IYth," in which Hodgkin- son's personation of Falstaff received less approbation than any standard comic character he had ever appeared in. The whole play was thus cast : Falstaff . . . Henry IV . . . Prince of Wales Hotspur . 8lr R. Vernon . Northumberland Mr. Hodgkinson. " Hallam. " Martin. u Cooper. M Tylrr. '* Robertson. Francis - Poins Bardolph Carrier . Lady Percy Hostess . Mr. Jrfferson. " Wilson. ** Hogg. " Wilmot. Mrs. Hodgkinson. " Brett. Cooper's elegant presence and spirited and eloquent elocu- tion rendered Hotspur the charm of the piece. Mr. Hopkins Robertson, whom we have before alluded to, played Nortkum- 208 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. berland on this occasion, and during the season attracted much attention by the judgment evinced in his performances. He rose, by the sheer force of merit, from the lowest rank to a station of considerable eminence, and enjoyed the regard of the audience for a long period. In Scotchmen, and in the serious characters of comedy, he was most esteemed, though he played every thing that was required of him with great respectability. Mr. Robertson was attached to the theatre in Richmond, Va., at the time it was burned in 1811, and by his presence of mind succeeded in saving many who, but for him, would have perished in the ruins. He died in New York, November 10th, 1819, aged 48 years. June 7th. Mr. Hewitt, the orchestra leader, for his benefit, brought out Dibdin's " II Bondocani " with success, and it long remained one of the most favorite stock pieces of the theatre. In later years it was played as the " Caliph of Bagdad," with the music of Boildieu. It was thus originally performed here : Caliph Mr. Hodgkinson. Cadi " Jefferson. Chebib " Hogg. Mahoud " Wilmot. Mesrour " Wilson. Selima June 9th. Mrs. J. Darley, late Miss Ellen Westray, made her first appearance this season as Fatima, in " Blue Beard," for the benefit of her sister Elizabeth, and on the 11th, played Amelia Wildenheim for the benefit of her mother, Mrs. Simpson. June 14th, Mr. Hallam's Benefit. Firft time, Holman's comedy, " The Votary of Wealth." Abdallah Hazeb . Hassan . Darina . Mr. Fox. " Ttler. " Martin. Miss Brett. Mrs. Hodgkinson. Old Vizordly . . Leonard Vizordly Drooply Cleveland Oakworth . Sharpsett Mr. Hogg. Harry Melville . Mr. Hallam, Jr. " Fox. Lady Vizordly. . Mrs Hogg. " Hodgkinson. I Julia Vizordly. . " Hodgkinson. " Hallam. Mrs. Cleveland . " Melmoth. " Wilson. \ Caroline ... " Hallam. 14 Jefferson. Gangica. . . . Miss A. Brett. Though successful at Covent Garden, this comedy never attained popularity in New York. The manager brought the season to a close on the 18th with a benefit to Messrs. Shapter, Robertson and Wiltse, — the " Stranger" and "Paul and Virginia" constituting the enter- tainments. On the 20th, the theatre was opened for the benefit of the RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 209 Poor Actors' Fund, when the " Poor Gentleman" and "Rosina" were played. Mr. Cooper also opened it on the 24th, when he personated Howard, in the " Will," and Mr. Francis, of Philadelphia, ap- peared as Old Brummagem, in " Lock and Key." Mr. Robertson, the performer of ground and lofty tumbling, appeared several nights, and the establishment finally closed on Monday evening, July 5th, to an audience of $1,245, the entertainments being Burke's drama of " Bunker Hill," and a patriotic sketch, called the "Retrospect," in which Mr. Cooper read the Declaration of Independence. A portion of the company, directed by Mr. Hodgkinson, took possession of Corre's Mount Vernon Gardens on the 5th of July, which was opened with " All the World's a Stage," and an olio of recitation and singing, in which appeared Mrs. Melmoth, Mrs. Simpson, Mr. and Mrs. Douglass, Mr. Darley, Mr. Fox, and Mr. Wilson. On the 7th, Mrs. Melmoth took her farewell benefit, pre- vious to removing to Philadelphia, appearing as Matilda, in the " Carmelite," and delivering a farewell address. On the 28th, for Mr. Hodgkinson's benefit, BickerstafT's comedy of the " Hypocrite" was performed for the first time, as follows : Mawworm Doct. Cantwell . Sir John Lambert Col. Lambert Darnley . . . August 13th Mr. Jefferson. " Hodgkinson. {f Hogg. " Martin. " Darlet. Seyward .... Mr. Hallam, Jr. Chiirlotte .... Mrs. Hodgkinson. Old Lady Lambert . " Hogg. Young Lady Lambert " Jefferson. Betty " King. Mr. Fennell, who was then in prison for debt, had a benefit assigned him, when Mrs. Inchbald's comedy of " Such Things Are" was performed. Sept. 20th. For Mrs. Hodgkinson's benefit, a play called the " Death of Louis XVI," with Hodgkinson as the King, and Mrs. Hodgkinson as Marie Antoinette. The season ended on the 22d, with a benefit to Mr. Wilson, who appeared as Larry Kavanagh, in the " Lie of the Day." Performances were resumed at the "Park," October 11th, 1802, with the drama of " Adelmorn the Outlaw," in which Messrs. Hodgkinson, Cooper, Hallam, Tyler, Jefferson, Martin and Hogg, Mrs. Hodgkinson, Mrs. Hogg, and Miss A. Brett, 27 210 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. performed their original parts, and Miss Hogg, who was now being brought forward in her profession, personated Herman, formerly sustained by Miss Harding, who had left the theatre. The afterpiece was the " Old Maid." The names of Mrs. Melmoth, Mr. and Mrs. Simpson, Miss E. A. Westray, Miss Harding, Mr. Crosby, Mr. Darley, and Mr. Fox, are not on the stock list this season. October 13th. Mrs. Whitelock made her first appearance on the Park stage as Elwina, in " Percy," supported by Hodg- kinson as Percy, and Cooper as Douglas. In the afterpiece of " Who's the Dupe ?" Mr. Wilson (or Bland) re-appeared as Gradus. Oct. 15th, Douglas. Young Norval . . . Mr. Cooper. I Glenalvon . . . Mr. Fennell. Old Norval ... " Hodgkinson. Lady Randolph . . Mrs. Whitelock. The company, it will be perceived, was very strong in the tragic department. Oct. 25th. " A Gentleman" made his first appearance as Stephen Harrowby, and soon took a subordinate position in the company as Mr. Turnbull. He never attained distinction, but his daughters in later years enjoyed much of the public favor. Miss C. Turnbull, (afterward successively Mrs. Prit- chard and Mrs. Lovell) and Miss Julia Turnbull, are the ladies alluded to. Mr. Whitelock made his first appearance on the 27th, as Major (J Flaherty, in the "West Indian." Mrs. Whitelock played in succession Lady Townly, Isabella, Elvira, and Calista, and on the 10th of November, Mr. Prig- more made his first appearance in five years as Sir George Thunder, in " Wild Oats." Nov. 15th. A drama by the manager, called " Peter the Great," was thus played for the first time : Peter Mr. Cooper. Iwan Suderow. . Mr. Martin. Suckerain .... " Fennell. Count Prestoff . " Prigmore. Orloff " Hodgkinson. Gen. Arkim . . " Hallam, Jr. Col. Suderow ..." Tyler. Sophia .... Mrs. Whitelock. It was not very successful, but was occasionally revived as late as 1815. Nov. 17th. Mrs. Johnson, with all her charms of mind and person more fully developed, made her first appearance, after i RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 211 an absence of five years, to a crowded house, and with enthu- siastic approbation, in Mrs. Cowley's comedy of " Which is the Man ?" thus cast for the occasion : Lord Sparkle Fitzherbert . Beauchamp . Bellville . . . Bobby Pendragon Servant . . . Mr. Wilson. " Ttlkr. 14 Hodgkinson. " Martin. " Jefferson. " Turniiull. Lady Hell Bloomer Clarinda Julia .... Sophy Pendragon Kitty Mrs. Johnson Mrs. Johnson. 14 Jefferson. Miss Hogg. Mrs. IloixiKiNS'iN. " Hogg. " Brett. Nov. 22. Mr. Johnson made his first appearance in five years, as Sir Peter Teazle, with Mrs. Johnson as Lady Teazle, and Fennell and Hodgkinson as Joseph and Charles Surface. Nov. 29th, The Rivals ; and a farce called " The Country Heirefs," altered from Van- brugh's celebrated comedy of "The Relapfe." Lord Foppington . Young Fashion . Sir Tunbelly Clumsey Sir J. Friendly . . Mr. Jefferson. " Martin. " Hogg. " Hallam, Jr. Lory. . . Coupler. Miss Hoyden Nurse . . Mr. Johnson. " Prigmore. Mrs. Hodgkinson. 44 Brett. Mrs. Whitelock's next characters were Queen Margaret, (Battle of Hexham) Euphrasia, Lady Anne, (Deserted Daughter) Belvidera and Queen Elizabeth, and Mrs. Johnson's, Beatrice, Joana, Astrabel, (Italian Father) Agatha Friberg, Floranthe, and Cora. December 10th, first night of the pantomimic drama of " Gil Bias," which was played several times with the annexed cast : Gil Bias . . His Father . Gil Perez . . Father Dominic Lay Brother . Mr. Jefferson. 41 Prigmore. 44 Turnbuli.. 44 Hogg. 44 JOHNSON. Captain . . Dorothea . . Gil Bias' Mother Spanish Lady. Girl .... Mr. Martin. 44 Prigmore ' Mrs. fiOGG. ' 4 Jefferson. Miss Hogg. January 1st, 1803. Receipts $1,090. " Blue Beard," with Fennell as Abomelique, and Hodgkinson as Shacabac. January 5th. Mr. Cooper's last appearance previous to his visiting Europe was announced as u Macbeth, (Mrs. Whitelock as Lady Macbeth") but the vessel being detained, and his attraction increasing as his departure drew near, he appeared on the 6th, 7th and 8th insts. as Penruddock, Richard III. and Hamlet. A farce by Fennell, called the "Wheel of Truth," was played on the 12th, with the following cast of characters, and was successful enough to attract to the author's benefit a sum sut- 212 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. ficient to release him from the prison where he was again incarcerated for debt. Harlequin Old Whimmy . Doctor Puffaway Thoughtless . . John . Mr. Hodgkinson. I Obadiah .... Mr. Tyler. " Hogg. Beau " Hallam, Jr. " Johnson. Miss Whimmy . . Mrs. Jefferson. " Martin. Tabitha Mrs. Hogg. " Jefferson. I Polly Miss Brett. Dibdin's " School for Prejudice," enlarged from his comedy of "Liberal Opinions," was thus first played on the 21st: Old Liberal . ■ Frank Liberal . Counselor Friendly Mildway . . Parchment . John Grouse . Ephraim . Mr. Hogg. '* Hodgkinson. " Tyler. " Martin. " Hallam. " Johnson. " Jefferson. Chevy Chase Mrs. Howard Marian . Miss Liberal Fanny . . Rachel . . Jenny . Mr. Hallam, Jr. Mrs. Jefferson. " Johnson. " Brett. " Hodgkinson. " Hogg. Miss Hogg. It was last played at the Park, in 1833, with Mr. Wilkinson as Ephraim. Dunlap's drama of " Ribbemont, or the Feudal Baron," was revived on the 31st, as follows: Ribbemont .... Mr. Hodgkinson. I Theodore by a Gentleman. | Manuel . Countess Mr. Fennell. Mrs. Whitelock. The " gentleman" debutant was a Mr. Cox, but neither player nor play proved successful. " The Voice of Nature," another of the manager's translations or adaptations, was far more fortunate, and commanded popular approbation for many years. It was thus first played on the 4th of February, 1803: Alphonso Rinaldo Pedro . Vasques Child . . Mr. Fennell. " Hodgkinson. " Hallam, Jr. " Johnson. Miss F. Hodgkinson. Clarinda Alzaira Lilla . Benedetta Isabella Mrs. Jefferson. " Johnson. " Hodgkinson. " Hogg. " Brett. This was the first appearance of Mrs. Hodgkinson's second daughter, who, Mr. Dunlap informs us, grew to be a most amiable and estimable woman. Feb. 28th, a farce called the " Good Neighbor," with Tyler as Sotheby, Johnson as Eaton, Jefferson as Thomas, and Miss Hogg as Rose, was favorably received. Lewis's tragedy of "Alfonso" was first performed on the 2d of March, and became so much of a favorite that it was repeated every season for many years. It was thus cast : Alfonso Orsino Cessario . Father Basil Henriques Mr. Tyler. " Fennell. " Hodgkinson. " Johnson. " Martin. Melchior Ottilia . Amelrosa Estrella Inis . Mr. Hallam, Jr. Mrs. Whitelock. " Johnson. " Jefferson. Miss Hogg. March 4th, Alfonfo, and, firft time, Macnally's farce of Retaliation. Old Rebate . Precipe Rebate Truman . . Mr. Hogg. I Frank Mr. Martin. " Jefferson. Amelia Mrs. Hodgkinson. " Hallam, Jr. Lucy Miss Brett. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 213 Holcroft's " Tale of Mystery " was very successfully per- formed on the 16th, for the first time, and for thirty years after retained possession of the stage. Its characters were thus distributed : Francisco . Count Romaldi Bonarao Stephano . Montano . Fennell. Hodgkinson. Tyler. Martin. Johnson. Michelli Piero MalrogU Selina Fiemmetta Mr. Jefferson. " Hogg. " Hallam, Jr. Mrs. Johnson. 44 Hogg. March 30th. "The Blind Boy," altered by Dunlap from Kotzebue's " Epigram," was produced with small success. Don Jasper Don Montefogo Major Sydenham Doct. Santodiro . Oliviero . . . Carlos . Mr. Johnson. " Hogg. " Hodgkinson. " Martin. 44 Tyler. " Jefferson. Theodore . Margaretta Isabella Frederioa . Louisa . Mrs. Johnson. " Hogg. " Hodgkinson. " Hallam. " Jefferson. A play called the " Tournament" was brought out on the 20th of April, with great expense and small profit. Mr. Hal- lam played Ernest, Mr. Hodgkinson Albert, Mr. Fennell Eber- hard, Mr. Tyler Thorring; and Mrs. Johnson Agnes. Fennell played King- Lear on the 27th, with Hodgkinson as Edgar, and Mrs. Johnson Cordelia ; and in the farce of the " Poor Soldier," on the same evening, a " young lady" made her first appearance as Nor ah. She was afterward known as Miss Patten, a serviceable but not talented performer. Holcroft's comedy, " Hear Both Sides," was first given on the 4th of May, but did not long retain a footing on the boards. It was thus cast : Fairfax Headlong Transit . . Mel ford . . . Sir Ralph Aspeu Mr. Fennell. M Martin. " Hodgkinson. 44 Tyler. " Hogg. Major Tennis Quillet . . Gregory Caroline Eliza . . Mr. Prigmore. " Jefferson. 44 Hallam. Mrs. Johnson. " Hodgkinson. May 9th. Mr. Martin's Benefit. Firrt time on this ftage, Cibber's comedy of She Would and She Would Not. Don Manuel Don Philip Don Lewis Don Octavio Trapauti . Soto . . Host Mr. Prigmore. Alguazil .... 44 Robertson. Hypolita .... Mrs. Johnson. Flora Miss Hogg. Rosara Mrs. Jefferson. Viletta Miss Hrett. May 11th. Mr. Jefferson presented for his benefit, the first performance of Reynolds' comedy of " Delays and Blunders," thus cast : Mr. Jefferson. Fennell. 44 Hallam, Jr. M Martin. " Hodgkinson. 44 Hallam. 8ir F. Del any Lieut. St. Orme Sapling . . Henry . . Paul Postpone Robert Grange Mr. Tyler. 44 Fennell. " Hogg. 44 Martin. " Hodgkinson. " Jefferson. Privilege . Nightshade Mrs. St. Orme Mrs. Sapling Honora Lauretta Mr. Tlrnihll. 41 Johnson. Mrs. Wiiitelock. ' 4 Hogg. 44 Johnson. 4> Hodgkinson. 214 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mrs. Johnson took her benefit on the 13th, appearing as Rosalind in " As You Like It," reciting the pathetic ballad of "Mary, the Maid of the Inn," and presenting, for the first time, Colman's celebrated and still favorite farce of the " Review, or the Wags of Windsor," which was thus admirably cast : Deputy Bull . . Capt. Beaugard . Caleb Quotem John Lump . Looney McTwolter Mr. Johnson. " Martin. " Hodgkinson. •' Jefferson. " Tyler. Dubbs ... Mr. Hallam, Jr, Charles Williams. . " Shapter. Grace Gaylove . . Mrs. Johnson. Lucy Miss Brett. Phoebe Whitethorn . " Hogg. Macklin's "Man of the World" was played (probably for the first time in New York) on the 20th, for Mr. Tyler's bene- fit, cast as follows, but the beneficiary was hardly equal to the requirements of the part assumed. Sir Pertinax McSycophant Lord Lumbercourt . . Mr. Johnson. Egerton " Hodgkinson. Sidney. . . " Fennell. Melville " Hallam. Couns. Plausible . . " Prigmore. Mr. Tyler. Serjeant Eitherside . Mr. Shapter. Lady McSycophant . Mrs. Hogg. Lady Rodolpha . " Johnson. Constantia .... " Jefferson. Betty Hint. . . . Miss Brett. Mr. Hodgkinson produced a drama called " Charlotte Cor- day," for his benefit, on the 23d, in which he appeared in a part called Theodore ; his wife as Marie Antoinette ; his daugh- ter as the Dauphin ; Miss Hogg as the Princess Royal ; Fen- nell as Marat; Martin as Robespierre, and Mrs. Johnson as the beautiful and high-souled heroine. Mr. Hogg took his benefit on the 25th, with " She Would and She Would Not," and the first performance of Cobb's musical farce, "A House to be Sold," thus cast: Capt. Kelson . Charles Kelson Belfield . . Meshee . . Mr. Johnson. " Martin. " Hallam, Ji " Hogg. Matthew Mug . . . Mr. Jefferson Madame Dorillie . Mrs. Hogg. Charlotte .... " Jefferson. Fanny Miss Hogg. The regular season terminated on the 27th, with Mrs. Hodg- kinson's benefit and the production of a new comedy called the " Fair Fugitive, or He Forgot Himself," with the following cast: Lord Dartford . Sir W. Wingrove Mr. Wingrove . Old Manly. . . Young Manly Admiral Cleveland Larron . . . Mr. Jefferson. " Tyler. " Fennell. " Johnson. " Hodgkinson. " Hogg. " Martin. Welford, . . Mrs. Manly Miss Manly Mrs. Cleveland Miss Herbert . Julia Wingrove Mrs. Larron . Mr. Hallam, Jr. Mrs. Hogg. Miss Brett. Mrs. Jefferson. " Johnson. " Hodgkinson. " Brett. The afterpiece was the " Children in the Wood," with Mis F. Hodgkinson as the Girl, and Master T. Jefferson's first ap- pearance on the stage as the Boy. This little lad was the eldest child of the comedian, and on reaching manhood bade RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 215 fair to become a distinguished artist. He made his first ap- pearance in an adult character in Philadelphia, as Master Slender, in 1821, and died there of consumption in 1824. The establishment re-opened on the 30th with the " Good Neighbor,'' the " Tournament," and rope-dancing by a Signor Manfredi. Mrs. Melmoth made her first appearance this year, on the 10th of June, as Queen Elizabeth, in the " Earl of Essex," for Mr. Johnson's benefit. On the 20th, the u Stranger " was played for the benefit of Mrs. Seymour (who had rejoined the company, after an ab- sence of two years), and is memorable as being the last play in which Mrs. Hodgkinson ever appeared, her character being Mrs. Haller. Although suffering from illness, like her sister, Miss Brett, who had already been compelled to retire, she ap- pears not to have thought of repose, until the greatest efforts would no longer enable her to endure the fatigue of acting. The sisters both died of consumption in the month of Sep- tember. July 4th. "The Glory of Columbia," altered from "Andre," was played to a house of $1,287, and repeated on the 6th, for the benefit of the author, to $444. The season ended on the 8th, with Signor Manfredi's benefit. Some performances took place afterward at Mount Vernon Gardens, where for several weeks tight-rope entertainments were given by Signor Manfredi. This was also Mr. Hodgkinson's last season in New York. He engaged for the Southern theatres with Mr. Placide, and died in Washington, in 1805. No succeeding performer has ever enjoyed an equal reputation for versatility and general merit, and in many characters of comedy, both high and low, he excelled every contemporary. It was also Mr. Jefferson's last regular season, although he re-appeared during two or three brief star engagements. CHAPTER XVII. Park Theatre, 1803-4— Grove Theatre, 1804— Park, 1804-5. H E Park Theatre opened for its seventh season on the evening of November 14th, 1803. The company had been weakened by the loss of Mr. Cooper, Mr. and Mrs. Hodgkinson, Mr. and Mrs. Whitelock, Mr. and Mrs. Jefferson, Mr. Wilson, Mrs. Brett, Miss Brett and Miss Hard- ing — a loss which the engagement of Mrs. Melmoth, Mr. Harwood and Mr. and Mrs. Harper was inadequate to repair. The bill for the night was Cibber's comedy of "She Would and She Would Not," and Column's farce of "Ways and Means," with Mr. Harwood's first appearance on the Park stage as Trapanti and Sir David Dunder. His success was complete, and he soon became a favorite of the first distinc- tion. The yellow fever having prevailed in the city during the fall, by which six hundred and seventy deaths had occurred, a benefit was given to the necessitous families of the sufferers on the 18th, when "She Would and She Would Not" was repeated, with the farce of " Lock and Key," in which Harwood played Ralph; Johnson, Old Brummagem ; Miss Hogg, Laura," and Mrs. Seymour, Fanny. On the 21st of November, Colman's still popular comedy of " John Bull" was played for the first time in America, with the following cast : Peregrine .... Sir Simon Rochdale. Frank Rochdale . . Job Thornberry . . Dennis Brulgruddery Mr. Tyler. " Johnson. " Martin. " Hogg. " Harwood. Tom Shuffleton . Dan Lady Caroline Mary Thornberry. Mrs. Brulgruddery Mr. Mrs. Harper. Hallam. Hallam. Johnson. Hogs. In the above performance, Mr. Harper made his first ap- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 217 pearance in three years ; Mr. Hogg, as Job Thornberry, first fully hit the taste of the town, and thoroughly established himself in its favor; and Mr. Harwood was pronounced Dennis Brulgruddery himself. Mr. Fennell and Mrs. Melmoth made their first appearance for the season on the 25th, (then celebrated as Evacuation Day with great enthusiasm) as Gen. Washington, and Mrs. Bland in the " Glory of Columbia," to a receipt of nearly $1,000. On the 30th, they appeared in " Macbeth," after which, for the first time, was represented Oulton's farce of the " Sixty- third Letter," thus cast : Sir Wilful Positive . . Mr. Johnson. I Sharp . ... Mr. Hogg. Sidney " Shapter. Miss Metaphor. . . Mrs. Melmoth. Dulcet " Harwood. I Lydia Miss Hogg. Patrick Casey . . " Tyler. I Patty Mrs. Seymour. Dec. 5th. Mr. Serson, under the designation of a " gentle- man," made his debut as Earl Osmond, and on the 14th, played Dumont in " Jane Shore." He appeared in a few other parts with little success. Dec. 9th. First night of Boaden's comedy, called the "Maid of Bristol," which, though neatly written and of con- siderable interest, failed to keep possession of the stage. It was thus cast : Lindorf . . Mr. Fennell. I Cranium .... Mr. Martin. Gellert. . . . . " Johnson. Clod " Hallam. Schultzer- " Tyler. Stella Mrs. Johnson. Oakum " Hogg. | Mrs. Oakum ..." Melmoth. Ben Block .... " Harwood. Mrs. Shark . . . " Hogg. Shark " Harper. Kate Miss Hogg. Allingham's farce of "Mrs. Wiggins," the fun of which turned on the confused identity of three ladies bearing the same name, was first played on the 14th, and received much applause, with the following cast : Old WL-gins .... Mr. Harwood. Mrs. Wiggins . . . Mrs. Hogg. Tom Wiggins . . " Harper. Mrs. Chloe Wiggins . M Seymour. O'Bubble " Tyler. I Mrs. Tom Wiggins . Miss Patten. On the 20th, Dunlap's noted farce of " Bonaparte in Eng- land" was first played with great success : Mr. Martin as Lieut. O'Connor; Mr. Harwood as Shadrack, the supposed Bona- parte; Mr. Hallam as Blouze; Mrs. Hogg as Mrs. Notable, and Miss Hogg as Sally Snip. These characters were personated by Irish Anderson, Placide, John Fisher, Mrs. Wheatley and Miss Rae, at the great " Dunlap Benefit," given in 1833, when 28 218 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. the farce was revived under the title of "Thirty Years Ago." On the 30th, Mrs. Darby, formerly Miss Milbourne, of Phil- adelphia, made her first appearance as Sally, in the " Purse." She was not much of an actress, but valuable as a singing and dancing auxiliary. Mr. Claude's debut in New York, and fourth appearance in public, took place on the 4th of January, 1804, as George Barnwell, (Mrs. Harper as Millwood) a character he had played at Baltimore, where he first appeared. He afterward person- ated Young Norval, Alonzo, Frederick in the " Poor Gentle- man," &c, and became a useful member of the company. He played here for the last time in 1811, and Dunlap says that he died young ; but other authorities aver that he lived to a mature age, and having studied divinity, finally made the pulpit his stage of action. Sheridan's "Critic" was revived on the 6th of January, 1804, but did not secure a proper appreciation, although Har- wood appeared as Puff and Sir Fretful, Fennell as Sneer, and Mrs. Hogg as Tilberina. Mr. Tyler, Mrs. Seymour and Miss Hogg, as the Italian Singers, carried off most of the applause. Allingham's comedy of the " Marriage Promise " was thus first performed on the 11th, but failed to create the sensation it had excited in London : Sidney Mr. Martin. Policy Mr. Hall am, Jr. Charles Merton . . " Tyler. Mrs. Howard . . . Mrs. Melmoth. George Howard ... " Fennell. Emma " Johnson. Consols " Hogg. Mary Woodland . " Hallam. Tandem " Harwood. Mrs. Harvey ... " Hogg. Woodland " Hallam. Margery .... " Seymour. "Raymond and Agnes, or the Bleeding Nun," a serious pantomime, was brought out as an afterpiece on the 16th, with the following distribution : Count Mr. Hallam. Claude Mr. Shapter. Don Felix .... " Johnson. Countess .... Mrs. Darby. Raymond " Martin. Agnes Miss Patten. Robert " Fennell. Margaretta . . . Mrs. Harper. Baptiste " Harper. Nanette " Seymour. Theodore " Hogg. Bleeding Nun. . . " Hallam. " A Tale of Terror," written by Henry Siddons, son of the great actress, was thus first played on the 23d : Valdarno Mr. Fennell. I Petro Mr. Harwood. Hannibal *' Tyler. Guzman .... " Hogg. Carlos " Serson. • Marcia Mrs. Melmoth. Lazaretto " Martin. Paulina .... " Johnson. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 219 February 1st. Was produced, for the first time, a very pleasing melo-dramatic spectacle, by Priuce Hoare, called " Chains of the Heart," embodying the whole company in its representation, and introducing to the public, in the character of Fatima, the pretty and youthful Miss Dellinger, afterward a great favorite. She could sing a ballad very pleasingly, and glide through a pas-seul very gracefully, but as an actress had little to recommend her to the favor she enjoyed. With the exception of one or two seasons, she continued here until 1820. In the above spectacle, Harwood was exceedingly happy as Cotillon, a French dancing-master in chains, and Tyler made a tine hit in the Irishman, (J Bubble. Fennell as Ali Bensal- lah, Hogg as Zaruda, Hallam as Villafieur, Claude as Prince Henry, Johnson as Azam, Serson as Manuel, Martin as Ricardo. Mrs. Johnson as Gufnare, and Miss Hogg as Zulema, also had important parts. According to Dunlap, the first four nights of the foregoing piece yielded successively $597, $525, $265, $197 — the busi- ness of the theatre during the season having been very poor. February 20th, a comedy by the manager, called " Conceit can Kill, Conceit can Cure," was announced with the annexed cast : Elderton Mr. Tyler. Giles Jolter . . . Mr. Harwood. Jollup " Johnson. Mrs. Jollup . . . Mrs. Hoqq. Mercury 41 Fennell. Arabella .... " Johnson. Dr. Crulealo .... " Martin. Fanny Miss Hogg. It was well received, but brought small audiences. After the celebration of Washington's birthday, on the 22d, the theatre remained closed during a fortnight of snow and severe cold. On the 9th of March, a small building in Bedlow Street, was opened as the Grove Theatre, with a company of inferior performers, including Messrs. McGinnis, Bates, Bland, Par- sons, Wheatley, Burrows and Burd, Mrs. Gordon, Mrs. McGin- nis, Miss White, &c. Of these, Mr. Frederick Wheatley must be noticed as the husbaud and father of a most talented wife and children. He was afterward attached for many years to 1 Bedlow Street was that part of Madison Street lying east of Catharine Street. 220 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. the Park theatre, and died in 1836, at Philadelphia, while there on a professional visit with his daughter Emma, after- ward Mrs. James Mason. Bates was the comedian who had played at the Park in 1798, and Bland, one who had lately performed there under the name of Wilson. Miss White possessed some little talent, and was re-engaged at the Park before the end of the season. The Park Theatre re-opened March 12th, (to $528) with a comedy by Mr. Dunlap, called "Lewis of Mont Blanc, or the Transplanted Irishman." This piece, which, the author says, by loaning to various managers, he finally lost all trace of, so that it is now, no doubt, beyond recovery, afforded much amusement, and was frequently repeated with the following cast: Lewis . . Jerome Ferdinand Lope . Lazaretto . Lazarillo . Mr. Fe>nell. " Tyler. " Clalde. " Martin. " Hogg. " Shaptek. Sebastien . Thady O'Reilly Juan. . Olivia . . . Seraphina . Margaretta . Mr. Harper. " Harwood. " Johnson. Mrs. Melmoth. ''" Johnson. *• Hogg. Harwood, by his excellent acting in Thady O'Reilly, a mil- itary Irishman, made his character the feature of the piece. Kenney's amusing farce called " Raising the Wind " was thus first played here on the 16th: Jeremy Diddler Plainway . . Fainwould Mr. Harwood. " Johnson. " Martin. Sam Mr. Hogg. Miss Durable . . Mrs. Hogg. Peggy Miss Hogg. Harwood won loud plaudits by his performance of Jeremy, and the character has since found able representatives in New York in the persons of E. Simpson, George Barrett, Thayer, Browne and Walcot. A short vacation again occurred, and on the 2d of April, the house was re-opened with " Lewis of Mont Blanc." On the 4th, Dunlap's drama, the " Wife of Two Husbands," was thus performed : Count Belflor Major Goltz . Rinaldo . . Armagh Baron Werner Mr. Fennell. " Hogg. " Claude. " Harwood. " Tyler. Isidore . Theodore Countess Lilla. . Rosalie . Mr. Martin. Miss Martin. Mrs. Johnson. " Darby. Miss Patten. It was received with applause, and was occasionally played for many years. On the 18th of April, Cherry's comedy of the " Soldier's RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 221 Daughter" was brought out with the following cast, which was of extraordinary excellence, every character being ad- mirably performed, and Mrs. Johnson's Widow Cheerly and Mr. Harwood's Frank Heartall being entitled to special dis- tinction : Gov. Heartall Frank Heartall Malfort, Sr. . Malfort. Jr. . Capt. Woodley Ferrett Mr. Johnson. " Harwood. " Tyler. " Fennbll. " Martin. " Harver. Timothy Quaint Widow Cheerly Mrs. Malfort . Mrs. Fidget . Susan . Julia . (a child) Mr. Hogg. Mrs. Johnson. " Melmoth. " HOQQ. " Harper. Miss Martin. Signor Bologna was brought out as the Clown, in a panto- mime, April 25th, and played till the end of the season. He was well adapted to the business he followed, and on his ben- efit night, executed a fandango between eighteen eggs ! to the great delight of his admirers. The same evening Miss Hogg appeared for the first time under her marital designation of Mrs. Claude. May 7th. Dimond's patriotic play, the " Hero of the North," was first performed, and met with considerable success. The characters were thus distributed : Gustavus Vasa . Casimir Rubinski Carlowitz . . Sigi9mond Gabriel . . . Marcoff . . . " Hearts of Mr Fennell. " Hallam. " Martin. " Tyler. " Johnson. Harwood. Brennomar Princess Gunilda . Santa Michael wina Frederica Rubinski Alexa .... Paulina. Mr. Harper. Mrs. Johnson. " Melmoth. Miss White. Mrs. Claude. Miss Patten. Oak," a comedy by Allingham, was brought out by Mr. Harwood, for his benefit on the 14th, probably more for the sake of the Irish character, Brian (JBradliegh, rep- resented by himself, than for the general merit of the play. Mr. Hogg as Ardent, Fennell as Dorland, Johnson as Tenper- cent, Martin as Joe, Mrs. Johnson as Eliza, and Mrs. Hogg as Mrs. O'Bradliegh, represented the other principal parts. May 1 8th. Manager's benefit. The Provoked Hufband. Lord Townly . . . . Mr. Fennbll. | Lady Townly. . . Mrs. Johnson. May 21 ft. Mrs. Johnfon's benefit. Firft time in New York, Cumberland's comedy called The Brothers ; Johnson. Fennell. Sir Benjamin Dove Belfield, Sr. . . Belfield, Jr. . . Capt. Ironside Skiff .... Patterson . . . Goodwin And Youog Philpot . Mr. Martin. Harwood. Shapter. Harper. Tyler. TIk Mr. Harwood. Philip . . . Jonathan . Lady Dove Sophia Dove . Violetta . . Fanny Goodwin Lucy Waters . Citizen. I Maria . . . Mr. Claude. " McDonald. Mrs. Melmoth. M Johnson. " Harper. " Claude. " Hallam. Mrs. Johnson. 222 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. May 23d. Mr. Martin's benefit. The Inconftant ; Young Mirabel . . . Mr. Martin. I Bisarre .... Mrs. Johnson. Dugard " Fennell. | Oriana " Claude. And, firft time, Colman's mufical farce entitled, Love Laughs at Lockfmiths. Vigil Mr. Hogg. I Risk Mr. Harwood. Totterton " Harper. Solomon Lob ... " Shapter. Capt. Beldare ... " Tyler. I Lydia Mrs. Claude. The melodies of the piece, by Kelly, were very pleasing, and aided in its long-continued popularity. May 25th, for the benefit of Mr. Tyler, Dr. Brown's tragedy of "Barbarossa" was thus performed, being the first cast found on the New York bills : Barbarossa .... Mr. Fennell. Sadi Mr. Harper. Selim ..... " Tyler. Zaphira .... Mrs. Melmoth. Othman ...... " Martin. Irene " Johnson. and, for the first time in America, Shakespeare's " Comedy of Errors." Antipholus of Syracuse Mr. Martin. Antipholus of Ephesus " Hallam, Jr. Droinio of Syracuse " Hogg. Dromio of Ephesus " Harwood. Solinus Mr. Serson. Abbess Mrs. Harper. I .^Egeon " Hallam. Adriana .... " Claude. Angelo " Johnson. Luciana . . Miss Patten. The play never became popular till the days of Hackett and Barnes. May 30th. Mr. Hallam announced for his benefit (which was, however, postponed until June 11th), the first perform- ance in America of Shakespeare's " Twelfth Night," with the following cast : Orsino Mr. Tyler. Clown Mr. Hallam. Sebastien " Claude. Fabian " Hogg. Sir Toby Belch ..." Harwood. Viola Mrs. Johnson. Sir Andrew Aguecheek " Johnson. Olivia " Hallam. Malvolio " Martin. I Maria " Harper. The drama of " Don Quixotte " was also announced, with Fennell as the crack-brained enthusiast; Harper as Sancho Panza ; Hallam as the Gardener ; Mrs. Hogg as Teresa ; and Mrs. Harper as Mary. June 1st Mr. Fennell appeared as Richard III, for his benefit, and produced, for the first time, his own farce of the " Advertisement," as played originally at Covent Garden in 1791. Aid. Goswell .... Mr. Hogg. I Peruque .... Mr. Martin. Young Goswell ..." Harper. Mrs. Courtney . . Mrs. Claude. O'Trigger " Harwood'. Mrs. Snip .... " Hogg. Harry " Hallam, Jr. j Kitty Miss Patten. TWELFTH SIGHT {Act 2, Sc. j. Sir Toby, Sir Andrew and Maria) From the painting by W. Hamilton RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 223 June 6th. Mr. Johnfon's benefit. Douglas — Young Norval by Mrs. Johnfon — and, firft time here, Pilon's farce of the Deaf Lover. Meadow9 Mr. Harwood Steruhold .... Mr. Johnson. Old Wrongward . . " Hoqo. , Sophia Mrs. Darby. Young Wrongward " Claud*. Betty Blossom . . *' Claude. Canteen " Harper Susan " Harper. June 8th, the night of Mr. and Mrs. Claude's benefit, Mr. Fennell announced would be his last appearance on the stage, and after giving his favorite and excellent personation of Zanga, delivered, formally, a farewell address. Mr. Fennell, however, had occasion many times after to tread the boards. Mr. Serson repeated Earl Osmond for his benefit, on the 29th, and the season terminated after the 4th of July, when the " Glory of Columbia " and " Black Beard " were given to a crowded house. Mr. Harwood was the great attraction and favorite of the season, while Mr. Fennell, who, by the absence of Cooper and Hodgkinson, had no tragic rival, appeared for the first time as the Stranger, Rolla, Jaffier, Lord Hastings, Earl of Essex, &c. On the 22d of October, 1S04, the dramatic season com- menced with the performance of the " Clandestine Marriage " and " Ways and Means." The company contained all the strength of the previous season, with the exception of Mr. Fennell and Mrs. Seymour, but their loss was more than supplied by the importance of the new engagements. On the 24th, Mr. J. Darley made his first appearance in three years as Belville in "Rosina/' Improved both in personal ap- pearance and vocal skill, he was received with great approba- tion, and for many years after eclipsed all rivalry in the operatic department His wife resumed her old situation on the 26th, in the character of Albina Mandeville, and was wel- comed with rapturous enthusiasm. Acknowledged as a per- fect model of loveliness for early womanhood, her style was more highly finished, both as actress and vocalist, and her artlessness of manner was as fascinating as ever. New York probably never had a more perfect representative of her line of character than the Mrs. Darley of this season. 224 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. On the 29th, a Mr. Huntington, who had previously failed in the same part in London, ventured to appear as Macbeth, and was again unequivocally condemned. In 1808, he was attached to the theatre, playing the most trifling parts. Nov. 7th. Firft time in ten years, Cumberland's " Natural Son." Sir Jeffrey Latimer . Mr. Hogg. Major O'FIaherty. . Mr. Burd. Rueful " Tyler. Dumps " Harwood. Blushenly " Martin. Lady Paragon . . Mrs. Johnson. Jack Hustings ..." Hallam Miss Phoebe Latimer. " Melmoth. Nov. 16th. First time in New York, Dibdin's comedy of " Guilty or Not Guilty," which, though finely cast, never be- came popular. Lord Rigid .... Mr. Burd. William .... Mr. Martin. Sir Harry Pointer . . " Darley. , Lady Rigid . . . Mrs. Darby. Major Corslet ..." Hogg. Mrs. Balance. . . " Hogg. Edmund Rigid ..." Tyler. Suzette .... Mrs. Johnson. Balance " Harper. Sophia Pointer . . " Claude. Charles Balance ... " Claude. Nancy " Darley. Triangle " Harwood. Deborah .... Miss White. After an absence of two years in Europe, Mr. Cooper, who proved to be the only real attraction of the season, com- menced an engagement on the 19th, as Macbeth, drawing crowded houses every night of performance, and producing for his benefit, December 17th, Shakspeare's play of "Henry V.," with the following cast : Henry V. .... Mr. Cooper. King of France . . Mr. Hallam. Exeter " Tyler. Dauphin .... " Claude. Gower " Martin. Lord Scroop ... " Harper. Fluellin " Hartvood. i Princess Katharine . Mrs. Darley. Pistol " Hogg. | Mrs. Quickly ..." Hogg. This play has been seldom represented here, though Mac- ready revived it on his first visit in 1826. Mr. Cooper was engaged for ten nights, and played Mac- beth, Lord Hastings, Hamlet, Penruddock, Richard III., Fred- erick, (Lovers' Vows), Shylock Hotspur, Rolla and Henry V., to houses averaging more than §800 each — "Hamlet," the largest, drawing $1,080— " Lovers' Vows," the least, $532. He gave two additional performances — Romeo and Othello, to an average of §500 each. The Grove Theatre, in Bedlow Street, again opened its doors on the evening of December 4th, and among its per- formers we find Mr. Turnbull, who had made his debut at the Park in 1802. Here, also, Miss Ross, since so highly and justly admired as Mrs. Wheatley, made her first appearance in New York. RKCORDS OF THK NKW YORK STAGE. 225 This lady, the daughter of Lieut. Ross, of the Britisli army, was born in Nova Scotia, A. D. 1788, and, after his death, came to New York with her mother and attempted the stage with slight success. In the fall of 1805, she was attached to the Park, retiring at the end of the season, on her marriage with Mr. Wheatley. Circumstances induced her again to tread the boards, and she resumed the profession in 1811, but still gave small promise of that future excellence by which she obtained celebrity and fortune. Severe study, long practice, and the strictest adherence to nature, finally gave her the position she aimed at, and for more than twenty years, in the line of comic, middle-aged and old women, rich or poor, refined or vulgar — indeed, of every grade, she was entirely unrivaled on the American stage. Her reputation resulted from the combination of perfect good sense with accurate discrimination of character, fine artistic taste, an agreeable face and person, and the most thorough executive ability. Becoming independent in her resources, with her daughters handsomely settled in marriage, and her son William enjoy- ing a high professional reputation, Mrs. Wheatley, in 1843, finally bade farewell to the stage she had graced so long, and in the sanctuary of domestic life devotes her time and talents to the service of her beloved children and grand-children, and in social and unassuming intercourse with a wide circle of admiring and distinguished friends. Mr. Cooper's engagement concluded on the 21st December, aud immediately after, Messrs. Labottiere and Preville were engaged to produce a series of ballets. Mr. Saubere first appeared in New York on the 28th, as Henry in "Speed the Plough," receiving little notice; and on the 31st, a petit opera, called "Nina," was produced, with > Tyler as the Count., Darley as Germeul, Harper as Pierre, Mrs. Darley as Nina, and Mrs. Hogg as Louisa. During the month of January, 1805, the theatre remained I closed. 1 On the 1st of February it re-opened with "Venice Pre- 29 226 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. served," Cooper as Pierre, and subsequently as Othello, Hot- spur, Abcellino, Leon and Octavian; but even his name ceased to attract, and the manager, after many years' struggle with difficulties too numerous and complicated to mention here, was obliged to succumb to the exigencies of his situation, and announce himself bankrupt. The actors formed themselves into a commonwealth, selecting Messrs. Johnson and Tyler as their directors, and with renewed hopes, once more essayed to . please their friends, presenting on their opening night, March 4th, the "Soldier's Daughter" and "Raising the Wind," Har- wood playing Jeremy Diddler to perfection. Cumberland's comedy of the " Sailor's Daughter" was thus first played on the loth, but was not thought equal to his other plays : Sir Mathew Moribond Capt. Sentamour . Mandeville . Hartshorn Varnish .... Mr. Johnson. I Raven . . . " Tyler. , Singleton . • " Darley. Julia " Harwood. Louisa Davenant " Hallam, Jr. Mrs. Hartshorn Mr. Hogg. " Shapter. Mrs. Darley. " Johnson. " Hogg. March 22d. First night of O'Keefe's musical farce of " Sprigs of Laurel," thus capitally performed : Nipperkin .... Mr. Harwood. Sinclair. ... Mr. Darley. Major Tactic .... " Tyler. . Lenox .... " Shapter. Capt. Cruizer ..." Harper. Mary Mrs. Darley. It became a great favorite, and Jefferson, Hilson, and Barnes numbered Nipperkin among their most attractive characters. On the occasion of Mrs. Johnson's benefit, April 22d, Mr. Bailey appeared as Joseph Surface, and Mr. Turnbull, from the Grove Theatre, as Trip, and both continued with the com- pany till the close of the season. A Mr. Cromwell also made a debut on the 29th April, as Earl Osmond, and afterward attempted Doricourt in the " Belle's Stratagem," but created no sensation in his favor. May 6th. Mrs. Melmoth took her benefit, appearing as Mrs. Rackett, in the " Belle's Stratagem," delivering an occa- sional address, written by herself, and producing a new farce, called the " Generous Farmers," thus cast : Paudeen O'Rafferty . . Mr. Harwood. Manly Mr. Johnson. Sir John " Harper. Mrs. Manly. . . Mrs. Melmoth. William " Darley. I Mary " Darley. May 13th. Mr. Tyler's benefit. First time, Reynolds's RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 227 comedy, called the "Blind Bargain," which proved successful, and remained in favor several years : Villars .... Sir Andrew Analyze Jack Analyze Tourly .... Doct. Pliable . . . Tyler. Johnson. Saubere. Harper. HoQQ Frank . Giles Woodbine Mrs. Villars . . Miss Gurnet . Sophia Woodbine Mr Bailey " Harwood. Mrs. Johnson. HOGQ. " Darley. Kenney's farce of "Matrimony," produced on the 17th May, with the following cast, was very successful : Del aval Baron . O'Clogherty Mr. Darley. " Johnson. " Harwood. Clara Mrs. Darley. Lissette Miss Bellinger. Hurlestone's farce of "Crotchet Lodge" was revived on the 20th, the following cast being the first we have found : Da9hley . . . . Dr. Chronic . Nimble . . . . Timothy Truncheon Mr Harper. Johnson. Harwood. Hogg. Paddy . . Miss Crotchet Florella. . Thisbe . . Mr. Tyler. Mrs. Hogg. " Darby. " Harper. And Dimond's *' Hunter of the Alps," thus first represented on the 22d, was also received with great applause : Felix . Rosalvi Juan Jeronymo Baptiste Mr. Harwood. " Tyler. " Darley. " Hogg. " Johnson. Fiorio . Julio. . Helena Genevieve Claudinc Miss Dellinger. " Delamater. Mrs. Melmoth. " Darley. " Dabby. Tobin's elegant comedy of the "Honeymoon" was first played on the 29th, and has ever since ranked as one of the most meritorious and favorite plays in the language. It may not be generally known that the unfortunate author of this comedy was unable to induce any of the London managers to undertake its production, and that it was not played until the year after his death. On its introduction to the American public, it was cast as follows : Duke Aranza Rolando . Count Mbntalban Balthazar . . Jacques . Lampedo . Mr. Tyler. " Harwood " Darley. " Johnson. " Hogo. " Robertson Lopez Juliana Volante Zamora Hostess Mr. Sbapter. Mrs. Johnson. •* Hallam. " Darley. " Hogg. For Mr. Hallam's benefit, on the 17th of June, the celebrated and once favorite comedy, adapted to the stage by Garrick, entitled the " Chances," was thus revived : Don John . Don Frederick Dakeof Ferrara Petruchio . . Mr. Hallam. M Harper. u Darley. " Tyler. Antorio Mr. Johnson. Antony ** Hogg. 1st Constantia. . . Mrs. Darley. 2d Constantia. . . " Hallam. On the same evening, Holcroft's melo-drama, the " Lady of the Rock," was first played in New York, thus . . Mi Lord Maclean Dugald Campbell . Argyle. Hallam, .lr. Saubere. Robertson. SnAPTER. Fisherman Sandy . . . Lady Maclean . Moggy . . . Mr. Hallam. " Turnbcll. Mrs. Johnson. " Harper. 228 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. To the credit of the modern stage, be it said, the humorous but immoral comedy of the " Chances," originally taken by Beaumont and Fletcher from a novel of Cervantes, then amended by the Duke of Buckingham, again by Garrick, and afterward modified and played under the title of "Don John," has been for many years banished from its boards. On the 21st of June, a benefit was given to Mr. Dunlap, the late manager, which, by the volunteered assistance of Mrs. Villi ers, (late Miss E. A. Westray) Mr. Cooper, and Mr. Twaits, was rendered attractive and profitable. The pieces selected were Dr. Young's tragedy, the " Revenge," in which Cooper played Zanga for the first time, and Mrs. Villiers (her first appearance in two years) Leonora ; and Colman's farce of the " Review/' Mr. Twaits as Caleb Quotem, his first appear- ance in New York. Mr. Dunlap records this as the bill of the evening. The advertisement before us does not announce Mr. Twaits in the " Review," but gives instead, for afterpieces, the farce of " Sprigs of Laurel," and the pantomime of " Jason and Medea." Mr. Twaits is, however, announced for Caleb Quotem, on the . 26th, and then at once established his repute as a low come- dian of unequaled merit. His succeeding characters were Mercutio, Nipperkin, Polonius, Lingo, Lazarillo, Bob Handy, and Walter, in the " Children in the Wood ;" all, save Mercutio and Bob Handy, deepening the impression made by his debut. This gentleman was born at Birmingham, England, April 25th, 1781, and was brought out by Wood for the Philadelphia Theatre, where he first appeared in 1803. His forte was comedy of the broadest kind, and his comic singing always convulsed the house with laughter. But he was not satisfied with sue- cess in that line — he was ambitious of distinction as a tra- gedian, or, at least, as a genteel comedian. Unfortunately, he met with ridicule only in his tragic attempts, and his per- sonal appearance, which is thus described — " short and thin, yet broad ; muscular, but meager ; head large, with stiff car- roty hair ; face long and colorless, prominent hooked nose, projecting hazel eyes, large mouth, and thin lips" — totally un- RKCORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 229 fitted him for a stage gentleman. His voice was strong, and his great powers of song made him as great a favorite with convivialists as with the lovers of comedy. The New York audience never faltered in its estimate of his comic abilities ; but his irregular habits of life aggravated a tendency to asthma, and hurried him from the stage to a premature grave. He died in New York, August 22d, 1814, aged 33 years, surviving his wife but eight months. On the 24th of June, Mrs. Wignell (formerly Mrs. Merry) commenced a short engagement as Calista in the " Fair Peni- tent," and on the 26th, played Monimia in the " Orphan."' The taste of the present day justly condemns these plays as unfit for representation, yet, less than sixty years ago, they were among the most admired stock pieces. Juliet, Ophelia, Elvira and Roxana, were also represented by Mrs. Wignell during her engagement, admirably supported by Mr. Cooper. Mr. Prigmore joined the company near the end of the season, which was brought to a close on the 10th of July, with the comedy of " Speed the Plough," and the farce of the I Children in the Wood." CHAPTER XVIII. Park Theatre, 1805-6— Vauxhall Garden, 1806— Park, 1806-7. Y the bankruptcy of Mr. Dunlap, the management of the New York Theatre passed into the hands of Messrs. J ohnson and Tyler, who (with Mr. Ciceri for their principal business man) opened it in due form on the 18th of November, 1805. Many changes had taken place in the company. Mr. Harwood, Mrs. Melmoth, Mr. and Mrs. Darley, Mr. and Mrs. Harper, Mrs. Hogg, Mr. and Mrs. Claude, and Mrs. Darby had left the establishment, and in their stead, we find the names of Mr. and Mrs. Barrett, Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Villiers, Mrs. Simpson, Mrs. G. Marshall, Miss Ross, Miss Graham, Messrs. Charnock, Burd, Ringwood, Utt, &c. At no previous time in the female department had there been a finer combination of youth, beauty and talent — Mrs. Johnson, Mrs. Hallam, Miss Dellinger, and Miss White being still in- cluded in the list ; but the masculine talent of the company was considerably weakened, especially by the secession of Harwood, whose place neither Hallam, Hogg, nor Martin could adequately fill. The opening play was Dunlap's very favorite melo-drama, entitled « Abaallino f Absellino [First appearance in six years] . Mr. Bakrett. A ndreas Gritti . . . Mr. Tyler. | Parozzi .... Martin. Dandoli " Charnock. Memno ... " Hogg. Canari " Hallam. I Rosamunda . . . Mrs. Villiers. and The Adopted Child. Michael Mr. Barrett. Boy Mast. Martin. Sir Bertrand. ..." Robertson. Clara Mrs. Villiers. Record " Hogg. Lucy Miss Dellinger. Spruce " Hallam, Jr. , Nell Mrs. Simpson. On the 20th, Whitehead's classic play of the "Roman RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 231 Father" introduced Mrs. Barrett to the audience, after an absence of six years, in the character of Horatia. On the same evening, Miss Ross (Mrs. Wheatley) made her first appearance on the Park boards as Kitty Sprightly, in the farce called " All the World's a Stage." The great hit of the season was made by Mrs. Jones, from the Haymarket, London, and last of the Boston Theatre, who on the 27th, made her first appearance in New York as Albina Mandeville, in " The Will," and Leonora in the musical farce of the " Padlock." In the last piece Hallam played Mungo, a character in which he remained unrivaled. Mrs. Jones was the daughter of a Dr. Granger, and, on her mother's side, an elder sister of James and Henry Wallack. She was early in- troduced to the stage by her grandmother, Mrs. Booth, of London, and made her American debut at Boston in the winter of 1800, continuing in high favor during her engagement there. Being separated from her husband, she supported, by her own exertions, during her residence in New York, a family of four children, one of whom has been long known and ad- mired here as a most exemplary and amiable woman, the wife and widow of Edmund Simpson, for many years manager of the Park Theatre. Mrs. Jones was still youthful, petite in per- son, with a pleasing and expressive face, an exceedingly sprightly and piquant actress in light comedy, and a very charming vocalist. Her admirers delighted in calling her the Jordan of America, and if not so consummate an actress as that lady had been, she was infinitely superior in personal at- tractions to the Mrs. Jordan of 1805. Excepting only Mrs. Hodgkinson, now deceased, New York had never seen so pleasing a singing actress ; for Mrs. Oldmixon, who perhaps exceeded her in science and skill, was long past the prime of youth, and very remote from beauty. Mrs. Jones' engage- ment was a complete triumph to the end of the season, and New York was congratulating itself on the promised enjoy- ment of her talents for many years, when death unexpectedly called her to another and, we -trust, a better sphere. She died here, Nov. 11th, 1806, aged 24 years. 232 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mrs. Jones's first list of characters here, included Priscilla Tomboy, Peggy, (Country Girl) Rosina, Little Pickle, Lydia Languish and Caroline (the Prize . On the 9th of December, the " Voice of Nature," one of Dunlap's best dramas, and the " Children in the Wood," were performed for the benefit of the orphan children of the late Mr. Hodgkinson, on which occasion Mr. Feunell appeared as Rinaldo, in the former piece, and the two orphan girls as the children, in the latter. They continued with the company one or two seasons, but we have no knowledge of their after years. A curious poetical address, spoken on the occasion of their benefit by the Hodgkinson Sisters, may be found in John Howard Payne's " Thespian Mirror," then in course of publi- cation. On the 13th of December, Mrs. G. Marshall, formerly Miss Harding, made her appearance, after an absence of two years, in Kenney's farce called " Too Many Cooks," thus first per- formed in New York : Old Rivers .... Mr. Johnson. Boozey Mr. Charnock. Young Rivers. . . *' Hallam, Jr. Dame Freeland . . Mrs. Simpson. Bustleton . . " Martin. Phoebe " G. Marshall. Freeland .... " Robertson. Laura Miss Graham. Barney O'Bother . . " Barrett. Katty O'Bother . . " Ross. On the 23d, an attractive novelty was announced in the appearance of Mr. and Mrs. Young, from the English and Boston theatres, as Octavian and Agnes, in the "Moun- taineers." Mr. Young was to divide the first line of business with Mr. Barrett, and among other parts, through the season, played Romeo, the Stranger, Charles Surface, &c, but was unable to make a very favorable impression on the public. In after years, he became an efficient representative of tyrants and other blusterers of the stage, and was for several seasons attached to the Charleston Theatre. He was the original stage manager of the Bowery Theatre, in 1826, and last ap- peared in New York, at the Richmond Hill, in the summer of 1833. In that year he contracted his extraordinary marriage with Mrs. Duff, the celebrated tragic actress, the rite being solemnized both by a Protestant and a Catholic clergyman, in the presence of Mr. and Mrs. Hilson as witnesses ; but the RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 233 lady refused to consummate the match, on the ground that she was persuaded to it during a temporary aberration of mind, caused by the use of opium, while plunged in domestic trouble, and they were soon after legally separated. Mr. Young died at Norfolk, Va., not long after this occurrence. His youthful wife was endowed with the rarest beauty of person, being a perfect blonde, with a profusion of rich golden hair, and though not a superior actress, was a universal fa- vorite. She played the second line of genteel comedy with delicacy and refinement, and was also a good representative of saucy boys. Mrs. Young was frequently in New York, and made her last appearance at the Bowery Theatre, in 1828. She afterward performed at Philadelphia, where she died May 12th, 1831, aged 42 years. Her maiden name was Re- becca Foster. Reynolds' comedy of "Cheap Living" was played during the month, probably for the first time in New York — Mrs. Jones personating the part so successfully rendered in Lon- don by Mrs. Jordan. Old Woodland . . . Mr. Hoqg. William Mr. Robertson. Young Woodland . . " Hallam, Jr. Sir Edwd. Bloouily . Mrs. Jones. Farmer Cole .... " Charnock. Elinor Bloomly . . 44 Villibbs. Spunge 44 Martin. Mrs. Scatter ..." Simpson. Scatter .... Bailey. Stella .... " G. Marshall. On the 1st of January, 1806, Dibdin's celebrated romance of " Valentine and Orson," produced in London with unex- ampled splendor, was thus first played in America : King Pepin .... Mr. Tyleb. Emperor .... Mr. Hallam. Henry 44 Utt. Blandiman ..." Bord. Haufrey ...... 44 Bailey. Empress Belisant . Mrs. Barrett. Valentine 44 Robertson. Princess Eglantine . u Johnson. Orson 44 Young. Princess Floramunda " Hallam. Agremont " Martin. . Agatha .... M Jones. Hugo 44 Hoqg. I Cecily " Simpson. This has continued one of the most favorite of holiday dramas to the present time. On the 3d of January, 1806, Mr. Fennell commenced an en- gagement as Hamlet, with Mrs. Jones as Ophelia, and Mrs. Barrett as the Queen. He also appeared as Pen ruddock, Hastings, Othello, Jajfier, Macbeth and Richard, supported by Young as Cassio, Macduff and Richmond. Barrett refused to play a secondary part with him, but appeared as Pierre to his Jajfier. 30 234 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. January 20th, Colman's comedy of " Who Wants a Guinea ?" from which Hackett adapted his " Jonathan in England," was first brought out, cast as follows : Torrent Mr. Johnson. Andrew Bang . . Mr. Martin. Barford " Tyler. Hogmore .... " Charnock. Sir Larry .... " Barrett. Carridot .... " Rinqwood. Henry " Young. Mrs. Glastonbury Mrs. Simpson. Heartly " Robertson. Fanny " Jones. Solomon Gundy . . " Hogg. Amy Miss Ross. February 7th. A comedy written by a young gentleman signing himself "Eugenius," and entitled the "Wanderer," was played for the first time to a full house, and with con- siderable applause. Its cast stood thus : Ranger Mr. Young. Sailor Mr. Burd. Frederick .... " Bailey. Julia Mrs. Jones. Harry " Martin. Maria . . . . " Villiers. Longville " Tyler. Betsy *' G. Marshall. Sharp Longville . . " Hogg. Mrs. O'Denis ..." Simpson. Courand " Robertson. Mrs. Courand . . . Miss White. O'Denis " Ringwood. Dorothy Mrs. Wheatley, [late Miss Ross.] March 5th. The favorite Cooper made his first appearance as Hamlet ; and on the 8th, for the benefit of Miss Dellinger (whose father had just committed suicide), played Lord Hast- ings in " Jane Shore." Mr. Cooper's engagement terminated on the 14th, when he played Beverly in the " Gamester," with Mrs. Johnson, for the first time, as Mrs. Beverly. On the 17th, after an absence of two years at Philadelphia, Mr. Jefferson made his first appearance as Jacob Gawky in the " Chapter of Accidents," and Jeremy Diddler in " Raising the Wind." On the 29th of March, Mr. Oliver Cozine made his first appearance on the stage as Valentine in the " Farmer," but his name never again appears on the New York play-bills. The house was closed during Passion Week, and re-opened on the 9th of April with "John Bull," Harwood as Dennis Brulgruddery, his first appearance this season. On the 11th, a pantomimic melo-drama, by Anthony Pas- quin, called the "Manhattan Stage, or Cupid in his Va- garies," was thus performed — the prologue delivered by Mrs. Johnson : Cupid Miss F. Hodgkinson. Hymen Mast. Martin. Peace Miss Graham. Manager Mr. Barrett. Prompter " Ringwood. Gulliver " Utt. Soldier Mr. Johnson. Sailor Tyler. Marjoram .... " Young. Spriggins .... Mrs. Jones: Barmaid .... " Young. Stage Sweeper . . " Wheatley. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 235 The piece was damned, and Huggins, the hair-dresser of the day, published a card denying its authorship. On the 16th, Morton's admirable comedy, called the "School of Reform," was played for the first time in America. The cast is subjoined : Lord Avondale ... Mr. Tyler. Timothy .... Mr. Bailey. Gen. Tarragon ..." Harwood. Mrs. Ferment . . Mrs. Johnson. Ferment " Young. Mrs. St. Clair . . " Barrett. Frederick " Martin. Julia " Jones. Tyke " Hogg. Mrs. Nicely ..." Simpson. Old Tyfce .... " Robertson. Shelah Miss White. The excellence of this comedy makes it still a favorite, though the character of Tyke has seldom an able represent- ative. Reynolds' comedy of the " Delinquent" was first played in New York, for Mr. Tyler's benefit, April 28th, and was thus cast : The Delinquent . . . Mr. Tyler. Tom Tackle . . . Mr. Martin. Sir Edward Specious . " H allah, Jr. Tradelove .... " Charnock. Major Tornado ..." Hogg. Nicholas .... " Johnson. Old Doric " Harwood Mrs. Aubrey . . . Mrs. Barrett. Young Doric ..." Young. j Miss Stoic .... " Simpson. Dorville " Robertson. ; Olivia " Jones. On the 2d of May, Mr. Twaits commenced an engagement with a ridiculous representation of Richard III., though he redeemed his reputation by the great merit of his Caleb Quotem, in the afterpiece. On the 5th, the tragedy of u Doug- las'' was presented for the benefit of Mrs. Barrett — she being the Lady Randolph ; her husband, Old Norval ; Mr. Young, Glenalvon; and Master Geo. Barrett, Young Norval; his first appearance on the New York boards in six years. He played the character so well that it was repeated on the 23d, when he also appeared in a fencing display with his father, and personated the boy, in the " Adopted Child." Mr. George Barrett's career is so well known that it is hardly necessary i to enlarge upon it, yet some may not know that for many I years he was indisputably the best light comedian in America, and that the great skill and beauty of his first wife, from f whom he was long separated, rendered her for many years a \ most efficient coadju tress. He was born at Exeter, England, June 9th, 1794; first trod the stage at the Park Theatre, De- cember 10th, 1798, as one of the children in Dunlap's version of the " Stranger ;" first appeared at Boston, as the Child, in "Laugh when you Can," October 14th, 1799; first played in 236 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. - New York, after reaching manhood, at the Park, as Belcour, in the "West Indian," March 5th, 1822; married Mrs. Ann Henry, June 24th, 1825 ; was stage manager of the Bowery Theatre, under Gilfert, in 1828 ; first acting manager of the Broadway Theatre in 1847; has been manager of the Boston and New Orleans theatres, and was known throughout the Union as an intellectual and discriminating actor, and one of the most accomplished gentlemen of the age. His last en- gagement was at Burton's Theatre, during the season, 1854-5. Mr. Barrett took a formal farewell of the stage (of which he was an active member for a period of fifty-seven years), with a complimentary testimonial, at the Academy of Music, Nov. 20th, 1855, when he presented to the audience, as an apology for the accepted benefit, two little girls, the offspring of a second marriage with a Miss Mason, since deceased. One of these little girls is now favorably known as Miss Mary Barrett, of Wallack's Theatre. His eldest daughter, Georgiana, by his first wife, became Mrs. Philip Warren. As years increased, health declined, and fortune frowned ; and, in impoverished circumstances, Mr. G. Barrett, once the centre of all admiration, the " Gentleman George" of the Union, and " the best fellow in the world," was forced to eke out a scanty subsistence by preparing aspirants for a profes- sion from which, with prudence, and under favorable circum- stances, he should have acquired a fortune. He died in New York, after a lingering illness, Sept. 5, 1860, aged 66 years. May 12th. Mrs. Villier's benefit. " The Honeymoon," fol- lowed by Column's farce of " Blue Devils," its first perform- ance in New York. Megrim, Mr. Twaits ; Demison, Mr. Char- nock ; James, Mr. Martin ; Annette, Mrs. Villiers ; concluding with the " Wedding Day" — Sir Adam and Lady Contest, Mr. Twaits and Mrs. Villiers. May 14th. On the occasion of Mrs. Johnson's benefit, Miss Chambers's excellent moral comedy, called the " School for Friends," was first played, with the annexed cast : Lord Belmour . . Sir Felix Mordent . Sir Edward Epworth Hardy Matthew Daw . . Mr. Martin. " Tyler. " Young. " Johnson., " Harwood. Jenkins . . Lady Courtland Mrs. Hamilton Emily . . . Lucy . . . Mr. Shapter. Mrs. Simpson. " Johnson. " Villiers. " Jones. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 237 The same evening, little Ellen Johnson, aged five years, re- cited the pathetic ballad of Red Ridinghood, with a propriety of accent and grace of action that astonished every beholder. She afterward became a renowned favorite, as Mrs. Hilson. On the 2d of June, Mr. Hallam took his benefit, and made his last appearance on the New York stage as Lord Ogleby, Mr. Hallam will be remembered as having first trod the boards at Williamsburg, Va., in 1752, so that he had been in dramatic harness for fifty-four years. He had been the only performer of Lord Ogleby, his most favorite part, for nearly forty years, having first appeared in it in 1767. On the 6th, Mr. Clark, from the Charleston Theatre, first ap- peared in New York, as the Captain of Banditti, in Hodgkin- son's play, called the " Man of Fortitude f and as Abom-elique, in " Blue Beard." He was an American by birth, and though many years on the stage, never reached the goal of excellence. He married Mrs. G. Marshall, and is last remembered here during the season of 1814. Allingham's capital farce of the " Weathercock" was produced by Twaits on the 9th, for his benefit, and, with the annexed cast, was very successful : Tristam Fickle . . Mr. Twaits. I Sneer Mr. Robertson. Old Fickle .... " Johnson. Variella .... Mrs. Jones. Briefwit "-Hogg. Ready " G.Marshall. June 20th, The Way to Get Married ; Tangent [From the Charleston Theatre] . . . Mr. Solly. Capt. Faulkner . . . Mr. Tyler. ' McQuery .... " Shapter. Toby Allspice ..." Harwood. Julia Faulkner . . Mrs. Johnson. Caustic .... " Hoaa. Clementina Allspice. " Villiers. Dasball " Twaits. Lady Sorrell ..." Simpson. and " Vulcan's Gift," a Ballet Pantomime. Pierrot [His first appearance in five years] . Mons. Placide. Harlequin .... Mr. Sully. ! Vulcan Mr. Shapter. Pantaloon .... " Hogq. Columbine . . . Mrs. Young. Mr. Sully, who now played a brief engagement, was a very capital comedian, and will be remembered as belonging to Solee's company, in John Street, 1797. Mrs. Placide made her first appearance this season, June 30th, for her husband's benefit, as Lady Priory, in " Wives as They Were," and also with him danced a pas de deux. For his benefit, July 2d, Mr. Sully played Zekiel Homespun and Harlequin ; and the season terminated on the glorious Fourth, with the "Weathercock;" the "Spoiled Child;" (Mrs. 238 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Jones as Little Pickle, for the fifteenth time) and the pan- tomime of " Jupiter and Europa," in which Mr. and Mrs. Placide took part. After the close of the theatre, several of the company were engaged by Mr. Delacroix to perform at the new Vauxhall Garden (in the Bowery, near its present junction with Third avenue), which was neatly fitted up as a summer theatre, and remained open till the latter end of August, commencing July 9th, with the farce of "Animal Magnetism" and a grand concert. Sully, Twaits, Hogg, Poe, Bailey, Charnock, Stock- well, and Ringwood, with Mesdames Poe, Placide, Villiers, Young, Simpson, and Dellinger, were the principal members of the dramatic corps. Mr. Poe, father of the late distinguished and eccentric poet, Edgar A. Poe, here made his first appearance in New York as Frank, in " Fortune's Frolic," July 18th ; and his wife, who will be remembered as Miss Arnold, of Solee's company, in John Street, 1797, made her re-entree on the 16th, as Priscilla Tomboy. The lady was young and pretty, and evinced talent both as singer and actress ; the gentleman was literally nothing. Both were at the Park in 1809. Messrs. Johnson and Tyler gave up the duties of manage- ment at the close of the previous seasoD at the Park, and the former returned to Europe with his accomplished wife, who had received liberal offers from the managers of Covent Gar- den. Mr. Cooper became the lessee of the theatre, with Mr. Dunlap as his assistant in the general direction of the busi- ness. Mr. and Mrs. Barrett, Mr. and Mrs. Young, Mrs. G. Mar- shall and Mr. Bailey were engaged in other cities; Mrs. Hallam retired with her husband ; and Mrs. Jones was seized with her last illness at the commencement of the season, and was unable to appear. Among the new engagements, tempo- rary or permanent, were Messrs. Bernard, Allen, Chambers, Lindsley, Saubere and Mrs. Oldmixon, the first and last only enjoying high professional reputation. Harwood, Twaits and Mr. and Mrs. Darley resumed their old situations, and Fennell played an engagement of twelve nights. The sea- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 239 son commenced on the 6th of October, 1806 ; the bill is annexed : Richard the Third ; King Henry VI. . . Mr. Tyler. Catesby .... Mr. Dahlki. Gloster 44 Fennell. Lieutenant ... u Hallam, Jr. Richmond ... 44 Cooper. Prince Miss Hodgkinson. Buckingham ... 44 Martin. York 44 Martin. Lord Stanley ..." Shapter. Queen Elizabeth . . Mrs. Villiers. Lord Mayor .... ,4 Harwood. Lady Ann .... 44 Wheatley. Tressell 44 Sadbere. Duchess of York . . 44 Simpson. Concluding with The Prize. Doctor Lenitive . . . Mr. Twaits. Juba Miss Dellinger. Caddy 44 Hogg. Caroline .... Mrs. Oldmixon. Label 44 Martin. To make the attraction irresistible, Mr. Cooper was wisely willing to play a secondary part, even to Fennell, who, during this engagement, exerted his powers to the utmost. Mrs. Old- mixon was the only novelty introduced, and she was not new to our stage, though an absence of seven years rendered her appearance an attractive inducement to many. On the 10th of October, Shakspeare's "Henry IV." was played with uncommon excellence. Harwood was perfection io Falstaff, while Fennell as the King, Cooper as Hotspur, Martin as Prince Hal, Twaits as Francis and the Carrier, and Mrs. Villiers as Lady Percy, sustained him with a force of talent seldom combined. In this play, at this time, the part of Gads hill was played by Mr. Allen, the prefix of Andrew Jackson not having yet been used. As an actor, he was nobody, or, at most, not worth speaking of; but he contrived, in his latter years, as the professional costumer and traveling companion of Forrest, the tragedian, to make a great deal of noise in the world. He was born in New York, December, 1776, and is said to have appeared as a child in the John Street Theatre, in 1786, from which cir- cumstance, in his old age, he boasted of being the parent of the American Stage. He was attached to various theatres in this city, in subordinate situations, and is remembered to have played at the National Theatre in December, 1838, and to have offered his name for a benefit at the Lyceum, Broad- way, in the summer of 1852. He was very deaf, and conse- quently very annoying to those with whom he played, who not unfrequently took an unkind revenge on his misfortune, by 240 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. misleading him with an inaudible movement of the lips dur- ing performance, to which he thought he must reply, his speeches often being introduced quite mal-apropos. He pos- sessed a patent for the manufacture of gold and silver leather, much used upon stage costume, and in his last days kept a restaurant near the Bowery Theatre. He died in New York, Oct. 30th, 1853. During Mr. Fennell's engagement, he also appeared as Othello, the Ghost, Iago, Woodville, Stukely and Bassanio, with Mr. Cooper as Iago, Hamlet, Othello, Penruddock, Beverly and Shylock. Mr. aod Mrs. Placide appeared for a few nights early in the season, in pantomime, with undiminished success. On the 28th of November, Mr. Morse, a young gentleman of Massachusetts, and a protege of Cooper, made his first ap- pearance on the stage, as Pierre, in " Venice Preserved," with a success that promised great future excellence. He after- ward played Macduff, Pizarro, Earl Osmond, and Horatio, in the " Fair Penitent," with much applause. He subsequently went to London, where he appeared professionally a few times with some success, but becoming absorbed in the vortex of dissipation, he narrowly escaped with his life, and returned to America, the mere wreck of his former self. Renouncing the stage, he joined the American army during the war of 1812, and was afterward appointed a Chaplain in the Navy, his fine voice, easy assurance and taking address being his principal recommendations. About 1820, he was ordained a Minister of the Protestant Episcopal Church, and settled at Williams- burg, Va., where he died while still in the prime of life. He had more than six feet " of a very proper person," muscular and well proportioned, with a good rather than a handsome face, and had been originally educated for the law, which he practiced but a short time. Among other employments, he at one time gave lessons in elocution in New York. December 3d, one of Dibdin's humorous farces was pro- duced with great applause; it was called the " Finger-Post, or Five Miles Off," and was cast as follows : m RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 241 Sprigging .... Mr. Hoaa. Luckless .... Mr. Martin. Flourish " Dakley. Edward .... M Rohertson. Squire Flail .... " Tyler. Laura luckless . . Miss Dellinuek O'Gimlet " Harwood. Mary Flail . . . '* White. Calendar " Twaits. Mrs. Prue .... Mrs. Simpson. Sordid " Siiapter. .lenny " Villieks. December 17th. Master Augustus Durang, from Philadel- phia, aged six years (son of John Durang, who had danced in the John Street Theatre for many years), was introduced to the New York public in the character of Tom Thumb, which he played with considerable success. In after life he became a sailor, and is supposed to have been lost at sea. December 24th. Allingham's amusing piece, " 'Tis all a Farce," was first played with much success, and long remained a great favorite, Numpo being a pet character with several eminent comedians. Don Gortez .... Mr. Hogg. Xumpo Mr. Twaits. Col. Belgardo ... 14 Harwood. Caroline .... Miss Dellinqer. Myrtillo " Darley. Ursula Mrs. Simpson. January 2d, 1807. Mr. Rutherford, also from Philadelphia, made his first appearance in New York as George Barnwell, and afterward played Orlando, in "As You Like It;" Dan, in f John Bull ;" Sir Larry, in " Who Wants a Guinea ?" Alonzo, Stukely, &c. He gave evidence of talent, but was not long attached to the company. January 9th, Colman's play of the " Iron Chest " was first acted in New York. Mr. Cooper as Sir Edward Mortimer, Mr. Harwood as Wilford, Mr. Twaits as Sampson, Mrs. Darley as Lady Ellen, Mrs. Villiers as Blanche, and Mrs. Oldmixon as Barbara, all played finely and contributed materially to its success. The character of Sir Edward was, in later days, a favorite with Mr. Booth, who played it in a masterly manner, but the drama itself has never enjoyed great popularity. On the 14th, a benefit was given to Mr. Hallam, and on the 16th, another to the orphan children of Mrs. Jones. On the 22d, Mr. Bernard made his first appearance in ten years, as Lord Ogleby. He afterward played Sheva, Ruttekin, Lovegold, Touchstone, Farmer Ashjield, Nipperkin, Sir Robert Ramble, concluding with Dennis Bulgruddery, and Sharp, in the " Lying Yalet," for his benefit, February 2d. January 26th, the farce of the " Invisible Girl " was first 31 242 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. played, with Mr. Twaits as Captain Allclack, assuming various other characters very successfully. Mrs. Warren (previously Mrs. Wignell and Mrs. Merry) com- menced her last engagement on the 18th of February, in the character of Calista, followed by Isabella, Alicia, Mrs. Beverly, Roxana and Euphrasia, playing all with her accustomed bril- liant success. The 6th of March witnessed her last appear- ance in New York, as Elvira, in " Pizarro." Colman's farce, entitled " We Fly by Night," was first pro- duced on the 27th of February, with the following cast : Geu. Bastion .... Mr. Tyler. Countess .... Mrs. Oldmixon. Winlove " Darley. Lady Lynx ..." Simpson. Ferrett " Twaits. Mrs. Stubby ... " Villiees. Ct. de Grenouille . . " Harwood. j Emma Miss Dellixger. Gaby Grim .... 14 Hogg. For many years this little piece remained very popular. March 16th, the amusing farce of "Mr. H., or the Beau with a Bad Name," was first played. The fun of the piece turned on the uncouth name of the hero, Hogsflesh, who, although young, handsome and rich, was shunned by every one an account of his unlucky cognomen, a difficulty he finally managed to overcome by having it changed to Bacon. Har-' wood personated the unfortunate Mr. H.; Darley, Bellville ; Hogg, Landlord Pry ; Mrs. Darley, Melissinda ; and Mrs. Simpson,^ Old Lady D. April 1st, the " Merry Wives of Windsor " was played for the benefit of Mr. Harwood, on which occasion we first note the name of Mr. Lindsley, who played Jack Rugby. He was afterward attached to the various city theatres, and had some little merit in French characters. He was last at the Rich- mond Hill, playing " old men," in the summer of 1833. We give the full cast of the " Merry Wives " — it being, we think, the first time of its performance on the Park stage : Falstaff Mr. Harwood. Host Mr. Hogg. Ford " Ttlee. Bardolph .... " Hallam, Jr. Page " Robertson. Pistol " Allen. Shallow " Shapter. Jack Rugby ..." Lindsley. Slender " Twaits. Mrs. Ford .... Mrs. Darley. Dr. Caius " Darley. Mrs. Page .... " Villiers. Sir Hugh Evans . . " Rutherford. ] Anne Page. . . . Miss Dellinger. Fenton " Saubere. Mrs. Quickly . . . Mrs. Simpson. Mr. Martin's benefit took place on the 13th of April, but he was too ill to appeaiwhis sickness terminating in death. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 243 The season ended on the 17th of April with the following bill : The Siege of Belgrade ; Seraskier . . Col. Cohenberg Leopold . . Useph . . . Peter . . . Mr. Daklky. " Robertson. " Twaits. w Harwood. " Hogg. Ismael . Lilla . Catharine Ghita . Fatima . Mr. Shapter. Mrs. Oldmixon. " Da RLE V. Mias Dellinoer. " White. The Review. Mr. Hogg. " Twaits. " Harwood. I Grace Gaylove Lucy . . . Phccbe . . . Mrs. Darley. Miss Dellinger. Mrs. Villiers. and John Lump . . Caleb Quotem Looney McTwolter Immediately after the close of the theatre, the whole in- terior was taken down, and the entire building remodeled and improved in every respect, under the direction of Mr. John J. Holland, a very able architect, brought out by Wignell for the Philadelphia Theatre. A pupil of the celebrated Marinelli, of London, he was an artist of great taste, and as a scenic and decorative painter, surpassed all who had been known before him in this country. He married in New York, becoming brother-in-law to Vice- Chancellor W. T. McCoun, and died in the prime of life, leav- ing behind him the reputation of an amiable, honorable, and high-minded gentleman. CHAPTER XIX. Park Theatre, 1807-8— Vauxhall, 1808— Park, 1808-9. THE interior of the Park Theatre having been entirely remodeled, under the direction of Mr. Holland, so as to comfortably seat 1,600 persons in the three tiers of boxes, and 1,100 in the pit and gallery 1 , and clothed with a magnificence hitherto unknown in' New York — the boxes glit- tering in blue and white and gold, with crimson drapery at top, new and superb glass chandeliers, gorgeous mirrors, and every improvement that could be suggested for the conveni- ence, comfort and safety of the audience — once more, under the direction of Mr. Cooper, opened its doors to the public, on the evening of September 9th, 1807. A little trifle, called " Confusion," was gone through with by Messrs. Cooper, Harwood, Allen and Oliff, the prompter, after which Mr. Cooper delivered an Opening Address. The comedy of the " Country Girl " followed — Moody by Mr. Harwood; Sparkish, Mr. Twaits; Harcourt, Mr. Tyler; Bell- ville, Mr. Darley ; Peggy, Mrs. Darley ; Alithea, Mrs. Villiers ; and the evening's entertainments concluded with " Paul and Virginia" — Paul by Mr. Darley; Capt. Tropic, Mr. Tyler; Dominique, Mr. Harwood ; Alamba, Mr. Twaits ; Virginia, Mrs. Darley ; Mary, Mrs. Villiers. On the 11th, the " Poor Gentleman " was played, in which Mr. Spear made his first appearance in New York, as Sir Charles Cropland ; Mr. Comer also made his first appearance as Hum- 1 This was stated as the capacity of the theatre, in a newspaper of the day, but is probably exaggerated. The largest amount of receipts we have found recorded, at regular prices, is $1,878. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 245 phrey Dobbin ; and Mr. Claude, his first appearance in two years, as Frederick. The afterpiece was the " Romp," introducing Mrs. Claude, after an absence of two years, as Priscilla Tomboy. Mr. Spear attracted no attention ; but Mr. Comer proved to be a good comedian, and gave general satisfaction. Mr. Morse played Earl Osmond, in the " Castle Spectre," on the 21st, on which occasion Mrs. Turner made her first appear- ance here as Angela, a character she was totally inadequate to fill. She soon subsided into a range of inferior parts, and remained with the company only one season. She was after- ward at Boston, and in 1810 was with one of the strolling companies that first pioneered the West. She was last in New York in 1828, playing "old women" at Chatham Garden. A very pretty ballet pantomime, called "Love's Stratagems," performed entirely by children, was produced on the same evening, in which Miss Caroline Placide personated a youth- ful Shepherd; Miss Andrews, a Shepherdess ; and Miss Julia Jones, Cupid — her first appearance on any stage. Miss Placide was the eldest daughter of Mons. Placide, having been born in 1798. Accustomed to the stage from infancy, she was perfectly at ease, and her childish efforts had no awkwardness or embarrassment to mar their excellence. In 1S14, Miss Placide played at the little theatre in Anthony street, and there first began to attract notice as an actress of leading characters. About that time she married Mr. Waring, a member of the company, by whom she had one daughter, since well known and greatly admired as Mrs. W. Sefton and Mrs. J. Wallack, Jr. Becoming a widow at an early age, Mrs. Waring, in 1826, married Mr. W. R. Blake, then a gay, young, "light" comedian. As a general actress, Mrs. Blake has had few superiors, being almost equally at home in tragedy, comedy, opera or farce. She was at one time a very great favorite as a vocalist, and has appeared with eclat as piima donna in all the old English operas, and as the second singer in most of the modern ones. When " Cinderella" was produced at the Park, in 1830, with Mrs. Austin as the heroine, Mrs. Blake was the 246 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. original Clorinda, and her singing and acting in that charac- ter have been surpassed by none of her successors. She pos- sesssed a very sweet voice, and her simple, unaffected style of ballad singing was truly delightful ; but comedy was per- haps her forte, and in that line, her brilliant black eyes, be- witching smiles, and arch, airy manner, appeared to the best advantage, and acquired for her the highest approbation. Warned by the approach of autumnal years, Mrs. Blake finally confined herself to a line of characters suited to her age, in which she gathered much well-merited applause on the boards of our leading theatres. Mrs. Blake appeared in New York, at the Winter Garden, in May, 1862, in conjunction with Miss Bateman, and the last new characters she represented were Joan in " Geraldine," and Marita in " Rosa Gregorio." She was engaged for Laura Keene's Theatre, in the fall of 1862, but a prostration of the nervous system then prevented her appearance, and since Mr. Blake's death, she has never resumed her profession. Miss Jones was a charming little "Love," and won all hearts by the artless naivete of her manner. As she ap- proached womanhood, her great beauty and grace rendered her an especial favorite in the lighter characters of the drama, and had she continued on the stage, would no doubt have attained distinction. She was the daughter of Mrs. Jones, heretofore mentioned, and retired on her marriage with Edmund Simpson, in 1820. She is still living in this city, enjoying the highest respect and esteem. As in former years, Monsieur Placide appeared for a few nights in pantomimes, previous to opening the theatre at Charleston. On the 19th of October, Mr. Green made his first appear- ance in New York as Sir William Dorillon. He had been brought out by Wignell, and made his debut at Philadelphia, in 1794. Young, tall and handsome, he was at that time more admired for his personal appearance than his excellence as an artist, but age and experience finally gave him a good reputation in the serious characters of comedy and the second RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 247 parts of tragedy, and on his debut in New York he was fully competent to undertake the leading business of the theatre. His wife, whom he married after his arrival in America, was Miss Willems, a very lovely girl, and of high repute as a singer. Mr. Green was one of the managers of the Richmond Theatre, destroyed by fire December 26th, 1811, and had the misfortune to lose an only daughter by that terrible calamity, which clothed Richmond in unutterable woe, and the whole Union in mourning. Seventy-one human beings, including indiscriminately youth and old age, beauty, genius and talent, the gay, the witty and the accomplished, were all over- whelmed in one promiscuous ruin. So complete and perfect was their destruction that nothing remained but rude and shapeless heaps of bones, and it was only by counting the skulls that the number of sufferers was at first ascertained From this period Mr. Green was heart-broken, and though he continued in the profession, his feelings never recovered their former tone. He was last in New York in 1815, and died soon after. Morton's comedy of " Town and Country" was played here, for the first time, on the 2d of November, thus cast : Reuben Glenroy . . . Mr. Cooper. Hawbuck . . . Mr. Comer. Rev. 0. Glenroy . . . " Tyler. Mrs. Glenroy . . . Mrs. Turner. Capt. Glenroy ..." Claude. Rosalie Somers . . M Darley. Plastic " Darley. Mrs. Trott. ..." Oldmixon. Cosey " Twaits. Mrs. Moreen ..." Simpson. Trott " Harwood. Taflline .... ' Claude. On the 11th of December, Dimond's play of "Adrian and Orilla, or a Mother's Vengeance," was brought out with marked success, and remained a favorite for many years. Mr. Claude played Adrian; Mr. Greene, Prince Altenberg ; Mr. Harwood, Count Rosenheim; Mr. T waits, Michael; Mrs. Claude, Lothair ; Mrs. Darley, Orilla ; Mrs. Villiers, Madame Clermont ; Mrs. Oldmixon, Githa ; and Miss Dellinger, Minna. On the 21st, "Tekeli, or the Siege of Mongatz," a melo- drama, by T. E. Hook, the music by his father, was first played, received with the greatest applause, and frequently repeated : Tekeli Mr. Cooper. Maurice .... Mr. Robertson. Wolf " Green. Isidore " Darley. Conrad " Harwood. liras de Far ..." Twaits. Count Caraffa ..." Tyler. Alexina ... Mrs. Villiers. Edmund " Claude. Christine .... " Claude. 248 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mrs. Joana Cooper, the first wife of the manager, dying on the 11th of January, 1808, the theatre was closed, and enter- tainments suspended until the 17th of February, when Mr. Bernard commenced an engagement, in the characters of Farmer Ashfteld and Sharp. On the same evening, Mr. Dykes was announced as Sir Abel Handy, his first appearance here, as the bills asserted ; but he had played in this city, in subor- dinate characters, eight years before. The " Secret," a comedy, by Edward Morris, was produced on the 26th, and was well received, with the following cast : Dorville, Mr. Robertson ; Sir Harry Fleetly, Darley ; Lizzard, Bernard ; Jack Lizzard, Green ; Torrid, Dykes ; Harry Torrid. Claude ; Lady Esther Dorville, Mrs. Simpson ; Rosa, Mrs. Dar- ley; and Susanna Lizzard, most capitally rendered by Mrs. Oldmixon. Mr. Bernard's engagement terminated March 3d, when he played Major O Flaherty, in the " West Indian." On the 5th, Tobin's beautiful play, entitled the " Curfew," was first presented. This work, like the " Honeymoon," was unknown to the public until after its author's death ; and it possesses so many and such great beauties that we are sur- prised that our modern managers have so long suffered it to slumber in oblivion. On its performance here, Mr. Cooper played Fitzharding ; Mr. Green, Hugh de Tracy ; Mr. Darley, Robert ; Mr. T waits, Conrad ; Mr. Claude, Bertrand ; Mr. Tyler, Armstrong; Mr. Harwood, Walter; Mr. Dykes, Philip; Mr. Robertson, Herman ; Mrs. Villiers, Matilda ; and Mrs. Darley, Florence. But the 30th of March witnessed the production of a spectacle, under the direction of Mr. Twaits, that completely eclipsed all the other attractions of the season. This was the renowned fairy tale of " Cinderella," (not the modern opera) with Kelly's beautiful music, accompanied with entirely new scenery, by Holland and Reinagle, new dresses by Mr. Gib- bons, and new decorations by Mr. Geslain. Mr. Darley was the Prince ; Mr. Twaits, Pedro ; Mrs. Darley, Cinderella ; Mes- dames Villiers and Wheatley, the Tormenting Sisters. A few heathen deities were thrown in by way of embellishment — RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 249 Mrs. Claude personating Venus; Mr. Allen, Hymen; Miss Martin, Cupid ; and Mrs. Dykes and Miss Bellinger, the prin- cipal dancing Nymphs. "Time's a Telltale," a very excellent play in point of lan- guage and moral, was produced on the 18th of April. It was written by Henry Siddons, son of the tragic actress, and thus cast on its first performance: Sir Arthur Tessell, Mr. Darley; Sir David Delmar, Mr. Robertson ; Blanford, Mr. Green ; Query, Mr. T waits; Hardacre, Mr. Harwood ; Lady Del mar, Mrs. Villi ers; Miss Laurel, Mrs. Oldmixon ; Olivia, Mrs. Claude ; Zelidy, Mrs. Darley. On the 22d, another of Hook's melo-dramas, called the "Fortress," was first acted, and though it held possession of the stage for several years, is now forgotten. The cast was as follows : Count Everard, Mr. Green ; Valbron, Mr. Tyler ; Adolphus, Mr. Darley ; Oliver, Mr. Claude ; Vincent, Mr. Twaits ; Philip, Mr. Harwood; C destine, Mrs. Darley; Alice, Mrs. Vil- liers ; Paulina, Miss Oldmixon. Industry and novelty being at this time the policy of Mr. Cooper's management, on the 25th, Reynolds' farce of " Arbi- tration, or Free and Easy," was produced, with the following cast : Sir Toby Tritely, Mr. Dykes ; Thorough, Harwood ; Jack Familiar, T waits ; Checquer, Darley; Nisi Prius, Doyle ; Wil- liam, Allen ; John, Lindsley ; Lady Litigious, Mrs. Simpson ; Mrs. Checquer, Turner ; Harriet, Claude. The character of Nisi Prius is one of the earliest in which Mr. Doyle is remembered. He was attached to the Park for some four or five years, and in " Old Men" and " Irishmen" gave good satisfaction. Matthew Lewis's romance of the " Wood Demon" was the next novelty, and was received with the utmost demonstration of delight on its first production, May 9th. It was got up with care, had a long run, and is frequently revived even at the present time. The characters were distributed as fol- lows : Count Holslein, Mr. Robertson ; Guelpho, Harwood ; Wilikind, Twaits; Rolfo, Dykes; Ulric, Claude; Ghost of Ruric, Doyle; Wood Demon, Darley; Leolyn, Miss Martin ; 32 250 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Una, Mrs. Darley ; Clotilda, Mrs. Villiers ; Paulina, Miss Del- linger; Fairy Auriol, Mrs. Claude; Ghost of Alexina, Mrs. Turner. On the 3d of June, a young gentleman made his debut as Norval; and in the character of Lady Randolph, Mrs. Villiers, having again entered the holy state of matrimony, was first announced as Mrs. T waits. For the benefit of Mr. Dunlap, acting manager, June 8th, Shakspeare's beautiful creation, the "Tempest," was revived. Its cast at this time was judicious, and its performance ef- fective, as may be judged by the following: Prospero Mr. Green. I Caliban Alonzo " Robertson. Gonzalo . Ftrdiuand .... " Darlly. Ariel . . Antonio " Dykes. Hypolito . Trincu'o " Twaits. I Miranda . Stepliano " Harwood. ] Do\inda . John Kemble's melo-drama of l > Lodoiska, Mr. Shatter. " Tyler. Mrs. Claude. " Twaits. " Turnkr. " Dakley. with the music of Storace, was brought out for Twaits's benefit on the 13th, and long retained great popularity : Prince Lupanski, Mr. Tyler ; Verbel, Mr. Twaits ; Count Floreski, Mr. Darley ; Kera Khan, Mr. Robertson ; Baron Lorvinski, Mr. Green ; Khor, Mr. Dykes; Adolphus, Mr. Claude; Lodoiska, Mrs. Darley. The last new piece of the season was produced for Har- wood's benefit on the 15th, making in all thirteen, exclusive of pantomimes. It was written by Kenney, and entitled " Ella Rosenberg," and is one of the best melo-dramas ever put on the stage. Its original cast was as follows : The Elector, Mr. Tyler ; Rosenberg-, Mr. Green ; Col. Mountfort, Mr. Robertson ; Storm, Mr. Harwood ; Flulterman, Mr. Twaits ; Ella, Mrs. Darley ; Christine, Mrs. Twaits ; Mrs, Flulterman, Mrs. Simpson. July 1st, little Miss Martin, the orphan daughter of John. E. Martin, was allowed a benefit, on which occasion Mrs. Lip- man (being simply announced as a lady from Europe) made her first appearance in America, as Lady Contest, in the "Wed- ding-Day," with well-merited success. Of her personal history nothing is known. She ranked with the best performers in high comedy, and played during the whole of the next season, RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 251 at the end of which she engaged for the Charleston Theatre, and is never again heard of in New York. The season closed on the 4th of July, with "Lodoiska" and I Glory of Columbia." Vauxhall Garden Theatre was opened on the 11th by Mr. Delacroix, with Greene, Barrett, Mills, Rutherford, Doyle, Ringwood, Spear, Sanford, Master G. Barrett, Mrs. Barrett Mrs. Woodham, Mrs. Mills, Mrs. Cunningham, Miss Dellinger, and Miss Delamater, in his company. Mr. Mills was a good comedian, well known at Boston and Philadelphia. His wife had some repute in singing charac- ters, and was a respectable walking-lady. Mrs. Woodham was a great favorite in romps and similar parts at Philadelphia. She was afterward connected with the Boston Theatre, and married a gentleman of that city named Moore. The performances at Vauxhall were brought to an abrupt conclusion by the conflagration of the buildings, on the 30th of August. At this establishment, this season, Mr. Barrett, Sr., made his last appearance in New York. Returning to the Park, the name of Stephen Price, so well known in theatrical annals, occurs in connection with its management, this season, for the first time. He purchased of Mr. Cooper an interest in the establishment, and subse- quently became its sole lessee, continuing a principal director of its affairs for a period of thirty-two years, during a portion of the time in conjunction with Mr. E. Simpson. Mr. Price was a man of great perseverance and energy of character, strict and severe, though honorable in his dealings, and for a long period displayed good taste, judgment, and liberality in all his dramatic arrangements. A long residence abroad, during which he was for a time manager of Drury Lane Theatre, London, gave him great facilities for the engage- ment of distinguished talent, and through him many of the most eminent British artists were introduced to the American public. In fact, he had the entire monopoly of traveling 252 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. " Stars," and only through him for several years could man- agers in other American cities obtain their services, and by this means he added greatly to the profits of his business, which in a short time yielded him an independent fortune. But " easy won, easy gone," is an old adage, and from his habits of life it is probable that his pecuniary circumstances were far from easy during the last years of his existence. For a period he and Mr. Cooper occupied two adjoining houses (afterward thrown into one and called the Carlton House), on the corner of Broadway and Leonard Street. Here they lived in a style of the most sumptuous elegance, entertaining their friends beyond the bounds of true hospitality, and attracting around them all who were fond of the wine, wit, and jovial companionship of two good fellows like themselves ; and at that time life presented no other prospect to them than a per- petual holiday. Between Stephen Price and Thomas A. Cooper the foolish bet was made, as recorded by Clapp, in his "Record of the Boston Stage," as to which could pull the longest wisp of straw from a load passing at the time The former staked a thousand dollars against the net proceeds of Cooper's next benefit, and had the satisfaction of winning twelve hundred dollars from his friend, who, on paying, re- marked that he had only lost two hours' acting. Such reck- lessness could end only in one way, and to Cooper, especially, that end was most mortifying and distressing. During the last years of Mr. Price's management, owing to the powerful rivalry of Mr. Wallack at the National Opera House, the Park Theatre declined greatly in popularity, and being himself absent, he could not understand the necessity of new outlays to keep the attraction with the old house ; he seemed to think that the mere prestige of its name would be sufficient to sustain it against all opposition, and is under- stood to have thwarted or prevented all plans of Mr. Simpson for improving the style of getting up its pieces, or engaging a better class of stock actors to sustain them. He finally re- turned to this country for the purpose of personally superin- tending the business of the theatre, but was soon after seized RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 253 with a mortal sickness, which terminated his life on the 20th of January, 1840. He belonged to a family well known in New York, and was brother to William M. Price, long a con- spicuous politician, and at one time United States Attorney for this district. The theatre opened on the 9th of September, 1808, with the " School of Reform," in which Mr. Hogg, whose re-en- gagement gave great satisfaction, made his first appearance in two years in his favorite character of Tyke. The afterpiece was the " Padlock" — Mr. Darley playing Leander ; Mr. Tyler, Diego ; Mr. T waits, Mungo ; Mrs. Darley, Leonora ; and Mrs. Oldmixon, Ursula. The company was substantially the same as on the previous season. Weakened by the loss of Mr. and Mrs. Claude, Mr. Green, Mr. Comer, Mr. Dykes, Mrs. Turner, and Mrs. Simpson, its strength was repaired by the addition of Mr. and Mrs. Hogg, Mr. Rutherford, Mr. Huntington, and Mrs. Lipman, who made her second appearance in New York, and the first this season, on the 14th of September, in the " School for Scandal," with the following magnificent cast, which would not lose by a comparison with any that our city theatres could now put forth : Sir Peter Teazle . . . Mr. Twaits. Moses Mr. Hoog. Sir Oliver Surface . . " Tyler. Rowley .... " Huntington. Joseph Surface ..." Rutherford. Trip " Robertson. Charles Surface ..." Cooper. Lady Teazle . . Mrs. Lipman. 8ir Benj. Backbite . . " Darley. Lady Sneerwell. . " Twaits. Crabtree " Harwood. Mrs. Candour " Oldmixon. Careless .... " Shapter. I Maria Miss Dellinqer. Mrs. Lipman deepened the favorable impression she had made at the close of the last season, and the excellent acting of Mrs. Twaits redeemed the character of Lady Sneerwell from its usual insipidity. On the 23d, Mrs. Hogg's re-appearance as Mrs. Malaprop, after two years' absence, was warmly greeted by her numerous friends. On the 19th of October, Kenney's fine comedy of the " World" was produced, with a most gratifying success : Cheviot Mr. Cooper. Wellw.rth Mr. Dotli. Echo 44 Twaits. Williams .... " Lindsley. Withers " Tyler. Vellum .... " Huntington. Index " Harwood. Margin .... ** Shapte k. Dauutless •« Robertson. Lady Blonrafleld Mrs. Dakley. Loiter " Daklev. Mrs. Barclay . . 14 Twaits. Social " Rutherford, i Eliuor Barclay . . 44 Llpma*. 254 RECORDS OP THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mr. West, a favorite comedian of Charleston, appeared on the 7 th of November as Tolterton, in " Love Laughs at Lock- smiths f and again on the 11th, as Snarl in the " Village Lawyer." On the 9th, Reynolds' comedy called " Begone, Dull Care," was first played, but never attained great popularity. Its cast was as follows : Sir Arthur St. Albyn Algernon St. Albyn Modern .... Danvers .... Lord Blushdale . . Solace [r. Tyler. u Robertson. " Twaits. " Darley. " Harwood. " Hogg. Trusty . Geoffrey Legis . Selina , Cecily . Deborah Mr. Huntington. " Rutherford. " Doyle. Mrs. Twaits. " Lipman. " Hogg. Mr. Burton very improperly applied the title of this comedy to Morton's " School for Grown Children," on its revival at his house in 1849. The first performance of the tragedy of "Adelgitha, or the Fruits of a Single Error," by far the best of all Monk Lewis's dramatic productions, took place on the 14th, with the annexed cast : Guiscard . . Lothair Michael Ducas Dercetus . . Julian . Mr. Cooper. " Robertson. " Rutherford. " Doyle. " huntinoton. Rainulf Adelgitha Inima Abbess - Claudia. Mr. Lindsley. Mrs. Twaits. " Darley. " Hogg. Miss White. Its success was perfect, being admirably acted, and its merit so great that it was frequently performed for many years. "Plot and Counterplot," an amusing farce by Charles Kemble, was brought out on the 18th, with great applause, its characters thus distributed: Don Hernandez Don Gaspard Don Leon . . Don Fernando Fabian. . . Mr. Harwood. " Hogg. " Darley. " Robertson. " Twaits. Isidore Pedrillo Lorenza Juana . Beatrice Mr. Huntington. " Rutherford. Miss Dellinger. Mrs. Oldmixon. " Hogg. The touching drama of the " Blind Boy," which is still a favorite afterpiece, was produced for the first time on the 7th of December, and was eminently successful. Mr. Tyler played Stanislaus ; Mr. Robertson, Rodolph ; Mr. Twaits, Kalig: Mr. Rutherford, Oberto ; Mrs. Lipman, Ed- mond: and Mrs. Twaits, Elvina. On the 19th of December, the debut in New York of Mrs. Stanley was announced in the characters of Lady Townly and Roxalana. This lady, whose maiden name was Wattle, mar- I RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 255 ried in 1790 the Hon. Thomas Twistleton, second son of Lord Say and Sele, and in conjunction with him received great ap- plause in the private performance of plays, then in high vogue as an amusement with the nobility and gentry of England. The first public appearance of Mrs. Twistleton was at Glou- cester, for the benefit of Mr. Holman, when she personated Belvidera with such success that she was immediately en- gaged at Co vent Garden for six nights, where she attracted very full and fashionable houses. Her husband was also an- nounced at the same establishment, but was dissuaded from appearing, and a difference soon after occurring between them, they separated by mutual consent, he taking orders in the ministry, and she following the histrionic profession under the assumed name of Stanley. She was brought to this coun- try by Bernard for the Boston Theatre, where she was very favorably received, and afterward played in Philadelphia with similar success. In New York she played four or five times, and though possessing a handsome person, a fine, intel- ligent countenance and pleasing manners, did not prove at- tractive. She died soon after at Burlington, Vt. On the 4th of January, 1809, an Indian pantomime, called " Harlequin Panattahah, or the Genii of the Algon quins," in which the whole company did service, was brought out ; but, as usual at that season of the year, the audiences were so small that it was deemed advisable to close the theatre, and it was not re-opened until Washington's birthday, February 22d (then always celebrated with enthusiasm), when " Gustavus Vasa" and the Indian pantomime were performed. On the 24th, Master Payne, afterward designated the young American Roscius, made his first appearance on a public stage in the character of Young" Norval, with triumphant success. His debut was followed by his appearance as Zaphna, in " Mahomet," which he played three times ; Oclavian ; Achmet, in " Barbarossa ;" Tancred ; and Romeo f for his benefit, on the loth of March, all of which he represented with the skill of a finished artist, combined with the fresh- ness, simplicity and impulsiveness of youth. Born in this 256 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. city, on the 9 th of June, 1792, John Howard Payne, when very young, had removed with his parents to Boston, where he first acquired a taste for theatrical representations, and where he often appeared with his young friends in private performances. He was afterward placed in a store in New York, but wearying of the situation, and pining for public applause, when nearly seventeen years of age, with the ad- vantage of a neat though rather small figure, and a handsome countenance, beaming with intelligence, with the consent of his father he entered the profession, of which he was immediately recognized as one of the brightest ornaments. After visiting Boston, where he played an engagement with the same distinguished approbation, he returned to this city, opening on the 17th of May with Young Norval, and playing subsequently Lord Hastings, Frederick, in " Lovers' Vows," Rolla, Edgar, and Hamlet. After acting with the greatest applause in all the American theatres, he visited Europe, and made a successful debut at Drury Lane, on the 4th of June, 1813, in the character of Norval. He afterward played in the provincial theatres, and though always attractive, soon became so absorbed in literary pursuits that he abandoned the stage, devoting his talents (and he held a most graceful and eloquent pen) to critical essays on the Drama, and the composition of dramatic pieces, many of the latter being ori- ginal, though some were compilations, or adaptations, from the French, and among them, still holding possession of the stage, are the tragedy of " Brutus," the melo-drama of " The- rese," the domestic opera " Clari," with its beautiful and touching song of " Home, Sweet Home," " Charles the Second," "Two Galley Slaves," « 'Twas I," "Peter Smink," " Love in Humble Life," &c. After a long residence in London and Paris, he returned to this country in 1832, being received with the warmest demon- strations of respect and regard, and on the 29th of November in that year, the first complimentary benefit given by the citizens of New York took place at the Park Theatre in his JOHN HOWARD PAYNE. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 257 honor. The admission to the boxes and pit on that oc- casion was five dollars, and to the gallery one dollar. Disappointed in his efforts to establish a periodical which he had projected on a scale of great expensiveness, and prob- ably afflicted with the usual accompaniment of genius, care- lessness for the morrow, Mr. Payne is reported to have suf- fered uncomplainingly many of the ills of poverty, until he was appointed, by Mr. Tyler, Consul to Tunis, in 1841, where he officiated with credit to himself and country. Recalled by Mr. Polk, he was again appointed under President Taylor's administration, and, after a brief illness, died at his post, on the 10th of April, 1852. Although his later years did not fulfill the promise of his youth, his buoyancy of manner, his rich and varied stock of information, his brilliant wit, and general amiability and good nature, made him the most agree- able of companions. His criticism evinced the nicest taste and judgment, and his ordinary conversation was not only faultless, but perfectly fascinating. His death was a source of deep sorrow to many warmly attached friends and rela- tives, most of whom occupy a high station in society. The beautiful musical romance of the " Forty Thieves," the combined production of four authors, the outline having been sketched by Sheridan from the tale in the Arabian Nights, the dialogue written by his brother-in-law, Ward.- the music composed by Kelly, and the whole revised by Colman, was first put upon the stage of New York on the 20th of March. Cast as follows : All Baba, Harwood : Cassirn Baba, Huntington; Ganem, Darley; Mustapha, Twaits; Hassarac, Robertson ; Abdallah, Rutherford ; Selim, Lindsley ; Oreo- brandy Doyle; Princess Zelir, Miss White: Morgiana, Mrs. Darley: Cogia, Oldmixon ; Zai/le, Hogg; Ardinelle, Twaits: Gossamer, Miss Dellinger. Its success was triumphant, and it remains a favorite holiday piece to this day. On the 27th, another of Tobin's comedies was produced, called the "School for Authors," with the following cast: Diaper, Mr. Harwood; Cleveland, Robertson; Wormwood, Rutherford: Jeffrey, Hogg; Frank, Twaits; William, Doyle; 33 258 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Jane Diaper, Mrs. Darley ; Susan, Mrs. Lipman. It was not as successful as it had been in Europe. On the 5th of May, Arnold's comedy of " Man and Wife" was first played. Its cast will prove the excellence of its representation, which, with one exception, was perfect, Mr. Rutherford being out of his element as Sir Willoughby Wor- rett. Lord Austencourt, Mr. Darley ; Sir R. Austencourt, Doyle ; Charles Austencourt, Cooper : Sir W. Worrett, Rutherford ; Faulkner, Robertson; Cornelius O'Dedimus, Harwood; Pon- der, T waits; William, Lindsley; Lady Worrett, Mrs. Old- mixon ; Helen Worrett, Mrs. Darley ; Fanny, Mrs. Twaits : Tiff- any, Miss Dellinger. May 26th, Mr. Twaits played King Lear, with Master Payne's Edgar, and on the 3d of June, took his benefit with the following bill : Every One has his Fault ; Lord Norland . . . Mr. Tyler. Lady Elinor . . . Mrs. Twatts. Sir Robert Ramble . . * Twaits. Mrs. Placid ..." Oldmixoh. Solus " Hogq. Miss Spinster . . M Hogg. Harmony .... M Harwood. Miss Wuoburn . . " Darlet. and, The Turnpike Gate. Crack Mr. Twaits. Robert Maythorn . Mr. Hogg. Harry Blunt .... " Darley. Peggy Mrs. Oldmixon. Joe Standfast ... " Harwood. Mary Miss Dellinger. On the 9th of June, Hugh Kelly's once highly popular comedy of "False Delicacy" was first played here with con- siderable success, for Mr. Tyler's benefit, cast as follows : Col. Rivers .... Mr. Tyler. Lady Betty Lambkin Mrs. Lipman. Cecil " Harwood. Mrs. Harley ... Oldmixon. Sir Harry Newburg " Darley. Miss Marchmont . . " Darley. Lord "Winwor'h . . " Rutherford Miss Rivers ..." Twaits. Sidney " Robertson. Sally . . . . . Miss "White. On the 14th of June, Mrs. Lipman produced for her benefit J. N. Barkers musical drama, entitled the " Indian Princess," founded on the story of Pocahontas, with the following cast: Lord De-la-war, Mr. Tyler ; Capt. Smith, Rutherford ; Rolfe, Robertson ; Percy, Huntington : Walter, Darley ; Larry, Har- wood; Robin, Hogg; Powhatan, Shapter; Miami, Twaits; Pocahontas, Mrs. Lipman ; Geraldine, Mrs. Twaits : Alice, Mrs. Oldmixon ; Kate, Miss Dellinger ; Nina, White. Mr. Barker, a resident of Philadelphia, was one of the earliest and best of American dramatic authors, and this piece, though not his first effort, was the first that had been pre- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 259 sented to the New York public, and notwithstanding the Idle- ness of the season, met with a very gratifying success. Two excellent comedies, entitled "Tears and Smiles" and "How to Try a Lover," are the productions of his pen. "Mar- mion" was dramatized by him from Scott's poem, and had an extraordinary run, both in Philadelphia and New York. He wrote several other meritorious pieces, including " Supersti- tion," a remarkably fine tragic play, represented with the greatest applause in Philadelphia, and deserving a better fate than the oblivion in which it is now buried. On the 21st of June, a play by Mrs. Ellis, called the " Duke of Buckingham," being the last new piece of the season, and never before performed, was brought out only to be con- demned. It was thus cast : Buckingham .... Mr. Robertson. j Sir Ralph .... Mr. Doyle. Egbert " Darlet. Theodore .... Mrs. Lipman. Vincent ..... " Rutherford. Duchess .... " Twaits. Felton " Twaits. I Selina ..... " Darlet. Ghost of Villiers . . . " Tyler. Clara " Dellinger. The season terminated, as usual, on the 4th of July, with "George Barnwell" and the "Forty Thieves," and with it ter- minated the theatrical career of the favorite comedian Har- wood, who died, as before mentioned, early in the ensuing fall, in the full meridian of his powers, leaving for many years -a vacancy that none were adequate to fill. CHAPTER XX. Park Theatre, 1809-10. TH E New York Theatre was re-opened by Messrs. Cooper and Price, (Mr. Twaits being the acting manager) September 6th, 1809, with the tragedy of the " Castle Spectre," Mr. Young making his first appearance in three years as Earl Osmond; and Mr. and Mrs. Poe, who had formerly played at Vauxhall, their first appearance at this establishment as Hassan and Angela. The afterpiece was the " Romp," Capt. Sightly by Mr. Poe ; Watty Cockney, Twaits ; Priscilla Tomboy, Mrs. Poe. Mr. Young had changed but little during his absence, and Mr. Poe soon sunk into insignificance, but his wife proved to be a pleasing and acceptable actress. • Mr. Cooper made his first appearance on the 8th, as Rolla, supported by Mr. Young as Pizarro ; Mr. Robertson as Alonzo ; Mrs. Poe, Cora; and Mrs. Twaits, Elvira. The rustic opera of " Rosina" followed — Belville, by Mr. Tyler ; Capt. Belville, Mr. Poe ; William, Mr. Twaits ; Rosina, Mrs. Poe ; Phoebe, Mrs. Oldmixon. On the 11th, the beautiful Mrs. Young re-appeared as Cow- slip, but her abilities were not well suited to the part. " Is He a Prince ?" a farce by Prince Hoare, was produced on the 13th, with the following cast : Baron Crackenburg Mr. Doyle. \ Moritz Mr. Robeetson. Count Rosenblum . . " Young. Frantz " Lindslet. Bluffberg " Twaits. Caroline .... Mrs. Yoong. Lindorf " Poe. i Mrs. Crackenburg . " Oldmixon. On the 15th, Mr. Foster, a brother of Mrs. Young, made his RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 261 first appearance as Ganem y in the "Forty Thieves," but never attained a high station on the boards. A farce, entitled " Princess or No Princess," was brought out on the 27th, and repeated several times, cast as follows: Almorah, Mr. Poe ; Oswald, Robertson ; Zavolano, Young ; Kasil, Doyle ; Stork, Lindsley ; Basil, Tyler ; Andrew, Twaits ; Elizene, Mrs. Poe ; Ulrica, Mrs. Twaits ; Gertrude, Mrs. Hogg. Mrs. Inchbald's comedy, entitled "To Marry or Not to Marry," was introduced to the American stage on the 5th of October, with the following distribution of parts : Lord Danberry . . . Mr. Twaits. Amos Mr. Pok. Sir Oawin Mortland . . " Cooper. Hester Mrs. Young. Lavensforth .... u Robertson. Lady Susan Courtly . 44 Oldmixon. Willowear .... 41 Young. Mrs. Sarah Mortland " Hogg. Mr. Young possessed few requisites for the character of Willowear, but his wife was a very charming representative of the artless and unsophisticated Hester. "Grieving's a Folly," a comedy by Richard Leigh, was produced on the 18th, and met with considerable success. Herbert Mr. Young. Joe Thresher . . . Mr. Robertson. Sir 0. Cypress ..." Doyle. O'Harrolan ..." Tyler. Capt. Cypress ..." Poe. Woodburn . " Hallam, Jr. Belford ... . " Anderson. Mrs. Mordent . . . Mrs. Twaits. Sedley " Foster. Ellen " Young. Crape 41 Twaits. Susan .... Miss White. The name of Mr. Anderson is noticed for the first time in the above piece. On the 23d of October, the "Gamester" was announced, with Mr. Cooper as Beverly ; Mr. Collins (his first appearance in New York) as Lewson ; and Mrs. Beverly, by Mrs. Mason, her first appearance in America. The debutants were not ! very successful, Mr. Collins' talents being better adapted to the lower comic walks of the drama, and he seldom appeared \ again out of that line, save in the choleric and testy old gen- tleman. He was in after years well known at the West. Mrs. Mason appeared to be laboring under indisposition, and gave little evidence of the ability which afterward ren- dered her an eminent favorite. Her second appearance was announced as Beatrice, for the 25th, but she was too ill to perform, and on that evening Mr. Edmund Simpson made his first appearance on the American stage, with merited success, in the character of Harry Dornton, in the substituted 262 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. comedy of the "Road to Ruin." This excellent man and spirited manager, so long and favorably known to all players and play-goers, was born in the year 1784, and though edu- cated for a mercantile life, was not able to resist the fascina- tion of the stage, having engaged in that amusement so dangerous to those who have other and more settled pursuits in view — the private theatre. He made his first public ap- pearance at Towcester, England, in May, 1806, as Baron Sfeinfort, in the " Stranger f and having a new blue coat and white breeches, was selected to play all the " walking gentle- men," and so captivated the heart of a milliner of good repute and business in that town, that she made him proposals which he was ungracious enough to decline. At this time he had a good face and figure, and played the dashing young fellows of comedy — scamps and spendthrifts — the heroes of melo-drama, and many juvenile tragic characters with general approbation. In 1810, he became an assistant in the management, and subsequently the partner of Mr. Price. In 1820, he married and took from the stage the young and amiable Miss Jones, with whom he enjoyed in the highest degree all the purest pleasures of a domestic life, unlike many of his professional brethren, retaining an un- blemished reputation for purity of morals, as well as for integrity of purpose, and the most thorough honesty and honor in all his business relations. About the year 1833, Mr. Simpson retired from the boards of the theatre, confining himself solely to the duties of man- agement, occasionally appearing in one of his old characters on his benefit nights, which were always crowded by his friends, for few men numbered more or warmer ones. On the death of Mr. Price, in 1840, Mr. Simpson was sup- posed to have become the sole lessee of the theatre, though his name did not appear in the heading of its bills, the an- nouncements being usually issued as from "the manage- ment." The terrible revulsion in the value of real estate which fol- lowed the almost universal bankruptcy of 1837-38, gave RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 263 a fatal blow to the private fortune of Mr. Simpson, who was deeply involved in land speculations, and the unexpected (allure ofVestris and her husband, of whom great anticipa- tions had been formed, gave a downward tendency to the destiny of the theatre from which it never recovered. From this period, with an occasional spasmodic exception, every effort, however apparently judicious, seemed attended with ill success; lectures became the rage, and continued qourses were delivered nightly by the most brilliant and eminent men in the country, while the unceasing efforts of fashionable cliques to establish the Italian opera caused the theatre to be neglected, and attractions that would once have Commanded overflowing houses were now presented to bare walls and empty benches. Again, though the rent paid for the building was enormous, the proprietors could rarely be persuaded to allow a cent even for its external embellish- ment, so that its appearance rather repulsed than attracted strangers ; and in its last days, owing to the entire removal of the old residents of the neighborhood, it w r as too remote from the centre of population to make it the accustomed lounge of those who had once been seen almost nightly within its walls. The end was utter ruin. June 5th, 1848, was the last night of the management of Mr. Simpson, who, in conclusion, issued the following card: u Mr. Simpson, in retiring from the management of the Park Theatre, which, as stage and acting manager, he has held for thirty-eight years, returns his thanks to his friends and the public for their generous support during that long period." Only ten performers of all who had prospered under his fost- ering care were left to assist on the last night, and these were Messrs. Barry, Bass, Grattan, S. Pearson, Povey, Mrs. Barry, Mi s. E. Knight, Mrs. Dyott, Miss Kate Horn and Miss Flynn. Alas ! For this the end of all his greatness. He resigned the lease of the theatre into the hands of Mr. Hamblin, on the condition <>f;i life annuity — fifteen hundred dollars, if our memory i> correct; but grief and mortification at the total wreck of his fortunes, worked bitterly on his feelings, and with a dejected - 264 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. spirit and a broken heart, he lingered but a short time in this troublous world after the completion of this arrange- ment, dying on the 31st of July, in the same year, at the age of 64. The benevolent feelings of personal and professional friends were immediately aroused, and though, from various obstacles, action seemed deferred and tardy, yet his widow and family finally had no cause of complaint for the want of efforts made for their relief. Under the direction of an influential committee, with the gratuitous aid of the performers, an enter- tainment for that purpose was given at the Park (then man- aged by Mr. Hamblin), on the 7th of December, 1848, of which we insert the entire bill to show the forgetfulness of self evinced by the volunteers, and their willingness to assume any character to insure the best result, there being no less than five gentlemen in the cast who had played, and might justly have laid claim to the principal character of the play. The School for Scandal — Sir Peter, Mr. Placide ; Sir Oliver, Barton; Joseph, Barry; Charles, G. Barrett; Crabtree, Blake; Sir Benjamin, Richings ; Careless, Walcot ; Sir Harry, H. Hunt ; Rowley, Stafford ; Moses, Povey ; Snake, Morehouse ; Trip, Dawson ; Lady Teazle, Mrs. Shaw ; Lady Sneerwell, Mrs. Gil- bert ; Mrs. Candour, Mrs. Winstanley ; Maria, Miss Mary Taylor. Cavatina, from Ernani, Signorina Truffi. Pas de deux — Mons. and Mad. Monplaisir. Comic Song — "Debating Society" — W. B. Chapman. Trio — Trufii, Signori Benedetti and Rossi, with violin obli- gate, Mast. Giovanni Sconcia. On the 8th, Mr. Macready read the tragedy of " Hamlet," at the Stuyvesant Institute, for the same benevolent object. On the 14th, at the Olympic, Mr. Mitchell gave a night, assisted by Messrs. Holland, Nickinson, Arnold, Conover, Reynolds, Miss Clarke, Miss Gannon, Miss M. Phillips, Miss Roberts, Miss Partington, &c. Mr. Chanfrau, at the National, followed on the 21st, playing his great character of Mose, and supported by J. R. Scott, R. J. Jones, Tilton, Pardey, Herbert, Dawes, RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 265 Seymour, T. G. Booth, Miss E. Mestayer, Mrs. Woodward, Miss Gordon, Mrs. G. Chapman and others. Burton, on the 5th of March ensuing, also contributed a night, with Mrs. Vernon, Miss Caroline Chapman, Mrs. A. Knight, Mr. and Mrs. Brougham, Geo. Jordan, T. Johnson, (laymond, &c. Mr. Fry, at the Astor Opera House, had also given a grand musical entertainment on the 11th of January, aided by the talents of Mesdames Laborde, Truffi and Amalia Patti, with Signori Benedetti, Rossi, Patti and Monsieur Laborde. Their various results we have now forgotten, but we cannot doubt that their united contributions were as substantial as their motives were praiseworthy. The second appearance of Mrs. Mason on the 27th of Octo- ber, as Widow Cheerly, in the "Soldier's Daughter," to the Frank Hearlall of Mr. Simpson, did away with the disagree- able impression left by her Mrs. Beverly, and her great spirit, liveliness and humor soon established her as the first actress of- her time in high and dashing comedy. Juliana, Catharine, Viol ante, Lady Tovrniy, Mrs. Oakley and Mrs. Sullen had had no representative worthy to be compared with her since the departure of Mrs.. Johnson ; and in Lady Teazle, the best critics for many years allowed that she entirely eclipsed all rivalry. Mrs. Mason played for two seasons at the Park, and was then engaged for Philadelphia — married Mr. Entwistle in 1816, and resumed her old situation at the Park, with undi- minished success, during the seasons of 1818-19 and 1821-22. From 1825 to 1828 she was one of the main attractions of the Chatham Garden Theatre, about which time, being again a widow, she contracted a marriage with a Mr. Crooke, with whom she afterward played in the Southern theatres. She died at New Orleans, in 1835. To give a just idea of this lady's merit, we copy the re- marks of an eminent critic on her Widow Cheerty : "The polished manners and elegant deportment of the woman of fashion were, in Mrs. Mason's Widow, blended with the be- witching sportiveness and undefinable fascination of high 266 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. comedy. Throughout the whole of her performance there was nothing that approximated vulgarity, nothing coarse, nothing forced, nothing studied, nothing which the most fas- tidious taste would wish otherwise, but all was of that refined, polished, yet natural and pungent quality of humor, that skillfully attenuated pleasantry, which casts a mild sunshine over the heart, filling it with pure enjoyment, which rather exhilarates the spirits than provokes laughter, and imparts sensations of an order much superior to those of mere side- shaking merriment. Mrs. Mason's merit is of that sterling kind, the value of which all capacities and conditions are ca- pable of perceiving and must admire, and her humor is dis- tinguished by ease and elegance, no less than by spirit and vivacity." Although anxious to acquire distinction in tragedy, she fell in that line far short of her excellence as a comedienne. "De Montfort," which has never yet met with the success it deserves, was brought out on the 8th of November, with the annexed cast: De Montfort . Renzevelt . . Count Friberg Mr. Cooper. " Young. " Robertson. Jerome . Jane de Montfort Countess Friberg Mr. Collins. Mrs. Twaits. " Young. " Yes or No," a little farce by Pocock, was first played on the 20th, as follows : Sir B. Oldstyle . . Charles Fervor . . "Wm. Seagrave . Obadiah Broadbrim Mr. Collins. " Simpson. " Robinson. " Doyle. Drab . . . Corporal Barrel Penelope Snap Patty . . . Mr. Tyler. " Twaits. Mrs. Hogg. " Young. The first representation of Dimond's "Foundling of the Forest," on the 27th, was attended with great success. Count de Valmont Baron Longueville Florian Bertrand . . . L'Eclair . . . Gaspard Mr. Young. " Doyle. " Simpson. " Robertson. " Twaits. " Collins. Sanguine Lenoir Eugenia Geraldine Rosabella Monica . Mr. Hallam, Jr. ' Lindsley. Mrs. Mason. " Young. " Poe. " Hogg. "Venoni," a drama by M. Lewis, followed on the 6th of December, was played a few nights, and has now long been forgotten. Venoni Viceroy . Lodovico . Celestino . Michael Jeronymo Mr. Simpson. " Young. " Tyler. " Robertson. " Doyle. " Collins. Benedetto Hortensia Veronica Josepha Teresa . Sister Luci? Mr. Twaits. Mrs. Twaits. '• Hogg. " Young. •' Poe. " Oldmixon. On the 11th, Mr. Morrell, a gentleman of this city, made his RKCORDS OF THE NKW YORK STAGE. 267 debut as Rolla, and on the 20th, appeared as Octavian. Some time after he re-appeared in characters many degrees lower. Colman's comedy of the " Africans " was first played on the 1st of January, 1810, when Twaits made a great hit in the character of Henry Augustus Mugg. The following are its characters : Farulho Mr. Tyler. Henry A. Mugg . Mr. Twaits. Torribal " Youno. Fetterwell .... " Hallam, Jr. Madiboo " Simpson. Marrowbone ..." Lindslet. Selico . . ..." Robertson. Darina Mrs. Twaits. Demba Lega ... " Doyle. Berissa " Youno. Daucan " Collins. Sutta " Oldmixon. On the 15th, the entertainments were brought to a close, and a recess of several weeks ensued, commencing again with " Gustavus Vasa " and the " Africans,'' on the 22d of February. Master Payne commenced an engagement on the 5th of March as Rolla, and played Zaphna for his benefit on the 12th, when was also brought out Allingham's sprightly little comedy entitled "Who Wins, or the Widow's Choice," with the following cast : Extempore, Mr. Twaits ; Caper, Mr. Simp- son ; Friendly, Mr. Anderson ; Mole, Mr. Robertson ; Trust, Mr. Lindsley; Widow Bellair, Mrs. Poe. On the 14th, the following bill was announced : The Weft Indian. Belcour [his first appearance in America] . Mr. Dwyer. Stockwell Mr. "Tyler. Fulmer Mr. Collins. Major O'Flaherty . . " Doyle. Lady Rusport . . . Mrs. Oldmixon. Captain Dudley . . " Robertson. Charlotte Rusport " Mason. Charles Dudley ..." Youno. Louisa Dudley . . " Young. Varland " Twaits. Mrs. Fulmer ... " Hogg. Mr. Dwyer was the son of an Irish gentleman, who intended him for the practice of the law ; but becoming disgusted with that profession, he made his debut, contrary to the wishes of his friends, at the age of seventeen, at the Theatre Royal, Dublin, with a success that confirmed him in his predilection for the stage ; and after playing in various provincial theatres, made his first appearance on the boards of Drury Lane, May 1st, 1802, as Belcour, receiving the approbation of the audience so unequivocally, that he was immediately installed as the light comedian of the theatre, a situation that he held for three consecutive years, and threw up in consequence of the introduction, on that stage, of Mr. Elliston, who occasionally trenched on his peculiar line of business, an indignity that 268 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mr. Dwyer was too spirited to brook. Arriving in this coun- try in 1810, he made his debut, as above, with triumphant success — a success that in Belcour was richly deserved. He had a very handsome face and person, a frank and manly ex- pression of countenance, the most polished address, a fine voice, an inexhaustible fund of animal spirits, and in light, dashing comedy was, at times, almost faultless. Yet he was frequently careless and inattentive to his duties, lacked study, and his conception of character wanted that nice discrimina- tion which seizes upon the minutest points, and renders seem- ing incongruities one harmonious whole. Though he main- tained his popularity for several years, playing at intervals, in this city, until 1827, he lived to find himself neglected and almost totally forgotten, when, after a lapse of twelve years, he appeared on the boards of the National Opera House, as Falstaff, May 30th, 1839, being his last attempt at acting. About that time, he gave one or two public readings and lec- tures on elocution, and is supposed to have died in New York shortly after. During his first engagement at the Park, he also appeared as Gossamer, Goldfinch, Ranger, Archer, Octavian, Capt. Ab- solute, Rover, Vapid, Tangent, Mercutio, Michael Perez, &c. Reynolds' musical play, the "Exile of Siberia," with the charming melodies of Mazzinghi, was brought out with great success on the 27th of April. Daran Mr. Simpson. Servitz Mr. Twaits. Count Ulric .... " Robertson. Empress Elizabeth . Mrs. Young. Governor '• Tyler. Sedona " Oldmixon. Baron Altradoff . . " Young. Alexina .... " Mason. Patriarch " Hallam, Jr. Catharine .... " Poe. Sir James Bland Burges' play of " Riches," adapted to the modern stage from Massinger's " City Madam," was played on the 16th of May, and repeated a few times. Though possess- ing great merit in many points, the character of its hero is so repulsive that it has never become a favorite acting play. It was thus performed : Luke . . ... Mr. Simpson. Heartwell .... Mr. Robertson. Sir John Traffic ..." Tyler. Lady Traffic . . . Mrs. Mason. Sir Maurice Lacy . . " Doyle. Maria " Young. Edward Lacy ..." Young. ) Eliza .... " Poe. Mrs. Mason produced for her benefit on the 13th of June, Reynolds' drama of the « Free Knights," with the following cast: RECORDS OF THK NKW YORK STAGE. 269 Prince Palatine . . Mr. Collins. Zastrow .... Mr. Dotle. Rayen9purg .... " Simpson. Christopher ..." Twaits. Baron Ravenspnrg . " Tyler. Countess Roland . Mrs. Oldhixon. Count Roland . Halum, Jr. Agnes " Mason Abbott ..." Robertson. | Ulrica " Poe. It was not as successful as many of his other pieces. Mrs. Twaits took her benefit on the 15th, being her last on the Park stage, when she appeared as Isabella, in the " Fatal Marriage/' On the occasion of Mr. Simpson's benefit, June 18th, Mr. Bray made his first appearance in America as Solus, in "Every One has His Fault." He proved to be a man of respectability, and a valuable comedian, and was connected with the theatre during the next season, at the end of which he was engaged for Philadelphia. He was afterward a great favorite for several years at Boston, leaving that city for his native land, in consequence of ill health, in the spring of 1822. He died at Leeds, England, a few days after his arrival there, at the age of 40. On the 22d of June, Mr. Tyler announced his farewell bene- fit, with the comedy of the " Poor Gentleman,'" in which he played with great excellence the character of Lieutenant Worthington. Mr. Tyler had been attached to the establish- ment for more than twelve years, and had given universal satisfaction, both as actor and singer, and his loss was greatly regret-ted. He afterward occasionally appeared for brief periods, and was greatly esteemed in his character of Host, at a favorite summer resort, on what is now the south-west corner of Spring and Hudson Streets. On the 29th, for her benefit, Mrs. Young played Sophia, in the " Road to Ruin,'' and brought out another of Reynolds' pieces, called the •'Caravan," which was received with much favor, and east as follows : Marquis Calatrava . . Mr. Simpson. Roderigo .... Mr. Hallam, Jr. Count Navarro ..." Doyle. Ferdinand .... " Anderson. Don Gomez .... " Bray. Julio Miss Jones. Blabbo " TwAITS. Marchioness . . . Mrs. Ym n<;. Aral'bo " Robertson. i Rosa «* Poe. The season ended on the 4th of July, with the "Free Knights'' and the "Caravan," and with it ended the engage- ments of Mr. and Mrs. Twaits, Mr. and Mrs. Poe, Mr. and Mrs Young, Mr. Tyler, Mr. Collins, Mr. Foster and Miss White CHAPTER XXI. ■ Park Theatre, A.D. 1810-11. N the 10th of September, 1810, the New York Theatre, still directed by Cooper and Price, with Mr. Simpson as stage manager, commenced its new season with the fine comedy entitled " She Stoops to Conquer," thus cast : Sir Charles Marlow . . Mr Doyle. Diggory .... Mr. Robertson. Young Marlow ..." Simpson. Landlord .... " Claude. Hastings " Claude. Mrs. Hardcastle . . Mrs. Hogg. Hardcastle . . . " Hogg. Miss Hardcastle . . " Mason Tony Lumpkin ..." Bray. Miss Neville ..." Claude. The afterpiece was the " Caravan," in which Mr. Hogg took Twaits's part of Blabbo, and Mrs. Claude personated the Mar- chioness, formerly played by Mrs. Young. Mr. and Mrs. Claude's return, after an absence of two years, was a source of much pleasure to the audience. On the 13th, Mr. W. B. Wood, of Philadelphia, made his first appearance in New York, as Count de Valmont in the "Foundling of the Forest." On the 14th, he played Don Felix, in the "Wonder." On the 17th, Penruddock and Sir Charles Rackett ; and on the 19th, Rolla, with Simpson as Alonzo, and Mrs. Mason, Elvira. For his benefit on the 21st, he personated Count de Valmont, and Felix, in the " Hunter of the Alps," making a most agreeable impression on the audience, and playing most of the above characters with marked excellence. Mr. Wood was born in the city of Mont- real, on the 26th of May, 1779. His father, who had been a resident of New York, left the city for Canada, when the British took possession, returning on its evacuation in 1783, and bringing with him our hero, who was kept at school 1 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 271 until he reached eleven, at which age he was placed in a counting-house. He was afterward in an attorney's office, and then again attempted a commercial life, making a voyage to the West Indies, whence he returned "extremely poor, somewhat profligate, and very proud/' Difficulties ensuing, while still in his minority he was imprisoned for debt in the Philadelphia jail, where, meditating on his condition and prospects in life, he resolved, on the earliest opportunity, to attempt the stage, which he did soon after his release, at Wigiielfs Theatre, in Annapolis, as George Barnwell, making, however, a complete failure. Abandoning the stage, he again engaged in mercantile pursuits, but becoming disgusted with them, persuaded Mr. Wignell to give him another trial, and after appearing in very inferior parts, finally made something of a hit as Dick Dowlas, when the " Heir at Law" was first produced in Philadelphia. In 1799, he was appointed treas- urer of the theatre, and afterward, as an actor, worked his way gradually to an enviable reputation. When Mr. Wignell died, in 1803, Mr. Wood became assistant manager with Mr. Warren, and in that year visited England, for the purpose of bringing out recruits for the company. On the 30th of Jan- uary, 1804, he married Miss Westray, and was ever after held in the highest esteem as an actor and as a gentleman. Mr. Wood remained one of the managers of the Chestnut Street Theatre until 1826, and was afterward lessee of the Arch j Street Theatre, but in the latter part of his career met with many reverses, seriously impairing the ample fortune he had previously acquired. Mr. Wood took a formal leave of the stage at the Walnut Street Theatre, November 18th, 1846, at a truly complimentary benefit, tendered him by the most eminent citizens of Phila- delphia. He appeared on the occasion as Sergeant Austerlilz, in the drama of the " Old Guard " — a most appropriate selection for the last remaining veteran of that corps which had included on its roll the names of Cooper, Fennell, Merry, Darley, Duff, Jef- ferson, Warren, Francis, Burke and others, and had been dis- | tinguished throughout the land as being the best drilled and 272 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. most efficient company of comedians known to the Western World. In 1855 Mr. Wood published his " Personal Recollec- tions of the Stage," which should be in the hands of all who have a prejudice against the profession. He died at Philadel- phia, September 21st, 1861, in the eighty-third year of his age. His biographer remarks that "his forte was decidedly gen- teel comedy, but he succeeded admirably well in tragedy too. His striking excellence was a never-failing knowledge of his author, both as to sentiment and language. His reputation was not so much the effect of natural endowments, as the legitimate offspring of long and unwearied application, per- severing ambition, and an enthusiastic love of the profession, which he embraced almost through necessity. These quali- 1 ties enabled him to combat and finally to defeat the disad- vantages of a delicate frame and an unmelodious voice, and i they gained him a reputation, at one time, scarcely surpassed j on this side of the Atlantic. They were enforced, indeed, by the advantages of a person tall and genteel, a deportment easy and graceful, manners engaging and polite, and a most amiable character in private life." On the 28th of September, another Mrs. Stanley made her debut in America, in the character of Adelgitha. She was not equal, in the highest walks of the drama, to actresses who had preceded her, but she was a woman of good sense, and seldom violated any principle of taste or propriety, and in many characters gave great satisfaction. She afterward be- came Mrs. Aldis, and continued on the Park stage until the summer of 1817. She subsequently returned to England, and played there for many years. Mr. Stanley, her husband, was announced on the 1st of October, in the " Rivals," as Sir Anthony Absolute, and, though not devoid of merit, was afflicted with an infirmity which un- fits the most talented for the stage — deafness. He played for a while, but a lingering illness, which finally resulted in his death, compelled him to retire before the end of the season. October 10th, Dimond's play, "The Doubtful Son, or the Secrets of a Palace," was brought out, as follows : KING RICHARD III Engraved by Pc^ht from a painting by D (German) RKCORDS OF THK XKW YORK STAGE. 273 Marquis Lerida . . . Mr. Robertson. Notary Mr. Hogg. Malvogli .... " Doyle. Vasques .... a Thornton Fabuletto '* Simpson. Victoria .... Mrs. Mason. Borachio " Hallam, Jr. Rosaviva .... " Stanley. Leon " Claude. Floribel ... " Oldmixon. C.J. Eyre's comedy of "High Life in the City" was sue cessfully produced on the 19th, with annexed cast: Duplex . . . . Mr. Hogg. Juvenile .... Mr. Hallam, Jr. Pimento " Robertson. John Woulds ..." Bray. Crastinus .... " Simpson, Lady Janet . . . Mrs. Mason. Connaught .... " Stanley. Miss Duplex u Oldmixon. Henry " Claude. Emily 11 Stanley. Capt. Frazer .... " Doyle. Jenny Miss Ryckman. On the 31st, little Miss Jones made quite a hit as Tom Thumb — Mr. Bray personating Lord Grizzle, and Mrs. Old- mixon Queen Dollalolla. Mr. Fennell, after an absence of four years, commenced an engagement on the 2d of November, as Othello, and afterward appeared as Richard III., Pierre, Macbeth, &c, giving evidence that his once brilliant histrionic abilities were becoming sadly shattered. This is believed to have been his last engagement in New York. A Mr. Doige made his first appearance in America on the 19th, as Governor Heartall, and Ralph in "Lock and Key." He afterward played several of Twaits's parts, but was not connected with the company any subsequent season. But it was not until the 21st of November, that the great gun of the campaign was fired, in the announcement of George Frederick Cooke, who on that evening made his first appearance on the American stage, in his celebrated character of Richard III., to an audience more numerous than had ever before been crowded within the walls of the theatre. He played seventeen nights, the receipts averaging for each $1,263, his debut $1,820, and his benefit $1,878. His first characters were Richard, Sir Pertinax McSycophant, Shylock and Sir Archy McSarcasm, each played three times; Sir (riles Overreach and Falstaff, both repeated ; Glenalvon, Zan- ga, Macbeth and Cato. It is somewhat remarkable that at a benefit for the poor, given on the 21st of December, his ap- pearance as Shylock only commanded $467. Mr. Cooke was born in Dublin, in 1755 (his father being a subaltern in the regiment of the garrison), and brought to 35 274 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. England in infancy, where he received his education. His first attempt at theatricals was in a play at school, in the character of Horatio, completely triumphing over the Hamlet of the night in the applause of the audience. In 1771 he went to sea, and on his return was put to the printing trade, but resolving to become a player, he made his first public appearance at Brentford, in the spring of 1776, as Dumont, in " Jane Shore," and his first in London at the Hay- market, in 1778, as Castalio, in the " Orphan." He afterward ' played in the provincial theatres, and at Dublin, with great success, and finally met with a brilliant reception on his first appearance at Covent Garden, on the 31st of October, 1800, as Richard III., his own subsequent triflings with his audience alone keeping him from the highest station in the metropolis. As an actor, his genius was of the loftiest kind. Nature and impulse were his only guides. He completely eclipsed all who had been seen before him in this country, and has re- mained unequaled in some characters, except by Kean and Booth. Like the latter great but wretched man, he often dis- appointed his warmest friends by his infatuated devotion to the damning bowl, whose poisoned liquid completely unfitted him for his duties, and ultimately brought him to the grave. It was while under the effects of one of his bacchanalian revels that Cooper persuaded him to engage for America — a step that he probably never would have taken in his sober moments, but which he had no cause to regret. Mr. Cooke's last appearance in New York was in the character of Sir Per- tinax, June 22d, 1812, and his last appearance on- any stage was in Boston, July 31st, as Sir Giles Overreach. He died in New York on the 26th of September, 1812, aged 57 years and five months, and was interred in St. Paul's churchyard, where, in 1821, a handsome monument was erected to his memory by Edmund Kean. In 1794 Mr. Cooke married Miss Alicia Daniels, a favorite vocalist, who soon after deserted him, and the marriage was declared null and void. His second wife was a Miss Lamb, whom he brought to London in 1808 ; and his third, whom he married in New York on the 20th of RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 275 June, 1811, was Mrs. Behn, a daughter of Mr. Bryden, keeper of the Tontine Coffee House. On the 24th of November, Mr. Smalley, who, when a lad, had sung with success in London, made his first appearance in America as Edmund, in the "Purse;" and on the 26th, Mr. McFarland, an actor of considerable merit in " Irishmen," and of still more note as a vocalist, also appeared for the first time in America, as Major G'Flaherty. A capital farce, by Pocock, was brought out on the 5th of December, called " Hit or Miss," and in it Mathews' great part of Dick Cypher was played by Mr. Doige ; Janus Jumble by Mr. Simpson; Jerry Blossom, Mr. Bray; O Daisy, Mr. McFar- land; Adam Sterling, Mr. Doyle: Clara, Miss Ryckman ; Mrs. Honey mouth, Mrs. Hogg; Dolly G Daisy, Mrs. Oldmixon. u A New Way to Pay Old Debts'" was first rendered popular by the appearance of Mr. Cooke as Sir Giles Overreach — its only previous representative, Mr. Hodgkinson, having failed in it in 1801. It was now presented with the following cast : Sir Giles Mr. Cooke Mirall Mr. Doige. Wellborn " Simpson. Tapwell .... " Doyle. Lord Lnvell .... " Stanley. Lady AH worth Mrs. Stanley. Allworth . . Robertson. Margaret Overreach . "' Mason. Justice Creedy " Bray. Froth 11 Hogg. January 1st, 1811. Mr. McFarland enacted Murtoch Delany, and the celebrated pantomimic drama of "La Perouse" was first played thus : Perouse Mr. Roukktson. Chimpanze . . . Mi. Smalley. Conje " Brat Umba Mrs. Mason. Kauko .... " Simpson. Mad. Perouse . . . " Wheatley. Patapaw Doile. Child Miss Delamater. Mr. Knox, from the Edinburgh Theatre, who, in serious i characters, proved to be a capable but very unreliable actor, . made his drtmt in America on the 18th of January, as the t Stranger, and played till the end of the season. On the 21st. the "Poor Gentleman" was announced — Lieiden- I ant Worlhington by Mr. Knox; Frederick by Mr. James Prit- chard, from the Liverpool and Aberdeen Theatres, his first appearance in America. The latter gentleman possessed tal- ents of a high order, and soon worked his way into the favor of the audience, retaining it in the fullest extent, until his death, which occurred on the 31st of January, 1823, at the 276 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. age of 35. He was the leading stock tragedian for many years, and was also quite successful in low comedy, not un- frequently playing such dissimilar characters as Lear and Looney McTwolter, or the Stranger and Solomon Lob on the same evening. Mr. Cooke commenced his second engagement on the 1st of February, as Shylock, his new characters being Pierre, Falstaff (in the "Merry Wives") and Lear, which he played for the benefit of Master Payne, who personated Edgar, on the 1st of March. Mr. Cooke's brutal indulgence of his appetite greatly marred the profits of this engagement, which averaged nightly only about $455, excluding the night when Master Payne played in conjunction, when they reached $827. On the 8th of April, Mr. Cooper made his first appearance this season in the character of Hamlet, and was received with all the honors to which he had been long accustomed. On the 15th, he played Shylock, and critics then first perceived his inferiority to Cooke, who, however, deprived him of but very few parts. On the same evening, the modest announcement of a young gentleman's first appearance as Walter, in the " Children of the Wood," had not prepared the audience for the great treat that was presented to them by the excellent delineation of that character by Thomas Hilson, who, though at this time not so fine an actor as the lamented Harwood, was the first who had appeared since his death who could lay claim to his vacant place, which, by his versatility and general excellence, he was at length deemed fully adequate to fill. He was a member of a respectable English family by the name of Hill, which, on adopting the profession, he converted into Hilson. Accustomed to amateur theatricals in his native land, he had acquired the necessary familiarity with the business of the stage, which rendered him perfectly at ease in his repre- sentations when he came before the public. His fine intel- lectual faculties had received the highest cultivation, his perception was clear and accurate, his countenance manly and intelligent, and his ability to execute equaled the cor- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 277 rectiiess of his conceptions. As a comedian, his humor was of the most bustling and vivacious quality, and in parte of gayety and motion, shifts and stratagems, such as intriguing footmen and lying valets, he was in his element. From Fals- taff to Figaro, in Sir Peter Teazle, Sam Savory, or Somno, Touchstone, Tony Lumpkin or Tyke, he was, equally at home and equally admirable, and his Paul Pry, which he played here over two hundred nights, was the very apex of eccen- tricity. But there was another ground on which he excelled every other comedian known to our stage, and that was in the exhibition of strong, deep feeling, and rough, violent passion; his Rolamo in "Clarj," and Farmer Ash/ield, his Job Thorn- berry, Martin Heywood, and Luke the Laborer, were literally perfection, and formed, perhaps, his most perfect line. He could play Richard III. remarkably well, and Cooper con- sidered his Iago the best on our stage. In the buffo charac- ters of opera, having a fine baritone voice, he also won great applause, and was for years in that line entirely unrivaled. He was an adept in the painter's art, and left many beautiful specimens of his skill, both in design and coloring. Mr. Hilson married Miss Johnson (daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Johnson, formerly of this theatre) in August, 1825, and con- tinued in New York, with the exception of one or two seasons, until the summer of 1831 ; after which he made the usual starring tour with his accomplished wdfe — occasionally reap- pearing for brief periods, and playing for the last time at the Park Theatre. August 1st, 1833. He died very suddenly of apoplexy, at Louisville, Ky., on the 23d of July, 1834, aged about 50. His wife survived his death less than three years. His only daughter was then adopted by the benevolent Mr. Simpson, and afterward married a respectable and wealthy gentleman of New York. On the 24th of April, Miss Gordon appeared, for the first time in America, as Juliet, and subsequently played Amelia Wildenhei/n, Cicely Homespun, &c. She was not long a mem- ber of the company. Mr. Spiller, from the Haymarket, London, made his bow on 278 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. the 26th of April, as Frederick, in " Lovers' Vows." Juvenile tragedy and comedy were the lines at which Mr. Spiller aimed, but his abilities were developed to better advantage in the more eccentric and broadly humorous walks of the drama, in which he finally acquired a very distinguished reputation. His person, though well formed, was rather below the middle size ; his voice was powerful, articulation distinct, and action graceful ; and, witKal, he was a man of fine literary acquire- ments, using his pen with great ease, vigor and elegance. He was a favorite at the Park and Cnatham Garden until his death, which occurred in the year 1827. His widow was attached to the Park many years after, in a very subordinate situation. Another capital comedian was first introduced to the audi- ence on the 29th of April, as Dr. Pang-loss. This was Mr. • Thomas Burke, who had played in Charleston as early as 1802. He fulfilled several engagements in New York, with great applause, and was long a member of the Philadelphia Theatre, ranking as a low comedian with the first artists of the day. His wife, as a vocalist, was for many years highly esteemed for the great sweetness and purity of her voice, albeit it * lacked the cultivation now deemed essential to a finished singer. Mr. Burke died at Baltimore, in the latter part of the year 1824, leaving a son, Mr. Charles Burke, whose celeb- rity as a comedian almost equals that of his father. Mr. Cooke's third engagement commenced on the 6th of May, with Richard III., in which Mr. Cooper played Richmond. The latter afterward ajDpeared as Othello, Beverly, Alexander, Lothario, Jaffier and Hotspur, to Cooke's lago, Stukely, Clytus, Horatio, Pierre and Falslaff. Their united efforts had the effect of drawing full houses, the average nightly receipts being over $1,000. May 27th. The elegant Dwyer opened as Cheveril in the "Deserted Daughter," playing for his benefit, on the 7th of June, Belcour and Young- Wilding-. On the 27th of June, for Mr. Simpson's benefit, Morton's version of Scott's " Lady of the Lake," entitled the " Knight of Snowdoun," was per- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 279 formed, with Robertson as FUz-James, Simpson as Roderick Dhu. and Mrs. Mason Ellen. Mr. Cooke again played for a few nights, and on the 26th of June appeared as Kite/?/, in "Every Man in His Hunior," to a house of S697. The season terminated on the 5th of July, with " George Barnwell " and " La Foret Noire," having proved throughout unusually brilliant and attractive, and being the first on record that continued to the end without taking a recess in mid-winter. CHAPTER XXII. Park Theatre. 1811-12— Olympic Theatre, 1812. Tff C W M E ' S tragedy of " Douglas" commenced the en- •fie^sA tertainments for the season at the Park Theatre, on the evening of September 2d, 1811 ; the character of Glenalvon by Mr. Cooke ; Young Norval, Mr. Cooper ; Old Norval, Mr. Doyle ; Lord Randolph, Mr. Pritchard ; Lady Ran- dolph, Mrs. Stanley ; Anna, Mrs. Wheatley ; concluding with the musical farce of "Lock and Key" — Ralph, Mr. Hilson; Fanny, Mrs. Oldmixon. On the 4th, Mr. Cooke appeared as Richard ; on the 6th as Othello, to Cooper's Iago ; and on the 9th as King John, to Cooper's Falconbridge. The afterpiece on the latter evening was " Fortune's Frolic " — Mr. Hilson play- ing Robin Roughead, and Mr. William J ones making his first appearance in New York as Old Snacks. Mr. Jones, afterward a well-known favorite, both as actor and manager, in the Phil- adelphia and Western Theatres, was at this time about thirty years of age, and had had some little previous practice in the profession. He grew to be a respectable actor in " old men," both serious and comic, and was for several seasons attached to the Park Theatre, where, however, he never gained that lavish applause bestowed on him in other cities. In his latter years he frequently played at the Olympic, Franklin, and New Chatham Theatres — dying in this city, at the residence of Mr. Forrest, Dec. 1st, 1841, aged 60 years, and in very straitened circumstances. On the 11th of September, Mr. Cooke played Clyius, to RRCORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 28 i Cooper's Alexander the Great; on the 13th, Kitely, in "Every Man in his Humor;" on the 16th, Stukely, to Cooper's Beverly, in the " Gamester f and on the 20th, Macduff, to Cooper's Mac- beth. On the 25th, " Othello " was repeated, when Mrs. Darley made her first appearance in two years as Desdemona, retaining every charm of mind and person that rendered her for years so prominent a favorite. Shakspeare's play of " Henry VIII." was produced on the 2d of October, for the first time in ten years, with the following cast, which only needed a Mrs. Johnson, or a Mrs. Melmoth, for the injured Queen, to have rendered it perfect, Mrs. Stan- ley, though a good actress, not being equal to the part : King Henry VIII. . . Mr. Cooke. Cromwell .... Mr. Simpson. Cardinal Wolaey . . '* Cooper. Lord Sands ..." Hilson. Campeius " Wheatley. Lord Chamberlain . " Jones. Capucius " Hai.lam. Jr. Sir Thomas Lovell " Morrf.ll. Cranmer " Knox. Sir H. Guilford . " Hogg. Bishop Gardiner . . " Doyle. Queen Katharine Mrs. Stanley. Buckingham .... " Pritchard. Anue Bullen ..." Darley. Norfolk ..... " McFarland. , Lady Denny ..." Hogg. Suffolk " Carpenter. Patience • . . . " Claude. Surrey " Darley. Cicely " Wheatley. On the loth of October, Mons. Labottiere, the dancer, made his first appearance in six years, in the ballet "L'OfFrande d' Amour." He also produced the pretty little piece, " Les Cinq Savoyards," assisted by Mr. Jones, Mr. and Mrs. Wheatley, the Misses Ryckman, Miss Delamater, &c. The musical farce of the "Bee Hive," so long a favorite, was first played on the 24th of October, and frequently repeated. Mr. Cooke's engagement terminated on the 4th of No- vember, when, for his benefit, he appeared as Sir Pertinax McSycophard. Mr. Mirvan Hallam (the son of Lewis Hallam the second, and grandson of Lewis Hallam, the first, who es- tablished the drama in America in 1752) died on the 8th of November, aged about 40, and the next evening a benefit was given for his wife and children. In December, Mr. Cooke again went through a round of characters, alternating with the regular stock company, who on the 7th appeared in Miss Chambers' drama, entitled " Our- selves," then first performed in America, as follows : Sir J. Rainsford . . . Mr. Hogg. Miss Beaufort . . Mrs. Darley. Sir S. Beaufort " Pritchard. Unknown Lady . . " Stanley. Fitzaubin " Simpson. Mrs. O'Shaunauhan . " Oldmixon. O'Shaunauhan ..." McFarland. Octavia .... " Claddk. 8b 282 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Holman's comedy, the " Gazette Extraordinary," met with deserved success, being performed for the first time on the 27th, with the following cast: Lord de Mallory . . . Mr. Simpson. ( Julia . . . . . Mrs. Darlet. Sir Henry Aspen . . " Darlet. Miss Alford "... " Claude. Doct. Suitall .... " Hilson. Mrs. Leach ..." Oldmixon. January 1st, 1812, "Blue Beard" was thus revived : Aboiuelique .... Mr. Doyle. Fatima .... Mrs. Darlev. Ibrahim " Hogg. Irene " Claude. Selim " Darlet. Beda " Oldmixon. Shacabac " Hilson. In the second act a pas de deux was introduced by Mr. Ver- beeq, and his pupil, Mr. Charruaud, his first appearance on the stage. The latter is the since-renowned teacher of dancing, who to three generations successfully imparted grace of mo- tion and elegance of deportment, and by industry and good management amassed a fortune. On the 13th of January, Mr. Jefferson commenced an en- gagement as Solus, in " Every One has His Fault ;" and on the loth, played Cosey, in " Town and Country," with the Reuben Glenroy of Mr. Wood, his first appearance this season. The former also appeared as Toby Allspice, Tristram Fickle, Nicholas Rue, Francisco, ("Tale of Mystery") Item, Buskin, to Hil- son's Apollo Belvi, in " Killing no Murder," first performed on the 24th, Doctor Last, Stave, (" Shipwreck ") Sampson Rawbold, La Gloire, ("Surrender of Calais") and Captain Bertram. Mr. Wood personated Tangent, Egerton, Count Romaldi, Cheveril, Sir Edward Mortimer, Eustace de St. Pierre and Felix, (in the "Hunter of the Alps") and both fully sustained their previous excellent repute. On the 5th of February, a Mr. Cleary first appeared in New York as Pierre, in " Venice Preserved." On the 7th, he per- sonated Fitzharding, in the " Curfew," and on the 1-lth, Othello, for his benefit. This young gentleman had lately made his debut at Philadelphia, receiving the commendation of critics, and having a handsome face and person, and a fine, melodious voice, it was hoped that he would become an orna- ment to the profession. This anticipation was not realized, as we have no record of any subsequent appearance. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 288 On the 22d of February, Mr. Diirang (whom we suppose to be Charles Durang, well known at Philadelphia) first ap- peared in New York as Harlequin, giving great satisfaction by his grace and dexterity. Kenney's musical farce, called " Oh ! this Love," with Hilson as Tornado, and Mrs. Darley as Lauretta, was first produced on the 26th, but as audiences grew thinner, it was deemed advisable to suspend performances for a time, and the theatre was closed until March 16th, when Mr. Cooke commenced another engagement. Mr. Twaits' first appearance this season was announced on the 1st of April, in the characters of Dr. Pang-loss and Caleb Quotem ; but indisposition prevented the fulfillment of his en- gagement, and the house was again closed for a few nights, re-opening on the 18th, with J. N. Barker's adaptation of Scott's beautiful poem of "Marmion." It was well put on the stage, and from the prejudice then existing against Am- erican authors, announced as the production of an English dramatist, and thus, with its fine cast, commanded an extra- ordinary success : Marmion Mr. Cooper. Host . . . King James .... " Pritohard. Constance . De Wilton ... Simpson. Clara de Clare Earl Surrey .... " Hogg. Lady Heron Fitz Eustace .... " Darley. Janet . . Blunt ." " HIL80N. Abbess . . . Lindsay " Doyle. Prioress Mr. McFarlano. Mrs. Stanley. " Darley. " Oldmixon. " Claud*. " Hogg. " Wheati.ev. On the 20th, a Mrs. Young, who had played in Albany and Montreal, made her debut here as Amanthis, in the " Child of Nature,'' — this lady is not to be confounded with Mrs. Charles Young, noticed in a previous chapter — and has since been widely known as Mrs. Hughes, an actress of great gen- eral ability during her prime of womanhood, and for the last ten years of her theatrical career, a representative of " old women" at Burton's Theatre, where she enjoyed the very highest favor. Her last appearance in this city was in con- junction with Mr. Burton, at Niblo's Garden, in 1859. She is still living (1866) and probably 75 years of age. . On the same evening, Mr. Simpson made a hit, as the Three Singles, in the farce of " Three and Deuce." 284 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. On the 29th, a comedy, called " Lost and Found," by M. K. Masters, was introduced to the New York audience, Mrs. Young playing Emily, and a Mr. Graham (of whom we have no previous record) personating Wilmot. Another version of the " Lady of the Lake " was given on the 8th of May, which, with the following cast, became very popular : Fitz James .... Mr. Pritchard. Lady Margaret . . Mra. Stanley. Roderick Dhu ..." Simpson. Ellen " Young. Earl Douglas . ..." Graham. Blanche of Devon . . " Darley. Malcolm " Carpenter. I On the 13th, an entertainment was given in honor of the memory of George Clinton, formerly Vice-President, and lately deceased, the building being appropriately hung in mourning. The play was "Gustavus Vasa;" a monody was recited by Mr. Simpson, and the beautiful anthem, " Angels ever bright and fair," was sung with exquisite taste by Mrs. Oldmixon. On the 20th, "Wild Oats" and the "Weathercock" intro- duced Mr. Leigh Waring to the American public, in the char- acters of Rover and Tristram Fickle. He subsequently played Earl Osmond, Frank Heartall, Frederick, ("Lovers' Vows") Count de Valmont, &c. As a light comedian, he possessed much merit, and in other lines displayed considerable versa- tility and excellence. He married Miss Caroline Placide, June 23d, 1814, and their daughter, Mrs. James Wallack, Jr., is now one of our most popular actresses. Mr. Waring is last remembered here in 1814, and we presume died soon after. Mr. Yates, who soon became a favorite comedian, made his first bow in America as Sir Willoughby Worrett, in " Man and Wife," and Dr. Lenitive, in the " Prize," on the 25th, meeting with a very cordial reception. He played the general run of low comedy, but his peculiar forte was in " old men." He was last at the Park in 1814. Mr. Bernard appeared on the 27th, as Sir Peter Teazle and Mungo ; and on the 30th, for his benefit, played Lord Ogleby and Ruttekin, in " Robin Hood," but he had passed the zenith of attraction. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 285 Beazeley's farce of the " Boarding House," with Hilson as Simon Spatterdash, and Mrs. Wheatley as Caroline Whealsheaf, was played with much applause, on the 3d of June, and was long a favorite. Mrs. Darley brought out for her benefit, June 8th, a piece by Stephen Clarke, entitled the " Kiss," cast as follows : Count Olmedo . . . Mr. Pritchard. Diego Mr. Hilson. Octavio " Doyle. Orelia ... Mrs. Darley. Leandro " Simpson. Amarantha ..." Cladde. Lopez " Yates. Phujbe .... " Wheatley. Moore's musical comedy, called " M. P., or the Blue Stock- ing," was first acted in New York on the 12th, and though certainly possessing much merit, failed to attract. Mr. Robertson made his first appearance this season, on the 17th, as Abcellino, being warmly greeted by his old admirers, and on the 22d, for the benefit of Mr. Darley, Mr. Cooke made his last appearance on the New York stage, as Sir Pertinax McSycophant. He went hence to Boston, and after fulfilling his engagement, returned here only to die. Dimond's pleasing and effective drama of the * Peasant Boy " was first played on the 26th, for the benefit of Mrs. Old- mixon, and, with the following cast, was very ' successful, re- taining its popularity for many years : DukeAlberti. . . . Mr.' Pritchard. Julian Mrs. Darley. Baron Montaldi . . . " Simpson. Duchess Leonora . . " Stanley. Hypolito " Darley. Olympia .... " Oldmixon. Ludovico " Hilson. Marinetta .... " Claude. On the 29th, for the benefit of Mr. Robertson, who played Alexander the Great, his brother, Mr. W. Robertson, first ap- peared in New York as Cassander. The season terminated, as usual, on the 4th of July, the pieces being " Bunker Hill " and " Tars for Tripoli." The first serious opposition that the theatre had to contend with, was the appearance of a fully organized company of comedians, who took possession of the building then known as the Circus, on the east side of Broadway, corner of White Street, combining their forces under the management of Messrs. Dwyer and McKenzie, with Mons. Breschard, the equestrian director, and thus presenting a mixed entertain- ment that proved very attractive to many. The dramatic corps was composed of Messrs. Dwyer, Tyler, 286 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Collins, Hogg, Foster and Allen, all formerly of the Park, with Messrs. McKenzie, Fisher, Southey, Horton, Drummond, Mrs. Wilmot, Mrs. Bray, Mrs. McKenzie, Mrs. Allfort, Miss Brobston, Miss Ellis, and last, though not least, in either size or merit, the enormous Mrs. Melmoth, who, from an accident occurring to the stage-coach in which she came from Phila- delphia, was prevented by a sprain from appearing for many weeks. The establishment was now called the New Olympic Thea- tre, and cpened in due form on the 20th of May, 1812, with Morton's comedy, " The Way to Get Married," cast as follows : Tangent Mr. Dwyer. McQuery .... Mr. Horton. Capt. Faulkner ..." McKenzie. Ned " Drummond. TobyAlspice. ..." Fisher. Lady Sorrell . . . Mrs. Allfort. Caustic " Socthet. Julia Faulkner . . '* Wilmot. Pashall " Foster. Clementina ..." Brat. Master Whale followed in a pas seul, and Mons. Breschard and others concluded with a display of horsemanship. Mr. McKenzie, a native of Scotland, had been for several years attached to the Philadelphia Theatre, where he had gained a reputation in the performance of second tragedy, and parts requiring dignity and firmness of deportment, for which his person and manner gave him every advantage. His Scotchmen were also deemed far above mediocrity. He be- came intemperate in his habits, and subject to despondency, in a fit of which, it is supposed, he committed suicide by drowning in the Delaware. Mrs. Wilmot has been heretofore noticed as Mrs. Marshall. Her present husband was a comedian who played here in 1801. Mr. Palmer Fisher (well known in the provincial theatres of England) was a most useful and versatile actor, playing every thing, high or low, tragic or comic, young or old, being decently respectable in all, but doing nothing so well as in giving to the dramatic world a danghter, who has reflected the highest credit on herself and her profession — we allude to Miss Alexina Fisher, now Mrs. Baker — for many years the bright, particular star of the Philadelphia stage. Mr. Fisher was one of the earliest pioneers of the drama in the West — was again in New York the latter years of his life, and RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 287 died at Boston in 1827, leaving' a widow, who has since, as Mrs. Thayer, gained a reputation as a comic actress, in cham- bermaids and old women, second to none in the country. Mr. Horton played the ordinary run of old men, was long a resident of Philadelphia, and is last remembered in New York in 1830. Mr. Southey was the low comedian of the company, and not deficient in merit. Miss Brobston had youth, beauty, and a fine voice to recom- mend her, but lacked ease, grace and every thing like finish in her style of acting. She made her first appearance on the loth of May, as Mrs. Mortimer, in " Laugh when You Can.'' Mr. Drummond was a mere nobody, but afterward acquired some reputation as a singer and dancer, and more notoriety as t he first husband of Mrs. Geo. Barrett. Two young Whales were attached to the company as dan- cers, one of whom enjoyed the soubriquet of the "Youthful Vestris," and has since been well known as a teacher of danc- ing in this city. Mrs. McKenzie made her first appearance in New York on the 80th, as Amanthis, in the " Child of Nature." . On the 3d of August, for the benefit of the widow and six children of Mons! Placide, lately deceased, Mr. and Mrs. Iwaits made their first appearance as Grumio and Catharine, in " Taming of the Shrew." August 12th, Mrs. Melmoth took her benefit, making her first appearance since her severe accident, as Fiemmetta, in the "Tale of Mystery/' This was probably her last engagement in New York. "Timour the Tartar," a grand equestrian drama, by M. Lewis, was brought out for the first time on the 12th of Sep- tember, Mr. Robertson playing Timour, and Mrs. T waits Zo- rilda, and was for a time very attractive. We have no record of the fact, but are under the impression that the Olympic entertainments closed soon after the commencement of the campaign at the Park Theatre. CHAPTER XXIII. M Tark Theatre, 1812-13 ; 1813-14— Commonwealth. 1813— Anthony Street Theatre. 1814. N the 7th of September, 1812, the regular dramatic season commenced at the Park Theatre, with Dun- lap's drama of " Abfellino " and the farce of " Lock and Key" — the principal performers being welcomed back with enthusiasm. On the 9th, a sketch introducing various patriotic songs, and entitled u Yankee Chronology," was produced with great suc- cess, and repeated times without number. The country being then engaged in war with Great Britain, the allusions to various American victories, with which the piece was inter- spersed, was sure to bring out the most stunning demonstra- tions of applause. On the 16th, Mr. Warren made his first appearance here in fifteen years, in his favorite character of Falstaff. He subse- quently played Sir Anthony Absolute, Old Dornton, Sir Peter Teazle, Miller of Mansfield, Old Dowdle and Major Sturgeon, with that great excellence which for years rendered him the sole performer in that line on the Philadelphia stage. In the "Road to Ruin," played on the 21st of September, Mr. Francis made his first appearance in ten years, as Old Sulky, and is not remembered as ever appearing here again. On the 28th of September, the debut of a distinguished British actor attracted a brilliant audience to witness his de- lineation of Hamlet Mr. Joseph George Holman, the gentle- man alluded to, was the son of an adjutant in the British RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 289 army, descended from a most respectable family, and born in 1764. Having imbibed a taste for theatricals while at Soho School, and with the advantage of a fine classical education at Oxford, he made his first public appearance on the 26th of October, 1784, at Covent Garden Theatre, in the character of Romeo. " The strong marks of genius, the traces of a culti- vated mind, the accuracy of conception, the energy, fervor and sensibility which distinguished his performance excited surprise as well as pleasure in the audience, and the flat- tering applause he received confirmed him irrevocably an actor." He played three successive seasons with increasing approbation, and then visited Dublin, Edinburgh, &c, return- ing again to Covent Garden, where he continued till 1800. Early in the year 1798, Mr. Holman married Jane, daughter of the Hon. and Rev. Frederick Hamilton, son of Lord Archi- bald Hamilton, and grandson of the Duke of Hamilton — this lady died June 11th, 1810. Induced by the great success of Cooke, Mr. Holman deter- mined on visiting this country with his daughter, a young, elegant and accomplished girl, who had appeared with success at the Haymarket, London, and who, on the 3d of October, made her first appearance here as Lady Townly, to her father's Lord Townly, a character in which he stood unri- valed on the London stage. The triumph of both was com- plete, and the lady, to the day of her death, was allowed to have eclipsed all competition in the part. With every grace of mind and person, she for many years ranked as the first actress in America in high comedy, and her merit in tragedy was nearly as great, so that her services in 1814 commanded two hundred dollars a night, being the first actress who ever received that salary in America. About the year 1815, she married Charles Gilfert, an eminent musician, and the first manager of the Bowery Theatre, whose connection with that establishment ended in his pecuniary ruin and untimely death, in the summer of 1829. His widow's spirit sunk under her misfortunes, and she abandoned the stage to seek a livelihood in the more retired vocation of a school-teacher, 37 290 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. but without success, and her necessities again forced her into the profession. In July, 1831, she played a few nights at the Park, making her last appearance in New York, on the 26th of that month, as Lady Constance, in "King John." She afterward visited Philadelphia, where she died in poverty. Mr. Holman's career in America, as an actor, was always triumphant, but his attempts at management at Charleston, Philadelphia, &c, resulted unfortunately. He died of apo- plexy, at Rockaway, Long Island, August 24th, 1817, aged 53 years, having married, two days before, the beautiful Miss Lat- timer, whom he had engaged as the principal vocalist for the Charleston Theatre. This lady, afterward Mrs. C. W. Sand- ford, will be remembered, by all play-goers, as one of the most charming singers ever heard on our stage. Mr. Holman always retained the character of a gentleman, and, besides his distinction as an actor, acquired great credit from his literary efforts. Of his dramatic pieces, several enjoyed popularity for a long time, including "Abroad and at Home," "Red Cross Knights," "Votary of Wealth," "What a Blunder," "Gazette Extraordinary," &c. Mr. Holman's characters during his first engagement, be- sides those before mentioned, were Rolla, Duke Aranza, Earl of Essex, Don Felix, Alexander, Benedict, Othello, Joseph Sur- face, Petruchio, Lothario and Edgar. His daughter's were, Juliana, Countess of Rutland, Violante, Statira, Lady Contest, Beatrice, Roxalana, Desdemona, Lady Teazle, Catharine, Ca- lista and Cordelia. Reynolds' musical farce, called the "Lake of Lausanne, or Out of Place," was produced on the 9th of October with great success, and frequently repeated with the following cast : Cavaliero Pomposo, Mr. Yates; Young Valtelline, Simpson; Timothy, Hilson ; Lauretta, Mrs. Darley. On the 11th of November, a comedy called the " Sons of Erin" met with considerable favor, Mr. Yates playing the part of Oddley ; Simpson, Fitzaubin; McFarland, Patrick; Mrs. Darley, Lady Anne Lovell ; and Mrs. Oldmixon, Miss Ruth Rivers. The same evening Mr. Robertson's first appearance RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 291 for the season was announced in the character of Storm, in " Ella Rosenberg." A whimsical farce, called "Try Again," was also success- fully brought out on the 13th, thus cast: Duchesne, Mr. Jones ; Sidney, Yates ; La Fourbe, Hilson ; Rosalie, Mrs. Darley ; Lauretta, Mrs. Claude. The popular young dancers, the Masters Whale, made their first appearance here on the 18th ; and on the 20th, the grand melo-drama of " Timour the Tartar" was played for the first time here : Timour Mr. Simpson, i Prince Agib . Miss Jones. Oglou " Yates. Zorilda Mrs. Stanlit. Kerim " Darlet. Selima ..... " Claude. Sanballet .... " Pritchard. Liska " Darlet. In December, Mr. Cooper went through a round of charac- ters with his usual success, and on the 11th of the month, a comedy, called "Right and Wrong," was produced: Neville, Mr. Simpson ; Farmer Oakham, Yates ; Dick Oakham, Hilson ; Cecelia Harcourt, Mrs. Darley. On the 14th, the farce of "How to Die for Love" was played for the first time, with the following cast : Baron Mr. Jones. Trick Mr. Yatis. Thalwick " Simpson. Trap " Hilson. Blumenfelt .... " Pritchard. Charlotte . Mrs. Darlet. The " Sleep-Walker' was played on the 18th of January. 1813, and with Hilson's great excellence as Somno, remained in high favor for many years. It was thus performed : Sir P. Maguire . . . Mr. Pritchard. Sophia ...... Mrs. Claude. Squire Rattlepate . . " Carpender. Mrs. Decorum . . " Hoqq. Alibi " Yates. Susan ...... Miss Ellis. Somno " Hilson. An intermission of a month followed, during which poor Hogg paid the debt of nature, and on the 22d of February, the entertainments recommenced with the comedy of " Secrets Worth Knowing a patriotic sketch called " America, Com- merce and Freedom," and the " Highland Reel." On the 24th, Reynolds* drama of the " Renegade " was first played in America, with the following cast : Holey Muloch . . . Mr. Darley. Alvarez Benducar '• Carpender. Antonio Dorax . . . . 41 Simpson. Pedro Mufti " Horton. Jacques Dorvan " McFarland. Olivia . Sebastian .... " Pritchard. Almeyda Mr. Allen. M Hilson. " Yatis. " Jones. Mrs. Claude. " Dablit. It was not very successful. 292 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. March 1st, Mr. Green, after an absence of four years, made his first appearance as Old Dornton, in the " Road to Ruin." April 7th, for the first time in America, Dimond's Eastern melo-dramatic romance, called the " JEthiop, or the Child of the Desert." The J2thiop ... Mr. Cooper. Orasmyn .... Mrs. Darlet. Almanzar .... " Green. Cephania .... " Stanley. Giafar " Simpson. Grimnigra ... " Oldmixon. Ben Moussaff .... " Yates. Grumnilda ..." Hogg. Mustapha " Jones. Zoe " Claude. Alexis " Hilson. j Immyne .... Miss Dellingeb. To conclude with the " Budget of Blunders." Growley .... Mr. Yates. i Sophia .... Mrs. Claude. Dr. Smugface . . . " Hilson. Deborah ... " Oldmixon. Dr. Dablancoeur . . " Darley. Bridget *' Hogg. Captain Belgrave " Pritchard. Both were successful, and are still received with applause. On the 5th of May, Mr. and Miss Holman commenced their second engagement as Lord and Lady Townly ; their new characters were Jacques and Rosalind ; Drooply and Caroline (" Votary of Wealth ") ; Mrs. Beverly ; Macbeth and Lady Mac- beth ; Juliet ; Posthumus and Imogen ; and Julia, in the " Ga- zette Extraordinary." The theatre closed on the 18th of June, but re-opened after a few evenings with " He Would be a Soldier" and the " Forty Thieves." On Monday, July 5th, the National Anniversary was cele- brated with Dunlap's untiring " Glory of Columbia," in which Mr. Green personated General Washington ; Mr. Simpson, Andre; Mr. Hilson, David Williams ; Mrs. Stanley, Mrs. Bland; and Mrs. Claude, Honor a. A monody on the death of Cap- tain Lawrence was recited by Mr. Cooper, followed by a sketch called " Freemen in Arms." The " Students of Salamanca," a comedy by R. Jameson, was produced on the 12th, cast as follows : Don Christoval, Mr. Simpson; Don Daphnis, Mr. Hilson; Aminta, Mrs. Darley; Angelica, Mrs. Stanley ; Pertilla, Mrs. Claude. The season terminated shortly after. The entertainments, on the opening night, Sept. 13th, 1813, presented nothing requiring critical attention, the plays being the "Students of Salamanca" and the "Forty Thieves." RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 293 On the 20th, Mr. Cooper commenced a series of his popular characters. It was now, however, that the establishment was to meet with a more powerful opposition than it had ever previously encountered. The Broadway Circus, corner of Broadway and White street, was re- opened with the title of the Common- wealth Theatre, the company being formed on the sharing system, under the general direction of Messrs. Twaits, Gilfert and Holland. Mr. Twaits, the acting manager, was efficient and thorough in his department ; Mr. Holland, the scene-painter, we have before noticed as a highly distinguished artist; and Mr. Charles Gilfert's eminence as a musician and composer, will be acknowledged by all who remember him in the zenith of his popularity. German by descent, and the son of an old music-teacher, long resident in the city, he had been from boyhood in the orchestra of the Park Theatre, where he acquired a thorough mastery of the violin, and his taste and skill rendered him now a most efficient occupant of the lead- er's chair in the new Theatre. For many years during Mr. Gilfert's residence in New York, no musical entertainment was thought complete without his name gracing the programme. About 1815, he married Miss Holman, whose intellectual tastes and personal refinement were said to have been far superior to his own. Mr. Gilfert was the first lessee of the Bowery Theatre, which he opened in 1826, with flattering prospects of success ; but ruin over- took him, and, bankrupt in fortune and worn out with dis- appointments, he expired on the 30th of July, 1829, aged about 50. The other members of the company were Messrs. Holman, Dwyer, Waring, Burke, Robertson, Cauldfield, Fisher, Clark, Anderson, Jacobs, Hathwell, Ringwood, Fennel, Jr., Miss Hol- man, and Mesdames Twaits, Burke, Clark, Goldson, Horton, Bates, &c, most of whom had already been introduced to the New York public. The most important new-comer was, un- doubtedly, Mrs. Cornelia Frances Burke. This lady, the wife 294 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. ■ of Thomas Burke, before mentioned, was born in New York in 1796, and had already appeared here in an occasional concert. Possessing a fair share of ability as a comic actress, with a pleasing face and person and an exquisite voice, which, in power, purity, and sweetness, was unapproached by any con- temporary, she soon eclipsed all rivalry in vocalism, and, till the more cultivated style of Italy was introduced, was con- sidered the model of all excellence. She was attached to the Park for two or three seasons, and afterward removed to Phil- adelphia, where she became an equally distinguished favorite. After Mr. Burke's death she contracted a second marriage, July 27th, 1826, with Joseph Jefferson, Jr., son of the eminent comedian of that name, whom she also survived. In the spring of 1837 she re-appeared here after an absence of ten years, during which, time had made such sad havoc with her voice and appearance, that few of her warmest admirers could recognize in her the idol of their earlier days. She died at Philadelphia in 1850, of a lingering consumption, leaving two sons, Mr. Charles Burke and Mr. Joseph Jefferson, third, the former of whom acquired great repute as a low comedian during his brief career, and the latter is now a special favorite throughout the world. Mrs. Goldson was also a new and valuable acquisition to the dramatic corps of New York. She soon after trans- ferred herself to the Park, where she remained until 1819 — an excellent actress in heavy tragedy, and useful in every other line. She became Mrs. Groshon in 1816, by which name she was afterward well known in the theatres of the West. Mrs. Horton divided the " old ladies" with Mrs. Clark, and Mrs. Bates was efficient in " general utility." Mr. Cauldfield, from England, had first appeared in America, at Boston, in 1806. He was an actor of considerable ability, and very useful in various departments. He died at Cincin- nati, in April, 1815, from intemperance. Mr. and Mrs. Clark we have before noticed — the lady, for- merly Mrs. G. Marshall, and originally Miss Harding — had CORNELIA JEKFKRSON (.MOTHER OK JOSEPH JKKKKRSON). RECORDS OF THK NEW YORK STAGE. 295 greatly improved in skill, and was now an excellent actress of chambermaids and old women. Mr. Jacobs was the vocalist of the company. Mr. Fennell, Jr., did not betray the slightest spark of his father's talent, being, in fact, a mere cypher, and Mr. Hathwell was after- ward well known at Philadelphia as a performer of old men. The season commenced here on the first of November, with the comedy of the " Provoked Husband," Mr. Holman and daughter personating Lord and Lady Townly. The after- piece was the " Padlock," in which Mrs. Burke made her courtesy as Leonora. After going through with a round of favorite characters, Miss Holman's benefit was announced on the 29th, with Mr. Bernard's first appearance here as Sir Peter Teazle. Being now attached to the company, Bernard played Sir Anthony Absolute, Major O Flaherty, Touchstone, Lingo, &c, and for his benefit, December 9th, presented a bill which we transcribe in full, viz. : Know Your Own Mind ; Dashwould . . Mr. Bernard. Charles .... Mr. Fisher. Millamour .... " Holman. Lady Bell .... Miss Holman. Sir John Millaruour 1 C acldfikld. Lady Jane. . . . Mrs. Goldson. Sir Harry Lovewit " Burkb. Miss Neville ..." Twaits. Bygrove " ' Clark. Mrs. Bromley . . " Clabk. Capt. Bygrove ..." Andebson. Madame Larouge M Bcrki. Malvil " Robertson. Song— " Winds gently tell my lovo" Mrs. Burke. Imitations of Kemble, King, Suett, kc Mr. Cauldfiild. and, The Lying Valet. Sharp .... Mr. Bernard. I Melissa .... Mrs. Bcbkb. Gayless .... " Andebson. Mrs Trippet ..." Hobton. Beau Trippet ..." Hathwell. I Kitty Pry .... " Clabk. Mrs. Twaits appeared frequently, and on the 10th December, for Mr. Robertson's benefit, was announced for, and we believe played, the character of Adelgitha, in the tragedy of that name, little dreaming that she was in reality soon to meet the doom she had so often and faithfully counterfeited — yet death was near at hand, and, after a short and severe struggle, terminated her labors and her existence, on the 13th of December, at the early age of 26. Complete and admirable in every department as the Com- monwealth company was, its expenses probably exceeded its 296 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. receipts, for the season closed on the 10th of January, 1814, with a benefit for Mr. Twaits. To return to the Park. The only performance of Wycherly's comedy of the " Plaindealer," that we have found recorded, occurred on the 5th of November, 1813, when Cooper played Captain Manly; Simpson, Lord Plausible; Hilson, Novel; and Mrs. Darley, Fidelia. On the 15th was introduced with great splendor Reynolds' translation of the " Virgin of the Sun," with the following fine cast : Rolla Mr. Cooper. Ataliba " Jones. Cualpo " Deummond. Xaria " Horton. Telasco " Yates. Alonzo " Simpson. Diego " Hilson. Valasques .... " Carpender. Zamor . Tupac . . . High Priestess Cora . . . Amazilla . . Idali . . . Runa . . . Zilla . . . Mr. Darley. " Bancker. Mrs. Stanley. " Darley. Miss Dellinoeb. Mrs. Claude. " Wheatley. " Oldmixon. It had a very successful run. In the above cast will be noticed the name of Bancker, be- longing to a young man who joined the company this season, and soon became an acceptable representative of walking gentlemen, and small, light comic parts — retaining his situa- tion here till 1827. He married a sister of Mrs. E. Simpson. On the 1st of December, Gen. Harrison and staff attended, to witness Mr. Cooper's able representation of Macbeth. A Mr. Dunbar, announced simply as a young gentleman, made his debut on the 9th as Young Norval, with sufficient success to warrant his subsequent appearance as Hamlet, Fred- erick ("Lovers' Vows"), Octavian, &c. The same evening, Kenney's musical farce of " Turn Out " was played for the second time in America, with the annexed cast: Somerville .... Mr. Darley. I Forage Mr. Pritcharb. Dr. Truckle .... " Jones. Mrs. Ramsay . . . Mrs. Hogg. Restive " Yates. Marian Ramsay . . " Darley. Gregory Redtail ... " Hilson Peggy " Claude. On the 13th, Cooper brought out Coleridge's fine tragedy entitled " Remorse," in which he gave a masterly delineation of Don Ordonio, supported by Simpson as Don Alban, Mrs. Darley as Teresa, and Mrs. Stanley as Alhadra, but failed to render it attractive. RECORDS OF THK NKW YORK STAGK. 297 On Christmas night, Mrs. Goldson, late of the Common- wealth, made her first appearanc'e here as Millwood. Morton's excellent comedy of " Education : ' was first pre- sented to the New York public on the 13th of January, 1814. and frequently repeated with the following cast: Sir Guy Staunch . . Mr. Yates. Mrs. Templeton . . Mrs. Stanlev. Templeton .... " Pritchard. KUen " Claude. Vincent " Simpson. Rosina " Goldson. Suckling . ..." Hilson. The following evening witnessed the first appearance in New York of that excellent and eminent actor, John Duff, for several years the pride and boast of the Boston and Phil- adelphia theatres. His opening characters were Octavian and the Three Singles, followed by Gossamer and Count Romaldi, ("A Tale of Mystery v ) Fitzhar ding, ("Cur "few ■") and Jeremy Diddler, Shylock, Sylvester Daggerwood and Looney McTwol- ter, Duke Aranza, Penruddock and Richard III. ; the latter played so closely after the manner of Cooke, as to require the keenest scrutiny to detect a variation. Mr. Duff was by birth an Irishman, and had held a reputa- ble position on the Dublin stage, which he left to fulfill an engagement at the Boston Theatre, where, in 1810, he made his first appearance in America, in the character of Gossamer. He afterward removed to Philadelphia, where he became an immense favorite as a member of the stock company, attract- ing far better houses than many who claimed the highest honors of starring ; and it is recorded, that at regular prices, one of his benefits amounted to a greater sum than was ever received there on a similar occasion by Cooke, Kean or Mathews. Hi^ versatility was wonderful, and his merit so great that we can think of no living general actor that can be compared with him ; New York, however, saw him but seldom in his palmiest days, his regular engagements at Bos- ton and Philadelphia affording him constant and remunera- tive employment for many years. In 1823, when he first in- troduced Mrs. Dull' to the New York public, the dazzling ' brilliancy of her acting scarcely allowed a thought of him. and soon after, his efforts were almost paralyzed by continued and violent attacks of gout and rheumatism, although he 3b 298 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. then frequently appeared at the Old Chatham, Bowery and Lafayette Theatres, where he is last remembered about the year 1827. He was a man of the kindliest feelings, devoted to his wife and family, and his worst fault is said to have been the besetting sin of actors, an over-fondness for the dinner- table and its accompaniments. He died at Philadel- phia, April, 1831. On the 6th of February, the Theatre closed with the per- formance of " Education," re-opening with the same play on the 21st of the same month. On the 28th, Mr. Spiller made his first appearance this season as Dr. Pangloss, and on the 2d of March, produced a farce called "Eight to One," in which he personated Peter Puzzle, assuming seven other characters, with great applause. Bray's long-popular farce of the " Toothache" was first played on the 21st of March, as follows : the Prince, by Mr. Carpender ; Dr. Petitgueue, Spiller ; Barogo, Hilson ; Susan, Mrs. Claude. Mr. and Mrs. Clark, late of the Commonwealth, were now added to the company, making their first appearance in the " Castle Spectre," as Hassan and Alice, on the 28th ; and their little daughter appeared, for the first time, as one of the " Children in the Wood," on the evening of April 1st. The latter became a very pleasing and popular actress on reaching womanhood, well known at Boston, &c. She retired from the profession on her marriage with Mr. Klupfer, of that city, July 5th, 1824. The " Heir at Law " and the " Spoiled Child " were played on the 4th of April, with Mr. Burke as Zekiel Homespun and Old Pickle, his first regular engagement here ; and Mrs. Burke as Cicely Homespun and Little Pickle, her first appearance on the Park boards. Their success was complete, and they con- tinued in high favor until they foolishly threw up their en- gagements in 1816. The "Spanish Barber" was revived, to give Mrs. Burke an opportunity of singing as Rosina. She also appeared as Virginia, Margarelta, Maria, (in "Of Age To-morrow") Rosina, in, the rustic opera of that name, &c. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 299 On the 9th of May, Miss Holman commenced an engage- ment as Lady Teazle, and took her benefit on the 23d, when she appeared as Portia, to the Shylock of Mr. Cooper. The farce of " Music Mad " was first played here on the 20th, and gave Mr. Yates as Sir Christopher Crotchet, and Mr. Hilson as Matthew Method, an admirable opportunity of displaying their great comic abilities. On the 25th, Dibdin's opera of the "Cabinet" was first performed — Darley, as Prince Orlando; Yates, as Peter; Hilson, as Whimsiculo; Mrs. Burke, as Flo- retta ; and Mrs. Claude, as Const antia ; rendering their parts with peculiar force and effect. Mons. Villalave, famous in his art, also appeared about this time in feats of rope-danc- ing, &c. June 6th, Mrs. Darley took her benefit, appearing as Juliana, in the " Honeymoon," and presenting as an afterpiece, for the first time, the " Widow's Vow," with the cast annexed : Marquis Mr. Simpson. ■ Countess .... Mrs. Claude. Don Antonio .... " Vates. Isabella 14 Stanley. Carlos " Drummond. Flora " Burke. Jerome " Hilson. For Mr. Simpson's benefit, June loth, Mr. Duff came on to play Richard III., in which his close imitation of Cooke rendered him very attractive. Mr. Dunbar, the young gentleman who made his debut as Norval, played Florian, in the " Foundling of the Forest," on the 24th, for his benefit. His name, we believe, never ap- peared after this season, which terminated as usual on the 4th of July. The bill for that occasion included Pocock's melo-drama, the " Miller and his Men," for the first time in America, thus cast : Grindoff Mr. Simpson. Carl Mr. Hilson. Count " Carpender. Ravina ..... Mrs. Goldso. Lothair " Pritchard. Claudine .... " Clauden. A Hornpipe by Mr. Drummond. and Valentine and Orson. Valentine Mr. Pritchard. Hugo Mr. Hilson. Orson " Simpson. Eglantine .... Mrs. Goldson. King ?epin .... " Clark. Floramunda . . . Miss Bellinger. Agremont " Darley. Agatha Mrs. Burke. An extra night for the benefit of Mr. Yates was announced, on the 6th, with a grand concert and olio, by the principal members of the company, aided by Messrs. Entwistle, Southey, Spiller, Robertson, &c. 300 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. After the close of the Commonwealth performances at the Broadway Circus, and notwithstanding the death of Mrs. Twaits, and secession of Mr. and Mrs. Burke, Mr. and Mrs. Clark, Mrs. Goldson and Mr. Cauldfield, its projectors did not despair of establishing a second theatre in New York, and, obtaining possession of the building in Anthony Street, (now Worth Street) near Broadway, situated on the ground where Christ Church afterward stood, it was soon tastefully decorated by the skillful hand of Mr. Holland, who, in con- junction with Mr. Twaits, opened it in form on the 18th of April, 1814. Dwyer, Waring, Bobertson, Fisher, Hathwell and Jacobs remained of the old company; and among the additions were Mrs. Beaumont, a fine-looking woman and an able actress ; the stately Mrs. Barrett, her first appearance in six years, who now, for the first time in New York, took charge of the " old ladies ;" the versatile widow Placide and family ; Miss Brobston, Mrs. Jacobs, &c. The entertainments for the night were, the "Midnight Hour," the "Weathercock," and " Three Weeks after Marriage." The 20th of April witnessed the first appearance of little Eliza Placide, as Charles, in " Laugh When You Can." Ten years after, she was a favorite singing actress at the Park Theatre, though she never displayed the eminent talents that belonged to other members of her family. In 1826, she mar- ried a Mr. Asbury, and left the stage ; re-appearing, however, for a few weeks at the Park in the summer of 1836, her last appearance in New York. She has since played in the West- ern theatres, as Mrs. Mann, and is the mother of the young lady known to New York play-goers as Miss Alice Placide. The same evening Miss Caroline Placide, (whom we have be- fore alluded to) made her debut in an adult character as Emily, instantly establishing herself a favorite with the public, whose good opinion she has retained for fifty years. Shortly after, another sister, Miss Jane Placide, was intro- duced as a danseuse, and though but little known afterward in New York, attained high distinction as a tragic actress in the Southern and Western , theatres. Born in 1804, she went HENRY I'LACIUK. RECORDS OF THK NKW YORK STAGE. 301 through, from infancy, with the usual round of youthful char- acters, till her sixteenth year, when, at Norfolk, Va., in 1820, she appeared with success as Volante, in the "Honeymoon." In 1827, she played a short engagement at the Chatham Gar- den Theatre, and afterward went South, studiously preparing herself for the highest walks of her profession. She soon attained the position at which she aimed, and was acknowl- edged in that region as the best native tragedienne ever seen there. She died at New Orleans, in the height of her popu- larity, and while still improving as an actress, May 16th, 1835. At this Theatre also, New York first saw the early efforts of our peerless comedian, Henry Placide, so long the pride of our metropolis. From small beginnings and the humblest efforts, he appears never for a moment to have faltered in his purpose or swerved from the direct road to prosperity and distinction, critically analyzing the smallest part intrusted to his care, and throwing around it a finish, an elegance and a completeness rarely attempted by a less careful and discrim- inating actor. The result of such a course was certain. He long since distanced every competitor in his peculiar line ; and though for the last few years he has been seen here but in a small fraction of his list of parts, and other favorites have -sprung up during his periods of absence, there is not at this day in the Union a general comedian who can be com- pared with him; and in the lowest and broadest line of comedy, he is the only one who ever trod the American stage perfectly irresistible in humor, and yet entirely free from grimace and buffoonery. Mr. Placide was born in the year 1799, and at the time of which we treat was, of course, a mere lad, attracting but little notice. On his first appearance at the Park Theatre, September 2d, 1823, in the character of Zekiel Homespun, he at once gained a position in the favor of the audience that his twenty years' service there never impaired. Placed in a subordinate position to Hilson and Barnes, his great fidelity to nature, though in less conspicuous parts, soon raised him to a level with them, forming a comic trio that has never 302 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. been equaled in a stock company at any other period in the history of the New York Stage. But, admirable as were the other two gentlemen, it finally became apparent that to Mr. Placide was the attention of the audience principally given, and that he was fully capable of sustaining any character in which they appeared ; and first one, and then the other, gave up their situations, leaving him entire freedom of choice in his selection of parts, embracing as wide a range as ever comedian chose to revel in. From clowns of the broadest Yorkshire dialect to the most mincing Cockney cit, in the garrulous Frenchman and the high-bred English gentleman, the simplest rustic, or the keenest London footman, in the clumsy hobbledehoy, or the pathetic childishness of extreme old age, he was equally at home and equally superior. Mr. Hilson only excepted, he was by far the best buffo vocalist ever heard in English opera, as his Doctor Bartolo, Baron Pompolino, Lord Allcash, Doctor Dulcamara, Antonio, Leporello, Midas, &c, abundantly testify. In the "Rivals," his merit was quite as conspicuous in David, as it was in Bob Acres or Sir Anthony Absolute ; and in the " School for Scandal," whether he played Sir Benjamin Backbite, Crabtree, or Sir Peter Teazle, no blemish could be found either in his conception or delineation. He has been the original hero of many parts that no subsequent performer ever made a hit in — none else having been acknowledged as the representative of Sir Harcourt Courtly, Sir William Fond- love, or Colonel Damas. Who, like him, as Fathom, ever di- vided the applauses of an audience with Fanny Kemble? Or drew away attention from Power's Pat Rooney, through the simplicity of little Tom Dobbs? Or excelled the Irish gentleman's McShane and (JDoherty by the perfection of his Aspen and Frederick the Second ? Or whose Doctor Caius but his, ever interfered with the impressions of a Falstaff? Who has ever approached him as Lord Ogleby, or Grandfather Whitehead, or Charles the Twelfth, or Jean Jacques Frisacque, or Frank Oatland, or Farmer Ashfield, or in a hundred other parts? Many farces that were greatly applauded at the Park, RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 303 night after night, when Placide was the hero, have been, since his comparative retirement, laid aside, or if revived by other hands, have failed to be attractive. Witness " Sons and Sys- tems," "Tom Noddy's Secret," "Uncle John," " Village Doctor," (in which his Pierre Boncceur was so capital) " Mr. and Mrs. Pringle," " Advice Gratis," " Water Party," and many, many others. In fact, no other actor has ever so completely exemplified our idea of what a genuine comedian ought to be. After gaining the highest honors that could be bestowed on him in New York, and establishing his claim to be considered the most chaste and finished of American actors, he has, for the last twenty years, as it suited his pleasure or convenience, confined himself to short engagements in this and other prin- cipal cities of the Union giving, as yet, but little evidence of decay, either mental or physical — and far distant be the day when we shall be called on to part with one of whom every American play-goer may be so justly proud. To return to the Anthony Street entertainments. On the 25th of April, 1814, Mrs. Beaumont, from Covent Garden, and more lately from the Philadelphia Theatre, where she had occasionally played during the last three years, made her first appearance in New York as Euphrasia and Roxalana, the former of which she played finely, and with much applause. Her Isabella, Madame Clermont, Jane Shore, &c, were justly considered very superior performances, but in comedy she was not so successful. This lady was the wife of De Jersey Beaumont, and afterward the leading actress in a Virginia circuit of which he was manager. On the 9th of May, Mr. W. Robertson made his first ap- pearance here as Michael Ducas, to the Adelgitha of Mrs. Beaumont. On the 13th, Mr. Entwistle, from the Boston Theatre, made his first appearance as Tyke, in the " School of Reform," and Crack, in the " Turnpike Gate." He was afterward at Phil- adelphia, and in 1816 married Mrs. Mason, the justly popu- lar favorite at the Park. Intemperance finally marred his 304 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE, personations, and he ultimately died at New Orleans a suicide. On the 20th, Mrs. Beaumont took her benefit, when, for the first time, she presented a drama called " A Sicilian Romance, or the Castle of Otranto," with the following cast : Lindor Mr. Robertson. The Lady .... Mrs. Beaumont. Marquis Otranto. . . " W.Robertson. Aliuda Miss Placide. Martin " Waring. Clara Mrs. Placide. Gherlin " Entwistle. I She also recited Collins' famous " Ode on the Passions," and , the entertainment concluded with Gen. Burgoyne's once highly popular comedy called the " Maid of the Oaks :" Old Grovely .... Mr. Fisher. Hurry .... Mr. Entwistle Sir H. Grovely ..." Waring. Lady Bab Lardoon Mrs. Beaumont. Dupely " W.Robertson, i Maria Miss Placide. Mr. Southey was now added to the company, making his first appearance on the 25th as Sir Anthony Absolute and Jerry Sneak ; and on the 1st of June, Mr. and Miss Holman opened an engagement as Lord and Lady Townly. Mr. Beaumont first appeared in New York as Rolla, June 15th. He was far inferior as a performer to his accomplished lady, but was handsome and showy in person. For Mr. Twaits' benefit on the 22d, the Holmans appeared in " Know Your Own Mind ;" Mrs. Beaumont gave a recita- tion ; and the beneficiary, being too ill to attempt a speaking part, appeared as Francisco, the dumb boy in the " Tale of Mystery." This was his last appearance on the stage; he died on the 22d of August, just two months after, deeply de- plored by all lovers of comedy. On the 23d of June, the ceremony of marriage between Leigh Waring and Caroline Placide, was performed by the Rev. Benjamin Onderdonk, afterward Bishop of the Diocese. On the 29th, for the benefit of Mr. and Mrs. Beaumont, Mrs. Cowley's celebrated comedy, entitled, " Which is the Man ?" was revived, with Waring as Lord Sparkle ; Southey as Fitz- herbert ; Entwistle as Bobby Pendragon; Mrs. Beaumont as Lady Bell Bloomer ; and Miss Cordell's first appearance in New York as Sophy Pendragon. The Anthony-street Theatre closed after the 4th of July, [ and the company transferred themselves to the Broadway KKCORDS OP THE NKW TORS STAGE. Circus, where they combined their dramatic efforts with equestrian performances, and M. Villalave's exercises on the tight-rope. Closing the season there on the 20th of August, they again opened at Anthony Street on the 29th of that month, with the drama of " Bunker Hill," and the afterpiece called " New York Volunteers." We have but few other memoranda connected with this company at this establishment; but it is worthy of note that on the 22d of September Mr. Usher here made his first ap- pearance in New York as Richard III. This gentleman's name is identified with the drama at the West, where he was long and favorably known as actor and manager. He opened the first theatre in Kentucky, at Lexington, in October, 1808, and was the leader in many other similar enterprises in that region. He had first appeared on the stage at Washington, D. C, in 1800, and was well known at one time as a promi- nent performer in Boston. 89 CHAPTER XXIV. Park Theatre. 1814-15 ; 1815-16— Commonwealth, 1815. Sjjp NEW Theatrical season at the Park commenced J% on the 31st of August, 1814, with Dunlap's never- iego Mr. Graham. Captain Tropic ... 44 Pritchard. Alamba .... 44 Spilhr. Antonio 44 Carpender. Virginia .... Mm. Darley. Sebastian .... " Bancker. Mary 44 Wheatley. Dominique .... " Burke. Jacintha .... 44 Spiller. On the 4th, Mr. Hilson and Mrs. Williams made their ap- pearance as Bob Acres and Lydia Languish, both receiving the heartiest welcome. On the 18th, the first new piece of the season, a farce by Dibdin, called " Past Ten O'clock, and a Rainy Night," was produced, with the following cast : Sir Peter Punctual . . Mr. Graham. I Bantam . . Harry Punctual Chares Wildfire Old Snapps . . Young Snapps Doiey . . Carpender. Sam Squib Pritchard. Nancy . Jones. Lucy. . Banckbr. Silence . Hilson. Mr. Spillek ' 4 Burke. Mrs. Goldson 44 Claude. 44 Hogg. The Commonwealth Theatre was also open at this time* numbering among its company. Tyler. West, Hardinge, Mes- tayer. a low comedian, and father of Mrs. Charles Thorno and 312 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Miss Emily Mestayer ; Monier, father of the beautiful Vir- ginia Monier, who led the female business at the Old National in 1838; Labottiere, the dancer; A. J. Allen, Mrs. Allen, Mrs. May, Miss Ryckman, Miss Harris, &c. At The Park, on the 7th, was first played the farce of ki In- trigue, or Married Yesterday," by Poole, afterward the suc- cessful author of " Paul Pry," &c. Pritchard played Captain Rambleton ; Simpson, Varnish ; Spiller. Tom ; and Mrs. Wil- liams, Ellen. A new comedy, called " Debtor and Creditor," was brought out on the 13th ; and another, entitled " First Impressions," on the 23d; but, though cast to the best strength of the company, neither retained long possession of the stage. Mrs. Burke made her first appearance, November 1st, as Catharine, in the " Exile," and was received with the warmest applause ; and, on the 6th, Mr. Cooper again gratified his friends by coming forward as Hamlet, following it with sev- eral popular parts, and concluding with Zang-a, in the " Re- venge," for his benefit, on the 24th. " Aladdin, or the Wonderful Lamp " — still one of the most popular of melo-dramatic romances — was first played in America on the 25th, with the following cast: Tahi Tongluck . . . Mr. Jones. Aladdin Mrs. Williams. Prince Azack . . . Cakpender. Princess .... " Goldson. Abenazack .... " Simpson. Ching Mustapha . " Hogg. Kazrac " Bcrke. Amrou Miss Dellinger. Mr. Bibby, the noted imitator of Cooke, appeared as Sir Pertinax, on the 13th of December, and was again well re- ceived. He afterward played Shylock, Hamlet and Octavian, making his last appearance (prior to visiting Europe) on the 30th, as Romeo and Sir Archy. On New Year's Night, 1816, "Catharine and Petruchio*' and " Don Juan " were performed ; also, for the first time in New York, the melo-drama of " Zembucca," which still re- tains possession of the stage. It was thus cast : Zembucca Mr. Pritchard. Selim Mr. Cakpender. Korac " Simpson. Salic " Darlet. Mirza .... " Burke. Ebra Mrs. Darley. Buffardo " Spiller. Amazaide .... " Goldson. On Mr. Simpson's benefit night, January 5th, Dimond's opera, called u Brother and Sister," with Bishop's music, was RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 313 represented for the first time, with the following distribution of parts: Don Sylvio .... Mr. Pritchabd. Isadora Mrs. Darley. Don Christoval ..." Burke. Camilla " Goldson. Pachecho " Spiller. I Rosantha .... " Burke. On the 15th, a Mr. Phillips, who had made his debut in New York on the 15th of May, 1815, as Young Norval, re-appeared as Frederick, in " Lovers' Vows ;" he also played Durimal, in " Point of Honor ;" Lothair, in "Adelgitha ;" and Coesario, in "Alfonso," for his benefit. This was Aaron J. Phillips, after- ward a well-known actor of old men, connected with various theatres here, and at different times manager of several in other cities. He died in New York, in 1846. On the 19th, a young gentleman made his debut as Hamlet, and on the 26th was announced for the character of Romeo as Mr. Bartow — also appearing as Achmet and Tancred. He played a few nights the ensuing season, but his name there- after disappears from the bills. Mrs. Hogg, long acknowledged as the best representative of old women known to the New York stage, died suddenly on the night of February 6th, at the age of 67. On the 7th of February, was played, for the first time in many years, Mrs. Oentlivre's celebrated comedy of "A Bold Stroke for a Wife," and, with the annexed cast, was frequently repeated : Col. Feignwell . . . Mr. Simpson. : Simon Pure . . . Mr. Bancker. Freeman " Pritchard. Anna Lovely . . . Mrs. Darley. Perriwinkle .... " Spiller. Betty " Whbatlet. Obadiah Prim ... " Burke. On the 16th, Mrs. Anderson, a daughter of the comedian Jefferson, made her first appearance in New York as Moggy McGi/pin, in the " Highland Reel ;" and on the 24th, her husband likewise appeared for the first time, as Robert, in the "Curfew." The lady was very young, pretty and interesting, and was most favorably known afterward at the Philadelphia Theatre. She died in early life, leaving two daughters, one of whom, Mrs. Thoman, was a favorite in Boston a few years since, and the other, Mrs. G. C. Germon has played in Boston, Philadelphia and New York, and has introduced to the stage, her daughter, Miss Efiie Germon, with very flattering success. 40 314 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE, For his benefit on the 26th, Mr. Cooper, who had again ap- peared for a few nights, played Benedick, and the ci-devant Mrs. Williams (now first announced as Mrs. S. Wheatley) made a charmingly effective Beatrice. The "Forest of Bondy," a still popular melo-drama, was first represented in New York on the 18th of March ; Macaire by Mr. Simpson ; Gontram, Pritchard ; Blaize, Spiller ; Florio, Mrs. Anderson; Lucille, Mrs. Darley; Dame Gertrude, Mrs. Wheatley — her first attempt in a line of characters in which she afterward attained such great excellence. The beautiful domestic drama of the " Maid and Magpie" was first played here on the 1st of April ; Henry,byMr. Simp- son ; Everard, Anderson ; Gerald, Pritchard ; Benjamin, Darley ; Martin, Burke ; Dame Gerald, Mrs. Wheatley ; Annette, Mrs. Darley. Its merit still guarantees a favorable reception when- ever performed. A most valuable addition was now made to the dramatic force of the city by the engagement of Mr. and Mrs. Barnes, Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin, and Mr. Better ton ; three of whom made their first appearance in America on the 17th of April, viz. : Mrs. Barnes as Juliet : Mr. Baldwin as Sam, in " Raising the Wind f and Mrs. Baldwin as the Nurse and Miss Durable. Few actresses have been so deserving, fewer still have been as fortunate as Mrs. Barnes. She at once gained the affec- tions of the audience, and during a theatrical career of five and twenty years, nothing occurred to detract, in the slightest degree, from the kindliest feelings always entertained for her. In person, Mrs. Barnes was finely formed, but under middle size. Her features, though small, were eminently beautiful, and at her perfect command in portraying every shade of passion ; and her face was lighted up by most eloquent and expressive dark eyes. As a tragic actress, she was superior to any contemporary, Mrs. Duff and Fanny Kemble alone ex- cepted ; and in a few characters, Juliet and Evadne, for in- stance, we have never seen her equal. As the fond Italian girl, all critics agreed for many years that she soared beyond rivalry. She excelled principally in the youthful heroines of RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 315 tragedy, though few ladies have given us high comedy with equal finish, and no roguish boy was ever better personated than by Mrs. Barnes. In melo-drama and pantomime, her action was always graceful, spirited and correct — Fenella, Aladdin, and the Dumb Savoyard have rarely found a better representative. Respected and admired in private life, Mrs. Barnes mingled in the best society of the city, and possessing an easy competence, after her husband's death took a formal farewell of the Stage, November 2d, 1841. She afterward visited England with her daughter, Miss Charlotte Barnes, (afterward Mrs. Edmund Conner) but returned to spend the evening of her days among those who first appreciated and rewarded her genius. She once or twice emerged from her retirement for the benefit of her daughter, and on the 25th of July, 1851, at Philadelphia, appeared as Lady Randolph, with almost undiminished excellence. Mrs. Barnes was at length attacked with paralysis, and after the death of her daughter, to whom she was most tenderly attached, finally sunk under a long, protracted illness. She died in New York, on the 26th of August, 1864, in the 84th year of her age, and was buried from her residence in Van- dam Street, which she had occupied for more than thirty-five years.' As an actress, the faults of Mrs. Barnes were so few that they almost escaped the eye of criticism, and as a woman, the tongue of scandal or of malice never ventured to assail her. Mrs.. Barnes was a native of London — her maiden name Greenhill — but she originally played as Miss Simpson in the British provinces, and subsequently, under her marital desig- | nation, at the Haymarket and Drury Lane. Mrs. Charlotte Baldwin, the sister of Mrs. Barnes, proved to be an efficient and able delineator of elderly females, and occasionally played a pert chambermaid with great spirit. New York had never before seen so good an " Old Woman," and though she has since been excelled in the " Fashionable Dowager" and " Prim Old Maid," by Mrs. Wheatley and Mrs. ! Vernon, she possessed an advantage over them in her ability to represent a serious character with great force and discrim- 316 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. ination. The Duchess of York has seldom had so fine a repre- sentative on our stage. After the death of Mr. Baldwin, she married Mr. Westervelt Walstein, of this city. The match proved unhappy, and a separation was the consequence. In the latter part of her career, she became very corpulent, and unfitted in appearance for the stage, from which she retired in 1837. Mrs. Walstein died in New York, April 21st, 1856, aged 78. She had originally played in the British provinces as Mrs. Simpson. Mr. Joseph Baldwin possessed considerable merit as a low comedian, but not being equal to Hilson, Spiller, or Barnes, appeared under a great disadvantage. He was, however, ex- ceedingly clever in a comic song. Mr. Baldwin died in May, 1820, aged 33 years, and his tombstone may be seen in the southwest corner of Trinity churchyard. On the 22d of April, Mr. John Barnes made his first bow in America as Sir Peter Teazle and Lingo ; Mrs. Barnes being the Lady Teazle of the comedy, and Mrs. Baldwin the Mrs. Chesshire of the farce. He soon became an immense favorite, and, in the course of his theatrical life, probably caused more amusement and laughter than any comedian we have ever had. With every capability of excellence, he too often pre- ferred the applauses of the thoughtless many to the better praises of the judicious few ; but the comical phiz of " Old Barnes" was always the signal for a burst of merriment, and even they who censured his extravagance were obliged to laugh at his whimsical grimaces. He was truly eminent in such characters as Sir Anthony Absolute, Sir Abel Handy, Lord Duberly, Cosey, &c, and in Old Rapid, Brummagem, Delph and Nipperkin, we have never seen his equal. Mr. Barnes left the Park Theatre in the summer of 1832, and took the management of the Richmond Hill, in Varick Street, which proved an unfortunate speculation. He occasionally after- ward appeared on the scene of his former triumphs, where he played for the last time in the fall of 1840. The principal portion of the time was, however, profitably devoted to star RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 317 engagements at the South and West, in company with his wife and daughter. While on a professional visit to Nova Scotia, in the summer of 1841, a carbuncle appeared on his nose, and after a very short illness, caused his death on the 28th of August, at the age of 60. His remains were brought to New York, and interred in St. Mark's burying-ground. On the 24th of April, Mr. Betterton made his debut in the "Clandestine Marriage 1 ' as Lord Ogleby, to Mrs. Baldwin's Mrs. Heidleberg. This gentleman, whose real name was Thomas Butterton, and who, by the change of a letter, had taken that of one of the most eminent of British actors, was born in Dublin, and long held a respectable position in the Theatre there, as well as in the English provinces. He ob- tained an engagement for his daughter (afterward the cele- brated Mrs. Glover) at Covent Garden, in 1797, and in Octo- ber of that year made his own first appearance there as Bel- cour, but was unable to rank with the best performers of the metropolis. On his arrival in the New World, he was past his prime, and did not create the sensation he had antici- pated. Among his first series of characters were Sir Lucius 0' Trigger, Dumont, Old Dornton, Major O' Flaherty and Rich- ard III., and as a stock actor, he would have proved a valu- able-addition to the strength of the company. In December, 1819, Mr. Betterton was married in New York, to Mrs. Ann Bunting, but afterward returned to England, and died there in 1835, at the age of 80. After the appearance of these recruits, a succession of standard plays was produced, in which Mrs. Barnes increased her reputation by her admirable performances of Belvidera, Jane Shore, Angela, Albina Mande- ville, &c. On the 10th of May, one of the earliest dramatic produc- tions of John Howard Payne, entitled "Accusation," an adap- tation from the French, was first represented. D'Anglade .... Mr. Simpson. Hubert Mr. Si-iller. Bertrand " Burke. Marcel " Barnes. Leon de Valency . . " Betterton. Madame de Cerval Mrs. S.Wueatlet. Valmore " Pritciiard. Madame d'Auglade . " Barnes. Another comedy, called " Living in London," was produced with less success on the 24th. 318 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mrs. Barnes took her first benefit on the 29th, when she appeared as Isabella, in the tragedy of that name, and as Cherubino, in the " Marriage of Figaro ;" Mr. Barnes playing Antonio. Mr. Simpson's benefit took place on the 10th of June, when he produced for the first time here, Mrs. Charles Kemble's beautiful drama of " Smiles and Tears," with the following very superior cast : Fitzharding .... Mr. Pritchard. Lady Emily . . . Mrs. S. Wheatley. Sir H. Chomley . . " Simpson. Mrs. Belmore . . . " Darlet. Col. O'Donolan ..." Betterton. Mrs. Jeffries ..." Baldwin. Stanley " Jones. Cecil Fitzharding " Barnes. Delaval " Carpender. On the same occasion, Mr. Barnes sung his famous comic song, " Barney, leave the girls alone," and Mrs. Barnes recited Collins' " Ode on the Passions," two performances of which the public never tired, and which continued to be repeated with applause as long as they remained on the stage. The Fourth of July was celebrated by the first performance of a drama, called the " Battle of New Orleans," in which Mr. Robertson made his first appearance this season, as General Jackson. The other characters were : Malville Mr. Pritchard. j American Soldier. . Mr. Baldwin. Sir E. Packenham . " Carpender. Abbess Mrs. Groshon. Gen. Coffee .... " Jones. Louisa " Anderson. Brian O'Flanagan . . " Burke. ! Charlotte .... Miss Dellinger. On the 8th, after six months' absence at the South, Mr. Hilson appeared as Tyke and Somno, and afterward played Falstaff, Sir Peter Teazle, Shylock, Apollo Belvi, &c. On the 10th, Mrs. Gilfert commenced an engagement as Calista. The combination of this lady with Mrs. Barnes rendered the performance of several tragedies very attractive. The latter appeared as Jane Shore, Cora and Statira, to Mrs. Gilfert's Alicia, Elvira and Roxana. On the 22d, Mrs. Gilfert's benefit took place, when she ap- peared as Lady Townly ; and Mrs. Claude, formerly of this Theatre, but then of Philadelphia, made her last appearance in New York as Miss Jenny. The season terminated on the 27th of July. CHAPTER XXV. Park Theatre, Stephen Price, Manager, 1810-17, 1817-18. T what date Mr. Cooper withdrew from the direc- tion of the Park Theatre, we have not learned ; but at the period of which we write, Mr. Stephen Price was sole lessee and manager, with the aid of Mr. Simpson in the stage department. The comedy of " Smiles and Tears," and the Eastern ro- mance of " Aladdin," were the entertainments for the opening night, September 2d, 1816, in which the favorites of the pre- vious season were again warmly welcomed. Mrs. Aldis (late Mrs. Stanley) after a year's absence, made her re-entree on the 6th, as Adelgitha. On the 18th, for the first time in New York, a drama from Scott's " Guy Mannering" was played, with the following cast : Henry Bertram . . . Mr. Simpson. Baillie Mucklethrift . Mr. Baldwin. Col. Mannering ..." Robertson. Franco Mi3S Brundaqe. Dominie Sampson . . " Barnes. Julia Mannering . . Mrs. S. Wheatley. Dandie Dinmont . . . " Pritchard. Lucy Bertram. . " Anderson. IHrck Hatteraick . " Carpender. Mrs. McCandish . '* Baldwin. Gabriel " Anderson. Meg Merrilies. . . " Aldis. Gilbert Glossin ..." Jones. Flora Miss Dellinger. The still popular farce of " Love, Law and Physic," was pro- duced on the 23d, with the annexed cast : • Flexible Mr. Simpson. Andrew Bang. . . Mr. Robertson. ' Dr. Camphor . ... " Jones. Lubin Log. ..." Hilson. Capt. Danvers ..." Pritchard. Mrs. Hillary . . . Mrs. Baldwin. On the 25th, Maturing famous, though objectionable tra- gedy of " Bertram " was first played, with very great success : Bertram Mr. Robertson. I Imogine .... Mrs. Barnes. | St. Aldobrand ... " Carpender. Clotilda .... " Anderson. i Prior " Pritchard. I Robertson played the hero well, and the guilty Imogine has rarely been as ably represented as by the impassioned 320 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mrs. Barnes. Mr. Betterton's first appearance this season took place on the 8th of October, as Dennis Brulguddery. He did not prove attractive. The burlesque tragic opera of " Bom- bastes Furioso ," with Barnes as King Artaxominies ; Hilson as Gen. Bombastes ; and Mrs. S. Wheatley as Distaffina, was first played on the 17th, with great applause. On the 18th, a comedy called " Where to Find a Friend," written by Mr. Leigh, was represented, and repeated a few times with the following cast : Barney Mr. Betterton. Lady Morden . . Mrs. S. Wheatlbt. Mrs. Bustle ... " Baldwin. Morden Mr. Simpson. Heartley " Hilson. Torrington .... " Robertson. Timothy " Barnes. The "Woodman's Hut," for many years a very popular drama, was first played here on the 28th, the characters thus distributed : Ferdinand .... Mr. Simpson. Bruhl Mr. Jones. Schampf " Pritchard. Moritz " Barnes. Wolfender .... " Robertson. Amelia Mrs. Barnes. November 4th, Mrs. Darley made her first appearance this season, as Helen Worrett. On the 7th, a Mr. Adamson, from the Bath Theatre, first appeared in New York as Tyke. We do not know that he ever again played at the Park, but in 1822 he was at the so-called City Theatre in Warren Street. Mr. Bibby soon after appeared as Richard, Romeo, Shy lock, Sir Giles Overreach and Sir Pertinax McSycophant, being his last engagement at this establishment. Pocock's operatic piece, " John of Paris," was first given in New York on the 25th. Mr. Darley as John ; Mr. Hilson as Pedrigo Potts ; Mr. Pritchard as Vincent ; and Mrs. Anderson as the Princess of Navarre, were all very happy in their respective parts. Congreve's old comedy of " Love for Love " followed on the 27th, for the first time in the Park Theatre, thus cast : Sir Sampson Legend . Mr. Jones. Scandal . . Valentine " Simpson. Mrs. Frail . . Ben " Hilson. Mrs. Foresight Foresight " Barnes. Miss Prue . . Tattle " Pritchard. Angelica . . Mr. Robertson. Mrs. Aldis. " Baldwin. " S. Wheatlbt. " Darlet. December 2d. Mrs. Johnson, formerly the favorite of the town, re-appeared as Lady Randolph, after an absence of ten years in England. Time had robbed her of the charms of youth, but her appearance gave great pleasure to many of her RKCORD8 OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 32 1 old admirers, and her performance of Jane Shore, Queen Eliza- beth, ("Earl of Essex") Madame Clermont, Eugenia and Violante, was such as to sustain her previous high reputation. On the occasion of her benefit, she brought forward her daughter, who introduced a divertisement on the harp with unbounded applause — being her first appearance since early childhood. "What Next?" a farce by Dibdin, was played on the 13th, as follows : Col. Touchwood . . . Mr. Robertson. I Sharp Mr. Darley. Major Touchwood . . " Pritchard. Mrs. Prudence . . Mrs. Baldwin. Snaggs " Barnes. Clarissa .... Anderson. On the 18th, Cooper commenced an engagement as Hamlet : and on the 20th, for the first time in New York, gave a mas- terly delineation of Bertram. His performances extended to the 13th of January, when, for his benefit, he appeared as Beverly, in the " Gamester." Mr. Hilson took his benefit, December 30th, appearing as Jack Bowline, in Dunlap's "Fraternal Discord;" and also producing, for the first time, Allingham's musical farce of " Transformation," with the following cast : Makesafe Mr. Jonis. Caution Mr. Baldwin. Laglast " Pritchard. Adelaide .... Mrs. Anderson. Chameleon .... " Hilson. Judith " Baldwin. Malachi " Darley. January 1st, 1817, in addition to "Lovers' Quarrels" and the " Poor Soldier," Dibdin's romance of the " Ninth Statue, or the Irishman in Bagdad," was played with great success, for the first time in America, the characters thus distributed: Prince Zeyn .... Mr. Robertson. Cobad Mr. Graham. Kilrooney " Pritchard. Namouna .... Mrs. Parley. Bubekir " Barnes. . Musca Mi ss Bellinger. Morabec " Anderson. j Alcolomb .... Mrs. Groshon. Pandac " Baldwin. Gulna 11 Baldwin. This drama has been frequently revived, and was last played at the Bowery a few years since. Mr. John Graham, whose name appears in the above cast, was a native of this city, and in the characters usually allotted him maintained a good repute for correctness and respecta- bility. During the war of 1812, Mr. G. served as an officer in the 13th Regiment U. S. Infantry, and obtained the approba- tion and esteem of his brother officers. On the loth. Miss Ellen Augusta Johnson, daughter of the esteemed old Park favorites, made her dramatic debut in the 41 322 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. "Child of Nature," as Amanthis. She next appeared in "Love in a Village," now played for the first time in ten years, with the following superior cast : Sir W. Meadows - . . Mr. Jones. Hodge Mr. Baldwin. Young Meadows. . . " Darley. Rosetta Miss Johnson. Hawthorn .... " Pritchard. Lucinda " Dellingbr. Justice Woodcock . . " Barnes. Mrs. Deborah . . . Mrs. Baldwin. Eustace " Bancker. Margery .... " Groshon. Her third character was Li lla, in the " Siege of Belgrade," and on the 20th, for her benefit, she personated Letitia Hardy, and Rosina, in the opera of that name, being received in all with the greatest applause — both playing and singing with uncommon excellence for a novice, having appeared but a few times at Drury Lane in 1815. Born in 1800, this young lady was now in the first blush of womanhood, and endowed with the greatest personal loveli- ness. To a finely proportioned figure of full medium height, she joined a graceful carriage and an artlessness of manner that at once won every heart. Her features were handsome and expressive, her eyes of the softest blue, her complexion of the most delicate fairness; and her hair, a rich auburn in color, and profuse in quantity, usually floated in easy curls over her snowy and well-turned shoulders. Her voice was musical, and in her clear ringing laugh, she eclipsed every actress that has ever trod the New York Stage. It was so light, merry, and joyous, so sympathetic in its tone and quality, that it affected every hearer, and compelled the audi- ence to join in unison with her. Under the judicious super- vision of her parents, she had acquired a thorough education, was mistress of several modern languages, and possessed every ornamental accomplishment suited to her sex. On becoming a regular member of the company, her beauty and merit as an actress, together with what was then considered her supe- rior singing, and her brilliant execution on the harp, at once placed her at the summit of popular favor, a position that she retained until the summer of 1830. She married Mr. Hilson, the eminent comedian, in August, 1825 — a match of the purest affection, and, we believe, of unalloyed happiness. On the death of Mrs. Johnson, in June, 1830, Mrs. Hilson's mind RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 823 was so much affected by the loss of a parent on whom she doted, that for a time she withdrew entirely from the stage ; and, on resuming the profession, principally traveled with her husband on the usual Southern and Western starring tours, until his death, in 1834. In the fall of 1835, she returned to the Park, sadly changed ; her beauty and her youth had fled together, and though she was kindly received for the sake of the past, she was unable to give her personations that vivid- ness and force that had once distinguished them. Her greatest failure was in serious characters, for she could still dash through a brilliant comedy part with great spirit, though her faded appearance contrasted mournfully with the assumed gavety of her manner. While still attached to the Park com- pany, Mrs. Hilson contracted the scarlet fever during her at- tendance on her only child, who was sick of the same dan- gerous disease. The child recovered ; — the mother died — on the morning of April 2d, 1837. The late William Leggett, in the P/aindealer, thus summed up her character : "As a woman, she was pure, gentle and amiable ; and she had the rare fortune, never more fully merited, of passing without the slightest stain or reproach through a walk of life peculiarly infested by the slanderers of female reputation. But so un- affected and guileless was Mrs. Hilson, that calumny dared not select her name for its subject, and licentiousness in her presence checked his ribald tongue, and stood rebuked to silence." On the 22d of January, an engagement commenced with a fine equestrian corps, under the direction of Mr. West, from London — opening with " Timour the Tartar," in which Mr. Robertson played Timour ; Mr. Parker, Kerim ; Mr. Williams, Sanballet ; and Mrs. West, (a superior dancer, and an able rnelo- [ dramatic actress) Zorilda. Among the troupe were Camp- bell, a very capital clown; and Blackmore, a daring and iskillful rope-dancer. "Blue-Beard," "Lodoiska," and the |" Tiger Horde," followed successively, drawing full houses until the engagement terminated on the 28th of February, i Mr. Bartow, the debutant of last season, re-appeared on the 324 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 31st of March as Hamlet; and for his benefit, on the 10th, played Chamont, in the " Orphan." On the 12th, a new comedy, called " My Wife, What Wife ?" was produced for the first time with the cast below : Gov. Hurricane . . . Mr. Barnes. Paddeen .... Mr. Pbitchabd. Col. Gayton .... " Simpson. Mrs. Gayton . . . Mrs. Groshon. St. Ermont .... " Robertson. Constantia .... " D ablet. Pass " Hilson. On the 19th, Mr. Alexander Wilson made his first appear- ance in New York as Rolla. He was not destitute of merit, and possessed many excellent histrionic requirements. Ten years later, when playing in conjunction with Mr. Forrest at the Bowery Theatre, many conisdered him the better actor, but he never attained the latters eminence. In 1840, Mr. Wilson was the lessee and manager of the National Theatre, corner of Leonard and Church Streets, but his con- nection with the establishment resulted most disastrously. He died in retirement at Brooklyn, in 1848. Mr. Cooper now played another series of characters, and Mr. Jacob Woodhull made his debut as Jqffier. On the 5th of April, the latter appeared as Macbeth, for his benefit, being his third appearance on any stage. This gentle- man, whose real name was Hull, proved in after years a very valuable addition to the company, with which he was con- nected for a long time. Without attaining high distinction in any particular line, he was correct and respectable in all. As William Cox (a fine dramatic critic) remarked, in noticing the necessity he was under of either murdering, or of being murdered nightly, (in a theatrical way) " he was one of the most useful and ill-used actors that ever trod the boards of a theatre, but the blood-thirsty line was only a single branch of his extensive business. He played old misers and young spendthrifts, graybeards and lovers, walking gentlemen and half-pay officers, soldiers, sailors, Irishmen, Scotchmen, Dutch- men, Jews, Gentiles, Turks, French tailors and Indian savages, and all this work without offense, and most of it with satisfac- tion, to the audience. Night after night, week after week, month after month, year after year, in play, in interlude, and in farce, there was Mr. Woodhull ; and yet, notwithstanding RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 325 all this, his senses continued perfect, and he went through his business with more propriety and rationality than many a would-be star." Mr. Woodhull left the Park Theatre in the summer of 1832, and engaged with Barnes as Stage-manager of the Richmond Hill Theatre; but the cholera, whose first terrible visitation occurred that year, not only proved fatal to that enterprise, but also caused his death on the 31st of Au- gust. He was about 40 years of age. Tobin's comedy of the " Guardians, or the Faro-Table," written in 1795, while its author was lying ill in bed. was first played in New York on the 9th of April ; and, although comparatively successful, did not long retain possession of the stage. It was thus cast : Barton Mr. Peitchard. Lady Welgrove . . Mrs. Darlbt. Waverly " Simpson Lady Nightshade . 44 Baldwin. Sedgmore " Robertson. Miss Sedgmore . " Groshon. Sapling " Barnes. Betty Miss Dsllingbr. Hint . " Hilson. On the 16th, Miss Johnson commenced a second engage- ment. She repeated several of her former parts, and for the first time appeared as Rosalind, Albina Mandeville, Hester, F/orella, and for her benefit on the 25th, as Angela, in the "Castle Spectre," and Variella, in the "Weathercock." On the latter occasion, Mrs. Johnson made her last appearance on the stage as Evelina. Dimond's melo-drama, called the "Broken Sword," was played here for the first time on the 25th, with the following cast: Col. Rigolio .... Mr. Pritchard. Pablo Mr. Barnes. C»pt. Zavior . ..." Hilson. Myrtillo Mrs. Barnes. Estevan 44 Simpson. | Rosara 44 Darlbt. It was beautifully played, and had a great run. " Exit by Mistake,'' a comedy, was produced on the 10th of May, and repeated once or twice with little success. On the 14th, the "Watchword, or Quito Gate," was first played, with Robertson as Don Julian; Simpson as Goyo- noche ; Pritchard as Velasco ; Barnes as Gil Popo; and Mrs. Barnes as Louisa. It received but little applause. On the 19th, Reynolds' comedy of " Folly as it Flies" was revived after a slumber of fourteen years. A nap of ten years followed, when it was awakened for the Bowery boards, 326 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. after which it took a sound sleep of twenty-seven years, when Mr. Wallack aroused it for a few nights at his Theatre, in 1854. June 2d, another of Maturin's tragedies, entitled "Manuel," was presented to the public, with the following cast : Don Manuel .... Mr. Pritchaed. Montcalde .... Mr. Jones. De Zelos " Robertson. 1 Victoria Mrs. Barnes. Torresmond .... " Simpson. Ximena " Darley. This play abounded in beauties, yet its success bore no comparison to that of the author's " Bertram." It was revived at the Bowery, in 1852, with Mr. Eddy as Manuel, and Ma- tilda Heron as Victoria; and again with the same principals at Niblo's Garden, in 1859. On the 6th, for his benefit, Mr. Simpson revived another of Reynolds' comedies, called "Fortune's Fool," in which he played Ap Hazard; and also produced, for the first time, Oulton's farce of " Frightened to Death," thus cast : Phantom Mr. Simpson. ' Carlton . ... Mr. Pritchaed. Sir J. Greybeard . . " Baenes. Mumps " Hilson. Col. BlufiF " Jones. I Emily Mrs. Daelet. On the 12th, the Theatre was honored by a visit from Presi- dent Monroe and suite, when Mr. Cooper played Macbeth, and Mrs. Groshon surprised the critics by her excellent delinea- tion of his guilty wife. On the last night of the season, July 4th, Mr. Hilson ap- peared as Will Steady, in the "Purse," and Barogo, in the " Toothache ; " and, for the first time in New York, Morton's operatic drama of the " Slave," with Bishop's music, was played with the following cast: Gambia Capt. Malcolm Clifton. . . Mat Sharpset Sam Sharpset Mr. Robeetson. " Pritchaed. " Darley. " Simpson. " Barnes. Fogrum . • . Stella . . . . Mrs. Lindenberg Miss Von Frump Zelinda . . . Mr. Hilson. Miss Dellinger. Mrs. Groshon. " Baldwin. " Darley. On the 9th, the Theatre was opened for the benefit of the Theatrical Fund for Decayed Actors, when the " Slave " was repeated ; Mrs. Barnes recited Collins' " Ode on the Passions," and Simpson, Hilson and Mrs. Darley appeared in " Catharine and Petruchio." This Fund was in existence several years, and accumulated quite a handsome amount. Of its distribution, or into whose hands it finally fell, no information ever tran- spired. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 327 The new season at the Park commenced on the 1st of Sep- tember, 1817, witli the comedy of " Laugh When You Can," in which Mr. H. A. Williams (from the Boston Theatre) made his first appearance in New York as Gossamer. Mr. Williams was a versatile and useful actor in parts of less pretension, but was altogether unequal to the rank of first light come- dian. He was afterward well known in New York, but on separating from his wife, in 1828, went South, where he was living many years after. He left behind, among other chil- dren, a little girl, (adopted by the tragedian May wood) who, as "La petite Augusta," created a great sensation, in 1838, as a dancer, in the first theatres of the Union. On the 3d, Miss Johnson, now one of the regular company, made her appearance as Letitia Hardy. On the same evening, her father, after an absence of eleven years, again came before the public as Deputy Bull, in the " Review." He was now far advanced in years, and wisely undertook a range of charac- ters subordinate to that in which he had formerly won great favor. A Mr. Holland was announced as Giles, in the "Maid of the Mill," on the 8th, his first and probably only appearance. On the 11th, for the first time, was played the melo-drama of the "Bold Buccaneers, or the Discovery of Robinson Crusoe," with the following cast : Robin >.Hi Crusoe. Friday. . . . Bluff . . . . Windlass . . . Mr. Simpson. " Bancker. " HlLSON. " Pritchard. Diego . Nipcheese . Inez . . . . Mr. Robertson. . . " Barnes. . . Mrs. Groshon. It was very successful, and is still often played at the minor theatres. A pantomime, on the same subject, had been pro- duced many years before. Mr. and Mrs. Charles Young re-appeared, for a few nights, after a lapse of eight years. The lady, still young and lovely, commenced her engagement on the 12th, as the Widow Cheerly ; and her husband — noisy and blustering as ever — opened on the 18th, as Charles Austenrxmrt. Shiel's tragedy of the "Apostate," so long a favorite with actors and audiences, was first presented to the New York 828 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. public on the 22d, and admirably performed by the annexed cast: Pescara Mr. Pritchard. I Alvarez .... Mr. Jones. Hemeya " Simpson. Florinda .... Mrs. Barnes. Malec " Robertson. Mrs. Barnes added another leaf to her laurel chaplet, by her exquisite personation of the heroine. The plays of Shiel and Maturin, though popular with the public, were no favorites with Halleck, Drake & Co., authors of the celebrated " Croaker" satirical poems, then in course of publication ; and, although they had paid a neat compliment to Mrs. Barnes, in the following lines, " Mrs. Barnes! Shakspeare's heart would have beat had he seen her ; Her magic has drawn from me many a tear ; And ne'er shall my pen or its satire chagrin her, While pathos, and genius, and feeling are dear! " yet, in another poem, addressed to her, they ejaculate — " Think, lady, what we're doomed to feel — By Heaven! 'twould rouse the wrath of stoics, To see the queen of sorrows deal In thundering, lofty, low by Shiel, Or mad Maturin's mock heroics ! " Soane's admirable domestic drama of the "Innkeeper's Daughter" was brought out on the 29th, as follows: Tricksey .... Mr. Jones. Hans Ketzler ... " Darley. Mary Mrs. Darley. Marianne .... " Wheatley. Langley Mr. Baldwin. Monckton .... " Robertson. Richard " Simpson. Harrop " Pritchard. Edward " Williams. Mrs. Darley's pathetic representation of the Innkeeper's Daughter was received with every demonstration of applause, proving that she still held her old position in the estimation of the public, notwithstanding the powerful rivalry of the fascinating Mrs. Barnes. On the 30th, Mr. Spiller first appeared this season as Bob Acres. On the 3d of October, he played Doctor Pangloss, in the " Heir at Law " — Mrs. H. A. Williams making her debut here on the same night, as Cicely Homespun. This lady was born at Bath, England, in 1793 ; and, previous to appearing in New York, had been, with her husband, attached to tbe Boston Theatre. She was never a favorite on the Park Stage, but in RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 329 other theatres excited a good share of admiration, and at- tracted much attention by her performance of leading male characters in several tragic plays. She married Mr. Robert Maywood in 1828, very shortly after a separation from her first husband. She passed through almost every grade of character during her connection with the American Stage, and, we believe, finally played the line of " Old Women n at one of the Western theatres. She was last in New York at the Greenwich Theatre, in 1846, and died at the West about 1855. The celebrated Charles Incledon, at this time the most renowned of English vocalists, made his first appearance in America on the 20th as Hawthorn, in "Love in a Village/' He subsequently appeared as Tom Tug', Steady, Giles, (in the ••Maid of the Mill") Macheath, Patrick, Harry Blunt and Don Ccesar, in the " Castle of Andalusia." He did not com- mand the applause that had been anticipated, and on the plight that the "Beggars' Opera" was given, great dissatisfac- tion was expressed with the piece, which had not for many years been played in New York. "Black-eyed Susan" was called for, and quite a row ensued, in consequence of Mr. Incledons declining to sing it. His great fame attracted Large "audiences during his first engagement; but he was now past the prime of life, burly in person, careless in dress, and as poor an actor (out of his songs) as ever walked the stage ; and the feeling of disappointment was very general, save among the few who were able to appreciate his surpassing excellence as a vocalist. Mr. Incledon was a native of Cornwall, England, born in 1757, the son of a respectable physician, by whom he was articled to Mr. Jackson, of Exeter, a then celebrated musical composer. Here he remained some six or seven years, at the end of which he entered as a midshipman on board the For- midable, A. D. 1779, went to the West Indies, and was in several engagements. Ele returned to England in 1782, and made his first appearance on the Stage at Southampton, as A/plionso, in the " Castle of Andalusia : " whence he was soon 42 880 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. promoted to Bath ; and from there, under the patronage of the celebrated Rauzzini, to Vauxhall, London, where his suc- cess was so great that he was engaged at Covent Garden, where he first appeared, in October, 1790, as Dermot, in the "Poor Soldier;" the audience soon acknowledging that, to one of the finest voices ever heard, he united the greatest science, pathos, taste, and execution. His song of the " Storm" was a masterly and astonishing performance, and his style was so expressive of the horrors of the tempest, and the confusion and despair of the sufferers, that, independent of the amaze- ment excited by the vast power and flexibility of voice he dis- played in this difficult undertaking, the effect upon the audi- ence was always as strong as any impression produced by the finest piece of acting. Mr. Incledon added greatly to his reputation by his very fine and affecting execution of sacred music, during the Lent Oratorios. The writer of the memoir (published in 1801) from which we gather the above particulars, asserts his belief that there never had been, and probably never again would be, a vocal performer of equal excellence. " In his peculiar province he stands alone, like Mrs. Siddons, and seems to defy all compe- tition." Mr. Incledon left New York in August, 1818, and died at Worcester, England, February 11th, 1826, at the age of 69. Immediately after the close of his engagement, another vo- calist appeared, who created a very different impression, and at once attained the very highest summit of popular favor. This was Mr. T. Phillipps, who came out as Count Belino, on the 3d of November. He afterward played Young' Meadows, Prince Orlando, the Seraskier, and for his benefit on the 24th, Carlos, in the " Duenna ;" and Captain Beldare, in " Love Laughs at Locksmiths." To a fine personal appearance he added considerable merit as an actor ; his voice was unrivaled for sweetness, he articu- lated distinctly, and sung with more feeling and expression than any other male vocalist who had been heard here, Incle- don only excepted. Mr. Phillipps made two visits to this RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. :;:n country, and last appeared at the Park in June, 1823. He met with his death by an accident on the Grand Junction Railway, England, October 27, 1841. In November, the " Conquest of Taranto " was first played, and, with the following cast, became quite popular: Aben Hamet .... Mr. Pritchard Rinaldo Mr. Simpson. Gonsalo " Jones. Rosalind .... Miss Johnson. Valentio " Robertson. Oriana Mrs. Darlet. Also, for the first time, Pocock's melo-drama of the " Liber- tine," taken from the old pantomime, and afterward, with the addition of some of Mozart's music, represented on the English stage as the opera of " Don Giovanni." Don Juan . ... Mr. Simpson. Leporello .... Mr. Hilson. Don Pedro .... " Graham. Elvira Mrs. Darlet. Don Octavio .... " Pritchard. Leonora .... " Groshon. Massetto " Darlet. Zerlina Miss Johnson. Mr. Phillipps' second engagement commenced December 7th. His new parts were Lord Aimworth, Patrick and Don Sylvio. Mr. Hilson's engagement terminated this month, and on the 17th he surprised his friends by his forcible personation of Richard III., for his benefit. On the 19th, Mr. Cooper commenced an engagement, during which, for the first time in New York, he appeared as Malec, in the "Apostate," and King John. On his benefit night, January 14th, 1818, he played Mark Antony, and Young Wilding-, in the "Liar;" and between the pieces Miss John- son sang " Jessy, the Flower of Dumblane," to her own accom- paniment on the harj^, exciting the highest feeling of admira- tion by the sweetness and grace of her performance. On the 16th of January, in the character of Shylock, first appeared on the American Stage, Henry J. Finn, who after- ward acquired distinguished celebrity as an actor, author, dramatist and artist. During this engagement, he also ap- peared as Sir Edward Mortimer, Lord Og-leby, and Belcour, in the "West Indian," evincing much talent, and giving fair promise of future excellence. > Mr. Finn was born at Cape Breton, about A.D. 1790. His father had been in the British Navy, but was a resident of this city while our hero was still a child. Young Finn's edu- cation commenced at Traphagen's Academy, at Hackensack; 332 RECORDS OP THE NEW YORK STAGE. thence he was sent to Finley's Latin School at Newark, and finally completed his classical education at Princeton College ; being afterward a student-at-law with Thomas Phoenix, Esq., at one time U. S. District Attorney for New York. It was during his clerkship that he first obtained an entree behind the scenes, at the Park Theatre, a privilege that was soon put to an end by Mr. Price, at the request of Mr. Phcenix. His father dying, he soon after embarked with his mother for England, in a vessel called the Esther Lindo, which foundered on her passage, and from which they were rescued by a pass- ing ship. Disappointed in the hope of finding his father's relatives willing or able to assist them, their circumstances became very low, and young Finn for a while taught school. He then fell in with some strolling players, to whom his knowledge of painting was of great service, and with whom he first essayed the life of an actor. He finally worked his way to the Haymarket, where his excellent performance of a little part (Thomas) in the "Sleepwalker" first attracted the notice and commendation of the audience. Returning to America, he made his first appearance as above stated, and afterward went to Savannah, Ga., where he made a lucky hit. He there became associate editor of the Savannah " Georgian? and his literary efforts were received with high encomiums. In 1821, he was again in London, obtaining considerable employment as a miniature painter, and occasionally playing an engagement in the provincial theatres. He ultimately was connected with the Surrey Theatre, as leading melo-dramatic tragedian ; but the con- cern becoming insolvent, Mr. Finn returned to America, and on the 22d of October, 1822, appeared at Boston as Richard III. He had now a permanent situation, and, as actor and manager, ranked as a prominent favorite in that city for many years. Finding Cooper, Kean and others, in full pos- session of all leading tragic parts, he abandoned that walk of the drama, and betook himself to a range of comedy in which he has been rarely equaled, and never excelled on the Ameri- can Stage. His Beau Sh'atterly, Billy Black, Paul Shack, Bob RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 333 Logic, Philip Garbois, Mons. Jacques, &c, were all highly fin- ished pieces of acting. He traveled as a star in the latter years of his life with great success, but unfortunately lost much of his earnings in bad investments during the univer- sal distress of 1837, &c. His wife was Miss Elizabeth Powell, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. S. Powell, of the Boston Theatre. Mr. Finn was lost on the steamer Lexington, which was burnt on Long Island Sound, in January, 1840, almost in sight of his own home at Newport, to which he was return- ing after a successful Southern tour. The last character he played was Mons. Jacques, at the Chestnut Street Theatre. Philadelphia, on the 8th of January, 1840. Mr. Finn's character as a man is said to have been exem- plary in every respect. As a dramatist, he was the successful author of " Casper Hauser," " Removing the Deposits/' the "Fall of Montgomery," &c, all played with applause. His Comic Annuals, published many years since, proved his wit and humor to be in no wise inferior to the most famous pun- ster and humorist of the day — the noted Hood; while his more serious essays bore evidence of a highly cultivated taste •and the purest morality of sentiment. He was one of those who serve to redeem the Stage from the odium thrown on its professors by their frequent immorality and licentiousness. Mr. l'ncledon commenced a second engagement on the night of February 2d, as Rashley. in the " Lord of the Manor ;" he also appeared as Fair/op; (the ''Woodman") Belville ; and for his benefit and last appearance in New York, on the 13th. as Carlos (" Duenna'") and Harry Blunt. His name had now lost its attraction, and his audiences were slim. Mr. Simpson, on the 16th, for his benefit, produced Gold- smith's comedy of the " Good-Natured Man," probably for the first time in New York. We have not found the complete cast, but to Messrs. Pritchard and Robertson were assigned the characters of Sir William and Mr. Honeywood ; to Mrs. Darley that of Miss Richland: and Mr. Simpson himself played Lofty. On the 18th, Mr. Woodhull made his first appearance this 334 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. season as Richard III, and on the 20th played, for his benefit, Zaphna, in " Mahomet." A Mr. Hawxhurst made his debut on the 21st, as Pierre, to Woodhull's Jaffier, and afterward per- sonated Glenalvon, to the latter's Young Norval, and Iago to his Othello, after which he is heard of no more. Oul ton's amusing farce of "My Landlady's Gown," with Barnes as Timothy Button, Darley as Mons.Genlis, and Pritchard as Dermot O'Finn, was played for the first time on the evening of March 2d. Mr. Phillipps commenced a third engagement on the 4th, as Count Belino ; and on the 14th, for the first time in many years, BickerstafFs once highly popular opera of " Lionel and Clarissa" was played, with the following cast: Lionel Mr. T. Phillipps. Lady Oldboy . . . Mrs. Baldwin. Col. Oldboy .... " Baenes. Diana " Darley. Harman " Pritchard. Clarissa .... Miss Johnson. Jessamy " Simpson. Jepny " Dellinger. On the 20th, the famous and still enduring ballet panto- mime of "Mother Goose" was brought out: Mr. Barnes as Mother Goose; Mr. Parker as Colin; and Mrs. Parker as Colinette. The two latter had formerly been attached to West's equestrian corps. Mr. Parker was a neat and graceful dancer, and for many years ballet-master at the Park, and was a teacher of his art in this city, where he resided until his death, which occurred December 23, 1858, at an advanced age. His public balls at Tammany Hall must be well re- membered by all dancing democrats. His wife was petite, pretty and pleasing — the best Columbine known to our Stage for years, and quite happy in such parts as Little Pickle, &c. On the 27th, Shakspeare's comedy of "Measure for Meas- ure" was played for the first time in New York, Mr. Prit- chard as the Duke of Austria; Mr. Robertson, Angelo ; Mr. Simpson, Claudio ; Mr. Barnes, Elbow; and Mrs. Barnes as Isabella. April 1st, the drama of "Frederick the Great" was pro- duced, as follows : Frederick Mr. Pritchard. Stork Mr. Barnes. Charles " Simpson. Matilda Mrs. Barnes. Governor " Jones. Charlotte .... " Groshon. Brandt " Robertson. On the 3d, Mr. Simpson took a farewell benefit previous to RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 335 visiting Europe, for the purpose of engaging recruits for the next season. The entertainments were, Murphy's fine comedy of "All in the Wrong," with Simpson and Mrs. Barnes as Sir John and Lady Rest/ess; and for the afterpiece, a new melo- drama, called the "Falls of Clyde.'' with Pritchard as Ken- mure ; Robertson as Farmer Enfield : Simpson as Edward : and Mrs. Barnes as Ellen Enfield. On the 6th, Mr. Arthur Keene, a young irishman, who had come hither " to seek his fortune," possessing a tenor voice of great sweetness, and some knowledge of music, and en- couraged by the great success of Phillipps, undertook the character of Henry Bertram, in " Guy Mannering." He made a favorable impression, notwithstanding an unfortunate acci- dent that befell him on his entree. His foot tripping, he fell with considerable force flat on the stage, but the kindness and propriety of manner exhibited by Miss Johnson, who was engaged in the same scene, and his own self-possession, hap- pily soon relieved him from the embarrassment of the occur- rence, and he went through the character triumphantly to the end. He soon after appeared as Patrick and Carlos, with equal success, and. in after years became an eminently favorite vocalist. When Malibran sung in English opera at the Bow- ery Theatre, in 1827, she was supported by Mr. Keene, who received from her many commendations for the purity of his voice, and the correctness of his execution. After several years' absence from America, he returned here in 1833, and appeared at several concerts at Castle Garden and Niblo's. He afterward resided at Nashville, Tennessee, and, we think, died at Mobile about the year 1835. Mr. Hilson commenced a new engagement on the 8th of April as Trapanti ; and during Mr. Simpson's absence, attended to the duties of the stage department. The lively farce of " Husbands and Wives" was admirably played for the first time in America on the 17th, thus cast: Sir P. Peery ... Mr. Jones. Lady Sarah Peery . Mrs. Groshon. Capt. Wingem ... 44 Pritchard. Eliza Beaumont . . Misa Johnson. Capt.Tickall. . . . " Robertson. Dame Brierly . . Mrs. Baldwin. j Humphrey Grub . . " Hilson. Rose Grub. ... " Barnes. Farmer Clover ..." Barnes. 336 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. May 4th, Dibdin's comedy, " The Will for the Deed," was brought out, but never became popular. It was thus cast : Old Hairbrain . . . Mr. Barnes. Motto Mr. Hilson. Harry Hairbrain . . " Pritchard. Acorn " Robertson. Manly " Graham. Mrs. Reference Mrs. Baldwin. Antimony " Jones. | Miss Manly ..." Wheatlet. Mr. T. Phillipps' fourth engagement commenced on the 6th, and terminated on the 20th; his new characters were, Sandie, in the "Highland Reel," and Captain Seymour, in " Fontainbleau." The " Bride of Abydos," dramatized from Byron's celebrated poem, was produced on the 23d, and en- joyed a partial success, with Pritchard as Selim, Robertson as Oiaffier, and Mrs. Barnes as Zulieka. June 1st. Mr. Hilson took his benefit, appearing as Fat- staff, in the " Merry Wives of Windsor," and reviving, for the first time in eighteen years, the drama called the " Recess, or Secret Panel," in which he played Muskato, and Mrs. Barnes, Beatrice. On the 8th of June, the operatic drama from Scott's " Rob Roy" was first presented to the public of New York, thus cast : Rob Roy Mr. Robertson. j Owen Mr. Jones. Francis " Darley. Diana Vernon . Mrs. Darley. Rashleigh " Pritchard. Helen McGregor. . " Barnes. Baillie Jarvie ... " Hilson. On the 15th, Mrs. Darley took her farewell benefit, previous to her removal to Philadelphia, appearing as Lady Bell, in " Know Your Own Mind." Mr. Cooper began an engagement as Pierre on the 29th, and played till the close of the season. "Who's My Father?" an amusing farce, was first played on the 4th of July : Lord Alten, Mr. Pritchard ; Major Flank, Barnes ; Fitzcloddy, Hilson ; Emily, Miss Johnson ; Fanny Fetch, Mrs. Darley. This piece was revived as lately as 1840, at Mitchell's Olympic. The season terminated on the 8th, with a benefit for the Theatrical Fund, when Cooper per- sonated the Duke Aranza, and Mr. Pritchard recited a Monody on the Death of Gen. Montgomery, whose remains had been brought from Quebec, and interred that day in front of St. Paul's Church, beneath the handsome monument erected to his memory by Congress. The same evening, Mrs. Holman made her first appearance RECORDS OF THE NKW YORK STAGE. 837 on the New York Stage, singing with brilliant effect " The Soldier Tired of War's Alarms, 1 ' and the celebrated Echo song, accompanied on the flute by Mr. Meline. We have before mentioned that this lady, when Miss Lattimer, had been brought from England for the Charleston Theatre by Mr. Holman, to whom she was married in August, 1817, two days before his lamented death. In March, 1819, the announce- ment of her marriage to Isaac Starr Clason appeared, but by his name she was never known to the New York Stage. In the summer of 1824, she again married, (C. W. Sandford, Esq., a distinguished lawyer of this city, now holding a high mili- tary rank) and retired from the Stage; but on her husband's becoming the proprietor of the Lafayette Theatre, she resumed her profession, and appeared there in October, 1826. She last played at the Park in the summer of 1829. Attractive in her personal appearance, refined and lady-like in her manners, she united to a sweet and powerful voice as high a degree of cul- tivation as was then deemed essential to the most finished singer, and during the greater part of the time she was at- tached to the New York Stage, she had " no rival near her throne." and was held in the highest admiration by all. She died in New York, after a lingering illness, on the 1st Sep- tember, 1859. 48 CHAPTER XXVI. Park Theatre. 1818-19— Pavilion, Anthony Street, 1819— Park, 1819-20- Its Conflagration — Anthony Street, 1820. IT H the close of the previous season ended the engagements of Mr. and Mrs. Darley, Mr. Hilson, Mr. Jones, Mr. and Mrs. H. Williams, and Mrs. Groshon, all valuable and important performers. But Mr. Simpson had not been idle in Europe ; he had engaged, either as stars or for the stock company, an array of artists such as had never before been presented to the public in the course of one sea- son, including Mr. and Mrs. Bartley, Mr. James Wallack, Mr. Maywood, Mr. Kilner, Miss Leesugg, (afterward Mrs. Hackett) Messrs. Howard, Morelancl, Garner, Blair, and Goll ; while, within our own borders, the services of Mrs. Entwistle, and of Mr. Dykes, heretofore noticed, were also secured. The following were the entertainments on the opening night, August 31st, 1818 : The Soldier's Daughter ; Got. Heartall Mr. Barnes. Frank Heartall (hia first appearance since his return from Europe) . " Simpson. Malfort, Sr " Robertson. Malfort. Jr . " Pritchard. Capt. Woodley (Last appearance in America) .... " Moreland. Timothy Quaint .... (first appearance in nine years) .... " Dykes. Widow Cheerly . . . (first appearance in six years) .... Mrs. Entwistle. and, The Irishman in London. Murtoch Delany . (from Dublin, his first appearance in America) . Mr. Blair. Mr. Harry George Moreland was from the York Theatre, and, though not distinguished by any eminent ability, pos- sessed talents of that useful and available sort which ren- dered him a desirable , acquisition. He was a very pleasing RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 389 singer, with a flexible but rather weak voice; a correct reader, and, as an actor in the lighter characters of the drama, al- ways gave satisfaction. He married Miss Aspinall, a favorite dancer, about 1826, and died in New York, June 13th, 1832. Mr. Blair's Irish performance was marked by no distinguished excellence. On the next evening, Sept. 1st, a very successful debut was made by Miss Catharine Leesugg, from the Birmingham Theatre, in the characters of Jessy Oat/and and Marian Ramsay. " There's sweet Miss Leesugg — by the by, she's Dot pretty : She's a little too large, and has not too much grace ; Vet there's something about her so witching and witty, Tis pleasure to gaze on her good-humored face." A compliment from the "Croakers" must necessarily have been deserved, and none were more worthy of it at this time than the charming Miss Leesugg. She was now in the health- ful bloom of youth, with a frank and open countenance, full of mirth and humor, — fine, sparkling eyes, a buxom figure, a clear, melodious voice, great sprightliuess and vivacity, and, notwithstanding a little awkwardness of manner, won her way at once to every heart. She was, in fact, the very Hebe of actresses. Her forte was comedy; her merry, romping country lasses have never since been equaled, and her chambermaids were almost equally meritorious. She was not as happy in the fine lady of comedy, nor in tragic parts, although she frequently played, and with considerable merit, such charac- ters as the Queen, in "Hamlet;" Emilia, Volumnia, &c. Miss Leesugg was born in England about the year 1798, and at a very early age was introduced to the Stage, where her remark- able vocal powers and precocious histrionic abilities acquired for her the cognomens of the Infant Billington and Roscius, !by which she was known in the British provincial theatres as I early as 1805. On her arrival in America, her noble contralto voice at once ittracted attention ; and, possessing considerable science and HdU, she was bv many considered superior to any singer that 340 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. had preceded her, and by all she was allowed to take equal rank with Mrs. Burke and Mrs. Holman. While in the very height of her popularity, in 1819, she married Mr. Hackett, the comedian, (who was at that time engaged in mercantile life) and left the stage. On resuming the profession in 1826, (in consequence of her husband's pecuniary difficulties) her powers as a vocalist and comic actress again shone forth in full maturity, and for several years she was one of the first favorites of the town. She made her last appearance on the Park stage on her final retirement, in June, 1832, as Maria, in " Of Age To-morrow." In 1838, on the 19th of May, she once more emerged from her seclusion, for her husband's benefit at the National Opera House, where she appeared as Susan, in " Perfection," to the Kate O'Brien of her sister, Mrs. Sharpe. Her person was then almost too. large for the stage, and her appearance indicated the presence of dropsy, a disease with which we have understood she was afflicted in her latter years. She died at her husband's residence, Jamaica, L. I., December 4th, 1845, agpd 47 years. On the 2d of September, 1818, Mr. James Howard, from the Brighton Theatre, made his first bow in America, in the char- acter of Henry Bertram. He possessed a pure, sweet, tenor voice, a good face and figure, and as a vocalist for several years enjoyed the highest favor. He last played at the Park Theatre in 1828, and after an absence of seven years, re- appeared in concerts at Niblo's Garden, in the summer of 1835, with considerable success, although obliged to use crutches for support, having had one or both legs fractured during his retirement. Mr. Howard was born in London, about the year 1798, and died in Philadelphia in 1848. Mr. Garner, another addition to the company, first appeared on the 3d, as Valverde, in " Pizarro," and Dermot, in the " Poor Soldier." In the performance of the latter piece, the new- comers were all enlisted — Mr. Howard as Patrick; Mr. More- land, Capt. Fitzroy ; Mr. Blair, Father Luke; Mr. Barnes, Darby ; Mr. Bancker, Bagatelle; Miss Johnson, Norah; and Miss Leesugg, Kathleen. ' Mr. Garner, with an agreeable figure, 1'ORTRAIT of JAMBS wai lack. Theatre Royal, Drury Lane., This Evening, the Tragedy of MACBETH. Macbeth, Mr MACREADY, Duncan (King of Scotland) Mr YOUNG E Macduff, Mr WALLACK, Malcolm, Mr J. VINING, Banquo, Mr COOPER, Rosse, Mr H. WALLACK, Donalbain, Master BAKER, Lenox, Mr CATHIE Seward, Mr THOMPSON, Fleance, Miss LANE, Seyton, Mr FENTON, Serjeant, Mr Jones, Physician, Mr Yarnold, Apparitions — Mr Howard, Miss Lane, Miss Poole Hecate, (first time) Mr PHILLIPS, 1st Witch, MrFARREN, 2nd Witch, Mr DOWTON 3rd Witch, Mr HARLEY. Lady Macbeth Miss HUDDART, Gentlewoman, Mrs NEWCOMBE. After which, will be' presented THE DIORAMA, Designed aBd Painted by MR. STANFIELD. To conclude with, a Melo-dramatic Opera, in 2 Act's, called The Devil's Brother. "With New Scenery, ^Dresses, &c The Music selected from the Fra DioTalo of Auber, and adapted to the Engli^t Stage by Mr ALEXANDER LEE. Sir Gregory Goslington, (an English Traveller) Mr HARLEY, Fra Diavolo, (under the title of Marquis San Marco) Mr WALLACK Lorenzo, (Brigadier of Carabineers) Mr SINCLAIR, Lucro, (Host of the Inn) Mr WEBSTER, Postilion, Mr HONNER Banditti— Beppo, Mr LATHAM, Giacorao, Mr BEDFORD, 1st Carabineer, Mr BLAND, Francisco, (the Miller) Mr EATOX Lady Pamela Goslington, Mrs ORGER, Zulina, (Daughter of Lucro) Mrs WAYLETT. The Concerted Music by Miss Byfeld, Miss Bruce, Miss Butline. Oa Tuesday, The Stranger, with, firet time, a new larce called high Ways and By Ways. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 841 correct gesticulation, and a pleasing voice, was a valuable ac- quisition for the lighter operatic parts, and also appeared as a fop, or valet, to considerable advantage. We remember him last in New York, at the Lafayette Theatre, about 1828. He died at Baltimore in 1843. Mr. Goll, a dancer, first appeared on the 4th of September, as Barebones, in the ballet of the " Miser/' On the 7th, Mr. James W. Wallack, afterward for many years proprietor of Wallack's Theatre, in this city, made his first appearance in America as Macbeth ; following it in suc- cession with Coriolarius, Rolla, Romeo, Hamlet, and Richard III., playing all with triumphant success. Mr. Wallack was born in London, August 24th, 1794, the day on which Astley's Amphitheatre was destroyed by fire, an event which, it is said, precipitated his entrance into this breathing world. His father, William Wallack, was an admired nautical actor at that establishment, and his mother, a daughter of the cele- brated mime Johannot, was the best actress that ever trod its boards. She was a woman of superior mind, and very far above the station into which fate had thrown her. She was the mother also of Mrs. Jones, the favorite of New York in 1806, and of Henry Wallack, and of Mrs. Stanley, (well known here as Mrs. Hill) and of Mrs. Pincott, of London, whose daughter, Mrs. A. Wigan, is now one of the greatest favorites of the British Metropolis. James Wallack's name first appears on a playbill, on Easter Monday, 1798, at the opening of the Royal Circus, afterward the Surrey Theatre, in a drama, entitled "Black Beard," which run one hundred and thirteen nights. When still very young, he received the appointment of midshipman in the navy, but unable to resist the fascinations of the stage, he declined the dangers of the sea, and at the age of twelve, made his debut at the German Theatre, Leicester Square, whence he was soon called to Drury Lane, to personate the few parts adapted to his age. He afterward spent three years in Dublin, but re- turned to London in 1812, and made his first appearance at the Lyceum Theatre, where the Drury Lane company were 342 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGR. then playing, as Sangrida, in the " Wood Demon.'' On Drury Lane Theatre being rebuilt, he appeared there on its opening night as Laertes, to the Hamlet of Mr. Elliston. From this period his reputation as an actor commenced, and in the youthful heroes of genteel comedy, and in many second char- acters of tragedy, he soon greatly distinguished himself. In parts of a more melo-dramatic cast he for many years stood unrivaled, both in England and America, His Rolla, Rob Roy, Roderick Dhu, Falconbridge, Massaroni, &c, were gener- ally allowed to rank above all competition. In another very dissimilar line, embracing characters of a more domestic nature — the blunt yet honest farmer, the warm-hearted sailor, and others combining homeliness of expression with great natural feeling and pathos — he stood a model of excellence. In this list we may include his Martin Heywood, Walter, " Children in the Wood," Capt. Copp, Adam Brock, Michael in the " Adopted Child," &c. In the class of characters usually performed by Charles Kemble, such as Benedick, Mercutio, Duke Aranza, Mr. Oakley, Petruchio, Charles Surface, &c, Mr. Wallack, in his meridian, nearly equaled the high artistic finish thrown around them by that eminent comedian, and infinitely surpassed him in voice, face, and every other per- sonal requisite ; indeed, it may be questioned also, in this line, whether he has ever been equaled on the American stage, for Kemble was too far past his prime to represent his best parts effectively, when he played in this hemi- sphere. Mr. Wallack attained his high position by the most careful study and unceasing cultivation of his powers, and the results were plainly perceivable in every character he personated, even in those where he was the least successful. In Shak- speare's finest tragic parts, and in other heroes of passion and intense excitement, he was probably inferior to Cooper, Kean, Booth or Forrest. It was remarked of him that he was first in his line, but that his line was not the first. Mr. Wallack early became a citizen of the United States, but frequently revisited his native land. RECORDS OF THK NKW YORK STAOE. 343 In 1822, shortly after his second arrival here, he had the misfortune to break his leg by an accident occurring to the stage-coach in which he was journeying from New York to Philadelphia; but it was very skillfully set, and although con- fined to his room for months, no trace of the disaster ap- peared when he was at last able to throw away his crutches. He was here again in 1828, in 1832, and in 1834, '35 and '36. In 1837, he became the manager of the National Theatre — formerly the Italian Opera House, corner of Leonard and Church Streets — and under his regime, the elder Vandenhoff, Miss Shirreff, Mr. and Mrs. Seguin, Wilson the vocalist, James Browne, W. H. Williams and other eminent artists, were first introduced to the American Stage. His connection with this establishment terminated by its unfortunate conflagration in the fall of 1839, and he again returned to Europe. In 1843-44, he played several engagements at the Park Theatre, then sinking rapidly to its fate, with less success than he deserved, and he again set sail for England, where he remained until 1852, when he came out to assume the management of the Lyceum Theatre, which, under Brougham's management, had sunk to the lowest ebb of poverty. Gathering around him a few choice spirits, the prestige of his name at once attracted public attention, and by his superior taste and judgment, his pieces were put upon the stage in a style surpassing any other establishment in the city, while his own performances, as well as those of his company, generally satisfied the most fastidious critic, and resulted pecuniarily with equal satisfac- tion to himself. At this house he closed his career as an actor, having per- sonated within its walls a long list of his most celebrated characters, and, in 1859, enacted his last original part, Colonel Del mar, in the drama of the "Veteran," written by his son, John Lester Wallack. At the termination of his lease here, he built the present (1866) Wallack's Theatre, in Broadway, corner of Thirteenth Street, which was first opened on the 25th of September, 1861, and at the close of the season in 1862, he last appeared before 344 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. the curtain to return his acknowledgments to his friends for their liberal patronage. Mr. Wallack was for several years a sufferer from gout and asthma — diseases which finally caused his death at his resi- dence in Fourteenth Street, on the 25th of December, 1864, at the age of 70 years and 4 months. In his prime, his face was eminently handsome, intellectual and expressive, his figure finely proportioned, his attitudes strikingly elegant and graceful, and his voice rich, strong and melodious. His elocution was so fine and impressive, that we have heard that the late distinguished prelate, Bishop Wain- wright, many years since applied to him for a course of les- sons in the art, which he declined giving, on the ground that the reverend gentleman, who was indeed a most accomplished reader, was already his superior, Mr. Wallack married, in early life, a daughter of the celebrated Irish comedian and vocalist, Johnstone, the predecessor of Power on the London Stage ; and Mr. Lester Wallack, born in America, in 1819, was the first offspring of the union. Immediately after the close of Mr. Wallack's engagement, Mr. Cooper opened as Macbeth, following it up with Leon, Penruddock, Beverly, Marc Antony, Hamlet, Zanga, and for his benefit, on the 5th of October, Othello, supported in the latter character by Mr. Hilson as Iago, his first and only appearance during the season. Mrs. Holman commenced an engagement on the 7th of October, as Rosetta, her first appearance in this character on the New York boards. She also appeared as Adela, in the "Haunted Tower;" Mrs. Cornflower, in the "Farmer's Wife;" Princess of Navarre and Rosina, and fully sustained the high opinion that had been formed of her merits at the close of the previous season. Mr. Wallack's second engagement begun on the 8th, when he appeared as Rolla, and continued playing on alternate nights with Mrs. Holman and others until his benefit, on the 4th of November. His new parts were Octavian, Alexander, Achmet, in " Barbarossa," Reuben Glenroy, Sir Edward Morti- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 345 mer, Jqffler, Stranger, Othello, and on his benefit night, in the new farce of "My Aunt/' his capital performance of Dick Dasha/l greatly increased his fame, and precluded all possi- bility of competition. In this still popular farce he was sus- tained by Spiller as Rattle, Baldwin as Soberlove, Mrs. Baldwin as Mrs. Corbett, and Miss Johnson as Emma. The other en- tertainments on that evening were the "Children in the Wood" and "Love a la Mode," in which he was very success- ful as Walter and Sir Archy McSarcasm. On the 17th of October, Mr. T. Phillipps commenced his first engagement this season, as Count Belino, supported by Mrs. Holman as Rosalvina. On the 20th, they appeared as Prince Orlando and Floretta, in the "Cabinet;" and on the 24th, as Henry de Rosier and Miss Hartington, in Tom Moore's opera of "M. P., or the Bluestocking." Sustained as the lat- ter now was by Simpson as Sir Charles, Moreland as Captain Canvass, Robertson as Hartington, Spiller as Leatherhead, Miss Johnson as Miss Selwyn, and Miss Leesugg as Susan, it was far more popular than on its first production, in 1812. Mr. Phillipps and Mrs. Holman also appeared in the "Siege of Belgrade," the "Maid of the Mill," and in "Brother and Sister." Their combined attraction was a source of great pleasure to the public, as well as of profit to the theatre. On the 27th of October, Mrs. Barnes made her first appear- ance for the season in the character of Belvidera, and was welcomed back with the most enthusiastic applause. On the same evening, Colman's farce of " X. Y. Z." was first played in America, with the following cast: Neddy Bray .... Mr. Spiller. Maria Miss Johnson. Capt. Galliard ..." Moreland. Mm. Mouaer . . . Mrs. Wheatley. Roscius Alldross. . . " Robertson. Dora Mumwell . . " Baldwin. Ralph Hempseed " Babnes. On the 13th of November, a drama called "Retribution" was produced, with Robertson as Varanes, Pritchard as Chos- roo, Simpson as Hamed, and Mrs. Barnes, Zimra. On the 14th, the amusing farce called "My Spouse and I" [ was first played here, as follows : ' rlsk Mr. Spiller. Harriet Miis Johnson. I Dlck " Pritohard. Janet " Leesuqq. Paddock " Barnes. I Dame Paddock . . Mrs. Baldwin. 44 346 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. On the 18th, Mrs. Bartley, formerly Miss Smith, of Covent Garden, an eminent European favorite, made her first appear- ance in America, as Isabella. This lady was born at Liverpool, October 23d, 1783. Her father was an actor, by the name of Williamson, and her mother the daughter of General Dillon, of Galway, Ireland, renounced by her friends on account of her passion for the stage. At a very early age little Miss Williamson appeared at the Salisbury Theatre, and on her mother's marriage with a Mr. Smith, another Thespian, in 1793 was called by his name, and so continued to be until her own marriage with Mr. Bartley, on the 23d of Au- gust, 1815. After various vicissitudes consequent on the changing fortunes of her parents, she was engaged at Bath, which boasted the most fashionable of all the provincial theatres, where she was patronized by the most distin- guished people of the place. Her renown soon reached Lon- don, and in 1805 she was engaged at Covent Garden, at a high salary ; but Mrs. Siddons being a member of the com- pany, and in possession of all the most important parts that Miss Smith excelled in, she was of course precluded from playing them, and refusing to injure her repute by appearing in a different line, her engagement was of more advantage to her fortune than her fame. She afterward went to the Dublin Theatre, and, owing principally to her attraction, the season there, in 1809, resulted in a net profit of £9,000. Returning to Covent Garden, in 1810, on an engagement for three months, she became so great a favorite, that her benefit night, when she performed Isabella, drew£709. On the opening of the New Drury Lane Theatre, she was engaged as the principal tragic actress for three years, and filled that important situation to the entire satisfaction of the public and the management. After leaving America, she performed in the principal British provincial thea- tres as a star of the first rank, and in 1823 resumed her old sit- uation at Covent Garden. Mrs. Bartley died in London, Janu- ary 14th, 1850, at the age of 67. She had long retired from the stage, and was throughout life as much esteemed for her private virtues as for her professional merits. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 347 Mr. George Bartley, her husband, who made his debut in America on the 19th of November, as Falslaff, was born in the city of Bath, England, in 1782, and at a very early age was engaged to play children's characters at the theatre there, making his first appearance as the Page, to Elliston's Will Steady, in the " Purse." He was afterward placed in a mer- cantile concern, but being unable to resist the force of early predilections, he made his debut in the summer of 1800, at Cheltenham, as Orlando, in " As You Like It," with consider- able success. Some time after, while playing at Margate, he attracted the notice of Mrs. Jordan, who, as Rosalind, was much pleased with the excellence of his Orlando, and in con- sequence recommended him to the management of Drury Lane, where he was engaged, and first appeared December 11th, 1802, in the same character, with a success so decided that for five years he supported in that theatre an extensive range in the drama, with a continued increase of reputation. He afterward engaged as stage manager with Mr. Arnold, of • the English Opera House, and gave so much satisfaction that, i previous to his visiting America, the manager and performers , joined in giving him a splendid dinner in the saloon of the I theatre, September 13th, 1818. On his return to England, his great merit kept him in continual and profitable employment until his final retirement from the stage, in February, 1853. He died of paralysis, July 22d, 1858, aged 76 years. In early and middle life his talents were happily displayed both in the I serious and comic walks of the drama ; but in later years he derived his greatest fame from his personation of the veterans of the stage, such as Falslaff, (in which he was for many years unrivaled) Polonius, Sir Peter Teazle, Sir Anthony Absolute, Sir David Dunder, Job Thornberry, Col. Damas, Max Hark- away, &c, in which a chasteness and, at the same time, a richness of humor were so happily blended as to leave the most fastidious critic nothing to desire. If the favor of roy- alty be any additional proof of merit, it may be mentioned that Mr. Bartley received the highest encomiums in the olden time from the late Queen Charlotte, of snufiy memory, and, 348 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. in the present day, from her more popular granddaughter, Queen Victoria. On the 20th of November, Mrs. Bartley appeared as Euphra- sia, and also recited Collins' " Ode on the Passions," with a success so great that it was continually demanded until the close of her engagement. On the 26th, Milman's tragedy of " Fazio " was first played in America ; Fazio by Mr. Simpson ; Duke, Mr. Robertson ; Bartolo, Pritchard ; Bianca, Mrs. Bart- ley; Aldabella, Miss Leesugg. This tragedy, with all its merits, never attained popularity till irradiated by Fanny Kemble's brilliant genius. Mrs. Bartley's first benefit took place on the 27th, when she appeared as Belvidera and recited the "Passions," and her husband personated Pierre, and Michael, in the "Adopted Child." On the 2d of December, Mr. Bartley played Sir Anthony. Absolute; on the 3d, Job Thornberry ; on the 4th, Dr. Pang-loss, for Miss Johnson's benefit. On the 5th, Mrs. Bartley appeared as Mrs. Holler, and on the 8th as Lady Randolph, to Mr. B.'s Old Norval. On the latter evening, the farce of the " Sleeping Draught " was first played here, as follows : Rinaldo Mr. Carpendeb. Popolino .... Mr. SpIller. Dr. Vincolo .... " Baldwin. Francesca .... Miss Johnson. Bruno " Barnes. | Nonna " Leesugg. Mr. Bartley took his first benefit on the 9th, when he ap- peared as Major Oakley, to his lady's Mrs. Oakley, in the " Jealous Wife," and also as Capt. Allclack, in the " Invisible Girl." On the 10th, a comedy called the "Green Man" was first produced, with the following cast : Lord Rowcroft . . . Mr. Robertson. Fungus .... Mr. Spiller. Sir G. Squander. . . " Pritchard. Closefist .... " Barnes. Mr. Green " Bartley. Lady Squander . . Miss Leesugg. Crackley . . . . " Simpson. Bertha 44 Johnson. Mr. and Mrs. Bartley also appeared during this engagement, as Henry VIII. and Queen Katharine ; Montalto and Bellamira, (in Shiel's tragedy of " Bellamira," now first played in Amer- ica, supported by Mr. Kilner as Salerno, Mr. Pritchard as Amurath, and Mr. Simpson as Manfredi) Jane Shore, Shylock and Portia, Abbe de VEpee and Julio, in " Deaf and Dumb," and Catharine and Petruchio. Their engagement ended on RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 349 the 23d of December, when they appeared in "Deaf and Dumb," for the benefit of the New York Institution for that class of unfortunates. On the 12th of December, Mr. Thomas Kilner made his first appearance in America, as Sir Abet Handy. With figure, face and voice well adapted to the characters of old men, whether serious or comic, he seldom failed to represent them in a manner that secured the warmest approbation of the audience. Mr. Kilner was for several seasons attached to the Park and Chatham Garden Theatres, and was afterward mana- ger of the Theatre at Boston. He last played in New York at the Bowery Theatre, in January, 1837. He left Boston in 1838, and went to Ohio, where he purchased a farm, on which it was said he resided for many years. His death was an- nounced as having occurred at Wilmington, Indiana, January 2d, 1862, at the age of 85. His wife made her first appearance on the 14th of Decem- ber, as Peggy, in " Turn Out," but her merit was of the nega- tive kind. She never evinced sufficient talent to excite admiration, and was never obtrusive enough to be offensive. January 1st, 1819, witnessed the performance of "Laugh When You Can," an Olio of Sentimental and Comic Songs, and, for the first time in America, Faucit's melo-drama of the u Secret Mine." It was thus cast, and proved highly attractive : Araza Mr. Simpson. Dimdim .... Mr. Barnes. Assad " Kilner. Zaphyra .... Mrs. Barnes. Ismael " Robertson. Zobeide Miss Leesogq. Hyder " Pritohard. On the 4th, Mr. Robert Campbell Maywood made his first appearance in America, in the character of Richard III. lie soon after appeared as Sir Giles Overreach, Bertram, Shylock, Othello, Hamlet, Fitzharding, (" Smiles and Tears") and for 1 his benefit on the 18th, as King Lear, and Lovell in " High Life Below Stairs." A second engagement followed, during ! which he represented Luke, ("Riches") Sir Edward Mortimer, • Abednego, Penruddock, Skirmish, Octavian, Bajazet, in "Ta- '. merlane," and Young Wilding, in the " Liar" — the last two being for his benefit, February 1st, in all of which ho was fa- vorably received, and gave general satisfaction. 350 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mr. Maywood was a son of Dr. Maywood, of the Isle of Wight, but was himself born at Edinburgh in the year 1790. Of his earlier years we have no account, save that he first appeared at Drury Lane, as Shylock, September 25th, 1817. On his appearance in New York, many considered him equal as a tragedian to any actor who had preceded him, but gen- eral opinion did not sustain that impression, although all awarded him the merit of being unsurpassed as a general stock actor. His Rob Roy, Fitz James, Gilderoy, Carwin, Harvey Birch, in the " Spy," and many melo-dramatic char- acters, evinced powers of a very superior order ; but, in latter days, he enjoyed a greater popularity by his entirely unri- valed performance in a line of Scottish characters, in only one of which he has ever been matched on the American Stage — by Cooke, as Sir Pertinax McSycophant. This list included Baillie Nicol Jarvie, Caleb Balder stone, Edie Ochiltree, Donald, in the " Falls of Clyde," Jock Howison, in " Cramond Brig," Laird of Dumbiedikes, Tarn CShanter, Sir Andrew Burley, in the "Rights of Women," Muckle, in the "Millionaire," &c. Mr. Maywood continued a resident of New York for some ten years, after which he removed to Baltimore and Philadelphia, in both of which cities he was connected with the manage- ment of their various theatres. The Chestnut Street Theatre of Philadelphia was under his principal direction from 1832 to 1840. He had married Mrs. H. A. Williams in 1828, and one of her daughters, whom he had adopted at a very tender age, was educated by him with the most lavish expense. This young girl, when about twelve years of age, was intro- duced to the public of Philadelphia and New York as "la petite Augusta," and the grace and brilliancy of her execu- tion as a danseuse challenged comparison with the finest artists America had yet known. In order to give her every attainable advantage, he afterward visited Paris, and had her placed under the most skillful professors of dancing ; but, to his great chagrin and disappointment, and total loss of any advantage he had rightfully expected from her services, she had scarcely entered her teens when she surreptitiously mar- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 351 ried a Mons. Mabille, from whom in less than two years she eloped, deserting at the same time the infant she had borne him. An elder daughter, Miss Mary Maywood, whom he had also carefully trained for the stage, and for whom he obtained a short engagement at the Hayniarket, London, where she appeared about 1840, made a failure on her return to America, and as an actress soon sunk into mediocrity. From this period, fortune went wrong with him. In 1842, he was invited to resume the management of the Chestnut Street Theatre; but declining the responsibility, his daughter's name was placed at the head of its bills by the stockholders, and he engaged to take charge of the stage department. The season proving unprofitable, his connection with the estab- lishment terminated in the spring of 1843. In 1844, Mr. Maywood appeared for a few nights at the Park, and in 1845 and 1846, played one or two very brief engagements at the Chatham and Olympic Theatres, after which we heard of his acting in Canada, and at some of the theatres in the West. As a pendant to the above sketch, we copy the following paragraphs, the first of which appeared in the New York Tribune, January 11th, 1855, and the latter in the Mirror the day following : " We are requested to call the attention of the benevolent to the situation of Mr. Robert Maywood, who was, several years since, quite an eminent and worthy member of the theatrical profession in this city. Mr. Maywood, in company with his daughter, has been for several years living in Trieste ; but having become deranged in mind and enfeebled by old age, he has been sent to the land of his birth (adoption) to be taken care of. His professional brethren will doubtless see that he and his are properly cared for. Further information may be obtained of Doctor Covel, at City Prison." u Robert Maywood, formerly an actor of some celebrity in this city, was yesterday sent to the Lunatic Asylum. It ap- pears that Mr. Maywood has but lately arrived from Trieste, Austria, where he has been living in great affluence with his daughter, Miss Augusta Maywood, a danseuse of some celeb- 352 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. rity in Italy and Germany. It is said she has a villa on Lake Como, worth half a million of dollars." Poor Maywood finally died of paralysis, at the Marshall Infirmary, Troy, N. Y., November 27th, 1856, aged 66 years. On the 15th of January, Beazley's farce of "Fire and Water" was first played here as follows : Capt. Hurry .... Mr. Barnes. i Fanny Miss Johnson. Thrifty " Kilner. Furbelow .... Mrs. Baldwin. Frederick " Simpson. On the 3d of February, Dibdin's celebrated operatic romance of " Zuma, or the Tree of Health," was produced, with the fol- lowing cast: Carlo . .... Mr. Robertson. Zuma Mrs. Holman. Dr. Bonoro .... " Kilner. Zoro " Parker. Picquillo ... . " Barnes. Oriana Miss Johnson. Azan " Pritchard. Chinchilla .... " Leesugg. Mirvan " Howard. Beatrice .... Mrs. Baldwin. It was favorably received, and several times repeated. " Is He Jealous ? " a sprightly one-act comedy, adapted from the French by Beazley, was brought out on the 8th, with great success, being capitally played by Simpson as Belmour, Miss Johnson as Mrs. Belmour, Miss Leesugg as Harriet, and Mrs. Baldwin as Rose. Few trifles of its class have retained such lasting approval. Mr. Wallack now began another engagement, opening as Macbeth on the 10th. "The Castle of Paluzzi" was produced on the 15th, with the annexed cast, but attained no remarkable popularity : Count Salviati . . . Mr. Pritchard. Paolo Mr. Barnes. Marquis Castello . . " Kilner. Countess .... Mrs. Barnes. Ferdinand .... " Robertson. Zerlina Miss Johnson. On the 19th, " Altorf," a tragedy by the celebrated Frances Wright, afterward Madame Darusmont, was produced for the first time on any stage — it was cast as follows, and enjoyed but a brief existence : Altorf Mr. Wallack. De Rheinthal . . . Mr. Simpson. Elflock .... " Pritchard. Giovanni .... Miss Johnson. Werner " Robertson. | Rosina Mrs. Barnes. On the 27th, Shakspeare's tragedy of "Richard II. 'was also produced, for the first time in New York, its characters thus distributed : Richard Mr. Wallace Northumberland . . Mr. Kilner. John of Gaunt . . " Pritchard. Gardener .... " Spiller. York " Robertson. Queen Mrs. Barnes. Bolingbroke .... " Simpson. Matilda " Holman. RICHARD II 'rom the original picture in the Jerusalem Chamber, Westminster Hall (Engraved in /790) RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 353 Mr. Wallack's benefit took place March 1st, when he gave a capital delineation of the Three Singles, in "Three and the Deuce;" and also appeared as Kalig, in the "Blind Boy.' 1 March 3d, the drama of " Barmecide" was first played, as follows : Haroun Iaouf . Giaffar Mr. Pritchard. " Kilner. " Simpson. Goodman .... Mr. Spiller. Hassan Miss Johnson. Zaida Mrs. Barnes. On the 8th, Mrs. Holman's benefit took place, when she appeared as Diana Vernon, and produced for the first time, the burletta of " Don Giovanni, or the Spectre on Horseback," which was played as follows : ... Mr. Giovanni Octavio Guzman Moreland. Leporello .... Mr. Spiller. Howard. Anna Miss Leescgg. Barnes. Bride " Johnson. Mr. Simpson's benefit took place on the 15th, when he presented, for the first time in America, John Howard Payne's tragedy of " Brutus." Censured as it has been for its lack of originality, the author acknowledging that he not only bor- rowed the ideas, but occasionally the language of others, its greatest proof of merit is that it is the only one of eight plays on the same subject that has retained possession of the stage. We subjoin its cast on this occasion: L. J. Brutus . SexU Tarquin Titus . . Collatinus . Valerius . . Horatius . Aruns Lucretius . Claudius . Flavius . . Mr. Pritchard. Robertson. Simpson. Moreland. Kilner. Hopper. Garner. Graham. Banckeb. Baldwin. Centurion . . Roman Citizens Tullia . Tarquinia Lucretia Lavinia Priestess Vestal . Mr. Nexsen. " Johnson. M Howard. u Parker. Mrs. Barnes. M'ss Johnson. " Leescoo. Mrs. Wheatley. *' Baldwin. Miss Dkllinoer. It would be folly to speak of Pritchard as Brutus, in com- parison with Kean, who first played the part in London ; still, he was most respectable and praiseworthy — but we are in- clined to believe that Mrs. Glover, the original representative of Tullia, was inferior to Mrs. Barnes, who portrayed the madness and despair of the unhappy Roman matron with thrilling power and effect. Mr. Kilner, as Valerius, also deserved the highest praise. In the cast of "Brutus" will be observed the name of Mr. Gilbert Nexsen, a most worthy and respectable man, who was 45 354 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. long attached to the Park company. He was born in New York, June 20th, 1795, and first appeared at the Park as Jock Jabos, in "Guy Mannering," September, 1816. He labored hard in the profession, but never rose beyond the lowest grade of mediocrity, retiring at the close of the season in 1839. He was afterward long Reader to the Common Council of New York, and ultimately died in the city, at the age of 60, October 17th, 1855. On the 17th, Mr. T. Phillipps opened as Count Belino : and on the 22d appeared as Henry, in " Fontainbleau," for the first time. Mr. Wallack and Mrs. Bartley commenced a joint engage- ment on the 26th, as Mr. and Mrs. Beverly ; they subse- quently appeared as Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, Rolla and Elvira, Biron and Isabella, Alexander the Great and Roxana, Young Norval and Lady Randolph, and Posthumus and Imogen. On the 10th of April, the night of her benefit, Mrs. Bartley recited the beautiful melologue written for her by Thomas Moore, accompanied with appropriate national melodies by the orchestra. On the 14th, Mr. Bartley re-appeared with his lady, as Major and Mrs, Oakley ; on the 16th, as Solus and Lady Elinor Irwin; 17th, as Sir John and Lady Restless; 21st, Prince Altenberg and Madame Clermont; 23d, as Lord and Lady Townly ; and 24th, as Sir Adam and Lady Contest. On the 19th, Aytous capital farce of the " Rendezvous" had been brought out, with the following cast : Quake Mr. Kilxek. I Smart Mr. Spilleb. Bolding " Moreland. Sophia Miss Leesugg. Charles " Pritchard. Lucretia .... " Johnson. Simon " Barnes. Rose ... Mrs. Baldwin. Mr. Phillipps began his farewell engagement on the 26th, introducing, for the first time in New York, Dibdin's drama entitled the " English Fleet in 1342," (music by Braham) in which he appeared as Valentine; Mr. Robertson as Count Charles; Mr. Barnes as Mainmast; Miss Johnson as the Countess Jane, and Miss Leesugg as Katharine. This opera never attained an American popularity. Mr. Phillipps' en- gagement extended to the 17th of May, when his benefit RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 355 attracted an audience that crowded the Theatre in every part. The following was the bill on the occasion : The Barber of Seville ; Almaviva Mr. T. Phillip^. I Figaro Mr. Spiller. Dr. Bartolo .... " Barnes. I Rosina Miss Liesugg. Pas de Deux Mr. and Mrs. Parker. Concluding with The Deserter. Skirmish Mr. May wood. Louisa Miss Johnson. Henry " T. Phillipps. Jenny ... " Leesugo Russet " Kilner. Margaret .... Mrs. Baldwin. Simpkin " Barnrs. | After the performances terminated, the beneficiary was presented by the managers with a pair of magnificent silver pitchers, in token of their appreciation of the value his serv- ices had been to their establishment. Mr. Maywood's new engagement had commenced on the 4th of May, when he opened as King Lear, and his per- formances continued to attract and gratify the public. On the 13th, the farce of "Where Shall I Dine?" was first played. Simpson made quite a hit as Sponge, and was ably supported by Kilner as Grumpy, Robertson as Discount, Spil- ler as Dig-gory, and Miss Leesugg as Mrs. Discount. On the 19th, the "Heart of Mid Lothian" was brought ou in which the great beauty of Miss Johnson as Effie, the deep, pathetic feeling displayed by Mrs. Barnes as Jtannie Deans, and the admirable portrayal of Madge Wildfire's fantastic madness by Miss Leesugg, obtained universal approbation and applause. These ladies were ably supported by Pritchard as the Duke of Ar gyle, Simpson as Staunton, Robertson as Reu- ben Butler, and Barnes as the Laird of Dumbiedikes. Shiel's tragedy of " Evadne," surpassing in interest all his other dramas, was first played on the 24th, with the following cast, and with great success : King of Naples . . . Mr. Moreland. : Vincentio .... Mr. Simpson. Colon n a ... Maywood. Olivia Miss Leesugo. Ludovico . ..." Pkitchard. \ Evadne Mrs. Barnes. It was carefully and well played throughout, and no suc- ceeding Evadne has equaled Mrs. Barnes in her exquisite delineation of this finely-drawn character. On the 2(5th, a farce called "Doctor Bolus" was presented, with Kilner as Doctor Bolus, Spiller as Gen. Scaramoucho, 356 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Barnes as King Artapadiedes, and Miss Leesugg as Queen Catalinda. On the 31st, the "Recluse" was brought out, thus cast: Elskender .... Mr. Maywood. I Ellislaw .... Mr. Robertson, Marechal Wells ..." Simpson. Isabel Vere . . . Mrs. Barnes. Sir F. Langley ..." Pritchard. Lucy Miss Johnson. June 2d. Mrs. Barnes took her benefit, when she produced another drama of Shiefs, entitled "Adelaide;" but her great talents in the part of the heroine could not impart vitality to the piece, and we believe it was never repeated. In the after- piece, Mrs. Barnes played Little Pickle, to the unbounded delight of her friends. On the 4th, Mr. Maywood played Hamlet for his benefit; and on this occasion, in the character of Rosencrantz, Mr. D. Reed, afterward well known on the Park boards, made his first appearance in New York. He was an ambitious and useful, but never an eminent actor. He died at Philadelphia, whither he had removed, being found lifeless in his bed, (October 6th, 1836) to which he had retired the previous night in his usual health. Mr. Pritchard announced his farewell benefit on the 16th, when he appeared as Orsino, in " Alfonso," and Col. Rig-olio, in the " Broken Sword." Mr. Spiller's benefit came off on the 18th, when he brought out the extravaganza of " Bobbinet, the Bandit," with Barnes as Bobbinet, Robertson as Antonio, Kilner as Grumpino, Pritch- ard as Fierbras, and Miss Johnson as Amanda. He also gave, with great applause, what he called a "Nouveau Criticism" on "Goody Two Shoes," "Blue Beard," "Forty Thieves," &c. Miss Leesuggs farewell benefit took place on the 21st, on which occasion M. M. Noah's drama, entitled " She Would Be a Soldier, or the Battle of Chippewa," was first played, with the cast annexed : Indian Chief .... Mr. Matwood. Jerry Mr. Barkis. General " Graham. Larole " Spiller. Jasper M Robertson. Christine .... Miss Leesugg. Lenox " Pritchard. Adela " Johnson. Capt. Pendragon . . " Simpson. It was highly successful, and, in connection with Miss Leesugg's personal claims, attracted a house of thirteen hun- RECORDS OF THE NKW YORK STAGE. 357 dred dollars. The beneficiary having become Mrs. Hacfcett, retired at the end of the season, which terminated on Mon- day, July 5th, with the performance of "She Would Be a Soldier" and "Bobbinet, the Bandit." We believe this was the first drama of Major Noah's that was performed in New York, although he had previously written one entitled "Paul and Alexis" (now known, witli some alterations, as the "Wandering Boys") which was suc- cessfully represented in Charleston in 1812. His other plays were, " Marion," " Grecian Captive." " Siege of Yorktown," and u Yesef Caramatti." Major Noah was a noted politician — at one time Consul to Morocco — a fluent and agreeable writer, and at different times editor of several newspapers in New York. He was of Jewish extraction, born in Philadelphia, 1785, and died in New York, 1851. An extra night was announced on the 7th, as a benefit for I the Theatrical Fund. The "Castle Spectre" and "High Life Below Stairs" were the pieces performed, interspersed with singing, dancing, &c, in which the whole company appeared. Mr. Robertson's health had been for some time declining, and he never again appeared after the close of the sea- son. His death occurred on the 10th of the following ■ November. Immediately after the closing of the Park, the little thea- tre in Anthony Street was fitted up, and re-christened the • Pavilion ; and here went Maywood, Kilner and wife, Spiller and wife, Mrs. Brundage, Miss Brundage, Bancker, Carpender, Reed and others — opening, on the 12th of July, with " Adel- bert of Warsaw " and a " Tale of Mystery." On the 19th, Mr. William Leggett. afterward the celebrated editor and critic, made his first appearance on any stage, as Charles Ratcliff, in the " Jew." He played once or twice after- ward, and then disappeared. In the season of 1826-7, Mr. Leggett made another debut at the Bowery Theatre, in the character of Bertram, but without success, proving that the most discriminating critic may be entirely incapable of em- Ibodying and portraying even his own correct conceptions to 358 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. the satisfaction of an audience. Mr. Leggett was born in New York in 1802, and died in 1840. The Pavilion closed on the 13th of August, with a benefit for Mrs. Dobson, a lady who made her debut here on the 28th of July, as the Marchioness, in the "Castle of Otranto." The Park Theatre re-opened, under the continued manage- ment of Price and Simpson, on the evening of August 30th, 1819. The opening entertainments were : Who Wants a Guinea ; Sir Larry McHurragh Mr. Simpson. Solomon Gundy . Mr. Spiller. Torrent " Kilner. Andrew Bang . . " Barnes. Barford " Haywood. Fanny Hiss Johnson. Oldskirt " Baldwin. I Hrs. Glastonbury . Hrs. Baldwin. A Ballet, "The Garland of Love," . . by . . Mr. and Mrs. Parker, &c. and, The Review. Caleb Quotem . . . Mr. Spiller. j Capt. Beaugard . . Mr. Moreland. Looney M'Twolter . »' Kilner. Grace Gaylove Miss Johnson. John Lump . . " Baldwin Lucy . Hrs. Baldwin. The next evening, Mrs. Barnes made her appearance as Belvidera, in " Venice Preserved," supported by May wood as Pierre, and Woodhull as Jaffier. September 1st, the " Road to Ruin" was played, with Mr. Dwyer as Goldfinch, his first appearance in five years. The very pleasing petit comedy, entitled " A Roland for an Oliver," was first played on the 6th, with great success : Sir Mark Chase . Mr. Barnes. Maria Darlington . Mrs. Barnes. Alfred Highflyer . . " Simpson. Mrs. Selborn . . . Miss Johnson. Fixture " Kilner | Mrs. Fixture ... " Dellinger. On the 8th, Mr. Wallack commenced an engagement as Hamlet, and continued playing until the 18th, after which the Theatre was closed, in consequence of the general alarm felt by the citizens on the announcement of the appearance ot yellow fever, and was not re-opened until the 6th of October, when Morton's comedy of " A Way to Get Married," and the " Innkeeper's Daughter," were performed. The next evening, a new drama was produced, called the "Jew of Lubeck," which proved successful, and was several times repeated, with the following cast : The Jew Mr. Haywood. Von Fursten Prince " Woodhull. Lindor . . Donamar " Simpson. Magliano . Stefano l< Bancker. Rosa. . . Hr. Kilner. " Baldwin. " Moreland. Mrs. Barnes. On the 11th, Mrs. Bartley re-appeared in her favorite role of Isabella; and, on the 12th, Mr. Bartley opened as Falstaff. RECORDS OF THK NEW YORK STAGE. 359 Their engagement extended to the 10th of November. Mr. Cooper was also engaged, and appeared on the 22d of October as Bertram; and in several plays, acted in conjunction with the Bartleys, sustaining the characters of Hotspur, Lothario, Leon, Duke Aranza, &c. On the 3d of November, he re- presented, for the first time in New York, his afterward fa- vorite part of Lucius Junius Brutus. On the 10th, the night of Mrs. Bartley's benefit, a new farce, called " Gay Deceivers/' was produced with much success, thus represented : Sir Harry Popinjay. Cavely Nehemiah. . . . Mr. Dwter. " Kilner. " Barnes Pegasus Puncheon Jenny Stump . Mr. Baldwin. Mrs. Baldwin. On the 15th, the comedy, entitled " Wanted, a Wife I" brought out, with the subjoined cast: was Sir Gabriel Peeper Gen. Malabar Arthur Wildfire. Frank Cleverly . Jonathan Curry. Mr. Barnes. Maywood. Simpson. DWVER. Spiller. Barney McShift Mies Arragon . Catharine . Lillian Eden Mr. Kilner. Mrs. Baldwin. " Barnes. Miss Johnson. A farce, called " My Uncle," that attained considerable pop- ularity, was thus produced on the 18th : Mr. Commodore Jokely Florid .... Subtle .... Kilner. Simpson. Moreland. Ellen . Flounce Miss Johnson. Mrs. Baldwin. The famous melo-drama, called the " Carib Chief," in which, in after years, Wallack played the hero so finely, was first acted on the 25th, and with great success, thus cast : Omreah Carbal Trefusis Mr. Maywood. Kilner. Simpson. Montalbert. Claudine . Kathelrade Mr. Dwyer. Mrs. Barnes. " Baldwin. On the 26th, a benefit was given to the widow and chil- dren of the late Hopkins Robertson, recently deceased, which yielded thirteen hundred dollars gross receipts. December 1st, " Swedish Patriotism,'' a long-popular drama, was produced, with the following cast : Count Cronstadt Col. Walstein Capt. Albert . . Cokaski . . . Mr. Woodhull. " Maywood. '• Simpson. M Kilner. Walter Ulrica Rriaka Mr. Barnes. Miss Johnson. Mrs. Baldwin. December 13th, an amusing farce, called " A Walk for a Wager," was first represented, as follows : lob Lorelock lookey Walker Harrington . 'oaby . . . . Mr. Spiller. ,4 Barnes. " Moreland. u WoODHDLL. O'Mittimus . . . Mr. Kilner. Emma .... Miss Johnson. Mrs. Kildeary . . Mrs. Baldwin. The same evening, Mr. Wallack commenced an engage- ment as Rolla ; and, on the 25th, appeared for the first time 360 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. as King- Henry V. He took his benefit on the 27th, playing Pierre, supported by Mr. Cooper as Jaffier, whose aid was now called in to impart additional interest to the performances. The latter played King- John and Mercutio, to Wallack's Fal- conbridge and Romeo ; and, on the 31st, his benefit night, ap- peared as Othello, admirably supported by Wallack as Iago, Dwyer as Cassio, Spiller as Roderigo, Mrs. Barnes as Desde- mona, and Mrs. Baldwin as Emilia, whose excellence in that part has been rarely equaled. Notwithstanding their com- bined attraction, a season of theatrical depression occurred, and the house was closed on the 4th of January, 1820, and remained so until the 21st of February. March 1st, a melo-drama by Samuel B. Judah, of this city, entitled the " Mountain Torrent," was produced with very fair success. We annex the cast: Marquis d'Arenza . . Mr. Woodhdll. Baron Trevasi ..." Maywood. Alonzo " Simpson. Marco " Barnes. Pietro " Spiller. Lupartro Viola . Bianca . Beatrice Biondella Mr. Bancker. Miss Johnson. " Brundage. " Dellinger. Mrs. Kilnee. Mr. and Mrs. Bartley again commenced an engagement on the 7th, in "Adrian and Orilla." On the 9th, a farce called " Helpless Animals, or Bachelors' Fare," was brought out — Mr. Barnes as Mulberry, Mr. More- land as Ratio, Mr. Spiller as Martin, and Mrs. Barnes as Letitia Mulberry. The same evening Mr. Frederick Brown made his first appearance in New York, as Hamlet — the bills an- nouncing it as his first appearance in America, although he seems to have played in Boston as early as 1816 ; but it had become the fashion of the Park managers to ignore the ex- istence of other theatres in the Union, and when any foreign actor or new drama was introduced to the public, it was always for " the first time in America," although they may have been well known on the boards of some sister city. Mr. Brown had enjoyed an enviable reputation in the Liver- pool Theatre, and in Boston had been greatly and justly ad- mired, although he gave deep offense to the audience there by refusing to play second parts during the engagements of Cooper and Wallack. His performances in New York were RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 361 creditable to himself, but failed to create anything of a furore. He was at one time manager of the Montreal Theatre, and was also well known at the Charleston and other Southern theatres. He married Miss DeCamp, a versatile and popular actress, and sister of Mrs. Charles Kemble. We last remem- ber his playing here at the Richmond Hill Theatre, in 1833. He died about 1838. Mr. Brown displayed great versatility of talent during his engagement, playing Young Norval, the Stranger, the Three Singles, Macbeth, Brutus, Cardinal Wot set/, Duke Aranza, Rolla, Sylvester Daggerivood, Somno, Richard III., and Bus- kin, in " Killing no Murder," in which he introduced some re- markable imitations of Kemble, Cooke, Incledon, Blanchard, Munden, &c. In many of his characters he had the valuable support of Mr. and Mrs. Bartley. On the 16th of March, the interesting drama of the " Wan- dering Boys" (altered from a piece written by M. M. Noah, for. Mrs. Charles Young, and called " Paul and Alexis, or the Orphans of the Rhine"') was brought out with great success, and continues popular to the present day. Its original cast stood thus : Count de Croissy Mr. Maywood. Paul Mrs. Barnes. Roland 44 Woodhull. Justin Miss Johnson. Hubert - Kilner. Baroness .... Mrs. Baldwin. Lubin " Barnes. Louise Miss Dellinger. Mrs. Barnes and Miss Johnson, the former as the fearless, intrepid and (juick-witted boy, and the latter as his timorous and shrinking brother, won universal applause by the force and truthfulness of their acting. On the 23d, Poole's amusing comedy of " Rochester, or the : Merry Days of Charles the Second,"' was produced, with the ' annexed cast : Charles ..... Mr. Wooduull. . Rochester •• Simpson. | Buckingham . . . Dwyer. 1 Dunstable .... •* Moreland. ' Starvemoase ... " Spiller. Amen Squeak Mr. Barnes. Countess Lovelaugh. Mrs. Barnes. Aunt Rebecca M Baldwin. Sylvia Golden . . Miss Johnson. Bell " Dellinger. On the 29th, Mrs. Bartley played Hamlet for her benefit, and the farce of " High Notions" was acted for the first time — Mr. Barnes as Sir Frederick Augustus Pageant ; Mr. Spiller, Brisk; Mr. Kilner, Timothy ; Miss Johnson, Charlotte; and 46 362 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mrs. Baldwin, Martha. Mr. Bartley took his benefit on the oth of April, producing for an afterpiece a farce called " A Short Reign and a Merry One," in which he appeared as Gabriel de Coquinard, his wife as the Countess de Rosier, Mr. Woodhull as St. Val, Mr. Simpson as Morange, and Miss John- son as Adela. On the 14th, the " Gnome King" was played for the first time, and was afterward occasionally repeated. On the 17th, Miss Denny, from the Boston Theatre, made her debut in New York as Helen Worrett, and proved a valuable addition to the company. This young lady was a native of Albany, and afterward married Alexander Drake, well known as actor and manager at several Western theatres. As Mrs. Drake, she has played frequent star engagements at the Park and Bowery Theatres with success, and for many years reigned the Tragic Queen of the West. Her abilities were well adapted to every walk of the drama, but she excelled in the heavier characters of tragedy, in which line she has been rarely equaled on the American Stage. She was last here about 1835, but is probably still living at the West. Her daughter, Miss Julia Drake, afterward Mrs. H. Chap- man, has been at the Bowery and other minor theatres of New York, and is a very sprightly and pleasing comedienne. On the 26th of April, the melo-drama called the " Forest of Rosenwald, or the Bleeding Nun," was thus played for the first time : Raymond Mr. Simpson. Agnes Miss Johnson. Robert " Mayytood. Marguerite . . Mrs. Barnes. Baptiste " Woodhull. Beatrice .... " Eilner Theodore " Barnes. Bleeding Nun . . Miss Dellinger. A serious pantomime of the same title had been played many years previous. May 1st, Mr. Bartley announced, for his farewell benefit, the adaptation of Voltaire's famous tragedy of "Zara" — the character of Zara by Mrs. Bartley ; Lusignan, Mr. Bartley ; Omar, Mr. May wood ; Chatillon, Mr. Woodhull ; Ntrestan, Mr. Simpson. He also brought out a farce called the " Youthful Days of Frederick the Great," in which he personated the old MQBSa \ DRAKE. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 363 King-; Simpson, Prince Frederick; May wood, Frederstoff : and Miss Johnson, Christine. May 5th, the farewell benefit of Mrs. Bartley, and last ap- pearance of herself and husband in America, took place. The play was the "Winters Tale," by Shakspeare, with Mr. Bartley as Autolycus, Mr. May wood as Leontes, Mr. Simpson as Florizel, Mr. Woodhull as Polixenes, Mrs. Bartley as Hermione, and Mrs. Barnes, Perdita. Mr. Bartley also delivered a farewell ad- dress in the character of Fcdstajf] and Mrs. Bartley recited the " Passions," with undiminished applause. These excellent artists left behind them a warm regard for their private virtues, as well as a high estimate of their professional merits. Mr. Simpson took his benefit on the 8th, and produced a tragedy entitled " Guilt," and a new farce called the " Quad- rille." The latter became very popular, with Simpson as Touchwood, Spiller as Query, and Miss Johnson as Sophia. Mr. Wallack's farewell engagement commenced on the 10th, and he took his last benefit, previous to his return to Europe, on the 18th, appearing in several favorite characters, selected from various plays, and also gave his popular imitations of celebrated British actors. On the loth, for Miss Johnson's benefit, the first perform- aDce of Noah's drama, entitled the " Siege of Tripoli," took place, with the following cast : Yuseff Mr. Matwood. Mandeville . . . Mr. Horeland Hassan " Barnes. Harry Montford . . " Simpson. Gonzales " Woodhull. Rosabel Miss Johnson. On the 25th of May, the author's benefit attracted a large and brilliant audience to the third representation of the "Siege of Tripoli," the performance going off to the delight of the managers, the author, and the spectators, all of whom had left the Theatre but a short time before it was discovered to be in flames, resulting in its total destruction in a few hours. The fire was supposed to have occurred from the wadding of a gun fired during the performance, which, probably, lodged in the scenery, and smoldered there unperceived. Mr. Noah's share of the receipts on that night, amounting to over four hundred dollars, was generously presented by him for distri- 364 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. bution among the most distressed members of the company, many of whom suffered severely from the loss of their ward- I robes, &c. The managers immediately engaged the Anthony Street Theatre, and opened it on the 29th of May, with " Man and Wife" and " Too Late for Dinner." They also called in the aid of two skillful and daring rope-dancers, Mons. Godeau and M'lle Adolphe, the latter of whom was long after well known as Madame Blanchard, being the first lady that we remember who entertained the citizens of New York in this exalted manner. For the benefit of Mrs. Barnes, on the 10th of June, Jeph- J son's fine tragedy of "Julia, or the Italian Lover," was first played in New York, its characters thus supported : Montevole Mr. Maywood. \ Julia Mrs. Barnes. Durazzo " Woodhtjll. Fulvia " Baldwin. Marcellus " Simpson. Olympia .... Misa Johnson. Manoa 44 Kilner. Also, the still popular interlude, called the " Actress of All j Work," in which Kilner played the Manager, and Mrs. Barnes went through with the various assumptions of Maria, with extraordinary merit and applause. On the 19th of June, the excellent melo-drama of " Ivanhoe" was played, with the following admirable cast, for Mr. May- wood's benefit: Ivanhoe Mr. Simpson. Gurth Mr. Spiller. Cedric 44 Kilner. Wamba 44 Barnes. Boisguilbert .... 44 Woodhull. Rowena .... Miss Johnson. Front de Boeuf ... 44 Moreland. Rebecca .... Mrs. Barnes. Isaac of York ... 44 Maywood. Ulrica ..... 44 Baldwin. It was exceedingly well played throughout, and Mrs. Barnes and Mr. Maywood won the highest approbation of their friends. The Anthony Street Theatre remained open until the 4th of July, when the season, which had not been a very profit- 1 1 able one, terminated with the performance of the "Glory of I Columbia," &c. CHAPTER XXVII. Anthony Street Theatre, A.D. 1820-21. H E Park Theatre being still in ruins, Messrs. Price and Simpson commenced the dramatic season in Anthony Street on the 4th of September, 1820, with the comedy entitled, "Wives as They Were and Maids as They Are," admirably supported in every part. Sir William Dorillon .... Mr. Kilner. Lord Priory .... Mr. Barnes. Oliver '' Spiller. Bronzely " Simpson. Miss Dorillon . . . Mrs. Barnes. Sir George Evelyu . . " Moreland. Lady Priory . . . Miss Jounson. Norberry " Woodhull. Lady Mary Raffle . Mrs. Baldwin. The afterpiece was " A Walk for a Wager." Mr. Johnson and Mr. Baldwin had been removed by death, but the company was substantially the same as on the pre- ceding season. The first novelty was the appearance of Mr. Finn, who, on the 12th, after an absence of nearly three years, commenced an engagement in the character of Hamlet. He had not yet made comedy the principal aim of his ambition, but went through a round of tragic characters with much credit to himself, terminating his engagement on the 23d, with a repre- sentation of Richard III. for his benefit. Sir Archy McSar- casm was the only humorous part in which he now appeared. On the 25th, the tragedy of " Virginius, or the Liberation of Rome," one of Sheridan Knowles' earliest productions, was first played in New York, with the following cast : Virginius . . . . Mr. Maywood. I Numetorius . . . Mr. Reed. Ioiliut ... . . " Simpson. Dentatus . . . " Kilner. Appius Claudius . . " Woodhull. Virginia .... Mrs. Barnes. Cains Claudius . . " Morelard. Servia Miss Dennt. Mr. Maywood made a deep impression as Virginius, and 366 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mrs. Barnes and Miss Denny did ample justice to their re- spective parts, but Mr. Kilner's Dentatus was probably the finest piece of acting in the cast. The play was frequently repeated during the season, and has ever since enjoyed high popularity. On the 26th, Mr. Frederick Brown commenced a short engagement in the character of Romeo. On the 29th, the " Promissory Note," an entertaining farce, was brought out as follows : Markham Mr. Simpson. I Mrs. Markham . . Miss Denny. Scamper " Mobeland. Caroline .... " Dellinger. Nick • " Reed. | Cicely " Johnson. The pleasing and popular musical drama, entitled " Henri Quatre," was thus played for the first time in America, on the evening of October 9th : Henri Quatre. . Due de Sulli . . Gen. d'Aumont . Eugene de Biron Frederick St. Leon Moustache Mr. Maywood. Reed. Spiller. Simpson. WoODHCLL. KlLNER. Jocrisse. O'Donnell Florence Clotilde. Louison Mr. Barnes. " Moreland. Miss Johnson. " Denny. " Dellinger. On the 14th, Mr. Pritchard, who had suffered from a long and severe illness, during which he underwent an important surgical operation, re-appeared, after a retirement of fifteen months, in the character of Goldfinch, and was welcomed back with a generous enthusiasm. In the course of his engage- ment, he appeared as Michael Ducas, Pescara, Othello, Sim, in " Wild Oats," and, for his benefit, as Ludovico, in " Evadne." Oct. 18th. First night of Dibdin's farce, entitled " Twenty Per Cent." Old Dunsford. . . . Mr. Woodhull. I Jacob Mr. Kilner. Charles Dunsford . . " Moreland. Lady Emily . . . Miss Denny. Gripe " Barnes. I Fanny " Johnson. Timothy " Spiller. The romantic drama of the " Vampire, or the Bride of the Isles," founded on Scott's beautiful poem, was first put upon the New York Stage on the evening of October 22d, with the following cast : Lord Ruthven . . . Mr. Simpson. Lord Ronald .... " Maywood. Robert " Moreland. Andrew " Reed. McSwill Mr. Barnes. Lady Margaret . . Mrs. Barnes. Effie Miss Johnson. Bridget .... Mrs. Baldwin. It was received with great favor, and, as re-arranged by Boucicault, still keeps possession of the stage. Nov. 1st. "Too Late for Dinner," a farce, by Richard RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 367 Jones, produced last season at the Park, but whose cast was not obtained, was again brought forward with the following distribution, which varies somewhat from the original one : Mr. Pincroft .... Mr. Reed. Frank Poppleton . . " Simpson. Frederick Poppleton " Woodhull. Robert Rafter ..." Kilner. Nicholas Twill ... " Barnes. Mods. Fumet . . . Mr. Banoker. Mrs. Thompson . Mrs. Baldwin. Emma Somerton . . Miss Johnson. Elizabeth Pincroft . Mrs. Parker. Letty 44 Kilner. Mr. Cooper commenced an engagement on the 4th of No- vember, in the tragedy of " Virginius," its seventh perform- ance here, and his own first appearance in the part of the hero, which he played superbly. It was a masterpiece of acting, sustained throughout with an uniformity of excellence rarely observable in his other personations, and was probably the best portraiture of his lifetime. If he has ever been sur- passed in this character, it has been by Macready alone, for whom it was originally written. Nov. 15th. The farce of "Exchange no Robbery," taken from Pilon's play of " He Would be a Soldier," was first played here, as follows : Sir Christopher Cranberry Mr. Kilner. Sir Lennox Leinster " Woodhull. Sam Swipes ... Mr. Barnes. Capt. Littleworth . . 44 Moreland. Lamotte 44 Spiller Lady Cranberry . . Miss Johnson. Miss Melrose ..." Denny. Mrs. Swipes . . Mrs. Baldwin. This farce has been repeatedly revived, but never attained more than a transient popularity. Another new piece, called the " Fortune of War," was pro- duced on the 18th, with the annexed cast: Commandant. . . . Mr. Moreland. Farmer Gruntem . . Mr. Barnes. Gen. Greenstock. . . 44 "Woodhull. Mrs. Toughindorf Mrs. Kilner. Alltop 44 Simpson. Adela Miss Dellinger. Vonderscamp ... 44 Spiller. On the 20th, Mrs. Alsop, a daughter of the renowned Mrs. Jordan, (born before the latter 1 s connection with the Duke of Clarence, afterward William IV.) made her debut in America as Viol ante, in the " Wonder," and Maria, in the " Actress of All Work," with very flattering success. She also appeared as Letitia Hardy, Peggy, in the " Country Girl," Rosalind, and Lady Elizabeth, in a " Day After the Wedding." Known before marriage as Miss Frances Bettesworth, she was born at York, England, about 1784. She was a highly educated and accomplished woman, and inherited much of her mother's early beauty and great comic ability. On a separation from 368 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. her husband, she made her debut on the stage at Covent Gar- den, as Rosalind, Oct. 18th, 1815 ; and in the fall of 1816 transferred herself to Drury Lane. Brought up in luxury, she ran a career of reckless extravagance at home, and her pecuniary embarrassments there were the probable cause of her visiting America ; but the habits of a lifetime were too strong to be resisted, and like causes produced like misfor- tunes here. Mr. Wood, in his " Recollections of the Stage," also informs us that she had become a slave to the use of opium, which frequently incapacitated her from doing justice to the characters she assumed. She played two or three engagements in New York, and was last advertised to appear as Ophelia, in the " Hamlet Travestie," for Mr. Spiller's bene- fit, on the 13th of June, 1821, on which day she was found dead at her boarding-house — a building still standing on the south-west corner of Dey and Greenwich Streets. She had swallowed a large quantity of laudanum — whether with a deliberate view to suicide, or for the mere gratification of her vitiated taste, we believe was never ascertained. She left a young child, a daughter, whom Mr. Spiller took under his protection. On the 29th of November, Edmund Kean first played to an American audience, in the character of Richard III., ably supported by Kilner as Henry VI, Simpson as the Earl of Richmond, Woodliull as Buckingham, Mrs. Barnes as the Queen, Miss Johnson as Lady Ann, and Mrs. Baldwin as the Duchess of York. In immediate succession he also appeared as Othello, Shylock, Lucius Junius Brutus, Hamlet, and Sir Giles Overreach, taking his first benefit on the 11th of De- . cember. A re-engagement followed, commencing on the 13th, with King' Lear, and succeeded by Sir Edward Morti- mer, Macbeth, Bertram, Richard II., and several of the preced- , ing characters. His last appearance was for Mr. Simpson's benefit, on the 2yth, as Lear. The receipts during his engage- ment, it is said, averaged over one thousand dollars nightly. Mr. Kean has filled an important place in theatrical annals, and requires more than a passing notice here. Many doubts RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 369 have been thrown on his paternity; but it is known that his mother was the daughter of George Saville Carey, actor and dramatist — that she was at times connected with the stage — that her husband's name was Aaron Kean, according to different authorities at different times, a tailor, a surveyor, and an attorney's clerk — and that our hero was born in Castle Street, Leicester Square, London, November 4th, 17b7. At a very tender age he was placed at Drury Lane Theatre, under a celebrated posture-master, aud soon became a skillful con- tortionist, as well as a pleasing representative of the Cupids and infants of the stage ; but incessant practice not only in- jured his health, but produced a deformity of his limbs that required a long use of bracing irons to remedy and remove. When about seven years of age, his mother withdrew him from the theatre, and was anxious that his education should be attended to ; but not sharing the desire, he soon after ab- sconded from home, and engaged as a cabin-boy on a voyage to Madeira. Not liking the situation, on his arrival there he feigned deafness and lameness, and attributing them to a cold taken on shipboard, was sent home as an invalid. On reach- ing London, his mother had removed to the country, and he sought out Miss Tidswell, a subordinate actress at Drury Lane, -whom he had been taught to regard as his aunt. She immediately took him under her care, and for many years bestowed on him all the kindness and affection of a parent. His uncle, Moses Kean, a noted ventriloquist and mimic, also became interested in his pursuits, and endeavored to turn his attention to the legitimate drama; but the lad's favorite amusements were pantomimes and feats of muscular dexterity, and he at length became a member of Saunders' company in Bartholomew Fair, where he commenced the second era of his dramatic life in the character of a monkey. He after- ward appeared at Sadlers Wells, and the warm applause be- stowed on his recitations (for the excellence of which he was probably indebted to his uncle's admirable imitations of eminent tragedians) induced him to a closer study of the best dramatic authors. Some time later, at Windsor, he won 47 370 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. the approbation of royalty by his recitation of " Satan's Ad- dress to the Sun," and the first soliloquy of Richard ; and at the same time gained the friendship of Dr. Drury, who sent him for three years to Eton School, where his classical studies were pursued with great diligence and success. After this, under the name of Carey, he played at Birming- ham, Edinburgh, &c, and for several years endured the vicis- situdes of a strolling life. In 1808, he married Miss Mary Chambers, an actress, by whom he had two sons — Howard, the eldest, who died in childhood, and Charles, who has since ob- tained celebrity as a tragedian. At this time, he not only played tragedy, comedy and pantomime, but gave lessons in fencing, dancing, &c. It has been said, that even in his palmiest days, he was prouder of his skill and dexterity as a harlequin than of his grandest tragic delineation. In the winter of 1813, on the recommendation of a friend, Mr. Arnold, of the Drury Lane committee, went to Dorchester for the purpose of witnessing his performances, and was so much gratified with his Octavian, and Kanko in " La Perouse," that he immediately offered him an engagement at London for three years, at eight, ten, and twelve guineas per week, for each succeeding year. He made his first appearance at Drury Lane, January 26th, 1814, as Shi/lock, with great success; and on the 12th of February enacted Richard III. with a brilliancy and effect unknown since the days of Garrick. This character established his fame and made his fortune, which, unfortu- nately, he lacked judgment enough to retain. He next played Hamlet, on the 13th of March; Othello, on the 5th of May; lago, on the 7 th ; and Luke, in the play of " Riches," for his benefit on the 25th. On account of the great results of his engagement, the committee, on the latter occasion, remitted the usual charges for the house ; and by the liberality of his friends, who paid freely for tickets, the proceeds amounted to two thousand pounds. The management also destroyed their articles of agreement, and made his engagement for five years, at sixteen RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 371 guineas per week for the first year, eighteen for the second, and twenty for the remainder of the term. For several years he reigned the undisputed monarch of the stage, the fire of genius and the seemingly unstudied impulses of nature lend- ing a charm to his acting that at once swept the heavy dec- lamation and the formal attitudes of the Kemble school from the altars where they had so long been worshipped. Intoxicated with success, Kean unhappily associated with those who soon debased his mind and morals — who led him into every excess, and estranged him from his wife and child, from whom he was separated for many years. On his first visit to America, he incurred the ill-will of the Boston audience, during his second engagement there, by re- fusing to appear when advertised, in consequence of a thin house, and, repairing to New York, he found the condemna- tion of his conduct so severe and universal, that he altered his determination of spending another season in America, and returned immediately to England. His moral infirmities there sunk him still lower in the estimation of the public, and his disgraceful liaison with Mrs. Alderman Cox, whose injured husband, in January, 1825, recovered from him, in a court of justice, a verdict of £800, attached a stigma to his character from which he never recovered. In the fall of 1825, he again visited this country, making his first appearance at the Park ' Theatre, November 14th of that year, as Richard III. The recollection of his slight to the Boston public, fostered by the rumors of indiscreet remarks attributed to him, caused one of the worst riots ever known in the city, the whole perform- ance being interrupted by the most vile and disgusting pro- ceedings. He immediately published an apologetic letter, couched in the humblest terms, which, after the first flush of re- sentment was past, had the effect of soothing the public mind, and prevented any further opposition to his appearance in > New York. He next proceeded to Boston, where he was an- nounced for Richard on the 21st of December, but his ap- pearance was the signal for commencing a riot that ended in the almost total destruction of the audience part of the 372 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. theatre, and his expulsion from the stage of that city, where he never after attempted to perform. He, however, appeared, with slight opposition, at most of our other principal cities, making his last appearance in America, on the Park boards, as Richard, December 5th, 1826. On his return to England, he found his attraction greatly diminished, which his confirmed habits of dissipation served only to decrease. In 1833, after a lengthened retirement, an attempt was made by the manager of Covent Garden to revive the interest formerly entertained for him, by announcing his appearance in connection with his son Charles, who, in his father's declining state, evinced a generous feeling of forgive- ness, and an apparent reconciliation had been effected between them. They were accordingly advertised in the tragedy of " Othello," on the 25th of March in that year — Mr. Kean as the Moor, Mr. Charles Kean as lago — and appeared to a densely crowded house, which greeted the former favorite with the warmest demonstrations of applause. It soon, however, be- came apparent that the elder Kean was too feeble to do just- ice to his part, and, immediately after repeating the sentence, " Othello's occupation's gone !" he sunk exhausted in his son's arms. He was quickly removed to his residence, where he lingered until the 15th of May, dying before he had com- pleted his forty-sixth year, and yet, alas! for human frailty, a perfect wreck in mind and person. To enlarge upon his merit as an actor would be superfluous. Suffice it to say that, in his best estate as a tragedian, but one artist of his time at all approached him in excellence. His memory stands like a blasted monument, to warn the unwary of the path in which he fell — a path, unfortunately, in which too many of his successors tread. At the termination of Kean's engagement, Mr. Cooper was again brought forward, and played until January 4th, 1821, when he took his benefit, in the character of Beverly, in the " Gamester," supported by Mrs. Barnes, in a most powerful and affecting delineation of Mrs. Beverly, being her first appear- ance in that part. * RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 373 Mrs. Alsop also re-appeared during the month, in the char- acters of Estifania, Lydia Languish, Priscilla Tomboy, Lady Teazle, and Flora, in the " Midnight Hour." Master George Frederick Smith, a youthful prodigy of eleven, announced as from the Montreal Theatre, made his debut in New York, January 5th, as Young Norval. He had been well drilled in the characters he represented, and went through them with much ability, appearing, however, to more advantage in Douglas, and Dick the Apprentice, than in Ro- meo, Richard, or Octavian, which he also played during his engagement. He was somewhat attractive for a few nights, making his last appearance on the 13th of January, after which the Theatre closed until Washington's birthday, when it re-opened with "Gustavus Vasa" and the "Forest of Ro- semvald." On the 24th of February, after an absence of nine years, the old favorite, Jefferson, re-appeared as Bob Acres, and Old DoUey, in " Who's the Dupe ?" This excellent actor was re- ceived with great favor and maintained all his former repute by his very able performance of Tony Lumpkin, Doctor Smug- face, Lord Ogleby, Gregory Redtail, Plotwell, Solus, Ralph, in "Lock and Key," Sir Benjamin Dove, in the "Brothers," Lingo, Capt. Bertram, and Roger, in the " Ghost." On the 28th, the " Honeymoon" was advertised with a " lady's first appearance on any stage," as Juliana. This lady was soon after announced as Mrs. Battersby. She repeated Juliana on the 5th of March, played the Widow Cheerly on the 7th, and appeared as Mrs. Holler and Lady Elizabeth Freelove, for her own benefit on the 9th. Mrs. Battersby was a woman of considerable ability, which, notwithstanding the above announcement, had previously been developed in the profession, in her native country — England. In 1826, she be- came Mrs. Stickney, by which name she was for several sea- sons attached to the Park company. Mr. Wemyss, in his Chro- nology, states that she returned to England and died there. This lady must not be confounded with Mrs. J. Stickney, ong known at the Bowery and new Chatham Theatres. 374 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. On the 6th of March, the first representation of Dimond's amusing farce, called the " Lady and the Devil," took place, thus cast: Wildlove Mr. Simpson. I Jeremy Mr. Barnes. Don Raphael .... " Reed. Zephyrina . . . Miss Johnson. Claudian " Woodhull. | Negombo ... Mrs. Kilner. On the 12th, Mr. Kean opened a new engagement as Ham- let. He took his benefit on the 26th, presenting, for the first time in America, a tragedy, entitled the "Jew of Malta," altered by Penley from Christopher Marlow's celebrated drama, which was not very favorably received, nor, we be- lieve, ever repeated. It was thus played : Barabbas Mr. Kean. i Selim .... Mr. Woodhcll. Don Lodowick ..." Maywood. Ithamore .... " Spiller. Dod Matthias. ..." Simpson. Abigail Miss Johnson. Ferneze " Kilner. | Katharine .... Mrs. Baldwin. The engagement being renewed, he appeared on the 27th, as Lear ; on the 4th of April, for the first time as Alexander the Great; and, on the 6th, for his benefit and last appear- ance, as Jaffier. On the 9th, "Wallace, the Hero of Scotland," was first played with great success — Mr. Maywood as Wallace, and Mrs. Barnes as Helen Mar. " The Warlock of the Glen," a still favorite melo-drama at the minor theatres, was first represented in New York on the 12th, as follows : Matthew Mr. Simpson. j Sandie Mr. Spiller. Clanronald .... " Woodhull. Countess . . . Mrs. Barnes. Andrew " Kilner. Marian " Parker. Mr. Frederick Brown, on the 13th, commenced another sta engagement, during which he played such dissimilar charac ters as Earl Osmond, Wallace, Job Thornberry and the Thn Singles. Mr. Pritchard succeeded him, opening on the 24th, $ Michael Ducas, with Mrs. Battersby as Adelgitha, and playin on his benefit night, May 7th, the characters of Roderick Dhu, Will Steady and Col. Rigolio. On the 25th of April, Barry Cornwall's tragedy of " Miran dola" was produced, with the following cast : John of Mirandola . . Mr. Maywood. I Isadora Mrs. Barmes. Guido " Simp'son. Isabella " Baldwin. Gheraldi " Woodhull. | Beatrice .... Miss Jones. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 375 At a subsequent period, Mr. Cooper personated the hero. Miss Mary Anne Jones, whose name appears above, was a sister of Mrs. Edmund Simpson. She was a very young, pretty, pleasing and lady-like actress, and in the course of the following year became the wife of Mr. Banckerof the Park •unipany. She died in New York, October 8th, 1825, while making rapid improvement in her profession. "Therese, the Orphan of Geneva," an adaptation from the French by John Howard Payne, was first played in New York, on the 30th of April, with the following excellent cast: Darwin Mr. Maywood. Lavigue .... Mr. Barnes. Dount de Morville . . " Woodhull. Therese Mrs. Barnes. Fontaine " Simpson. Countess .... " Baldwin. Picard " Kilner. | Bridget '* Kilner. The interest of this piece never flags for a moment ; its principal characters afford fine scope for acting, and its gen- eral merit renders it popular to the present day. We do not know that its original cast has ever been improved, except perhaps when Carwin and Therese were personated by For- rest and Mrs. Duff. It long ranked as one of the great trage- lian's favorite dramas, and he frequently appeared in it, as m afterpiece, in years gone by. May 8th. The farce entitled " Bon Ton" was revived for :he first time in many years, thus : .ord Minikin . . . . Mr. Simpson. i Lady Minikin. . . Miss Johnson. iir John Trotly . . . " Kilner. Miss Tittup . . . Mrs. Battersbt. )»Ty " Barnes. | Gimp " Parker. On the 9th of May, Mr. Henry Wallack, from the York and lull Theatres, made his first appearance in America (accord- ng to the bills) as Young Norval and Walter. Other authorities ay that he had played in Baltimore and Philadelphia, in 818— '19, and we believe the latter statement to be correct. )uring his engagement here, he represented with success be characters of Lucius Junius Brutus, Octavian, Rob Roy, Bertram, Gambia, Coriolanus, and Michael, in the "Adopted hild." This gentleman is said to have been born in Lon- lon, in the year 1790, and although he never attained the igh distinction of his brother James, his general merit was ) great that we are inclined to place him, as a stock actor, b pry near the head of his profession. 376 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Tragedy, Comedy, Melo-drama, Opera, Farce and Panto- mime have all been essayed by him at various times, and fre- quently with an ability entirely eclipsing the more pretend- ing efforts of self-exalted stars. His list of parts is surprising for its diversity: In tragedy, he has ranged from Hamlet, Richard and Romeo, to the Stranger, Othello and Virginius. In comedy, he has played the Duke Aranza and Bob Handy, Mercutio and Benedick, Goldfinch, Dennis Brulgruddery, Zekiel Homespun and King Charles XII. In melo-drama, he has been highly successful as Dan Macraisy, Roderick Dhu, Te- keli, Rob Roy and a hundred other parts. In opera, he has given very meritorious personations of Count Belino, Doctor Bartolo and Whimsiculo ; while in farce, his Lingo, Looney McTwolter, My Lord Duke's Servant and Bagatelle, would suffer little by comparison with - the best seen on our stage. In Hotspur, Falconbridge, Macduff, King Henry VIIL, Den- talus, William, (Black-Eyed Susan) Malvolio, Silver Jack and Dandie Dinmont, his efforts have shown to the greatest ad- vantage ; and in these characters, when in his prime, he has scarcely been rivaled. In later years, his Squire Broadlands, in the " Old English Gentleman," was a perfect facsimile of the class ; while he appeared with great eclat, also, as Sir Peter Teazle, Sir Anthony Absolute, Sir William Fondlove, Samuel Coddle, &c, &c. At the Old Chatham, Lafayette and Bowery Theatres, from 1824 to 1834, he was in the highest favor. In 1837-8-9, he was stage-manager of the old National Theatre, under his brother's lesseeship. He afterward played at the principal theatres in London, was stage-manager of the Prin- cess's, in 1842-3, and in October, 1843, became the lessee of Covent Garden, a position that finally involved him in bank- ruptcy. In 1847, on the opening of the Broadway Theatre in this city, he was engaged to sustain the first line of old men, but age, and perhaps other infirmities, had then affected his memory, and the audience had frequent causes of dissatisfac- tion with him. His last appearance in New York was at the National Theatre, Chatham Street, as Falstaff, October 18th, 1858. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 377 In 1833, he procured a divorce from his first wife, and after- ward married Miss Turpin, a vocalist of some provincial celebrity, whom he brought to this country in 1837. Mr. Henry Wallack was lately living in the vicinity of New York. His children by his first wife who have played here are : 1st. James W. Wallack, Jr., a tragedian of repute both in England and America. Id. Miss Julia Wallack, afterward Mrs. W. Hoskin, who in 1839-'40-'41 appeared at the Park, National, and Niblo's Thea- tres, in singing characters, and afterward appeared success- fully in London as Miss Julia Harland. 3d. Miss Fanny Wallack, (Mrs. Moorhouse) who was the leading actress at the Broadway Theatre in 1847 and 1848, and who died at Edinburgh, Scotland, October 12th, 1856. To resume our record. On the 12th of May, Mrs. Charles Durang, formerly Miss Mary White, of the Philadelphia Theatre, made her first appearance in New York as the Widow Cheerly. She was afterward well known at the Chatham Garden and Bowery Theatres as a very useful actress. On the 16th, Miss Johnson presented "Rob Roy" for her benefit, and in the course of its performance a pas seul was executed, with great applause, by Mrs. Henry Wallack, her first appearance in New York. At this time, she was, in face and person, one of the most lovely women that had ever graced the American Stage ; and as a dancer in the good, old-fashioned, modest and graceful English school, entirely unrivaled. According to the opinion of one of her admirers, " she floated upon the stage like a being from another sphere." Mrs. Wallack at this time ap- peared only in the ballet. She made her debut in the regular drama, at Chatham Garden, May 25th, 1824, playing the in- teresting character of Rosalie Somers to the entire satisfaction of a very numerous audience. They who remember only the latter part of her career can scarce have an idea of the exqui- site personal beauty and fascinating gracefulness of her earlier years. Her figure was of the most perfect symmetry, her 48 378 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. voice soft and musical, and her readings ever peculiarly chaste and correct. She had not enough of physical power to appear in the higher walks of tragedy, nor a sufficient flow of animal spirits for a dashing comedy part, but her quiet, child-like, and artless manner as a rural maiden, and her, grace, delicacy and perfect ease as a well-bred lady, gave her, in those characters, a superiority over all competition. She sang ballads very pleasingly, and her taste in costume won the admiration of the town. In the fall of 1828, she was engaged at the Park Theatre, where she remained until the spring of 1834, during which period she became gradually but totally changed in appearance, and was often incapaci- tated from playing, even when her name was in the bills. She afterward undertook a Southern tour, and, after a short illness, died at New Orleans, April 10, 1836, aged about 37 years. Her maiden name was Fanny Jones ; and of her mar- ried life it is sufficient to say that it was most unhappy. She was divorced from her husband in 1833. On the 18th of May, a drama, from one of Scott's novels, called the " Heir of Avenel, or Mary of Scotland," was thus presented : George Douglas ... Mr. Simpson. Queen Mary . . . Mrs. Barnes. Roland Graeme ..." Maywood. Kate Seyton . . . Miss Johnson. Father Ambrose. . . " Woodhull. Magdalene. . . . Mrs. Baldwin. Luke Lundin ..." Barnes. A new engagement with Mrs. Alsop commenced on the 31st. On the 4th of June, for Mr. Simpson's benefit, she ap- peared as Amelia Wildlove, and other characters, in a new piece called " Twelve Precisely," supported by Simpson as Sir Frederick Frisky, Spiller as Brass, and Miss Jones as Peggy. Her sudden death occurred on the 13th. Mr. Barnes, the most extravagant of comedians, took his benefit on the 12th — appearing in the characters of Richard III. and Crack — attracting, it was said, the fullest house of the season, the receipts amounting to more than one thou- sand dollars. For Mr. Maywood's benefit, on the 18th, Mrs. Holman made her first appearance in two years, as Diana Vernon; and on the same occasion the' drama of "Kenilworth" was first RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 379 played, with Simpson as the Earl of Leicester ; Woodhull as Varney ; May wood as Anthony Foster; Mrs. Battersby as Queen Elizabeth, and Mrs. Barnes as Amy Robsart. Mr. James Anderson was frequently before the public this season. We cannot date his first appearance, but he had been connected with the establishment for two or three years. He became an efficient delineator of Irish peculiarities, and, in 1823, was the first representative in America of Terry ORourke, the Irish Tutor. He was, at one time, prompter at the Park, and was afterward attached to the Chatham Gar- den Theatre, where his performance of Terence, in "Brian Boroihme," stamped him the best Irish actor of the day. For a long time he was stage-manager of the Bowery Theatre, and afterward, for several seasons, occupied the same situation at the New National, where he occasionally appeared, on a bene- fit night, as Old Terence. Except on such an occasion, he for many years confined his duties solely to the direction of the stage. He owned a fine farm in Tioga County, New York, and is, perhaps, still living there. Mr. Anderson was a native of County Carlow, Ireland, descended from a respectable Quaker family, and had been by trade an upholsterer. The season terminated on the 6th of July, with a benefit for Mr. Moreland, his last appearance in connection with the Park company, and, we believe, the last time the Anthony Street Theatre was used for dramatic purposes. " Douglas " and the " Falls of Clyde " were the pieces performed. Old Norval .... Mr. Kilner. Young Xorval . . Mrs. Barnes. Glenalvon .... " Haywood. i Lady Randolph . . " Baldwin. The site was soon after purchased by the Vestry of Christ Episcopal Church, and a sacred edifice erected thereon, in which the Rev. Dr. Lyell officiated for a long time. This was finally swept away by the march of improvement, and the ground is now covered with stores. CHAPTER XXVIII. New Park Theatre, 1821-2— City Theatre— Chatham Garden. H E New Park Theatre was so far completed as to be ready for performance on the 1st of September, 1821. Its dimensions were, in front, on Park Row, eighty feet in width and fifty-five in height, with a depth of one hundred and sixty-five feet, running through to Theatre Alley, where a large wing was attached, containing the green-room, dress- ing-rooms, &c. The audience entered by seven arched door- ways, the central five of which were reached by a low flight of steps, and opened into an extensive vestibule communicat- ing with the corridor of the first row of boxes ; and the other two, on a level with the street and on either side of the steps, from which they were separated by a heavy abutment, afforded an easy access to the pit and gallery. The doors to these en- trances all opened outward, the well-remembered and terrible catastrophe at Richmond rendering such an arrangement to all public buildings indispensable to safety. Six large arched windows surmounted the doorways, besides a blank one in the centre, which was afterward converted into a niche, wherein was ensconced a well-carved figure of Shakspeare. Another row of smaller square windows was above these, and the whole front, though plain in its appearance and des- titute of architectural beauty, was inoffensive and respecta- ble. Its interior was neatly and conveniently fitted up, with as much regard to elegance and taste as the limited time be- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 381 tween its erection and opening allowed. In the audience part of the house, which was calculated to hold 2,500 persons, there was a pleasant pit, with a gradual rise in each succeed- ing row of seats. Surrounding this rose three tiers, of four- teen boxes each, supported by small columns of burnished gold, six feet and six inches in height, and above was a com- modious gallery, entirely disconnected from the boxes, and used principally for colored persons. The front of the first circle of boxes was a Grecian balus- trade, relieved by a crimson ground. On the second were basso-relievos on a fawn-colored ground, representing boys supporting medallion portraits of poets and dramatists, with the figures of Tragedy and Comedy for a central group. The third circle was a Doric cornice with enrichments, which con- tinued round the proscenium, the arch of which was sup- ported by four Doric columns of yellow marble with white caps. The ceiling was flat, painted to imitate a cone, and divided into eight panels. The whole was lighted by patent oil-lamps, hung in three chandeliers of thirty-five lights each — gas not yet having been introduced into the city. The drop-scene represented a crimson damask curtain, drawn into festoons of gold cord and tassels, — in the centre, a porch of mosaic workmanship with balustrade, and beyond, an equestrian statue of Washington. The width of the stage at the drop-curtain was forty-five teet, and its depth seventy feet. The architect of the building was Hugh Reinagle, and the scenery and decorative paintings were executed by Messrs. Robbins, Reinagle, Evers and Henry Isherwood. The latter s the present well-known artist, who was at that time ac- quiring the rudiments of his profession. Robbins had been icene-painter for nearly thirty years, and in his department vas always effective. Reinagle and Evers are too highly dis- inguished in the history of American art to need encomium lere. The stage and machinery were constructed by Mr. George I Jonklin, long connected with the establishment, and the 382 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. lamps, glasses, hangings, &c, were all of American manufac- ture. Among the gentlemen who interested themselves in the rebuilding of the Theatre, and were considered par eminence the patrons of the drama, were Messrs. Elbert Anderson, Na- thaniel Prime, William Gracie, D. C. Colden, William Cole- man, Dominick Lynch, John Swartwout, Philip Hone, Edward Laight, Charles King, Hugh Maxwell, Doctor Hosack and Doctor Francis, but one of whom is now left upon the stage of life (1866). Before the building was completed, its proprietors, Messrs. Astor and Beekman, had opened negotiations with various individuals for leasing it. At one time it was offered to Mr. W. B. Wood, of Philadelphia, and at another Mr. Dunlap was invited to resume its management, but finally, after a deal of miserable chaffering, it was awarded to those gentlemen who alone had a rightful claim to it, the late managers, Stephen Price and Edmund Simpson. It was first opened to the public on the evening of Satur- day, September 1st, 1821. The price of admission at this time to the boxes was one dollar ; to the pit, seventy-five cents ; and to the gallery, fifty cents. Mr. Falconer was treasurer, a situation he had held for more than thirty years, and Mr. Gillingham, a musician of taste and experience, heretofore alluded to, leader of the orchestra. The company engaged consisted of Messrs. Maywood, Pritchard, Simpson, Woodhull, Barnes, Kilner, Phillips, Reed, Bancker, Wheatley, and Nexsen ; Mesdames Barnes, Battersby, Barrett, Holman, and Wheatley, and the Misses Johnson, Jones, Bland, and Brundage, to which several valuable addi- tions were soon after made. The freedom of the Theatre to a resident, or a gold medal of the value of fifty dollars to a non-resident, was offered by the management for the best poetical address, to bfe spoken on the opening night. About sixty communications were re- ceived, and a committee of literary gentlemen justly selected RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 383 the one written by Charles Sprague, of Boston, and its recita- tion by Mr. Simpson formed the commencement of the enter- tainment on the first night of the season. We subjoin a copy of this admired and spirited production : 11 When mitred Zeal, in wild, unholy dnye. Bared his red arm. and bade the fagot blaze. Our patriot sires the pilgrim sail unfurled, And Freedom pointed to a rival world. Where prowled the wolf, and where the hunter roved, ^ Faith raised her altars to the God she loved ; Toil, linked with Art. explored each savage wild. The forest bowed, the desert bloomed and smiled ; Taste reared her domes, fair Science spread her page. And Wit and Genius gathered round the Stage. •'The Stage! where Fancy sits creative queen, And spreads gay web-work o'er life's mimic scene ; Where young-eyed Wonder comes to feast his sight. And gain instruction, while he drinks delight. The Stage ! that threads each labyrinth of the soul, Wakes laughter's peal and bids the tear-drop roll ; That hoots at Folly, mocks proud Fashion's slaves, ADd brands with shame the world's vile drove of knaves. • The child of genius, catering for the Stage. Rifles the stores of every clime and age. He speaks ! the sepulchre resigns its prey. And crimson life runs through the sleeping clay ; The grave, the gibbet, and the battle-field At his command their festering tenants yield. Here Wisdom's heir, released from Death's embrace, Reads awful lessons to another race ; Pale, bleeding Love comes weeping from the tomb, That kindred softness may bewail her doom ; Murder's dry bones, reclothed. desert the dust. That after-times may own the sentence just ; And the mad tyrant of some moldering page Stalks here to warn, who once could curse an age. ' May this fair dome, in classic beauty reared. By Taste be fostered, and by Worth revered ; May chastened Wit here bend to Virtue's cause. Reflect her image, and repeat her laws ; And Vice, that slumbers o'er the sacred page. Hate his own likeness shadowed from the Stage. 384 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Here let the guardians of the Drama sit In righteous judgment o'er the realm of Wit ; Not his the shame with servile pen to wait On private friendship or on private hate ; To flatter fools, or Satire's javelin dart, Tipped with a lie, at proud Ambition's heart. His be the nobler task to herald forth Young blushing merit and neglected worth, To stamp with scorn the prostituted page, And lash the fool who lisps it from the Stage. " Here shall bright Genius wing his eagle flight, Rich dew-drops shaking from his plumes of light, Till high in mental worlds, from vulgar ken, He soars, the wonder and the pride of men. Cold Censure here to decent Mirth shall bow, And Bigotry unbend his monkish brow ; Here Toil shall pause, his ponderous sledge thrown by, And Beauty bless each strain with melting eye ; Grief, too, in fiction lost, shall cease to weep, And all the world's rude cares be laid to sleep ; Each polished scene shall taste and truth approve, And the Stage triumph in the people's love." After which was presented the comedy of " Wives as They Were, and Maids as They Are," with the following cast : Lord Priory .... Mr. Baenes. Norberry .... Mr. Woodhull. Sir Wm. Dorillon . . " Kilner. Lady Priory . . . Miss Johnson. Sir George Evelyn . . " Phillips. Lady Mary Raffle . Mrs. Battersby. Bronzely " Simpson. j Miss Dorillon ... " Barnes. Concluding with the melo-drama of " Therese." Carwin Mr. Matwood. Therese Mrs. Barnes. Fontaine '■ Simpson. Countess .... " Battersbt. Lavigne " Barnes. I Bridget " Wheatley. The latter lady re-appeared after a year's absence, and soon gave evidence of very great improvement. On Monday, Sept. 3d, previous to the performance of " Man and Wife," in which Pritchard played Cornelius O'Dedimus, and Mrs. Wheatley Lady Worrett, Mrs. Barnes delivered, with much applause, a second Prize Poem, written by Samuel Wood worth, of which the following is a copy : " What glorious vision bursts upon my view ? Does Fancy mock me ? No, 'tis true ! 'tis true ! RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 385 No false, illusive dream of past delight. But blest realities salute my sight ; The ruthless fiend of Ruin is displaced By Beauty, Fashion, Elegance and Taste ! 11 Thrilled with such rapture as when first I prest The infant Shakspeare to this throbbing breast, I hail the scene ! my temple and my home ! While rays of beauty light the vaulted dome. Despair, avaunt ! the storm of grief is past, And joy's bright sunshine gilds the scene at last. M Here, where the tragic muse lias mourned so long The sleep of passion and the death of Bong ; Where o'er the urn of blighted hopes she hung, With vacant, beamless eye and silent tongue ; While shapeless heaps of ruin smoked around, And desolation marked the blackened ground ; Here from its ashes see her temple burst, With grace and splendor that surpass the first. So from his parent's dust the Phoenix springs, With Eden's richest plumage on his wings ; Thus dazzling soars, unrivaled and alone. His age a century, and a world his own ! '* Ye generouB freemen, who in danger stand The shield and bulwark of your happy land ; Who, mid the sweeter luxuries of peace, Behold your greatness and your arts increase, Whose liberal minds throw lustre on the age, Oh ! still protect and patronize the Stage ; That bright auxiliar in Refinement's cause, Which raised proud Greece to what at length she was ; Invited forth and scattered unconfined The boundless treasures of a Shakspeare's mind, And taught the vulgar, barbarous sons of strife The gentler courtesies that sweeten life. ; * Ye free-born fair, who grace Columbia's clime, Whose bosoms glow with sentiments sublime. Whose smiles inspire the actions they reward, Whose tears embalm the virtues they applaud ; Still let those smiles and tears alternate prove That wit can charm — that sympathy can move : And while your hearts celestial Truth revere. Still coudescend to trace her picture her*« ; 49 386 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Still let your presence consecrate the art That holds a mirror to the human heart ; That shows the black and hideous form of Vice, And raises Virtue's worth beyond a price ; That culls the fruits of Fancy's wide domains ; That calls from Poesy her sweetest strains ; That teaches young Affection what alone Can make a virtuous, manly heart her own, And shows to Art how vain are all its wiles — That he who wins must first deserve your smiles. " Columbians all! ye patriots and ye fair, Still let the Drama claim your generous care ; Cherished by you, it will the champion prove Of Freedom, Virtue, and the Arts you love : So shall this City, by refinement blest, Become the pride and mistress of the West ; So shall your Country rise to greater fame, And endless glory gild Columbia's name ! " On the 4th, Mrs. Barrett made her first appearance in seven years as Mrs. Malaprop. She was still a skillful actress in many parts, but by no means an adequate substitute for Mrs. Baldwin, whose versatility she had never equaled. The latter had had some misunderstanding with the management regard- ing her range of parts, and, the difference proving irrecon- cilable, she was not re-engaged, and never afterward appeared on the boards of the Park Theatre. The first new piece of the season was Banim's still favorite drama of " Damon and Pythias," which was produced on the 10th, with the following cast : Damon Mr. Matwood. Lucullus .... Mr. Phillips. Pythias " Simpson. Damocles .... " Wheatley. Dyonisius " Pritchard. Hermione .... Mrs. Battersbt. Philistius " Woodhull. Calanthe .... " Barnes. Macready and Charles Kemble, as Damon and Pythias, made this play very popular at Covent Garden ; but although May- wood did his best for Damon at this time, it was not until Cooper assumed the character, (which, next to Virginius, was the best portraiture of his later years) that it had any marked success here. On the 12th, Mrs. Baldwin gave an entertainment for her benefit at Washington Hall, then situated on Broadway, be- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 387 tween Chambers and Reade Streets, where Stewart's marble warehouse now stands. " Douglas" and the " Sultan" were the pieces performed, (by amateurs) the beneficiary sustaining the characters of Lady Randolph and Roxalana. Mrs. Holman lent her aid in a variety of musical gems. On the 24th, Mr. Kilner took his farewell benefit, playing Dentatus, in " Virginius," and Bluff, in " Robinson Crusoe." Mr. Kilner went to Boston, where he remained several years. On the 25th, a gentleman from England was advertised for Henry Bertram, his first appearance on any stage, in which part he succeeded so well, that he appeared again on the 3d of October, as Malcolm, in the " Slave." This gentleman was Mr. Peter Richings, who was the son of a Post-Captain in the British Navy, and born at Kensington on the 19th of May, 1797. At the Charter-House School, London, and at Pembroke College, Oxford, he had acquired a liberal education, and in 1816, his father having been promoted to the rank of Admiral, and enjoying a lucrative situation in the East Indies, he sailed for that region, where a fine opening was awaiting his accept- ance. Soon after his arrival, his father was seized with par- alysis, and he was obliged to return with him to England, where a commission in the army was purchased for him, which, on being drafted for a West India station, he sold, and devoted himself to the study of the law. About this time he also married, and after two years' read- ing of Coke and Blackstone, his health failed him, and he re- solved to give up the profession and prepare for the Stage, an inclination Jiat had no doubt been encouraged by his gay young friends, to whom his polished manners, fine voice, and spirited singing, had given great delight. His family strenuously opposed this determination, and, rather than wound their feelings or their pride, he embarked for America, where he made his first theatrical effort, as above stated. During his first season, his parts were prin- cipally operatic, and in these he gave general satisfaction ; but his first genuine hit was in 1823, in the character of Dick Trifle, in " Tom and Jerry," which he played with such 388 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. spirit and effect as to obtain an increase of salary from the management, and a prominent position with the audience, who ever after held him in high esteem, especially in the character of a fop, which he represented better than any other actor we have ever seen. For many years, Mr. Rich- ings continued gradually but steadily to improve in skill, and finally proved himself; in many parts, a most consummate artist. We subjoin several, in which he was entirely un- rivaled on the New York Stage, viz.: Osrick, Roderigo, Sparkish, Wildrake, Sir Benjamin Backbite, Lord Tinsel, Floriville, Random, Pietro, in " Masaniello ;" Beppo, Olifour, Marquis, in the " Postillion Young Contrast, in the " Lord of the Manor f Baron Altradoff, Major Galbraith, Mantalini, SergH Austerlitz, Dirck Hatter aick, Hyssop, Ccesar Chante- loupe, Bill Sykes, &c. The last four were truly wonderful exhibitions of dramatic effect, and his personation of Sir Osbaldistone de Mowbray, in " Patrician and Parvenu," is also worthy of particular men- tion, as well for its remarkable beauty and faithfulness of representation, as for its being the first character of note in which he delivered language purely sentimental, and por- trayed high-bred dignity with entire success, that being a line of character in which he had hitherto signally failed. Owing to the embarrassments of the Park Theatre, Mr. Richings left New York in 1840, and became Mr. Burton's stage-manager in Philadelphia, and was afterward acting and stage manager of the Chestnut Street Theatre. Mr. Richings has lately traveled as a star with his adopted daughter, Miss Caroline Richings, his chief attraction being in the old associations and affectionate remembrances of a small class of playgoers now called old-fashioned. On his last appearance at Niblo's, in 1864, Time's meddlesome inter- ference was unpleasantly perceptible both in his person and acting. Mr. Richings is tall and rather slender, though in his prime he exhibited a remarkably well-turned figure ; his features were (and are) good, but deficient in variableness of expres- JUNIUS BRUTUS BOOTH Hark I the murder's doing ; princes farewell. To me there's music in your passing knell'" Richard III, A^t 4, S From an original drawing by Rouse, owned by the late Edwin Booth RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 389 sion ; his taste in costume was unrivaled, and in characters that admitted of such display, his dresses were of surpassing elegance of design, and magnificence of material and orna- ment; and in this particular, he enjoyed the repute of excel- ling all his stock contemporaries. As a man, we have never heard of a blemish on his character. On the 26th of September, Byron's tragedy of "Marino Faliero" was first brought out, and with but little success. Mr. Maywood played Marino; Mr. Simpson, Bertuccio ; Mr. Woodhull, Michael Steno; Mr. Pritchard, Israel Bertuccio, and Mrs. Barnes, Angiolina. A farce called the " Grand Tour' was more successful, and was thus played for the first time on the 4th of October : Jacky Gimcrack Mr. Pritchard. Seabright Mr. Simpson. I Bluahington . . . Mr. Woodhull. Violet " Barnes. Mis? Venture . . . Mrs. Barrett. On the 5th of October, the little lunatic giant of the Stage, Junius Brutus Booth, made his first appearance in New York as Richard III., a character which, in America, has had but three adequate representatives — Cooke, Kean and Booth, the last not least in point of merit. Mr. Booth, during his engagement, also appeared as Octa- vian, Brutus, Lear, Othello. Hamlet and Jerry Sneak, the latter two on the 15th, for his benefit, which netted him upward of twelve hundred dollars. Mr. Booth was born at St. Pancras, near London, on the 1st of May, 1796, his father being a respectable solicitor, and his mother a descendant or relative of the celebrated John Wilkes. In very early life, Mr. Booth gave his attention to pictorial pursuits, in which he evinced great taste and skill; — he afterward entered the navy, which he abandoned to ac- quire the printers art, which in its turn was thrown aside for the study of the law; that being succeeded by renewed attempts with his pencil, accompanied by some creditable experiments in sculpture. He was finally seized with a pas- sion for the Stage, and begaa his theatrical career at Dept- tbrd, as Campiflo, in the " Honeymoon," on the 13th of De- cember, 1813. He afterward played in several continental 390 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. theatres, and returning to England, made his debut at Covent Garden, in October, 1815, as Sylvius, in "As You Like It," remaining through the season at a salary of two pounds per week. He afterward acted at Worthing and Brighton, and at the latter place made a great hit as Sir Giles Overreach, which resulted in his being immediately engaged for Covent Garden, where he re-appeared February 12th, 1817, as Richard III., and notwithstanding the sneers, sarcasms and discourage- ments uttered by almost every member of the company, he gained for his representation the most triumphant success. After playing it a second time, with even increased applause, the Drury Lane management induced him to leave Covent Garden, and on the 20th announced his appearance at their house in the character of Iago to Mr. Kean's Othello, their joint performance being received with acclamation, and cre- ating an intense excitement in dramatic circles. A repetition of the play was advertised for the following evening, and at- tracted a crowded and brilliant audience. But Mr. Booth had already repented of his flight from Covent Garden, find- ing out when too late that the Drury Lane committee dreaded his attraction at a rival house, and after using him for a time must necessarily shelve him, as the characters in which he was likely to succeed were already in Mr. Kean's possession, and he consequently refused to appear, assigning also, as an additional reason, an attack of indisposition. An overflowing house awaited Mr. Booth's return to Covent Garden, where, on the 25th, he again attempted to perform Richard ; but his vacillating course had excited a strong feel- ing of disapprobation, which was artfully fanned by the Drury Lane management, and notwithstanding the presence of a j numerous body of friends, he was assailed throughout the entire evening with riotous demonstrations of opposition and the play was gone through with in dumb show only. Mr. Booth made an apologetic appeal to the public the next day, but another riotous assemblage greeted him on the 1st of March, while on the 3d and 6th, he played Richard with very slight manifestations of disapprobation, which thereafter en- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK 8TAOE. 391 tirely ceased. He next appeared as Sir Giles Overreach, which was as attractive as his Richard, followed by Posthumus, Fitzharding, ("Curfew") Sir Edward Mortimer, and Rinaldo, in the "Conquest of Taranto," being supported by Charles Kem- ble, Macready, Young and Miss S. Booth, a lady who, on his first appearance, had earnestly requested him to add an " E" to his name, for fear they might be mistaken for relatives. He afterward played at Edinburgh and the principal pro- vincial cities with great eclat, returning at the commence- ment of the season to Covent Garden, where soon after the tragedy of the " Apostate" was produced. Although Mr. Booth rehearsed the character of Pescara, (which he afterward played with fine effect) he refused to perform it, and Mr. Macready was substituted, making, in its performance, his first advance from his hitherto merely tol- erated mediocrity. In April, 1820, Mr. Booth played King Lear, with masterly effect, and created such an interest in his performance that Mr. Glossop, of the Cobourg Theatre, en- gaged him to appear there for three nights a week (his off- nights at Covent Garden) in the character of Fitzarden, in a melo-drama, called the " Lear of Private Life," where for a long time he attracted overflowing audiences. In the fall of 1820, Mr. Booth was again engaged at Drury Lane, where he shared the leading business with Wallack and John Cooper. He then played at the English Theatre at Amsterdam, and visited the Island of Madeira, whence he suddenly took passage for America, and arrived at Norfolk, Va., in July, 1821. He made his first appearance in this country, at Richmond, on the 13th of that month, as Richard III. After a very successful campaign there, he appeared at the Park, as above recorded, and subsequently played bril- liant engagements throughout the Union, enlisting among his warmest friends, the distinguished statesman and scholar, John Quincy Adams. About this time he also purchased a farm in Maryland, (which he held until death) and re- turning to England, played for a short time in London. He came back to America in the spring of 1824 ; acted 392 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. again at the Park; was stage-manager at Chatham Garden, under Henry Wallack; stage-manager at the Camp Street Theatre, New Orleans, under Caldwell ; and lessee and man- ager of the Adelphi Theatre, Baltimore, at which establish- ment, during an engagement of Charles Kean, he appeared as the Second Actor, in the play-scene of " Hamlet," and re- cited his part of six lines with wonderful power and effect. He was long an immense favorite at the Bowery, where he never failed of drawing overflowing houses, though his fre- quent non-appearance when advertised, caused many bitter disappointments. In 1843, he played his last engagement at the Park Theatre, which was highly successful, notwithstand- ing he was then a mere wreck of his former self. He afterward occasionally played at the New National, where his last per- formance in New York took place, Sept. 19th, 1851, in the characters of Sir Edward Mortimer and Shylock. He soon after visited California, returning by the way of New Orleans, where, at the St. Charles Theatre, on the 19th of November, 1852, he made his last appearance on the Stage, as Sir Ed- ward Mortimer and John Lump. He died four days later, while on a steamboat bound for Cincinnati, aged 56 years and 6 months. His remains were brought to his home and in- terred at Baltimore. Mr. Booth was under middle size, and his lower limbs were inelegantly formed, but his face was eminently handsome, his eyes capable of assuming a melting tenderness of expres- sion, or of darting the most vivid flashes of intense passion ; and his voice was strong, musical, and of the most varied in- tonation. The grandeur of his action, and the sublimity of his elocution, destroyed all thought of his diminutive size, and crowned him for years the monarch of the American Stage. As a tragedian, in his best moods, he has been scarcely surpassed by any who have graced our boards, and then by Cooke and Kean alone. Charles Kemble and Macready, with their studied attitudes and enunciation, were, in com- parison, but as plodding, wire-drawing critics. Booth was the individual he represented ; he imagined himself the very RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 393 man, and the exquisite modulations of his voice, the wonder- ful mobility of his countenance, and the inspiration of his transcendent genius, thoroughly identified him with the most diverse characters. In Richard, Shylock, Iago, Lear, Sir Giles Overreach, Sir Edward Mortimer and Pescara, he was allowed, by universal suffrage, to have been unrivaled here for near a quarter of a century ; and in early life, his Hamlet and Romeo were equally beautiful specimens of art. His other parts, in which he principally excelled, were Macbeth, Cassius, Gloster, in " Jane Shore,'" Luke, in " Riches," Pierre, Oclavian, Oroo- noko, Michael Ducas and the Stranger. He sometimes de- graded his talents by appearing in low comedy — and in Maw- worm, Jerry Sneak, John Lump and Geoffrey Muffincap, was capable of convulsing an audience with laughter. His edu- cation was of a high order, and he had acquired a perfect mastery of the French, German and Italian languages, and a general familiarity with others. His performance of Oreste, in the French Theatre at New Orleans, was attended with complete success. Mr. Booth was thrice married ; first, in 1814, to a French lady at Brussels; second, to a Miss Holmes, in 1820, who ac- companied him to this country, and was the mother of his son -Junius; and third, to an American lady, (about 1830) who survived him, and is the mother of Edwin Booth. A daughter is the wife of John S. Clarke, comedian. 1 Charity would draw a vail over his frailties, but Truth obliges us to say of this man, with the signet of a God upon his brow, that by his own act he was often sunk below the level of a brute. In his earliest days his temper is said to have been hasty, petulant and peevish, and he unfortunately put the enemy in his mouth, that not only stole away his brains, but substituted instead those of a demon. In his moments of inebriation he knew not friend from foe ; he for- got his engagements with his managers, his duty to the public, his respect for himself. His drunken brawls were a terror to 1 His youngest son, John Wilkes, was the miserable anf the Stage. He wrote one or two unsuccessful novels, and 428 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. as a poet, gained a reputation for facility of versification un- equaled in America. His fame now principally rests on his song of " The Old Oaken Bucket." He was the original pro- jector of the "New York Mirror," for twenty years the lead- ing, literary newspaper of New York. Mr. Woodworth died in 1842, at the age of 57. Feb. 25th. Mr. J. J. Adams opened an engagement as Alexander the Great; playing Octavian on the 27th, and Young 1 Norval on the 28th, after which the Theatre closed for a few nights, re-opening March 8th, with Mr. Pearman as Jocoso, and Sylvio in "Brother and Sister." His new parts were Young Meadows, and Lord William, in the "Haunted Tower;" and for his benefit, on the 22d, he appeared as Francis Osbaldistone, and produced, for the first time in thirty years, the burletta of "Midas," thus cast: Apollo Mr. Pearman. Mysis Miss E. Placide. Jupiter " Richixgs. Daphne " Johnson. Midas " Hilson. Nysa Mrs. Holman. Feb. 16th. Mr. Adams took what purported to be his farewell benefit, previous to his retirement from the Stage, when he appeared as Rolla, in "Pizarro," and de- livered a farewell address. His retirement lasted but a few years. Mr. Booth was again engaged, and appeared on the 24th as Richard III. Feb. 25th. The " Avenger's Vow," a drama by C. P. Clinch, was very successfully produced, with the following cast : Gonzago Mr. Maywood. Paolo Mr. Hilson. Cynthio " Simpson. Ildefonza .... Miss Johnson. Lothair " Woodhull. Isadora .... Mrs. Holman. Mclchior " Clarke. April 2d. Mr. Booth played Selim, in the " Bride of Abydos," and Jerry Sneak, for his benefit. April 5th. Cooper and Conway re-appeared ; and, during their engagement, interchanged characters on alternate nights, each appearing as Pierre, Jaffier, Othello, Iago, Marc Antony, Brutus, and Macbeth. Mr. Conway also personated Hamlet, Hemeya, Coriolanus, and Romeo. April 26th. Mr. Maywood announced his benefit pre- vious to his return to Europe, and played three of his RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 429 best characters — Sir Pertinax, Count de Croissy, and Skirmish. May 3d. A comedy called the " Little Thief," altered by Mr. Foot, from Beaumont and Fletcher's " Night Walker," was brought out as follows : Tom Lurcher. . . . Mr. Clarke. Alathe Miss Johnson. Jack Wildbrain ..." Simpson Maria Mrs. Clarke. Frank Heartlove . . " Woodhull. Margaretta. ... M Stone. Allgripe " Watkinson. Nur^e " Wheatlet. Toby " Hilson. Mr. Pearman's farewell engagement now commenced ; and on the 10th the first performance of the " Marriage of Figaro," with Bishop's music, occurred — it having been previously played as a comedy, called the "Follies of a Day." Count Almaviva. . . Mr. Simpson. Cherubino .... Mrs. Bancker, Figaro '* Pearmax. Countess .... Miss Johnson. Fiorello " Richinqs. Susanna .... Mm. Holman. Antonio " Placide. Barbarina .... Miss E. Placide. May 14. Mrs. Holman took her benefit, previous to her proposed retirement from the profession; and on the 21st Mr. Pearman also took his farewell, previous to returning to his native land. On both these occasions, the " Marriage of Figaro" was performed with great success. May 28th. Mr. Booth commenced a new engagement with his masterpiece, Sir Giles Overreach. May 31st. For Mr. Simpson's benefit, the Rev. George Croly's comedy, entitled " Pride Must Have a Fall," was pro- duced, but attained slight popularity. We give its cast: Cornet Carmine . . . Mr. Simpson. Major O'Shannon Mr. Woonnun.. Count Ventoso ..." Kent. Countess Ventoso . Mrs. Wueatlet. Lorenzo " Clarke. Leonora .... " Banckir. Torrento ... . " Hilson. Victoria .... " Holman. Spado " Placide. June 4th. Lunn's capital farce, called " Fish Out of Water," was thus first played here : Sam Savory .... Mr. Hilson. Steward .... Mr. Placide. Sir Geo. C-urtly. . . " Foot. John " "Wheatlet. Aid. Gayfair .... " Kent. Ellen Mrs. Bancker. Charles " Simpson. Lucy Miss E. Placide. June 7th. Mrs. Waring, from England, appeared as Elvira, in " Pizarro," and Flora, in the " Midnight Hour." We have no further knowledge of her, save the statement of Mr. Wemyss, that she returned to England and died there. June 9th. Mr. Booth played Pescara, in the " Apostate," for his benefit, assisted by Mr. Conway, as Hemeya ; and in the 430 RECORDS OP THE NEW YORK STAGE. afterpiece of "High Life Below Stairs," Mr. Thayer made his first appearance in New York as My Lord Duke's Servant Mr. Edward J. Thayer was, at one time, well known in New York, but, for the last thirty years, has been principally at- tached to the Philadelphia Theatres, where he is a standard favorite. He is a native of Bostoo, Mass., and made his first dramatic attempt there, as a member of the Philo-dramatic Society, in 1820, in the character of Young Norval ; and, in 1821, appeared at the Federal Street Theatre as Tancred, in " Tancred and Sigismunda," with success. He was a member of the Chatham Garden Company in its best days, and achieved a brilliant reputation there, as the successor of George Barrett, in light comedy ; indeed, we doubt whether, as an actor simply, in that line, he has ever been surpassed amoogst us, but, being rather under size, he lacked the ad- vantage of a dashing exterior ; and, after a few years, a ten- dency toward corpulence, and a rather deeply lined face, materially marred the effect of his personations. About 1830, he married Mrs. Palmer Fisher, the mother of Miss Alexina Fisher, the latter of whom he introduced to the public as a juvenile star, with great success. Mr. Thayer last appeared in New York as the representative of humorous old men, at Burton's Theatre, in 1848, and has since resided in Phila- delphia, in the enjoyment of competence, actively pursuing the duties of his profession, until his retirement in 1863. Mr. Clason made his first appearance as Hamlet, on the oc- casion of Mr. Foot's benefit, June 18th ; he also played Jaffier for Mr. Woodhull, on the 22d, and Othello for Mr. Reed, on the 28th. Isaac Starr Clason, a member of a distinguished family of New York, will be better remembered, probably, as a poet than as actor. With a highly cultivated mind, a refined lite- rary taste, and many of the most important requirements of excellence, his habits of dissipation were such as to destroy all the promise of his early years, and to hurry him through a career of shame and wretchedness to a suicide's grave. He died in London, in 1834, by inhaling the fumes of charcoal, RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE 431 in company with his mistress. Mr. Clason's name will be found in our Records the next two seasons. Mrs. Burke also appeared here, for the first time in nine years, for Mr. Woodhull's benefit, her vocal abilities having improved, rather than deteriorated, during that period. Mr. Placide took his first benefit in New York on the 22d, when he appeared as Mrs. Malaprop (!) in the " Rivals." Jane 30th. For Mr. Richings' benefit, Mr. Roberts made his first appearance on the Park stage, in a new drama, called | the "Fortunes of Nigel," then first acted as follows : ! King Junes .... Mr. Roberts. Christie Mr. Woodhull. Lord Nigel .... Simpson. Trapbois .... " Watkinson. j Lord Dalgarno ..." Clarke. Lady Hermione . . Miss Johnson. J Ramsay 44 Placide. Mrs. Christie ... 44 E. Placide. i Buckingham .... 44 Richinqs. | Martha Trapbois . . Mrs. Stone. Monday, July 5th, was the last of the season, when the drama of " Washington," and an equestrian spectacle called I "Alexander the Great," introducing Mrs. Tatnall and the Circus troupe, were the entertainments. The Broadway Circus was open, very successfully, during the summer of 1824, and " Tom and Jerry" had a long run there. Besides the corps of equestrians, rope-dancers, &c, Mrs. Tatnall, Mr. Roberts, and Mr. Cowell were the principal attractions. CHAPTER XXX. Park Theatre, 1824-5— Broadway Circus— Chatham Garden Theatre. H E Park Theatre having been again wholly re- painted and tastefully embellished, was re-opened to the public on the 30th of August, 1824. The new drop-curtain, painted by Mr. Evers, and representing the Park, City Hall, &c, was very effectively executed, and very generally admired. The plays were the " Poor Gentleman" and " Ella Rosen- berg," in which Messrs. Watkinson, Placide, Foot, Simpson, Richings, Kent, Clarke, Bancker, Woodhull and Nexsen, Mrs. Wheatley, Miss Johnson and Mrs. Bancker appeared ; and Mr. Schinotti danced a hornpipe. Mr. Maywood, Mrs. Hol- man and Mrs. Stone were not among the company this sea- son. Mrs. Kent was engaged, and made her first appearance on the 31st, as Elvira, in "Pizarro." The first novelty of the season was MoncriefT's equestrian drama of the " Cataract of the Ganges," which brought Mr. Blythe and his horses into requisition, and being got up with unusual care and splendor, had a long and profitable run. It was thus cast : Ackbar Mr. Richings. Ambassador . . . Mr. Nexsen. Jam Saheb .... " Foot. Mordaunt .... " Clarke. Mokarra " Simpson. Jack Robinson . . " Hilson. Mokagee " Placide. Princess Dessa . . Miss Brundage. Iran 11 Woodudll. Zamine " Johnson. Omar " Blytbe. Ubra Mrs. Bancker. Brahmin «• Bancker. Matali " Wheatley. Sept. 2d. Mr. Barnes made his first appearance since his return from Europe, in the characters of Sir Anthony Abso- lute and Darby, and was received with acclamation. His ac- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 433 complished wife also re-appeared on the 6th, in her favorite character of Isabella, receiving the same hearty and enthusi- astic welcome. From henceforth Mrs. Barnes was recognized as a star of the first magnitude. Sept. 7th. Mr. Stanley, from Drury Lane, made his first appearance in America as Rover. Mr. Stanley was attached to the company for two or three seasons, and became rather a favorite in light comedy. Sept. 15th. Mr. Lee, another recruit from London, com- menced his engagement in the character of Shylock. On the 18th, he appeared as tfir Edward Mortimer. These charac- ters were beyond his grasp, but being a sensible and judicious actor, he became a valuable member of the company, and in second tragedy parts, and in the more serious characters of genteel comedy, gave great satisfaction. He left the Theatre in 1827, and we have no further knowledge of him. A still more important personage appeared on the 17th, as Lady Teazle. This was Miss Lydia Kelly, who, as the dashing representative of the fashionable and high-flown heroines of comedy, maintained for several seasons the highest position in the favor of the public. Her first list of characters in- cluded Beatrice-, Helen Worrett, Lady Elizabeth Freelove, Flo- retta, (" Cabinet") Letitia Hardy, Rosina, Lilla, (" Siege of Bel- grade") Violante, Mrs. Oakley, and Maria, in "Of Age To- morrow." Miss Kelly was born in London, June 2d, 1795. She was a niece of the celebrated Michael Kelly, professor of music. One of her sisters svas Miss F. M. Kelly, the famous London act- ress ; and another, a half-sister, the wife of the elder Ma- thews. At the age of thirteen, she first attempted the Stage at Glasgow, as Louisa, in the " Deserter," and two years after joined the Drury Lane company, then performing at the Ly- ceum, where she first appeared as Rosina, October 11th, 1810, her engagement lasting for three years. She afterward played at Edinburgh and various provincial theatres, as well as at Drury Lane, with success. Miss Kelly was rather masculine in appearance, but the richness and elegance of her costume 55 434 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. set her off to great advantage on the Stage. Her performances were somewhat lacking in delicacy and refinement, and in that nice discrimination of light and shade pervading every well-drawn character — perhaps by some they would be de- scribed as coarse, but they were nevertheless effective and forcible, and her never-failing animal spirits, good humor and vivacity completely overbalanced her failings, and always carried her through with applause. As a singer, she was at first regarded with great favor, but she was soon eclipsed by Mrs. Knight, Madame Feron, Mrs. Austin, Miss George, and others, whose warbling abilities were of a much higher order. Miss Kelly took her farewell benefit at the Park Theatre, May 20th, 1831, in her favorite character of Beatrice, in which, at the time, she was thought to be unapproachable. She also delivered a farewell address, written by Mr. Stone. Her final appearance in America occurred on the 26th of July in that year, when she personated the Widow Cheerly, for the benefit of the unfortunate Mrs. Gilfert. She soon after returned to Europe, after an American career of unprecedented brilliancy and success, and married a French Baron, from whom she re- treated when she found he had taken her for what her talents would command. We understand she still lives in comfort- able independence. Sept. 18th. Mrs. Barnes took her benefit, when she ap- peared as Imogen, in "Cymbeline;" and Colin, in "Nature and Philosophy." Sept. 21st. Mrs. De Luce — wife of the orchestra-leader — made her first appearance on the Stage as Lucy Bertram, with tolerable success. She was the daughter of Major Hollins- head, of the American army, and, besides possessing great beauty of countenance, was a very pleasing ballad singer. Mrs. De Luce continued on the Stage a year or two, and after her retirement was long a member of the choir at St. Paul's, and a favorite singer at public concerts. She died in New York, April 18th, 1851, aged 52 years. One of her sons is a well-known musician, and a daughter is the wife of the comedian Holland. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 435 Mr. Cooper commenced an engagement as Macbeth on the 1st October — taking his benefit on the 13th, as Damon and Young Wilding — still holding his own in public estimation. Oct. 2d. A farce called " Cherry Bounce" was produced, with Barnes as Gregory, Kent as Oldrenls, and Mrs. Wheatley as Mrs. Homespun. Oct. 14th. Lunn's capital farce of " Family Jars" was pro- duced with great applause, and continues to this day in high favor. It was thus cast : Porcelain Mr. Kent. i Delph Mr. Barnes. Benedict " Richings. Diggory ... M Placide. Emily Mrs. De Luce. Liddy Lorrigan . . Mrs. Wheatlet. Barnes made one of his greatest hits as old Delph, and no successor in the part has ever equaled him. Payne's petite comedy of " Charles the Second" was first played here on the 25th, with the following cast : Charles . ... Mr. Simpson. Edward Mr. Placide. Rochester " Stanley. Lady Clara . . . Mrs. Clarke. Capt. Copp .... " Hilson. MaryCopp. . . . Miss Johnson. Major Stevens, the well-known dwarf, thirty-seven inches high, long a resident of this city, made his first appearance on the Stage, November 12th, as Tom Thumb. He repeated the character several times with applause, and took his benefit on the 24th, when he also appeared as Goliah, in the ".Young Quaker."' This little fellow possessed all the lineaments of a man, a neat and well-turned figure, and an intelligent countenance. He played at most of our prin- cipal theatres, and in 1837, when " Gulliver in Lilliput" was produced at the old National Theatre, (for the purpose of introducing the Kentucky Giant, Porter, as Gulliver) made quite a hit as Lord Flimnap, the Lilliputian. Nov. 15th. Miss Kelly commenced her second engagement as Floretta, in the "Cabinet." Nov. 18th. Mr. W. Burroughs made his first appearance in America as Romeo, Mrs. Barnes being re-engaged to support him as Juliet. Mr. Burroughs was from the Surrey Theatre, where he enjoyed the repute of a good melo-dramatic actor, and as such would have proved a valuable acquisition to any American stock company ; but as a tragic star, he shed a feeble radiance in comparison with Kean, Cooper, Booth, &c. 436 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. After traveling through the Union, he was afterward con- nected with the management of the Lafayette Theatre in this city, where, in his proper line of business, he greatly increased his popularity. He subsequently returned to Europe. Nov. 22d. Mr. Jervis, a pantomimist, &c, made his first ap- pearance in America as Kalig, in the " Blind Boy." He had been in the London minor theatres, and was employed in various American cities as prompter and machinist, as well as actor. He died in Philadelphia, in 1851. Nov. 23d. The amusing comedy of " Sweethearts and Wives" was first played in New York, with triumphant success, thus cast: Admiral Franklin . . Mr. Foot. Curtis Mr. Reed. Charles Franklin . . M Simpson. Eugenia . . . Miss Kelly. Sandford " Lee. Laura " Johnson. Billy Lackaday ... " Hilson. Mrs. Bell .... Mrs. Wbeatley. Hilson gave a most ludicrous effect to the burlesque senti- mentalities of poor Billy Lackaday, and with the able support of Miss Kelly and the entire dramatis personce, the piece had quite a run. Mr. Barnes afterward made in Billy Lackaday one of his happiest assumptions, and Burton frequently played the part with great applause. The " Floating Beacon," since a favorite melo-drama at the minor theatres, was first played on the 25th, with Hilson as Jack Junk, Clarke as Angerstoff, Lee as Frederick, Mrs. Clarke as Mariette, and Mrs. Bancker as Christine. Nov. 27th. A drama, compiled from Scott's beautiful novel of " Kenilworth," was enacted, with the annexed cast : Leicester Mr. Burroughs. Anthony Foster . . Mr. Jervis. Surrey *' Woodhull. Giles Gosling . . . " Foot. Tressillian .... " Lee. Queen Elizabeth . . Miss Johnson. Varney " Stanley. Amy Robsart . . . Mrs. Barnes. Lambourne .... " Clarke. On the 8th of December, Mr. Burroughs took his benefit, when he presented, for the first time, a drama called the "Devoted Son," wherein he appeared as Julio, and Clarke as Stephano, Jervis as Uberti, Placide as Pedro, and Mrs. Barnes as Maria. Dec. 10th. Mr. Cooper commenced his second engagement as Damon; and on the 15th, Mr. Barnes took his benefit, RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 437 reviving, lor the first time in twenty years, Murphy's comedy entitled the "Way to Keep Him," with the following cast : Sir Bashful Constant Sir Brilliant Fashion Lovemore .... William .... Mr. Barnes. u Simpson. " Stanley. " Placide. Sideboard . Widow Belmore Lady Constant Mrs. Lovemore Mr. Miss Kelly. u Johnson. Mrs. Barnes. He also produced, for the first time, a drama entitled the "Two Prisoners of Lyons," the original version of the play since so very popular under the title of " Robert Macaire." It was cast as follows : ... Mr. Dumont Charles Raymond Bertrand Foor. Woodhull. Clarke. Lee. Peter . . Louisa . Clementine Mr. Barnes. Mrs. Barnes. " Bancker. Dec 16th. "Alasco," a tragedy by J. P. Shee, was first played, as follows : Alaico Mr. Cooper. Jerome . Hohendahl .... 14 Woodhull. Malinski Walaingham .... *' Clarke. Rienski Conrad " Lee. Amantha Mr. Foot. " Reed. " RlCHINQS. Mrs. Barnes. It was repeated on the 18th, and has never since been heard of. Mr. Cooper took his benefit on the 20th, appearing as Duke Aranza and Young Wilding, with the volunteered aid of Miss Kelly as Juliana. In return, he personated Jaffier for her benefit on the 22d, the lady appearing as Belvidera, and Nell, in the "Devil .to Pay." Jan. 1st, 1825. The drama of " Frankenstein" was played for the first time in America, with the annexed cast : Frankenstein Cherval Fritz . . . Mr. Simpson. M Lee. " Placide. Demon . Elizabeth Agatha . Mr. Jervis. Mrs. Clarke. " Bancker. The popular farce of the " Secret" was first played on the 10th, with Miss Kelly as Cecile, Lee as Dupuis, Woodhull as Valare, and Placide as Thomas, being one of the first im- portant original parts in which he appeared, and in which he gained very great applause. The same evening was produced, with great splendor, the Eastern fairy melo-drama of " Cherry and Fair Star, or the Children of Cyprus," a very pleasing holiday entertain- ment, and still popular with the juveniles. It was thus cast: Hastanbad Sanguiobeck Topac . . Oiaffir . . Sigismond Mr. Foot. Simpson. Jervis. Woodhull. Wheatlet. Captain Cherry . Fair Star Aviaryana Papilla . Mr. Richinqs. Miss Kelly. " Johnson. Mrs. De Lcce. " Bancker. Miss Kelly's third benefit occurred on the 26th, when she 438 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. appeared as Lady Bell, in " Know Your Own Mind," and for the ninth time as Prince Cherry. Jan. 27th. Planche's drama, altered from Rowley, entitled " A Woman Never Vext," was first played, with the following cast : Foster Mr. Clarke. King Henry VI. . . Mr. Richings. Stephen Foster ..." Lee. Clown " Placide. Robert Foster ... " Woodhull. Innocent Lambkin " Watkinson. Walter Brown . . " Foot. Agnes "Welsted . . Miss Johnson. This excellent comedy was repeated a few times, and has since slept in unmerited oblivion. On the 29th, Mr. Burroughs commenced a new engage- ment as Octavian and Sponge. Feb. 1st. The melo-drama of the " Ostler and the Robber" was brought out as follows : Mqs. Romano. . . . Mr. Foot. Zyrtillo .... Mr. Placide. Ozzrand " Burroughs. Louisa .... Miss Johnson. Clauson " Clarke. Emma Mrs. Bancker. Dyrkille " Jervis. Mr. Burroughs terminated his engagement with a benefit on the 11th, when he appeared as Jerry Hawthorn and Ozz- rand. Feb. 25th. Mr. Keene made his first appearance here in several years as Henry Bertram, the commencement of a long and brilliant engagement. March 2d. An English version of Weber's opera of " Der Freyschutz" was first given in America, and with what was then considered an excellent cast, and its fine scenic appoint- ments, had a long and successful run. It was thus cast : Baron Ottocar . . . Mr. Lee. Hans Mr. Richings. Conrad " Woodhull. Hermit .... " Foot. Caspar .... " Clarke. Matthew .... u Bancker. Wilhelm " Keene. Wild Huntsman . . " Reed. Killian " Hilson. Bertha .... Miss Kelly. Christopher ... " Placide. Linda Mrs. De Luce. Herman " Kent. Marian .... " Bancker- March 17th. A young lady from the Manchester Theatre made her first appearance as Sophia, in the " Road to Ruin," and Myrtillo, in the "Broken Sword." On the 22d, she ap- peared as Marianne, in the "Dramatist," and Moggy McGil- pin, being announced as Miss Parr. This lady was a native of Wales, and as a dancer and comic actress gave general satis- faction. She was afterward known as Mrs. Smith, and died several years since at Natchez. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 439 March 18th. The farce of the " Young Widow" was first played here, with Simpson as Mandeville, Hilson as Splash, Miss Kelly as Aurelia, and Mrs. Wheatley as Lucy. Miss Kelly's fourth benefit came off on the 13th of April, when she personated Bertha, in "Der Freyschutz," and the charming Prince Cherry. April 14th. Mr. Cooper was again brought forward as Ptr- ginius; and on the 18th, Mrs. Barnes commenced an engage- ment as Imogine to his Bertram. April 23d. " Caius Gracchus," a play by Sheridan Knowles, was first presented on this stage, cast as follows : Caius Gracchus . . . Mr. Cooper. Marcus .... Mr. Placide. Licinius " Lee. Cornelia .... Mrs. Barnes. Vettius " Stanley. Licinia .... Miss Johnson. Titus " Clarke. Though generally well played, it failed to attain the popu- larity of most of its author's productions. April 27th. A drama called "Self-Sacrifice" was first played, with the following distribution of parts : Count Valmore . . . Mr. Richings. Jean Jacques . . Mr. Hilson. Marquir Leone ..." Woodbull. Schultz .... " Jervis. Schwitzer .... " Clarke. Ida Miss Johnson. Crank Cuffin ..." Watkinson. Lissette .... Mrs. De Ldce. Mr. Cooper took his benefit on the 25th, in the characters of Charles Surface and Petruchio, and commenced another en- gagement on the 9th of May, as Damon. Mrs. Barnes announced her benefit on the 11th of May, when she appeared in the very dissimilar characters of Eu- phrasia, Lady Contest, and Miss Kelly's favorite one of Cherry. Mr. George Barrett was next engaged, and made his bow in the character of Gossamer, on the 30th. June 1st. The benefit of Mr. Barnes came off, when was played, for the first time in twenty years, BickerstafT's famous comedy of the " Hypocrite." This play, though possessing eat merit, is liable to the objections that have been urged inst the " Serious Family," and other dramas of the same ' lass, wherein the unthinking are apt to overlook the true bject and aim of the satirist — the dissembling professor and is deceitful pretensions — confounding them with pure reli- 'on and its honest disciples, and including all as the sub- ects of general ridicule and condemnation. The "Hypo- 440 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. crite," on this occasion, was played in a masterly manner, as the following names will indicate : Mawworm .... Mr. Barnes. Seyward .... Mr. Lee. Dr. Cantwell .... " Foot. Charlotte .... Mrs. Barnes. Sir J. Lambert ..." Woodhull. Lady Lambert . . " Wheatlet. Col. Lambert ..." Stanlet. Young Lady L. . . Miss Johnson. Darnley " Clarke. Betty " Bruxdage. The Mawworm of Mr. Barnes was as perfect in its way, and as popular at the time, as Mr. Burton's Aminidab Sleek proved to be at a later period. Mr. G. Barrett's benefit took place on the 8th, when he pre- sented the " Wonder," a " Race for a Dinner," and " Simpson & Co.," in which he appeared as Don Felix, Sponge, and Bromley, with the aid of Miss Kelly. June 13th. For Mr. Clarke's benefit was presented a new tragedy, called " Phelles, King of Tyre," thus cast : Phelles Mr. Clarke. .Barca Mr. Woodhttll. Piram " Lee. Balator .... " Stanley. Amarbal " Foot. Zelny Miss Johnson. It was played for the third time, and benefit of the author, on the 28th, and never heard of more. Mr. Cowell appeared for the first time this season for Mr. Clarke, and sung several comic ditties. For Mr. WoodhulFs benefit, June 27th, Master and Miss Twibill first appeared on the Park Stage, and gave several of their most admired songs; and Mrs. Godey, formerly Miss Juliet Durang, executed a pas seul, being her first appearance this season. For the benefit of Mrs. De Luce, July 1st, Mr. Blake, from the Chatham Garden, delivered a Masonic Monologue, his first appearance at the Park Theatre. The season terminated on the 5th of July, with a benefit for the widow of the late Mr. Robbins, who, for thirty-three years, had been the scene-painter of the establishment. In May, Messrs. Price and Simpson's traveling dramatic and equestrian company, under the direction of Mr. Cowell, re-opened the Broadway Circus, and continued performing there for many weeks. The dramatic roll included the names of Gale, Henry and "William Isherwood, Jones, Moreland, Meer, Blakely, Mrs. Pelby, Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Rowe, Mrs. Thompson, and others. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 441 In point of merit next to Cowell, Mrs. Rosalie Pelby, wife of the tragedian of that name, probably stood the highest. This lady, who was eminent for beauty, was born at Kinder- hook, March 17th, 1791, and first appeared on the Stage at Boston, as Mrs. Mortimer, in " Laugh When You Can," in the year 1813. We are not aware of the date when she joined the Circus company, but she soon became a great favorite with its audience. She played at the Lafayette Amphitheatre, 1825-6 ; also at the Park, Bowery, and Old Chatham Theatres, at intervals, from that period until 1831. She afterward re- sided principally at Boston, where, under her husband's man- agement, she became one of the principal attractions of the National Theatre. Her last appearance in New York was at the New Chatham Theatre, in the character of Alicia, June 29th, 1841. After her husband's death, she gave up the di- rection of the Boston establishment, and visited California with her daughter Julia, where she played for a period with considerable success. While on her voyage homeward, on board the steamer Northern Light, near San Juan del Sud, in June, 1855, she was seized with her last illness, and made her exit from the stage of life, in the 64th year of her age. Mr. George Gale was also a leading member of the com- pany, and afterward became famous as the original repre- sentative of Mazeppa, at the Bowery Theatre, in 1833. He was born near London in 1800, first appeared at the Coburg Theatre in 1818, and made his last appearance in New York at the Bowery, October, 1834. He afterward returned to Eu- rope, and was killed by a fall from a balloon, with which he was presumptuously making an ascension on horse- back, in 1851. Four of his daughters — Hannah, Cecelia, Ruth, and Adeona, all youthful and favorite dancers — met with a terrible death at Philadelphia, September, 1861, from the clothing of one taking fire in the dressing-room of the Continental Theatre. :The flames not only communicated to the dresses of the sis- ters, but of several other companions, and, in the course of a 56 442 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. few days, nine unfortunate girls perished from the effects of their burns. Henry and William Isherwood were New Yorkers by birth, the sons of Mrs. Fenno Knight, once a well-known confec- tioner. Her first husband, Isherwood, was one of the earliest practitioners of the art in New York, having a shop in Wil- liam Street, before the close of the last century. Henry is the present admirable scene-painter at Wallack's, having long since abandoned the actor's profession for that in which he has achieved a much higher repute than he was ever likely to attain upon the boards. William Isherwood continued on the stage until his death, which occurred on the 17th of August, 1841. He was never eminent as an actor, although attached for several seasons to the Park company, in 1836-7, &c. He married Miss Fanny Clarke, eldest daughter of John H. Clarke, of the Park, whom he left a widow at an early age. Mrs. Rowe was a native of New J ersey, but little known in New York. Mrs. Julia Jones, a native of New York, and wife of Wil- liam Jones, comedian, became an excellent actress of old women, highly esteemed at Philadelphia. She played at various theatres in this city, and finally died at Phila- delphia, Oct. 15th, 1847, aged 51. Mr. Meer was a low comedian, and is last remembered in New York, at the Richmond Hill, in 1834. Thomas H. Blakely had been employed as a lad with the Park company, as early as 1822. For several years he gave no indications of ability, but about 1829, when again at- tached to the Park, his enactments of old men began to at- tract attention. In the second grade of that line of business — a class of plain, blunt, sensible, every-day old men, not too sentimentally serious nor too broadly humorous — such as Sulky, in the "Road to Ruin;" Porcelain, in "Family Jars;" Humphrey Dobbin, in " Poor Gentleman ;" Rowley, in the "School for Scandal," &c, he surpassed all whom we have seeu attempt it; and we pronounce him the best actor in RKCORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 443 that peculiar line ever known on the New York Stage. Mr. Blakely was also very happy in a comic song, and was one of the first successful singers of negro extravaganzas. He re- tired from the profession about 1840, and has since kept a public-house on the outskirts of the city. He has occasion- ally re-appeared for a benefit, and is still living. The summer entertainments at Chatham Garden having proved for two seasons eminently successful, Mr. Barriere, the proprietor, determined on the erection of a permanent theatre there, which, being completed, and fitted up with great neat- ness, taste and convenience, was first opened to the public on the evening of May 17th, 1824. The company engaged here had never been surpassed in merit in a New York theatre, and consisted of Messrs. Kilner, (stage-manager) Henry Wailack, George Barrett, Spiller, Alex. Simpson, Thos. Burke, W. Robertson, Moreland, Stone, Somer- ville, Allen, Anderson, Williamson, J. Jefferson, Jr., C. Durang, Collins, Olliff, &c, with Mesdames Entwistle, Henry, Waring, Burke, Wal stein, (formerly Baldwin) C. Durang, H. Wai- lack, Kilner, Allen and Spiller, Miss P. M. Clarke, Miss Olliff, &c. The. opening address was spoken by Mrs. Entwistle, whose peculiar merit in such affairs was universally acknowledged. Next followed Cherry's comedy of the " Soldier's Daughter," with the following admirable cast: Got. Hesirtall . . . Mr. Kilner. Simon Mr. So.merville. Frank Heartall ... " G. Barrett. Widow Cheerly . . Mrs. Entwistle. Malfort, Sr " Allen. Mrs. Malfort ..." Dcranq. Malfort, Jr " Moreland. Julia Mis< Olliff. Woodley "J. Jefferson. Mrs. Fidget Mrs. Walstein. Ferrett 44 Stone. Susan " Allen. Tim. Quaiut .... "A. Simpson. The entertainments concluded with the farce of " Raising the Wind." Jeremy Diddler . Mr. G.Barrett. Sain Mr. A.Simpson. IPlainway .... " Stone. Miss Durable . . . Mrs. Walstein. [Fainwould .... " J.Jefferson. Peggy *• Dueanq. Most of the above artists were already favorably known to the public. Mr. G. Barrett had made an agreeable impression ion the Park boards, and now re-appeared, greatly improved in :iase and elegance of manner, which, combined with his great spirit and vivacity and clear conception of his author, soon 444 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. caused him to be recognized as the best light comedian of the day. Fifteen years had not in the least marred the merit of Mrs. Entwistle, (the once fascinating Mrs. Mason, of the Park) and though they may not have added graces to her person, had given a superior refinement and polish to her performance of high comedy. Mr. Somerville was a new-comer, who proved to be a very useful general actor, and at one time attracted considerable attention in Scottish characters. Mr. Joseph Jefferson, Jr., son of the eminent comedian, was also new to our stage, and gave promise of an excellence that he never attained. He assumed various lines of comedy at different times, and though admirably costumed and skillfully made up, appearing at times the living portrait of his father, failed to rise above mediocrity in his performances. In July, 1826, he married Mrs. Burke, the vocalist, by whom he had several children, one of whom, Joseph Jefferson the third, is classed among the most favorite comedians of the present day. A daughter, Miss Cornelia Jefferson, has also played with suc- cess. Mr. Jefferson was connected with the Franklin Theatre and Niblo's Garden in 1835-6-7, &c, and died at Mobile, of yellow fever, Nov. 24th, 1842. May 18th. Mrs. Anne Jane Henry made a triumphant debut here as Letitia Hardy. This beautiful and accomplished woman was born in Philadelphia in 1801. Her real name was Henry by birthright, but her mother marrying Mr. Stockwell, once the child actor at John Street and the Park, she was, by the latter name, in 1813, first introduced to the Stage as a dancer, at the Federal Street Theatre, Boston. On the death of Mrs. Stockwell, our orphan heroine found a home and pro- tection with Mrs. Barnes, a favorite actress of old women at Boston, noted for her kindness and benevolence. On the 22d of March, 1817, she married W. C. Drummond, the actor and dancer, by whom she had two daughters. From him she pro- cured a divorce, on the ground of ill-treatment, and resumed her maiden name of Henry, by which she made her first ap- JOSEPH JEFFERSON (FATHER OF JOSEPH JEFFERSON). RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 445 pearance in New York. Her extraordinary charms of mind and person attracted universal admiration here, and she finally made a happy man of George Barrett, by giving him her hand in marriage, on the 24th of June, 1825. For several years no- thing could exceed the felicity of this union. Personally and professionally popular, Mr. and Mrs. George Barrett were re- ceived with enthusiasm wherever they appeared, and in the lines of gay, graceful and refined comedy, and the gentler grades of tragedy, the lady has been seldom equaled. But at length this happy and brilliant union was disturbed ; this fascinating being, whom Fanny Kemble pronounced "a fault- less piece of mortality in outward loveliness," had, by some unhappy weakness, acquired an insane craving for stimulants, which she swallowed without judgment or reflection, and through their influence was -reduced, at times, to the lowest stage of degradation, and placed in such positions that even her honor was called in question ; so that, in 1840, Mr. Barrett procured a divorce from her on the ground of infidelity. Subsequent events, it has been said, proved her guiltless of the charge, but the separation was final. Mrs. Barrett had many warm and distinguished friends, who bestowed the greatest kindness upon her after this unhappy epoch of her life, and their unremitting efforts soothed in a degree the bitter mortification and chagrin attendant upon it. Through their influence, she was restored to the stage and to society ; and in Boston, where she afterward principally played, she renewed the triumphs of her earlier years, and commanded the admiration of all by her miraculously preserved beauty, which, even at the age of fifty, seemed as fresh and charming as in her girlhood. Mrs. Barrett's last appearance in New York was at the Broadway Theatre in January, 1850, but she was then laboring under indisposition which materially marred the effect of her personations. Her last appearance on the stage was at the Howard Atheneum, Boston, Decem- ber 14th, 1853, in the character of Cora. Her health had been failing for several weeks, and she was unable to take her benefit announced for the next evening. Sinking rapidly 446 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. away, she expired on the 22d of that month, aged 52 years. Her remains repose in the cemetery of Mount Auburn. Her daughter by Mr. Barrett is the beautiful Mrs. Philip Warren, formerly of the Broadway Theatre. May 19th. Mrs. Waring, formerly Miss Caroline Placide, now a young and blooming widow, made her first appearance in ten years as Miss Dorillon and Marian Ramsay, rivaling Mrs. Henry in beauty, merit and success. May 24th. Mrs. Burke made her first appearance as Mar- garetta, still charming the audience with her fine vocalism. The same evening, Miss P. M. Clarke made her debut here as Clara, in "Matrimony," and gave promise of future excel- lence. May 25th. The comedy of " Town and Country' was per- formed, in which Mrs. Henry Wallack made her first appear- ance in New York as an actress, with marked success. She had previously appeared here only as a dancer. Mr. H. Wallack also appeared, for the first time this season, as Reuben Glenroy, and Mr. Burke as Hawbuck. June 9th. The versatile Spiller made his first bow here, as Doctor Pangloss and Risk. Keene, the vocalist, commenced an engagement on the 14th as Henry Bertram, and continued to enjoy a large share of public favor. George G. Stevenson took his place in the ranks on the 24th, as Baron Longueville, in the "Foundling of the Forest." Mrs. Drake, formerly Miss Denny of the Park, made her first appearance* in New York, after three years' absence, on the 25th, as Imogine, following it with a variety of popular characters. Monday, July oth, was celebrated as the anniversary of our Independence, with the performance of the " Point of Honor" and the farce of the "Purse," in which Miss Russell (now Mrs. Geo. P. Farren) made her first appearance on the stage, as the Page. She evinced, even at that early period of her life, considerable talent,, which was cultivated with so much success, that, a few years later, she was engaged at the Park, W. K. BI-AKK. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 447 where she made her debut with much applause, on the 11th of September, 1828, as Young Norval and Little Pickle. Alter occasional performances in New York until 1832, she went to New Orleans with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Russell, and on reaching womanhood, became one of the principal attractions of the Southern and Western theatres, where she ranked with the first artists of the day. After an absence of sixteen years, Mrs. Farren commenced an engagement at the Broadway Theatre, as Mrs. Beverly, January 17th, 1848, a most unfavorable season for the appearance of a stranger, as she had then become. She has since played at Niblo's Gar- den and Wallack's Theatre, and is fully capable of sustaining the leading heavy business in a first-class theatre. On the 8th, Mr. Pemberton made his first appearance in New York, as Bertram, supported by Mrs. Drake as Imogine. This gentleman went through with a variety of characters, both serious and comic, but failed to render himself popular or attractive, and never after appeared in New York. On the 12th, Mr. William R. Blake made his entree on the New York Stage as Frederick, in the " Poor Gentleman," and the Three Singles, in " Three and the Deuce." At this time, Mr. Blake, a native of Nova Scotia, was a good-looking young man, displaying great ease and vivacity of manner, and a handsome, well-turned figure, that gave little indication of the immense rotundity which, independent of other causes, ultimately placed him among the greatest of modern come- dians. But Mr. Blake's merit was not confined to his personal appearance; he possessed abilities for the representation of light comedy and juvenile tragedy that entitled him to rank with the best performers in those lines; and he continued playing them with success, until his increasing corpulence warned him that his appearance was illy suited to the dash- ing coxcomb, silly fop, or sighing lover ; and giving his atten- tion to the peculiarities of age, he succeeded in achieving a repute as the representative of old men, both serious and comic, second to none known to the American Stage. In certain characters he surpassed all who had attempted them. His 448 RECORDS OP THE NEW YORK STAGE. Jesse Rural, Geoffrey Dale, Hardcastle, Old Dornton, Admiral Kingston, Sir Peter Teazle, Sir Willoughby Worrett, Sir Anthony Absolute, Governor Heartall, &c., were examples of perfection. Mr. Blake married Mrs. Waring, August 26th, 1826. He ex- perienced the usual vicissitudes of an actor's lot — at one time enjoying the greatest popularity, and at another visited with undeserved neglect. He was at different periods connected with the management of several theatrical establishments : of the Tremont at Boston, 1827 — of Walnut Street, Philadel- phia, 1829 — and, in conjunction with Mr. Willard, first opened the Olympic Theatre, in New York, 1837. After traveling as a star in England and America, he took up his residence in Philadelphia, as stage-manager of the Walnut Street Theatre, under Mr. Marshall, where his skill and judgment placed that establishment in a highly favorable position. In 1848, he was transferred to the same situation at the Broadway Thea- tre in this city. He was afterward in the stock companies of Burton's, Wallack's and Laura Keene's establishments, enjoy- ing as an artist the very highest consideration, and receiving, as we have heard, the heaviest salary of any actor on the stock list. While on a professional visit to Boston, with Laura Keene's company, a severe attack of bilious colic ter- minated his existence on the 22d of April, 1863, at the age of 58 years. His remains were brought to New York, and his funeral services held in the Episcopal Church of St. John the Evangelist, on the 26th of that month. In the line of " old men," we doubt if he has ever been excelled on the New York boards. On the 16th, for Mr. W. Robertson's benefit, Mr. Alexander Drake first appeared in New York as Lingo. He played but seldom in this city. At the West, he for several years ranked among its very best comedians, and shared with his accom- plished wife the highest favor. He had first appeared on the stage, when a boy, at Boston, January 3d, 1811, as the Prince of Wales, in "Richard III." He died, we think, about the year 1830. On the 20th, Richard Ferdinand Durang, from the Phila- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 449 delphia Theatre, first appeared in New York, as Abcellino, Syl- vester Daggerwood, and Tristam Fickle. Without possessing extraordinary merit, he was a useful performer in almost every line — a good swordsman and dancer — excelling princi- pally in melo-dramatic and French characters. He was born at Hartford, A. D. 1796, married Miss Susan Plane, of New York, and died in this city of consumption in 1831. The veteran comedian of Philadelphia, the ever favorite Jefferson, commenced his last engagement in New York on the 22d, as Solus and Fixture, followed by a succession of his inimitable comic delineations. On the 23d, the " Apostate" was performed, with Mrs. Drake as Florinda, H. Wallack as Pescara, Pemberton as Hemeya, and Mr. Hughes as Malec, his first appearance on the New York boards. This gentleman was a valuable serious actor. He had appeared at Boston as early as 1813, and was also well known to the Philadelphia Stage. He died, we think, in 1825. Mrs. Drake's benefit occurred on the 27th, when she per- sonated Juliet, and her husband appeared as Doctor Rosy, in the farce of " Saint Patrick's Day." On the 28th, Mr. Pemberton took his benefit in the character of VirginiuSj Mr. Blake appearing for the second time as Icilius, and the beautiful Miss Tilden making her metro- politan debut as Virginia. This very interesting young lady had made a successful appearance in the same character at Philadelphia in the spring of 1822. She afterward became Mrs. Bernard, and was at the Bowery Theatre in 1827. Mr. Jefferson terminated his engagement and took his benefit on the 5th of August, when he played Sir Benjamin Dove, in Cumberland's comedy of the " Brothers," and Sancho in the farce of " Lovers' Quarrels" — being his final appearance in New York. On the 9th, Mr. Finn made his first appearance in several years as Hamlet. On the 10th, Shakspeare's comedy of " Twelfth Night" was played for the first time in twenty years, with a cast which, 57 450 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. as a whole, has never been surpassed on the New York Stage : Orsino . . Aguecheek . Sir Toby Belch Malvolio . Clown . . . Fabian . . Mr. Hcghes. " Finn. " KlLNER. " H. Wallace. " Spillee. Valentine Antonio Sebastien Viola Olivia . Mr. Dueang. " SOMERVILLE. Mrs. H. Wallace. " Henry. " Entwistle. " Ddranq. " Moeeland. I Maria Mr. Finn continued playing, both in tragedy and comedy, until the 26th, when he took his benefit in the characters of Bob Logic, in " Tom and Jerry," and Joey, in " Modern An- tiques." After this engagement, his own judgment decided that comedy was his forte, and he seldom again appeared in a serious part. On the 12th, Mr. and Mrs. Duff had commenced an engage- ment and met with a most brilliant reception — the lady ap- pearing as Belvidera, the gentleman as Jaffier and the Three Singles. Mrs. Duff also enacted Mrs. Haller, Mrs. Beverly, Madame Clermont, Jane Shore, and, for their joint benefit on the 24th, Juliet, supported by Mr. Duff as Romeo, who also person- ated Petruchio in the afterpiece, with Mrs. Waring as Catharine. The superiority of Mrs. Duff's performances was again ac- knowledged, and general regret expressed at the brevity of her engagement. On the 25th, Mrs. Hughes (who as Mrs. Young had ap- peared at the Park in 1812) made her first appearance since that period as the Widow Cheerly. She also personated Lady Teazle, Miss Hardcastle, and Madame Clermont. This lady possessed a fine personal appearance in her earlier years, and was endowed with great natural abilities, which had been im- proved by diligent cultivation. In tragedy she was very generally admired, and appeared therein to far greater ad- vantage than in comedy, where she lacked ease and vivacity, and in her efforts to render a point telling frequently fell into a very stiff and artificial style. For several years she was constantly before the public at Burton's, in the line of old women, and in two characters played by her at that establish- ment — Mrs. Skewton, in " Dombey and Son," and Lady Sowerby Creamly, in the " Serious Family" — has been unsurpassed by any who have attempted them. RECORDS OK THE NEW YORK STAGE. 451 Mrs. Darley, the old Park favorite, after an absence of six years, re-appeared on the 31st of August, as Helen Worrett, her face and figure giving little indication of the lapse of time- During her engagement, she personated Charlotte Rusporl, Marian Ramsay, Ophelia, Lady Elizabeth Freelove, Miss Do- rillon ; and for her benefit, on the 25th of September, Albina Mandeville, and Virginia, in the operetta of " Paul and Vir- ginia," with the aid of Mrs. Burke as Paul. This was the last appearance in New York of this excellent and accomplished actress. On the 6th, Mr. and Mrs. Palmer Fisher and daughters were added to the company. Mr. Fisher, whom we have be- fore noticed as a member of the Commonwealth Theatre in 1812, appeared as Sir William Dorillon, and his wife as Lady Mary Raffle, in the comedy of " Wives as They Were." Mrs. Fisher, though a native of England, made her first appearance on the stage at Lexington, Ky., in 1820, and afterward played with her husband in various Western cities. After his death, she again entered the matrimonial estate with Mr. E. J. Thayer, and, as Mrs. Thayer, acquired a reputation as an act- ress of chambermaids and comic old women scarcely equaled in the country. For the last five and thirty years she has played principally in Philadelphia. We last remember her in New York, at the Winter Garden, in the summer of 1861. In the afterpiece of the " Hunter of the Alps," in which Mr. and Mrs. Fisher appeared as Rosalvi and Helena, their little girls, Oceana and Alexina, first appeared in New York as Julio and Flurio. Although both very young, they had al- ready trod the boards of the Western theatres, and gave indi- cations of ability which, in the case of Alexina, (like that of her kinswoman, the marvelous Clara Fisher) was most pre- cociously developed into real excellence. In June, 1831, at the age of ten, Miss Alexina Fisher made a very successful debut at the Park Theatre, and for several years enjoyed great celebrity throughout the Union as a ju- venile star. Unlike most prodigies, her talents continued to be developed with her years, and as a general leading actress, 452 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. we do not now know her superior. Since the age of fifteen, she has occupied a very prominent position on the Phila- delphia Stage, where she long divided the applauses of the audience with her mother. In May, 1851, she married Mr. Baker, of Philadelphia, and soon after visited California, where she largely increased her fame and fortune. In 1850, she played several weeks at the Broadway Theatre with great success, and in 1855 fulfilled an engagement at Burton's, where her efforts were horribly cramped in the trashy drama, entitled "Janet Pride." She last appeared in New York in the fall of 1862, sup- porting Edwin Booth at the Winter Garden, in the characters of Ophelia, Desdemona and Emelia, each of which she repeated several times, and exchanging the two latter on different evenings with Mrs. F. B. Conway. Mrs. Baker, is still in the prime of womanhood, and apparently with sufficient health and spirits to render her an ornament to the profession for thirty years longer. Her sister, after playing as a child, dis- appeared from the boards, and of her we have no further knowledge. Sept. 11th. The Nation's Guest, as he was called — the ven- erable and patriotic Lafayette — visited the establishment to witness the opera of the " Devil's Bridge," supported princi- pally by Keene and Mrs. Burke. Several patriotic songs were given on the occasion, in which Mr. Williamson, of whom we have not heretofore spoken, gave great satisfaction. Though inferior to Keene, he was nevertheless a favorite vocalist, and was at one time well known here. On the 20th, Mr. Francis Courtney Wemyss, from Phila- delphia, made his first appearance in New York, as Marplot, in the u Busy Body," with entire success. This gentleman's history is well known, as he has recorded his parentage, birth, education, and incidents of his long professional career in a work published a few years since, entitled " Twenty-six Years of the Life of an Actor and Manager." Descended from a highly respectable family, his father being an officer in the British navy, and his mother formerly a Miss Courtney, of RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 453 Boston, Mass., he was born in London, May 13th, 1797. Pos- sessing a roving, volatile disposition, and spurning the con- trol of friends, after engaging in mercantile pursuits for a while, he determined on trying his fortune with the players, and made his first appearance on the Stage at Montrose, Scot- i land, in 1814, as Young- Nerval, Through many vicissitudes, he finally worked his way to i the Adelphi, London, where, in 1820, he first appeared as ! Sponge. In America, he first played at the Chestnut Street ' Theatre, Philadelphia, as Vapid, December 11th, 1822, and was soon recognized there as a very admirable light come- i dian. He was long connected with the management of the Philadelphia, Baltimore and Pittsburgh Theatres ; was at one time engaged in the lottery business, and at another pro- jected the publication of a very beautiful edition of plays, of which several numbers appeared, embellished with elegant steel portraits of the most eminent performers of the day. For the last thirteen years of his life he was a resident of flew York, and principally in service of either the Bowery or National Theatre as stage-manager or treasurer. He fell off greatly as an actor in his later years, and in the line of sec- ondary old men, to which he finally descended, his standing scarcely reached mediocrity. As a man, he appears to have >een governed by the strictest honor and integrity, and his services, as Secretary of the American Dramatic Fund Asso- ciation, were of great importance to that institution, and were duly appreciated by his professional brethren. From an en- graved portrait of Mr. Wemyss, we infer that he was once a remarkably handsome man, and we know that at one time his reputation as a genteel and light comedian was scarcely sur- )assed by any artist in the country. He died in New York suddenly, of apoplexy of the heart, January 5th, 1859, in the 62d year of his age. Sept. 23d. Mr. Blake commenced his first regular engage- \ Iment in this city as Harry Thunder, in " Wild Oats." Mr. Roberts, who had been lately added to the company, ilso appeared as Sir George Thunder, and was soon ac- 454 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. knowledged to be one of the principal attractions of the place. Oct. 4th. Sheridan's play of " Pizarro" was first acted here, and was got up with such excellence in scenery, costume, and performance, that it met with brilliant success. It was thus cast: Rolla . Pizarro Alonzo Ataliba Orozembo Mr. H. Wallace. " Hughes. " Blake. " Stevenson. " Roberts. Las Casas . Sentinel High Priest Cora . . Elvira . Mr. Fisher. " A. Simpson. " MORELAND. Mrs. Hughes. " Entwistle. Oct. 11th. Mr. Pelby commenced an engagement as Rolla, but proved a poor substitute for Mr. Wallack. Oct. 14th. Mr. Thayer appeared here, for the first time, as Young" Rapid and Wildlove. Oct. 18th. Poole's comedy of "Married and Single" was played for the first time in New York, Roberts making a great hit as Beau Shatterly. The other characters were : Bickerton .... Mr. Hughes. Mrs. Bickerton . . Mrs. Entwistle. Scamper "A. Simpson. Mrs. Shatterly . . " Walstein. Melford " Blake. | Fanny " Stevenson. Oct. 25th. Mr. F. Brown, formerly of Boston, and the Park Theatre, appeared here as Richard III. Nov. 4th. Mr. John A. Stone took his benefit, when his own play, entitled " Restoration, or the Diamond Cross," was first acted, with the following cast : Leon Mr. Thater. Garcia Mr. Roberts. Laroque " Hughes. Dorinda .... Mrs. Hughes. Diego " Stone. Hypolita .... " Stone. Lope "A. Simpson. (Her first appearance.) Nov. 9th. Mr. Walstein, who had played a few nights at the Warren Street Theatre, was brought out as Farmer Ash- field. He was never a favorite in New York. Nov. 10th. Mr. Clason, who had played at the Park, opened here as Hamlet. He afterward acted Romeo, Beverly, Rolla, and Sir Charles Rackett. Nov. 11th. Mr. Edgar made his first appearance on the stage, as Richard III. On the 26th, he attempted Glenalvon, in " Douglas," for his benefit. On the 22d, Mr. Twibill, with two interesting children, a son and daughter, made their first appearance in New York, in a musical Olio, with considerable success. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 455 Master Joseph Twibill afterward turned his attention to the painter's art, in which he was achieving high repute at the time of his death, which occurred in early manhood. Miss Matilda Twibill made her debut in the regular drama at this establishment two years later, Nov. 29th, 1826, as Rosalie Somers, with perfect success. Personally, one of the loveliest women known to the Stage, her acting, bating a trifle of af- fectation in her manner, was highly meritorious, and at the Chatham, Bowery, Old and New National Theatres, she ranked as a favorite of the first order. She married the eccentric Tom Flynn, comedian, March 30th, 1828, and as Mrs. Flynn will be remembered by many readers as the idol of their earlier years. She never played an engagement at the Park, and to attain a metropolitan reputation beyond its walls was, in her day, a circumstance to be wondered at. Notwithstand- ing her triumphs, she experienced frequent and rapid vicissi- tudes of fortune, and finally died in this city, October 28th, 1851, at the age of 37. Mr. H. A. Williams, formerly of the Park, made his first ap- pearance here on the 24th, as Gossamer. On the 29th, an opera by Micah Hawkins, of New York, called, the " Sawmill," was produced, and subsequently re- peated two or three times, with the following cast : Baron Scharfenduyvel . Mr. Morrison. Jacob Mr. Roberts. Count Phlegm ... 44 Spiller. Louisa Mrs. Waring. Bloom " Blake. EIna " Allen. Herman " Petrie. Norchee .... " Walstein. Stoduff "A. Simpson. In December, a comedy, called " A Race for a Wife," was produced, with the following cast : Doneson Mr. Roberts. James Mr. Spiller. Col. Gayton .... «« Thater. Spinka "A. Simpson. Capt. Seymour " Stevenson. I Mary Mrs. Fisher. Dec. 17. A musical piece, called "Woman's Will a Riddle," was brought out by Mr. Spiller, for his benefit, with Mr. Keene as Casario, Mrs. Walstein as the Duchess of Mantua, and Mrs. Waring as the Princess Clementine. A long run of benefits followed, and various plays were pro- duced for the first time in this establishment, among which ere " Fazio," with Mr. and Mrs. Hughes in the principal ; a new version of M Kenilworth," with Mrs. Entwistle as 456 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Queen Elizabeth, and Mrs. Waring as Amy Robsart ; "Mel- moth the Wanderer," with Blake as Melmoth, Hughes as Wal- berg, and Mrs. Entwistle as Ira ; " Old Hickory," for the pa- triotic Andrew Allen's benefit, with Hughes as the hero; Knowles' tragedy of "Caius Gracchus," for Mrs. Walstein's benefit, when her husband made himself ridiculous as Caius, contrasting strongly with the excellence of Blake as Licinius, Mrs. Walstein as Cornelia, and Mrs. Hughes as Licinia. Feb. 19th, 1825. Mr. Anderson, formerly of the Park, made a great hit as Paddy CRafferty, in Moultru's "False and True." This piece was the original of Power's farce, " Born to Good Luck," and was now played with Roberts as Count Benino, Durang as Caliari, Thayer as Lealto, Mrs. Walstein as the Marches a, and Mrs. Fisher as Janitta. Lillo's tragedy of " Fatal Curiosity" was produced for Mrs. Fisher's benefit on the 24th, with Robertson and Thayer as Old and Young Wilmot, Mrs. Entwistle as Agnes, Mrs. Hughes as Charlotte, and Mrs. Fisher as Maria. The afterpiece on this occasion was the " Children in the Wood," with the little Misses Fisher as the leaf-covered unfortunates. Mr. Hughes' benefit occurred on the 25th, but he was too ill to play, and had already made his last appearance on the stage. Rodwell's favorite farce of the " Young Widow" was capitally rendered for the first time that evening, with Blake as Mandeville; Thayer, Splash; Mrs. Waring, Aurelia; and Mrs. Fisher, Lucy. The season terminated on the 28th, with a benefit for the widow of a Masonic brother, the entertainments consisting of " John Bull," a Masonic Ode, spoken by Mrs. Entwistle, and the 6 ' Young Widow." CHAPTER XXXI. Park Theatre, 1825-6. H E Park Theatre was re-opened on the 29th of August, 1825. The performances consisted of the comedy of the "Hypocrite'' and the melo-drama of " Therese." In the former, the cast was the same as during the previous season, with the exception of Charlotte, who was personated by an old favorite with a new name — Mrs. Hilson, late Miss Johnson ; and Young- Lady Lambert, in which Miss E. Placide was substituted. On the 30th, Mr. Hilson rendered Shylock very powerfully, in the "Merchant of Venice," and Mrs. Battersby appeared, after an absence of two years, as Portia. The same evening Miss Deblin, a pupil of E. H. Conway, appeared for the first time in apas seul. Mr. Conway, the tragedian, commenced an engagement as the Stranger on the 31st, and Miss Kelly opened, on the 2d of September, as Floretta and Cherry. Mr. Keene, tne vocalist, appeared on the 6th, as Wilhelm, in " Der Freyschutz," supported by Miss Kelly as Bertha. Mr. Conway took his benefit as Virginius, on the 14th of September. On that evening, Miss Julia Wheatley, aged six years, is first remembered as dancing a pas seul. For several seasons, this interesting child, the eldest daughter of the excellent Mrs. Wheatley, was attached to the Park company, as a ju- venile actress. As she progressed in years, she was found to possess a rich and powerful voice, which was most assiduously 58 458 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. and carefully cultivated. On the 6th of May, 1833, at the age of fourteen, she made her musical debut at the Park, in the character of Semira, in " Artaxerxes," with very encour- aging success. During the season of 1835-6, Miss Wheatley was engaged as the contra-alto of the Italian company then performing at the Opera House in Church Street, where she sustained, with brilliant success, the characters of Amalthea, ("Moise in Egitto") Arsace, (" Semiramide") Eduardo, ("Ma- thilde di Shabran") Eduardo, (" Eduardo and Christine") and Neocle, (" L'Assedio di Corinto"). Had she continued in the pro- fession, an increased experience would, no doubt, have acquired for her high distinction. Miss Wheatley was married to Mr. E. H. Miller, on the 1st of June, 1840. In the retirement of private life which ensued, surrounded with all the elegancies that taste can suggest and wealth procure, her fireside enli- vened by many smiling, youthful faces, and graced by the presence of her venerated mother, Mrs. Miller is justly re- garded as one of its brightest ornaments, while her unobtru- sive benevolence has won for her the deepest gratitude and admiration of the lowly and unfortunate. On the 16th, Mr. Cooper commenced an engagement as Coriolanus, but the craving for novelty caused him to be in a measure neglected. Mrs. Barnes appeared for the first time this season on the 20th, as Charlotte, in the " Hypocrite," and in her powerful recitation of Collins' Ode on the Passions. Her talents were afterward combined with Mr. Cooper's during the balance of his engagement, and proved a valuable support. Knowles' play of " William Tell" was first performed in New York on the 26th ; and, from the fine acting of Cooper, Hil- son and Mrs. Barnes, proved for a while very attractive. The piece in itself is dull and heavy, but the interest of the fable and the well-drawn character of the hero always insure its success in good hands. We subjoin its original cast: William Tell . . . . Mr. Cooper. Braun Waldemar .... Michael . . . . . " HlLSON. Albert Emma . . " Stanley. Agnes Annelli . Mr. Placidjs. " Jek^is. Mrs. Barnes. " Battersbt. " HlLEON. " Di LUOE. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 459 Mr. Cooper terminated his engagement with a benefit on the 29th, appearing in the last-named play. Oct. 1st. A Mr. Hazleton made his first appearance on the stage as Sir Edward Mortimer. Oct. 3d. The romantic Indian spectacle, the "Vision of the Sun," was brought out with great success in the follow- ing manner : Huania Copac Oratzuma Tacmar . . Oultanpac Tycobrac . . King of Silence Mr. Foot. " Banckf.r. " Lee. " Simpson. " Jervis. Woodhull. Ebongould Koyan . . Princess Runac Cassana . Ocella . . . Geni of Harp Mr. Wheatley. Miss Kelly. Mrs. Hilson. " Wheatley. Miss E. Placide. " Brundaqe. After slumbering a quarter of a century, this piece was re- vived at the Broadway in 1851, with renewed success. On the 17th, a farce, called "'Twould Puzzle a Conjuror," was played, with the following cast : Czar Peter Varensloff Van Clump De Morville Mr. Lee. Woodhull. Foot. Stanley. Hans Lubberlick . Mr. Barnes. Peter Stanwitz . . " Hilson. Von Block ... " Jervis. Bertha Mrs. Hilson. It has since frequently been played as the " Two Peters," the " Dutch Burgomaster," the " Old Dutch Governor," &c, with the name of Hans Lubberlick converted into the more euphonious cognomen of Von Dunder. On the 24th, Mr. Cooper and Mr. Conway commenced a joint engagement as Pierre and Jaffier, supported by Mrs. Barnes as Belvidera. Their united attractions insured a bril- liant attendance. Miss Kelly gave them her aid for one night as Lady Teazle. Nov. 1st. Mr. Thomas S. Hamblin made his first appear- ance in America, as Hamlet. This gentleman, though vastly overrated as an actor, even in his best days, has been so intimately connected with the drama in this city, that his claims to particular notice must ot be overlooked. Mr. Hamblin was born in Whitechapel, London, May 14th, 1798 ; or, according to another authority, t Pentonville, just two years later. Having taken part in a rivate performance of " Hamlet " while at school, his success ere turned his wishes toward the stage, and abandoning the oughts of a mercantile life, for which he was intended, he st appeared at the Adelphi Theatre as a ballet-dancer, at a 460 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. salary of six shillings per week. In 1815, he appeared at Sadlers Wells, and in 1817 was engaged at Drury Lane to play subordinate characters. He was afterward employed at Bath, Brighton, Dublin, &c, and occupied a prominent position in the theatres of those cities. Having married a daughter of Blanchard, the London comedian, he arrived in this country in the prime of early manhood, and his personal appearance, though marred by inelegantly formed lower limbs, was, by his fine carriage and noble bearing, his handsome head and features, sufficient to command admiration, even had he possessed less merit as an actor. In 1830, Mr. Hamblin, in connection with Mr. Hackett, became the lessee of the Bowery Theatre, but the latter soon retiring, he was for a long period sole manager of the establishment. On the 16th of Septem- ber, 1836, the theatre was destroyed by fire, involving him in a heavy pecuniary loss. Mr. Hamblin now leased the ground to Mr. Dinneford, and sailed for Europe, where he played at Covent Garden with little success. He returned to New York in July, 1837, and was received on his appearance by an over- flowing house, but his attraction ceased with the night, and his engagement concluded to thin audiences. Mr. Dinneford becoming bankrupt, Mr. Hamblin resumed his position, and continued at his post until the Bowery was again consumed by fire in 1845. On being rebuilt, Mr. A. W. Jackson assumed the management for a* year or two, but the concern passed again into the hands of Mr. Hamblin, where it continued until his death. In 1848, after Mr. Simpson's retirement from the Park Theatre, its lease was also taken by Mr. Hamblin, who, at a vast outlay, refitted it in the most sumptuous and elegant manner, and engaged an expensive company to sus- tain the performances. Too many of them, however, had the Bowery taint upon their names, and with less than his usual judgment, he obtruded himself and Mrs. Shaw as the princi- pal attractions, with the addition of a costly, though passe ballet troupe. The result was — bare walls, empty benches, and ruinous losses, terminating in the entire conflagration of the building and its contents, without a cent of insurance RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 461 to the proprietor. During these accumulated disasters, Mr. Hamblin's spirit never quailed, but with renewed energy, he set himself to work to repair his broken fortunes. As a manager, few have equaled him in prosperity, for, notwith- standing his repeated heavy losses, it was stated that he left, at his death, a fortune of a hundred thousand dollars. With rare exceptions, Mr. Hamblin catered for the million. His melo-dramas of the " blood and thunder " school proving at- tractive to the lower orders, he was content to fill his purse from such sources, rather than attempt to elevate the drama and its auditors by the production of plays of literary merit and elevated sentiment. His company, generally, was so no- toriously incompetent in the better class of plays, and his own character in connection with female reputation so unfor- tunate, that his theatre was, for years, in a double sense, known as the Bowery Slaughter-House. His wife, about the year 1834, procured a divorce from him, and by the laws of the State, he was not permitted to marry again until her death. His subsequent connection, however, with Miss Vin- cent and Miss Medina was well known, and immediately after his first wife's decease, Mrs. Shaw was also announced as Mrs. Hamblin. Mr. Hamblin labored for many years under an asthmatic complaint, which materially interfered with his professional exertions — the huskiness of his voice, and his difficult and, at times, almost choking respiration, often rendering his speech unintelligible. In the business relations of life, he is repre- sented to have been a strictly honorable man, and the united testimony of all in his employ is conclusive on that head. His benevolence and generosity were also proverbial, and to any a young and untried aspirant he has given a helping nd to fame and fortune. He died of a brain fever, at his sidence in Broome Street, January 8th, 1853. Mrs. Hamblin, formerly Miss Elizabeth Blanchard, made r first appearance in America on the 4th of November, as s. Haller. She was a lady of good general ability, and puld have proved a valuable stock actress in any theatre, 462 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. but her merits did not entitle her to rank as a star. In 1831, she visited Europe, and soon after her return commenced a suit of divorce against her husband, which resulted in her favor. In lieu of her awarded alimony, she accepted the sum of three thousand dollars in one payment, with which she commenced a career of theatrical management at Petersburg, Va., and at the Richmond Hill in this city. Having intro- duced to the stage Mr. James S. Charles, then a fine-looking young fellow, she finally married him about the year 1836. She was a woman of high spirit, and her domestic griefs were sometimes brought before the public with more temper than judgment. She last appeared here at the Astor Place Opera House, under Niblo's management, in 1848. Her mortal career was terminated by cholera in the city of New Orleans, May 8th, 1849. During Mr. and Mrs. Hamblin's first American engagement, the former appeared as Hamlet, the Stranger, William Tell, Virginius, Rolla, Duke Aranza, Romont, (" Fatal Dowry") and Petruchio ; and the latter as Mrs. Haller, Annette, (" Maid and Magpie") Virginia, Nell, ("Devil to Pay") Clara, ("Mat- rimony") Cora, Lady Contest, Juliana, Therese, and Cath- arine. On the 14th of November, Mr. Edmund Kean presented himself, for the first time in four years, as King Richard III. The remembrance of his old slight to the Boston audience was revived against him, and an organized opposition, sup- posed to have been headed by some excited Bostonians, at- tended for the purpose of driving him from the stage. On his appearance, he was received with a shower of hisses, inter- mingled with considerable applause, both of which, on his attempting to speak, were renewed with so much violence, that not a word could be heard. Mr. Simpson came forward, and begged a hearing for Mr. Kean, who then endeavored to proceed with the play, but the hissing and groaning being still kept up, he was obliged to go on in dumb show only. Mrs. Hilson was the Lady Anne of the evening, and while holding the sword toward the breast of Richard, a dangerous RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 463 missile, thrown from the gallery, fell directly at her feet. She dropped the sword, and her husband rushed forward and took her from the stage. Again Mr. Simpson appeared, and after a few appealing words to the audience, led on Mrs. Hilson, who most courageously went on with her part, and the tragedy was completed amidst the utmost din and con- fusion. It was said that upward of two thousand persons were present, and that at least three-fourths of them were in favor of Mr. Kean's performing, the pit and hirst and second tiers of boxes having scarcely a rioter in them. Mr. Kean, whose proud spirit had been brought low by the neglect and censure of his own countrymen, and who was re- duced to desperation at the supposed opposition of his old ad- mirers here, published in the newspapers of the next day an appeal to the public, which he concluded with the following words : " That I have committed an error, appears too evident from the all-decisive voice of the public ; but surely it is but justice to the delinquent (whatever may be his enormities) to be allowed to make reparation where the offenses were com- mitted. My misunderstandings took place in Boston. To Boston I shall as- suredly go to apologize for my indiscretions. I visit this country now under different feelings and auspices than on a former occasion. Then I was an ambi- tious man, and the proud representative of Shakspeare's heroes. The spark of ambition is extinct ; *md I merely ask a shelter in which to close my professional and mortal career. I give the weapon into the hands of my enemies ; if they are brave, they will not turn it against the defenseless. " Edmund Kean. rT." Washington Hall, Nov. \f>th, 18i25." On his next appearance as Othello, but little opposition was manifested, and the remainder of his engagement was but a repetition of his earlier American triumphs. He afterward went to Boston, where, however, he was literally pelted from the stage, and never after permitted to appear there. Mr. W. W. Clapp, in his " Record of the Boston Stage," remarks that "Time has softened the asperities even of Kean's most in- veterate enemies, and though he was guilty of unpardonable insolence toward the public, the retaliation he met with was unbecoming an enlightened community." 464 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. On the 15th of November, Mrs. Sharpe, formerly Miss Lee- sugg, (a sister of Mrs. Hackett) made her first appearance in America as Lady Teazle, and Rosina, in the operetta of that name. She met with a decided success, though during the remainder of the season her performances were confined to a more subordinate range of parts. Mrs. Sharpe belonged to the highest class of useful actresses, and as such her merit was fully acknowledged by the public, until she attempted to limit her efforts to an occasional star engagement, when, per- haps, she met with less encouragement than her talents really deserved. She was a tall, fine-looking, dark-eyed, expressive- featured woman, and though somewhat awkward in her movements, maintained a dignity of carriage and a charm of manner that always proved attractive. Her talents were of the most diverse character, and obtained for her a repute in every department of the drama. In opera she was capable of as- suming the part of prima donna, though the donna seconda was her more appropriate sphere, and therein she frequently divided the applause with Mrs. Austin, Mrs. Wood and other eminent vocalists. In comedy " she could scold, lie and flirt like a waiting-maid, and look, speak and act like a lady — could be boisterous in the kitchen and stately in the hall — and could jilt a footman or reject a knight with equal skill and dexterity." Still, in the finish of high comedy, Mrs. Sharpe lacked some essentials. In tragedy was found her true excellence — not in the gentle, pathetic and subdued, but in the more violent emotions of the heart; Rage, Anger, Hatred, Horror and Despair have seldom been portrayed with such forcible truthfulness. Her Elvira, in "Pizarro," has never been surpassed upon our boards, and her Lady Con- stance and Lady Macbeth rarely equaled. We have never seen, and never expect to see, her Emilia, in "Othello," at all approached in excellence by any other actress. She threw her whole soul into the part, aud with her flashing eyes, and scorning look, and bitter denuncia- tion, might fearlessly challenge a comparison with the finest Othello that ever trod the boards. In such char- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 465 acters also as Helen McGregor, she was pre-eminently great. In 1836, Mrs. Sharpe visited Europe and appeared with success at Drury Lane, as Constance and Lady Macbeth. She returned to America, and made her last appearance on the New York Stage with Wallack's National Company, then playing at Niblo's Garden, as Lady Macbeth, to Charles Kean's Macbeth, November 8th, 1839. In private life she was long known as Mrs. Capt. Brevoort. Her death occurred in New York, of cancer, in 1863. On the 24th of November, Mr. Kirby, a noted English pan- tomimist, made his first appearance as Scaramouch, in " Don Juan." A year after, he committed suicide by drowning, near Philadelphia. The first attempt to introduce the regular Italian opera was this season made by Signor Garcia, a well-known Euro- pean tenor, who engaged the Theatre for two nights in the week, and with the prices of admission raised to two dollars for the boxes, and one dollar for the pit, succeeded in at- tracting remunerative houses until the entl of the season. Mr. De Luce was continued as leader of the orchestra, which included seven violins, two tenors, two bases, three violon- cellos, two flutes, two clarionets, two horns, two trumpets, one bassoon and one kettle-drum. 1 A piano-forte was also added, under the dominion of Mr. Etienne. Novem- ber 29th was the date of the company's debut in America — the opera was Rossini's " Barbiere di Seviglia the cast as follows : Conte Almaviva . . . Sig. Garcia. Figaro Sig. Garcia, Jr. Dottore Bartolo ..." Rosich. Rosina Signorina Garcia. Basilio .... " Angrisani. Berta Signora. Garcia. Fiorello " Crevelli. The house was thronged in every part, the receipts amounting to §2,980. An assemblage of ladies so fash- ionable, so numerous, and so elegantly dressed, had prob- ably never been witnessed in an American theatre. From 1 The musicians were De Luce, W. Taylor, Milon, Hill, Dumahault, Holloway, Jr., Moriere, Holloway, Nicolai, Greer, Davis, Bocock, Moran, Gentil, Bloudeau, P. Taylor, Mertine, Beck, Eberle, Sr., Eberle, Jr., Metz, Peterson, Hornung auil Carroll, in the order above mentioned. 59 466 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. a newspaper of the next day, we copy the following re- marks : " We were last night surprised, delighted, enchanted ; and such were the feelings of all who witnessed the performance. The repeated plaudits with which the theatre rung were unequivocal, unaffected bursts of rapture. The Signorina seems to us a being of a new creation ; a cunning pattern of excellent nature, equally surprising by the melody of her voice and by the propriety and grace of her acting. The best compliment that can be paid to the merit of the com- pany was the unbroken attention that was yielded through- out the entire performance, except that every now and then it was interrupted by judiciously bestowed marks of applause, which were simultaneously given from all parts of the house. In one respect, the exhibition excelled all that we have ever witnessed in any of our theatres — the whole troupe were almost equally excellent, nor was there one whose exertions to fill the part allotted to him did not essentially contribute to the success of the piece. * * * * " Signor Garcia indulges in a florid style of singing, but with his fine voice, fine taste, admirable ear, and brilliancy of execution, we could not be otherwise than delighted. We cannot avoid expressing our wonder and delight at the pow- erful, low and mellow tones of Signor Angrisani's base voice, or rather of his ' most miraculous organ,' of which we never before heard the equal. "Signorina Garcia's voice is what is denominated in the Italian a fine contra-alto, and her science and skill in its management are such as to enable her to run over every tone and semi-tone of three octaves with an ease and grace that cost apparently no effort. She does not adopt the florid style of her father, but one which is less assuming, and per- haps more proper in a lady, and hardly less effective. Her person is about the middle height, slightly embonpoint — her eyes dark, arch and expressive, and a playful smile is almost constantly the companion of her lips. She was the magnet who attracted all eyes and won all hearts." RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 467 Manuel Garcia, the director, was a native of Seville, Spain, born in 1782. He had sung with the greatest applause in all the principal cities of Europe, and composed much music for the church and theatre. After his visit to America, he re- appeared in Paris, but finding a failure in his once magnifi- cent voice, he retired from the stage, and died, we believe, at Brussels, in 1836. Rosich was the buffo of the company, and he has rarely been surpassed by any successor in his line. He was for several years a resident of New York and a great favorite as a concert-singer. Signorina Maria Felicite Garcia, who afterward, as Madame Malibran, filled all Europe with her fame, was of course the star of the troupe. She was born in the year 1808, and, under the tutelage of Velutti, at the age of fifteen made her first appearance at the Italian Opera House, London, in the Cro- ciato, and, in the character of a graceful stripling, won the warmest admiration of the audience, as she poured out her delicious contra-alto notes in the favorite song, " II Giovenetto Cavalier." These, added to her youth, her charming form, and those beautifully expressive eyes, which no one could ever forget who once saw them, at once stamped her a prom- ising member of the corps dramalique. But the public had as yet no notion of her value, and so little did her father, Garcia, think what a star she would become in the musical firmament, that she was on the point of marrying a performer of no name in the orchestra. She came to America, and in the height of her brilliant career here, on the 23d of March, 1826, contracted a marriage with Eugene Malibran, an aged and wealthy French merchant of this city, expecting to retire from the stage. The match was said to have been compulsory, and entirely at variance with her own feelings, filial duty alone prompting her to the sacrifice. Brilliant, however, as, in a pecuniary view, it ap- peared in prospect, it proved worthless ; misfortunes overtook her husband, and in a short time he was a bankrupt and her profession was resumed for her support. 468 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. At the old Grace Church, on Sundays, where she also sung she attracted more auditors, probably, than its venerated and eloquent pastor. After repeated triumphs on the Park Stage, she was en- gaged by Mr. Gilfert to appear in English opera at the Bow- ery, and first appeared there January 15th, 1827, as Count Belino. She also sung the music of Rosetta, in " Love in a Village," and Zerlina, in "Don Giovanni." For her benefit and final appearance on the American Stage, October 28th, 1827, she appeared there as the Princess of Navarre, in Boil- dieu's " John of Paris," and in a selection of her most brilliant cavatinas. She sailed for Europe in November, and soon after appeared in Paris with the most brilliant success. Her second debut in London, at the King's Theatre, was an un- paralleled triumph, and from that period she remained the undisputed queen of song. Soon after her return to Europe, she procured a divorce from Mons. Malibran, and bestowed her hand on the object of her choice, the celebrated violinist, De Beriot. On the 17th of September, 1836, she was taken ill at Man- chester. Her disease was a nervous fever, accompanied with perpetual delirium, and the symptoms of the case were at once deemed unfavorable. She expired on the 23d of Sep- tember, 1836, in the 28th year of her age, and in the very zenith of her reputation, ere a single cloud had dimmed her vocal powers or changed the marvelous beauty of her face or person. Intense excitement throughout England and the continent succeeded the tidings of the sad event, and a storm of indignation was showered on her unfortunate home- opathic physician, who had failed to save her life; bat from several professional statements afterward made, her case was probably one in which medical efforts of any nature would have proved fruitless. Malibran was, in her day, the most varied and most suc- cessful songstress in Europe, and has probably been eclipsed by no predecessor or successor. She was competent to ap- ! pear, and could play and sing, on the Spanish, French, Ger- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 469 man, Italian and English Stages. Her lovely form, her pas- sionate attitudes, her commanding gestures, the expressive play of her features, her noble brow, her tread on the stage, as of a goddess on Olympus, her soul-lighted eyes, and, above all, her inconceivable singing, impressed an in< I faceable picture on every mind. Her generosity was un- bounded, and by far the largest portion of her immense earn- ings was lavished on her relatives and various objects of her charity. To return to our Record : Mr. Kean took his benefit on the 2d of December, and not- withstanding the late ebullition of feeling, was honored with a crowded and approving house. A newspaper of the day re- marked that "Kean stands alone, secure and towering in the consciousness and beauty of transcendent genius. As a tra- gedian, there is no living man fit to be compared with him." He appeared on the occasion as King Lear. As an afterpiece, a new farce, called " Uncle Gabriel," was produced, with the following cast: Uncle Gabriel Tom Tacit Lieut. Sutton Ready ... . Mr. Foot. " Placide. " Riohings. M HIL80N. Scrip . Mrs. Tacit Eliza . Mr. Kent. Miss K. Placide. Mrs. De Luce. Massinger's fine play of the "Fatal Dowry" was brought out by Mr. Hamblin, on the night of his benefit, Dec. 12th, for the first time, we believe, on the American Stage. It was thus cast : Romont . Rochfort . Cbaralois . Beaumont Mr. Hamblin. " Woodhull. " Lee. " RlCUINGS. Old Noval . Young N'oval Beaumelle Bellapert . Mr. Foot. " Stanley. Mrs. Sharpe. " Wheatley. Mrs. Smith, late Miss Parr, also appeared in a pas seid. A play by Woodworth, called the " Widow's Son," was firsi played on the 15th, with the annexed cast : Major Lee. . Major Melville Capt. Carnes Capt. Derby . Capt. Middleton Sergt. Cbampe . Kent. Jervis. Stanley. Clarke. Richtngs. SlMl'SON. Farmer Clover Dr Trueman . Dr. Stramonium Louisa . Margaret . Lucy . . . Mr. Foot. " Woodhull. " Barnes. Miss E. Placide. Mrs. Battersby. " De Luce. The author had his benefit on the 23d. On the 17th, a new Italian opera, called "L'Amante As- 470 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. tuto," the words by Garcia and Rosich, music by Garcia, was produced, with the following cast : Raimond . . . Sig. Garcia. | Rosalie .... Signorina Garcia. Anacleto " Rosich. Chiara Signora Garcia. Carlotto " Garcia, Jr. It did not prove as successful as " II Barbiere." On the 21st, Mr. Barnes announced for his benefit the old comedy of " Love for Love," with Foot as Sir Sampson, Hilson as Ben, Barnes as Foresight, and Mrs. Hilson as Miss Price. He also brought out a new farce called the " Rival Valets," thus cast : Perkins Mr. Kent. Anthony .... Mr. Barnes. Capt. Welford ..." Stanley. Sophia Mrs. Sharps. Frank " Hilson. Dorothy .... " Wheatlky. For Christmas celebration, on Monday, 26th, the tragedy of " George Barnwell" was revived. A ballet, called " American Tars," followed, with Parker as Jack Halyard, and W. Colling- bourne as Sandie. The latter was a good dancer, an excellent clown, and a very fair singer. He was afterward well known at the Bowery Theatre, and was also long a favorite at Boston. The celebrated pantomime of the "Brazilian Ape," since so very popular with the Ravels, was also first brought out on this evening, with Kirby as Jocko, and Mrs. Smith as Cora. On the 31st, Rossini's superb opera of " Tancredi et Ame- naide" was first represented in America, with the following cast : Tancredi Signorina Garcia. 1 Ruggiero .... Sig. Crevelli. Orbazzano .... Sig. Angrisani. Amenaide .... Mme. Barbeire. Argivio " Garcia. (Her first appearance.) It was entirely successful, and the exquisite " Di tanti pal- piti," given by " the Signorina," as she was simply and univer- sally called, excited the audience to the utmost pitch of en- thusiasm. She played and sung with such brilliancy and ef- fect, and with such perfect and animated conception of her part, that the able critic of the Evening Post at once predicted that, at no distant period, when she should enter the lists be- fore more experienced and severe judges, she would divide the prize with the Catalanis and Pastas of Europe. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 471 Madame Barbeire had somewhat the appearance of a novice, but gave great satisfaction in Amenaide, by the purity and implicity of her style, and although not comparable to the Signorina, was admitted to be a singer of unusual merit. Monday, Jan. 2d, 1826, was performed the comedy of a Cure for the Heartache," followed by the revival of Bray's farce of the u Toothache," with Hilson as Barogo, and Placide as Dr. Petitqueue. A new pantomime, called " Harlequin and the Talking Bird," completed the evening's entertainments, with Parker as Harlequin, Collingbourne as Pantaloon, Kirby as the Clown, and Mrs. Smith as Columbine. The latter piece enjoyed a month's uninterrupted run. Poole's amusing and still highly popular comedy of " Paul Pry" was first played on the 11th. None of the perform- ers engaged in it were pleased with their parts, and all predicted a failure, yet it proved to be the most successful comedy produced in many years, while Hilson, Barnes, and Mrs. Hilson, (especially the former, as the inquisitive hero) made such hits, that, to the day of their deaths, Paul Pry, Col. Hardy, and Phoebe were ranked among their most attractive personations. In the whole range of Comedy, we know of no character that has surpassed in humor or popu- larity Mr. Hilson's delineation of Paul Pry. The original cast stood thus : Paul Try . . Col. Hardy . Frank Hardy Old Stanley . Harry Stanley Somers . . Witherton Mr. Hilson. Barnes. Stanley. Wheatley. Lee. Woodiull. Foot. Grasp . . Doubledot Simon . Marian . Eliza . . Phoebe . . Mrs. Subtle Mr. Jeryis. 44 Nexsen. " Bancker. Miss E. Placide. Mrs. Sharps. 14 Hilson. " Batteksby. The name of Mrs. Battersby as Mrs. Subtle is in the bill before us ; but we can only remember Mrs. Wheatley in the part, and, disagreeable as it was, her truth to nature rendered it one of the features of the piece. Messrs. Cooper and Conway commenced an engagement on the 16th, during which, in addition to a repetition of former parts, tbey appeared as Orsino and Ctesario, in "Alfonso," and Hotspur and Prince of Wales. Mr. Conway took his benefit on the 27th, when he appeared as Romeo, with Mr. Cooper's 472 RECORDS OP THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mercutio, and also personated the character of Varnish, in the farce called " Intrigue." On the 30th, Mr. Cooper presented " Julius Caesar " and the " Liar," for his benefit, when he per- sonated Marc Antony and Young- Wilding, with the aid of Conway as Brutus in the tragedy. Mr. Cooper's attraction was now very sensibly diminished, and on this occasion he had the bad taste to make a speech, in which he cast something like reproaches on his friends for deserting him for the more novel entertainment of the Italian Opera. Poor Cooper! the sun of prosperity that had long shone brightly on him was fast withdrawing its beams, but the golden harvest which he had so profusely gathered had been foolishly wasted, and little now remained for winter's use. Feb. 6th. Mr. Kean commenced a new engagement as Richard, and on the 7th, Rossini's grand opera of "Otello" was first sung in America, with the following cast : Otello Sig. Garcia. Roderigo .... Mme. Barbeire. Doge " Crevelli. Emelia " Garcia. Iago u Garcia, Jr. Desdemona . . . Signorina Garcia. Elmiro " Angrisani. This opera was another immense success, and elicited the following remarks from a well-known critic : " We have seen Othello before, but never a Desdemona. Rarely have such elegance, grace, dignity, beauty, passion and pathos been united in a female. The most fastidious critic would say that she was faultless, and a generous one might be permitted to pronounce that she was perfect." It was whispered that the fervency of the Signorina's acting and singing in this opera was attributable to her father's threat at rehearsal, where she had failed to throw sufficient spirit into her character, that if she did not improve in her rendition at night, he would, as Otello, not theatrically but really stab her to the heart, that being the mode in which the Italian Desdemona is dispatched, instead of being smothered as on the English Stage. Madame Barbeire appeared to great advantage as Rod- erigo ; she sang well, and trod the stage with more ease and freedom than on her first appearance. Mr. Kean's engagement, during which he appeared as Ber- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 473 tram and Richard II., terminated with his benefit on the 24th, when he enacted Se/im, in " Barbarossa .," and also (to display his versatility) Paul, in the operetta of "Paul and Virginia." On the 27th, Mrs. Hackett re-appeared, after an absence of seven years, as the Countess, in the "Devil's Bridge," and Marian Ramsay, and was received with all the kindness and enthusiasm to which her undoubted abilities and rumored misfortunes entitled her. On the 1st of March she appeared as Rosetta, on the 31st as FlorHta, and on the 6th as Rosina, in the "Barber of Seville," her merits as an actress, or vocal- ist, having in no way deteriorated during her retirement. On the 1st, her husband, Mr. James H. Hackett, who had lately been unfortunate in a mercantile way, first essayed the pro- fession, of which he is now a distinguished ornament, in the character of Justice Woodcock. His nervousness, or stage fright, however, so overcame his faculties that he failed to make a favorable impression on the audience. Another op- portunity offered on the occasion of Mrs. Hackett's benefit, March 10th, and he undertook the part of Sylvester Dagger- wood, wherein he .gave some admirable imitations of Ma- thews, Kean, Hilson and Barnes, and was rewarded with the loudest expressions of approbation. This fixed his resolution, and he determined on adopting the Stage as a vocation. On the 19th of the following June, he made his third appearance, introducing the Yankee story of " Uncle Ben " with such a perfect imitation of the idiom and accent of that peculiar dialect, that he literally convulsed the house with laughter. He also personated Morbleau, in " Mons. Tonson," with great effect, and the char- acter long remained a favorite with him and the public. He appeared several times the next season, and on the 25th of October, 1826, made his first great hit as one of the Dromios, his imitation of the voice and personal peculiarities of Mr. Barnes, as his twin brother, being so perfect as to confound the audience with regard to their respective identity, and to elicit the most overwhelming applause. In December, he sailed for England, and on the 6th of April, 1827, at Covent 60 474 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Garden Theatre, first gave the English public a touch of his Yankee stories and imitations in Sylvester Daggerwood, in which, although some merit was allowed, especially in his portraitures of Kean and Macready, he could not be considered as successful. During that visit, he gave the whole character of Richard III., in imitation of Kean, at the Surrey Theatre, with very great applause. He, however, determined on re- turning to America, where his performance of Morbleau, Dromio, Solomon Swap, (a character he substituted for Solo- mon Gundy, in Colman's comedy of "Who Wants a Guinea?" rechristening the whole as " Jonathan in England") Rip Van Winkle, Nimrod Wildfire, &c, insured him hosts of friends and admirers. In 1829 and 1830, he was for a while connected with the management of the Old Chatham and Bowery Thea- tres, but reaped more fame than funds from his enterprise. In the fall of 1832, he again visited England, and appeared both at Drury Lane and Covent Garden, winning general ap- probation by his performance of the above characters, and also of Falstaff, which he had played but once before leaving America. In 1840, 1845, and 1851, he also made very suc- cessful English tours. Mr. Hackett had the management of the Old National Theatre, for a few months in 1837, and was also interested in the Astor Opera House, at the time of the Macready riot there. In the summer of 1854, he brought out Madame Grisi and Signor Mario, and, under his direction, they sung at Castle Garden, at the Academy of Music, and the Metropoli- tan Theatre. As an actor, Mr. Hackett first obtained renown by his re- presentation of the Yankee character ; but in this line, we think, he was finally excelled by George H. Hill. In the rank of perfection, however, we place his Nimrod Wildfire, the Kentuckian ; Morbleau and Mallet, the French- men ; Rip Van Winkle, the Dutchman, so full of homely yet deeply touching pathos ; and Falstaff, the cream of English wit and cowardice. Hig Dromio, also, while he had Barnes to play with, surpassed any similar exhibition of mimicry ever RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 475 seen amongst us. His Sir Pertinax Mc Sycophant, though certainly a good performance, was not generally admired ; and his personations of Lear, Hamlet, and Richard, which he has occasionally given, although displaying all the acumen of a scholar, and the nicest critical analysis, with great artistic skill, have failed to place him in the list of great tra- gedians. Mr. Hackett, many years since, acquired a fortune from his efforts, and, we believe, has had the good luck and good judg- ment to retain it. It is recorded, to his honor, that the first fruits of his labors were devoted to paying off his debts in- curred while in trade. His father was a native of Holland, and, previous to his emigration to America, a Lieutenant in the Life Guards of the Prince of Orange, and his mother was the daughter of the Rev. Abraham Keteltas, of Jamaica, L. I., where was also for many years his own favorite residence. His own birth occurred in this city, on the 15th of March, 1800, and, as previously stated, he married Miss C. Leesugg, of the Theatre in 1819. Mr. Hackett may be justly called a distinguished ornament of the stage and of society. John Howard Payne's amusing farce of " Mrs. Smith" was first played -here on the 6th of March, with the following cast: Smith Mr. Hilson. I Mrs. E. Smith . . Mrs. Hilson. Stanley *' Foot. Mrs. S. Smith . . " Sharps. Wentworth .... " Simpson. Peggy " Smith. On the 14th of March, Rossini's opera " II Turco in Italia" was first introduced to the American Stage, thus cast : Selim Sig. Ancirisani. Albazar .... Signor Crevelli. Geronio " Rosich. Florella .... Madame Barbeire. Narcisso " Garcia. Zaida Signorina Garcia. iProdocemo .... " Garcia, Jr. April 3d. Miss Kelly commenced an engagement as Letitia Hardy and Cherry. April loth. The Signorina took her farewell benefit, (as the bill announced) appearing as Rosina. Mr. Simpson took his benefit on the 21st, when Mrs. Hilson appeared as Bertha, in " Der Freyschutz," and a distinguished couple, Mons. and Mme. Robert, appeared in various feats of 476 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. jugglery! A new farce, called the "Post Chaise," was also produced, with the characters thus assigned : Leonard Mr. Simpson. Francois .... Mr. Barnes Florigny " Clarke. John " Placide. Deshays " Woodhull. I April 25th. The grand opera of " Semiramide, or La Figlia dell Aria," words by Rosich, music by Garcia, was first sung in America. Ninus Sig. Angrisani. I Cerinto .... Signor Crevelli. Merunon " Garcia. Neride . ... Madame Garcia. Timotheo M Rosich. | Semiramide Signorina Garcia. The first performance of the still popular farce of " Deaf as a Post," in which Hilson made another great hit, took place on the 26th, with the following distribution of characters : Old Walton .... Mr. Kent. I Amy Miss E. Placide Capt. Templeton. . . " Simpson. Tristram Sappy . . " Hilson. Sophy ..... Mrs. Sharpe. Mrs. Plumply . . " Wheatlet. Sally Maggs ..." Smith. Mr. Hamblin, having had another engagement, took a benefit on the 5th of May, when he appeared as Pierre^ in " Venice Preserved," supported by Conway as Jaffier and Mrs. Hamblin as Belvidera. Mrs. Hamblin also appeared as Harriet in " Is He Jealous ?" and the performances concluded with the farce of the "Review," cast in the following extraordinary manner : Mr. Conway as Looney McTwolter, Mr. Hamblin as John Lump, Mr. Barnes as Caleb Quotem, and Mr. Hilson as Deputy Bull. Mr. Kean began another engagement on the 8th, as Richard III., on which occasion Mrs. Battersby was announced for the first time as Mrs. Stickney, in the character of Queen Elizabeth. On the 20th, Payne's long popular farce of " 'Twas I, or the Truth a Lie," was thus first represented on our stage : Marcel Mr. Barnes. Delorme " Lee. Mayor " Jervis. Crier " Wheatlet. Julienne .... Miss E. Placide. Marchioness . Mrs. De Luce. Georgette . ... " Sharpe. Madame Mag ..." Wheatlet. Marcel was one of Barnes' funniest parts, and Mrs. Wheat- ley as the chattering old maid was extremely effective, but Mrs. Sharpe's sprightly acting and singing in Georgette Clairville was, no doubt, the main cause of its very great success. Mozart's opera of " Don Giovanni" was brought out on the RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 477 23d, and, next to the " Barber" and " Tancredi," proved to be the most successful of the season. It was thus rendered : Giovanni Sig. Garcia. Massetto .... Signor Angrisani. Don Pedro .... " Angrisani. Anna Madame Bardeire. Octavio " Milon. Elvira M Garcia. Leporello " Garcia, Jr. Zerlina Signorina Garcia. Mr. Milon first appeared as a vocalist on this occasion, and proved an acceptable addition to the company. Mrs. Hilson took her benefit on the 24th, reviving Morton's fine comedy of " Education," with the following superior cast : Suckling (for this night only) Mr. Cowell. Ct. Villars .... Mr. Clarke. Broadcast .... Mr. Hilson. Sir Guy Staunch . . " Placide. George Miss Brcndage. Templeton .... " Foot. Ellen Mrs. Hilsoh. Vincent M Simpson. Rosine u Sharpe. Aspic " Stanlet. Mrs. Templeton . . u Stickney. Damper " Woodhcll. Dame Broadcast . . " Wheatlet. Mr. Kean took his benefit on the 26th, when he appeared as Cardinal Wolsey, in "Henry VIII.;" ably supported by Foot as the King, and Mrs. Barnes (for the first time) as Queen Katharine. Mrs. Hackett was again engaged, and appeared on the 7th of June, as Diana, in " Lionel and Clarissa," and Isadora, in "Brother and Sister." On the 8th, a farce, called "Wool Gathering," was first produced as follows : Wander Mr. Simpson. Harriet Mrs. Hilsox. Pickleton Kent. Clarissa .... M Sharpe. Hector Mango ..." Lee. Mrs. Pickleton . . " Whbatliy. Humphrey .... " Placide. Mr. Clarke, for his benefit, on the 14th, produced for the first time a tragedy, entitled the " Siege of Damascus," written by J. Hughes, and played at Drury Lane, in 1720, in which Mr. Hosack, afterward the husband of Mrs. TatDall, and a member of a distinguished New York family, made his debut on the stage. We d^ not remember that either play or player was ever again upon the New York boards. The cast stood as follows : Phocyas Mr. Hosack. Daran Mr. Lee. Eumenes '' Foot. Caled " Woodhull. Abudah " Clarke. Eudocia .... Mrs. Hilson. On the 15th, Mr. Mumford made his first appearance on the stage, as Reuben Glenroy, and took a benefit on the 29th, in the character of Bertram. On the 19th, Mrs. Hackett took her benefit in the charac- ters of Priscilla Tomboy, Young Wilding and Mme. Belle- garde, her husband appearing as Morbleau, and in his Yankee stories of " Uncle Ben," &c. 478 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mr. Woodhull's benefit occurred on the 23d, and is memora- ble for introducing Mr. Edwin Forrest to the New York Stage in the character of Othello. Mr. Forrest was born in Philadelphia, March 9th, 1806. Wringing a reluctant leave from his family, he made his first appearance on the stage, at the Walnut Street Theatre, on the 27th of November, 1820, in the character of Douglas, and acquitted himself so well that the performance was soon after repeated. His next character was Frederick, in " Lovers' Vows," and for his benefit he personated Octavian, in the "Mountaineers." Great merit was acknowledged in his per- formances, for one so young, but he excited no enthusiasm, and was advised to take a course of practice in the country theatres. Although a boy in years, he already had the ap- pearance of a well-grown young man, and being engaged by Jones and Collins for a Western circuit, at length reached New Orleans, where he first appeared as Jqffier, February 4th, 1823, with considerable success. He was afterward connected with the Albany Theatre, and thence he returned to his native city, where he made his second debut, on the 16th of May, 1826, as Jaffier, for the benefit of Mr. C. S. Porter, and on the 19th acted Rolla, receiving in both characters enthusiastic applause. His performance of Othello, at the Park, displayed consider- able originality, great forcibleness, and some real merit, and so much awakened the interest of the public, that he was im- mediately secured by Mr. Gilfert for the new Bowery Theatre, where he first appeared on the 6th of November, 1826, in the same character. He there personated successively and suc- cessfully Damon, Jaffier, Carwin, (in " Therese") the Indian Chief, ("She Would be a Soldier") William Tell, Marc An- tony, &c, and in a short time succeeded in establishing a name and fame superior to any other American actor. The younger members of the community were delighted with him, and the newspapers daily poured forth his praises. From an excellent article on his acting, published in March, 1828, we make the following extracts : " Hating heartily, as we do, the meanness of canting criti- AMERICAN ACADEMY OF MUSIC. BIO AD AND LOCUST 8TRE1TS. LESSEE AHD MAHAGEB, STAGE MAHAGEB, MUSICAL DIBECTOB, - JAMES M. BIXOS JOHH B. WEIGHT JOHH P COOKE On Saturday Evening », December 14^, 1861 The Greatest Living Tragedian, Will appear, for the First Time in Five Year*, in Shake rere's Tragedy of RICHARD, Duke of Gloster, King Henry VI, Heary. Earl of Richmond, Duke of Buckingham; Prince of Wales, - Duke of York, Duke of Norfolk, - Lord Stanley, Sir Walter Blunt, - Lord Mayor, Tresse), Cateabv, • Ratclifte, Lieutenant of the Tower, Forest, Oxford, - Tirrel, Dighton, - Queen Elizabeth, Lady Anne, Duchess of York, EDWIN FORREST James Martin John McOuJlougn W. Carter Miss Athena Miss Le Brun J. M Ward N. C. Forrester C. B Harrison Vf K A. Chapman W.H Leak J. W. Collier G. Becks H. H. Wall E. T. Clinton - J.Taylor Rohiuson R. Stephens Mrs Farr/en Mrs Gladfiane Misa Bessy Andrews GRAND OVERTURE AND ENTR' ACTE, BY THE ORCHESTRA Under the Direction of Mr JOHN P. COOKE. ON MONDAY EVENING, Edwin Forrest as King Lear ID- NOTICE— BEWARE OF SPECULATORS. Patron* of the Academy are re- quested to purchase iheir tickets at the regular Box Office, i be management not being re sponsible for any tickets purchased oi ouitide speculators Due Notice will be given 01 the Repetition of Hamlet FORREST NIGHTS, MONDAY, WEDNESDAY. FRIDAY and SATURDAY. CUBAS NIGHTS. TUESDAY AND THURSDAY. Grand MATINEE Every Saturday. Doors open at 7 o'clock. The Performances to commence at half-past 7. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 479 cism, we are not always disposed to measure every thing we see and hear and feel by the standard of cold, set rules ; but rather believe that the naturally energetic man possesses the prerogative of breaking from the trammels of common regu- lations, and of creating new laws for others to obey — new models for others to copy. Mr. Forrest's playing surprises and delights us. * * * * * Disinterested readers, or those who have not witnessed his successful representations, may censure us for enthusiasm ; but when we see one so young, without the aid of long study and labored observation, mating with the highest players of the age, substituting the impulses of taste and the inspiration of true feeling for the improvements of experience and the aneuvers of art, we confess ourselves ready to extend the and of welcome for his encouragement. His readings are 'udicious, and the evident result of a fine sense of the beau- 'ful and natural; and he exhibits, at different periods, a ajesty and grace which, with other qualifications, place the wreath of fame immediately within his grasp. * * "But in saying that Mr. Forrest has already arrived at ex- cellence, we do not say that he is at the ' Zenith of Glory/ Nature has done much for him, but nature cannot do all. He has climbed above the multitude — but there are heights yet above him, on which his eye should be fixed. The his- trionic field is not a narrow one. There are delicate touches to fall upon the chords of feeling, by which the sensitive soul may be awakened to deep emotions, and the mind marked by impressions not to be effaced by time. In the variety of human passions, much is to be observed and imi- tated, and Mr. Forrest will excuse the liberty we take in urging him to unwearied perseverance." Could Mr. Forrest have acquired these delicate touches, and been enabled to awaken in his audiences a single emo- tion of tenderness, love or pity, he would, probably, now stand the first of living tragedians. After Gilfert's death, Mr. Forrest transferred himself to the Park, where for several years he was a most popular and 480 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. profitable star. He here brought out, with immense success. John A. Stone's tragedy of " Metamora," for which he paid t he author $500, and Dr. Bird's tragedy of the " Gladiator," both of which were written expressly for him. In the sum- mer of 1834, he was honored by a public dinner, tendered him by some of our most distinguished citizens, and the pre- sentation of a massive gold medal, designed by Ingham, and engraved by C. C. Durand. On the obverse was his bust, with the inscription, " Histrioni Optimo Eduino Forrest, viro prcestanti," and on the reverse a Grecian female figure, hold- ing a dagger and a wreath, with a bowl, a mask, and other emblems of tragedy at her feet, and the legend, " Great in mouths of wisest censure." Mr. Forrest soon after sailed for Havre, and after a tour of many months, through France, Italy, Germany, &c, arrived in England, and first appeared on the London Stage, at Drury Lane, October 17th, 1836, in the character of Spartacus, in the " Gladiator." He was well received, and continued to attract large audiences by his novel, energetic and spirited style of playing. Indeed, he be- came quite a lion in London. The Garrick Club gave him a dinner, at which Sergeant Talfourd, the author of " Ion," pre- sided. Mr. Macready welcomed and applauded him in the warmest manner. From Charles Kemble and Stephen Price, he received three swords, once severally the property of John Kemble, Kean and Talma. An original portrait, in oil, of Garrick, was also presented to him, and his own in the char- acter of Macbeth, in the dagger-scene, was exhibited at the Somerset House. He here fell in love with his future wife, the daughter of John Sinclair, the vocalist, to whom he was united in marriage on the 23d of June, 1837. Returning to America the same season, he was received with open arms by his old admirers, and in December of that year, at Philadel- phia, was again complimented with a public dinner, at which the Hon. Joseph R. Ingersoll presided. In 1845, Mr. Forrest again visited England, and while playing Macbeth, at the Princess's Theatre, London, received a few hisses, which were charged upon Mr. Macready as the instigator. Some time FORRKST AS "METAMOKA." RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGK. 481 after, Mr. Macready, while playing Hamlet, at Edinburgh, was openly hissed by Mr. Forrest, who published a justifica- tion of himself for so doing in the London Times. On Mr. Macready's visit here, in 1848-9, several articles, by Mr. For- rest, commenting severely on him and his performances, were published, and to them, probably, may be attributed that ex- cited state of feeling which resulted in the horrid riot at the Astor Place Opera House, on the occasion of Mr. Macready's appearance there, as Macbeth, May 10th, 1849. Mr. Forrest's supposed connection with the origin of the riot caused him the loss of many of his best and earliest friends. Then came the counter suits of divorce between him and his wife, in which the means taken to procure criminating evidence against Mrs. Forrest were such as to meet the disapproba- tion of a large portion of the community. The case occu- pied the court about six weeks, and resulted in the lady's favor, in January, 1852. Immediately after the verdict was rendered, Mr. Forrest was engaged at the Broadway Theatre, and opened on the 9th of January to an overflowing house, as Damon, concluding his engagement on the 30th of April, in the same character — having played sixty-nine consecutive nights — a success at that time unparalleled in America by any other tragedian. As an actor, Mr. Forrest has the advantage of a powerful voice, a noble head, good features, dark and searching eyes, and a person which, though tolerably well proportioned, is too robust to be elegant. His portraitures, generally, are bold, forcible, and striking, but lack refinement, grace, and delicacy )f finish. His Hamlet seems like some philosophic Hercules, ather than the sad, unhappy youth of Denmark. In Damon, le is not equal to Cooper in his best days ; in Rolla, he is in- ferior to Wallack ; in William Tell and Virginius, he cannot ipproach Macready ; yet these, with the multitude, are among us best parts, and the two former, particularly, admit of that •eculiar display of physical power for which he is so cele- •rated, and which is so taking with the pit and galleries. In letamora, however, he is perfection ; so in the Gladiator, Jack 61 482 RECORD: OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Cade, and Carwin, while parts of his Othello, Macbeth, and Lear thrill to the very soul, and make one stand aghast with horror. Mr. Forrest's mannerisms, once attributed to the impulsive- ness of youth and the crudeness of early genius, have not only clung to him with unwavering tenacity, but have strengthened with his years, and now render him less agreeable as an actor than when he first stood before the world in the ingenuous- ness of early manhood. Differ, however, as critics may about his merits, his popu- larity, after a career of forty years, continues almost unbounded, and in this respect he eclipses every other tragedian known to our stage, and we believe has rarely, if ever, been equaled in Great Britain. Mr. Forrest's' name is still the sure pre- cursor of a crowded house, and his friends always hail his ap- pearance with enthusiasm. Rossini's opera of " Cinderella" was the next Italian novelty, and was first produced on the 27th June, in the following manner : Prince Ramiro . . . Sig. Milon. Cenerentola . . . Signorina Gabcia. Don Magnifico ..." Rosich. Clorinda .... Madame Babbeibi. Alidoro " Angbisani. Tisbe " Gabcia. Damlini ..... " Gabcia, Jr. On the 30th, Mr. Richings took his benefit, when the Garcia Family assisted him in a musical Olio ; and Mr. E. Metz made his first appearance, as Fiorello, in the " Marriage of Figaro," and Paul, in " Paul and Virginia." Mr. Hackett took his first benefit on the 6th of July, when he appeared, for the first time, in the character of Tony Lumpkin, in " She Stoops to Conquer." He also repeated his successful imitations in Sylvester Daggerwood, as well as Mons. Morbleau, with much applause. The regular dramatic season terminated on the 7th of July, but the Italian troupe continued playing through the month, on the 26th of which Zingarelli's opera of " Romeo e Giulietta" was brought out, with Madame Malibran Garcia as Romeo, Garcia as Everardo Capcllo, Angrisani as Gilberto, Madame Barbeire as Giulietta, and Madame Garcia as Ma- thilde. FORREST AS "KING I.KAR. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 483 The company terminated its engagement on the 11th of August, with the performance of the " Barber of Seville.'' On reviewing this season, it may justly be regarded as one of the most remarkable epochs in the history of the New York Stage. It witnessed the first attempt to establish the Italian Opera, with a fully organized company, and gave the first of her triumphs to the afterward world-renowned Mali- bran. It saw the first scintillations of talent in the most popular and distinguished, if not the best of American actors, Forrest; and the dawning of that rich and quiet humor, since so boun- teously displayed by our own comedian, Hackett. Hamblin, whose theatrical management bore so long a sway over the democratic portion of the play-going community, first broke upon the Western world during this period, and Kean, the greatest of tragedians, irradiated it with some of the most masterly exhibitions of his genius. It saw Conway in the height of his excellence, and witnessed the turning- point in the afterward downward career of the elegant and once all-admired Cooper. The star of Mrs. Barnes now stood at its zenith, and her claims as a fitting representative of the Tragic Muse were universally acknowledged, while her sister Thalia was generally admitted to be as well personified by the irresistible Miss Kelly. This season exhibited a combi- nation of comic ability, in the persons of Hilson, Barnes and Placide, such as never before existed on the New York Stage, and forced a fuil acknowledgment of the once neglected claims of Mrs. Wheatley, who was now hailed as the first of comic actresses in the line of old women, a position she retained unquestioned until her retirement ; and it placed the bridal wreath upon the brow of the most lovely and amiable of her sex, and gave the long-applauded name of Hilson to one whose virtues and talents will ever be remembered with pride by all who feel an interest in the metropolitan stage. CHAPTER XXXII. Chatham Theatre — Lafayette Theatre — Mount Pitt Circus — Broadway Circus, 1825-6-7. H A T H A M Garden Theatre was re-opened by Mr. Barriere, on the 9th of May, 1825, with Mr. Bur- roughs as stage-manager. The opening play of "Pizarro" introduced to the New York public Mr. James M. Scott, from the New Orleans Theatre, in the character of Rolla. This gentleman was born in Philadelphia, and, as early as 1820, was a leading actor at Cincinnati. He was a fine serious performer, particularly in the heavier walks of tragedy, and acquired a reputation in nautical characters unequaled on the American Stage. He played in this city for several years, after which he was one of the managers of the Cincinnati Theatre, and also of the theatre at Vicksburg, Miss. He returned to New York in 1841, and was connected with the New Chatham and Bowery Theatres. In his latter years, he became very stout and heavy in person. He died in this city, March 1st, 1849, aged somewhat over fifty years. Mr. Herbert, from London and Philadelphia, was brought out the next evening as Governor Heartall, and proved a valu- able substitute for Mr. Kilner, in the line of comic old men. He had first appeared on the American Stage at Philadelphia, in 1817, and is said to have died at Boston in 1835. His son, \ Mr. John Herbert, made his first appearance on the 12th, as Malcour, in "Maid and Magpie." Born in London in 1803, he made his debut at Harrisburg, as Timothy Quaint, in 1821. Retiring and unambitious in his deportment, there was a RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 485 certain dry and quiet humor about him that rendered him a valuable actor in a small comic part, and he was long a favor- ite at the National Theatre, Chatham Street, and at the Bowery, to which establishments he was principally attached for more than twenty years. He married Miss Ellen Kent, daughter of the comedian and vocalist of the Park, and died in New York, June 5th, 1864. Mr. and Mrs. E. H. Conway, dancers, from the Surrey Theatre, appeared here on the 11th, in a Pas de Deux, with consid- erable applause. The gentleman was afterward ballet-master at the Park Theatre, and for many years a teacher of dancing in this city. He has now entirely retired from the profession, and is the proprietor of a fancy hardware and house-furnishing establishment. Mr. Dinneford, formerly of the Circus company, made his first appearance here, on the 13th, as Doricourt. Mr. Burroughs appeared, for the first time, on the Chatham Stage, May 17th, as Young Mirabel and Caleb Quotem. The same evening Mr. Kenny made his debut there, as John Lump ; and Looney McTwolter was capitally acted by Mr. Anderson. The latter gentleman soon after appeared as Terry O'Rourke, Teague, Larry and other Irish characters, with great applause. The " Young Hussar," a pleasing operetta by Dimond, was first played in New York on the 19th, with the following cast: Florian Mr. Burroughs. Madame Larole . . Mrs. Walsteiit. Larole " Herbert. Caroline .... " Waring. Boncoeur " Blake. Ninetta .... " Fisher. Bertrand " Fisher. On the 28th, Miss Oceana Fisher appeared, with great appro- bation, as Tom Thumb. Mr. Frederick Brown commenced an engagement on the 30th of May, as Hamlet. On the occasion of his benefit, June 10th, he first presented his wife to the New York public, as Paul, in the "Wandering Boys." Mrs. F. Brown had been Miss S. De Camp, (a younger sister of Mrs. C. Kemble) and had enjoyed popularity on the British Stage. She had previously appeared at Boston, was still an actress of merit, and afterward became a favorite as the representative of old women, in the 486 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Southern theatres. She died at Mobile, in 1841. Dibdin's serio-comic drama, the "Ruffian Boy," was produced with success, on the 6th of June, for the benefit of Mr. Burroughs. Mr. Jervis, from the Park, appeared on this occasion, but his character was afterward transferred to Mr. Durang. The original cast stood thus : Giraldi Duva Waldemar Wolfe . . Bruno . Guiseppe . Solomon . Mr. Burboughs. " Jebvis. " Stevenson. " Waistein. " somerville. " Roberts. Tietwig Bertram Ethelinde Catharine Edith . Mme. Steinheim Mr. J. Herbert. " Fisher. Mrs. Hughes. " Fisher. " Stevenson. " Allen. Mr. Burroughs soon after left the establishment. " Cherry Bounce " was first played here on the 14th, thus cast Oldrentz Gregory Gammon Mr. Robebts. " A. Simpson. " Wbay. Spinage . . Mrs. Homespun Mr. J. Hebbebt. Mrs. "Walstein. June 17th. Miss Aspinall — a pupil of Vestris — made her first appearance in New York in a grand Pas Seul. She became the wife of Mr. Moreland, by whose name she was long a favorite. Mr. H. Wallack made his first appearance on the 20th, as Frederick, in the " Poor Gentleman." Mr. Howard, formerly of the Park, made his first appear- ance in six years, as Henry Bertram, considerably improved in acting and singing. Mrs. Burke, now a widow, was next engaged, and made her re-appearance as Countess Rosalvina, on the evening of July 11th. Mr. Garner, formerly of the Park, appeared on the loth, as Count Belino. Mr. Kilner wound up the season (which terminated on the 22d) by appearing for a few nights in a round of his favorite characters. The recess continued until the 15th of August, when the entertainments were resumed under the direction of Mr. Henry Wallack as stage-manager. Mr. Barriere presented, on the opening night, the comedy of the "Honeymoon," with Mr. H. Wallack and Mrs. Waring as Duke Aranza and Juliana; the beautiful ballet panto- mime of " Red Ridinghood," with Mrs. H. Wallack as the RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 487 heroine; and "Fortune's Frolic," with Durang as Robin Roughead. Sept. 6th. " Sweethearts and Wives" was played for the first time here, rivaling the Park in the excellence of its representation. Roberts was the Billy Lackaday ; Herbert, the Admiral ; Thayer, Charles Franklin; Mrs. Waring, Eugenia; Mrs. Hughes, Laura ; and Mrs. Walstein, Mrs. Bell. A new farce, called '•'Tribulation," was first acted on the 12th, with Herbert as Dornington, Thayer as Sir George Faddle, Mrs. Entwistle as Mrs. Dashmore, and Mrs. H. Wal- lack as Mrs. Dornington. On the 13th, Miss Riddle made her first appearance in New York, as Emily Worthington. Though extremely youth- ful, her merit soon attracted attention, and during this en- gagement, she appeared with success as Rosalie Somers, Paul, (" Wandering Boys") Virginia ; and, for her benefit on the 28th of October, as Cora and Little Pickle. After an absence from New York of more than a quarter of a century, during which, as Mrs. W. H. Smith, she had played with distinguished success at Philadelphia and Boston, and ranked with the first favorites of the day, particularly in comedy of every grade, she re-appeared in 1856, at Laura Keene's Thea- tre, and at Burton's in 1857-8, in the line of middle-aged, fashionable dowagers, country women and Abigails of all de- grees, with credit to herself and satisfaction to the public. Miss Riddle was born in Philadelphia, and made her debut on the Stage in that city at the Walnut Street Theatre, in 1823, as Charles, in "Laugh When You Can." "*She last played in New York at the Winter Garden, 1859-'60. She took her farewell of the Stage at the Howard Atheneum, Boston, February, 1861, and died in that city a few months after, of a lingering and painful illness. Her daughter, Mrs. Sedley Brown, has since become a favorite comedienne. On the 19th, the " Lady of the Lake" was produced with brilliant success. The scenery, dresses and appointments were of such unusual excellence, and the various Scottish marches, dances and vocal music introduced with such effect, 488 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. that its performance created a perfect furor throughout the community. Its cast was also of extraordinary merit, and the acting of Scott and Wallack caused much controversy as to which displayed the greater ability. It stood thus : Fitz James . Roderick Dhu Earl Douglas Malcolm . Allan Bain . Brian . . . Bertram . . Mr. Scott. H. Wallace. Robertson. Stevenson. Howard. Walstein. Stevenson. Malise . . . John of Brent Red Murdock . Lady Margaret Ellen . . . Blanche . . Mr. Wray. " Petrie. " DURANG. Mrs. Walstein. " H. Wallace. " Waring. On the 20th, Mr. Keene commenced an engagement as Young- Meadows. The " Lady of the Lake" was performed for the sixteenth time on the 6th of October, and, as an afterpiece on the same evening, was produced, for the first time, a domestic opera, written by Samuel Woodworth, .with music composed by John Davies — the first play introducing the Yankee charac- ter that has retained possession of the stage. It was called the " Forest Rose, or American Farmers," and its cast stood thus : Miller . Blandford Bellamy William Jonathan Mr. Somerville. " Howard. " Thayer. " Keene. " A. Simpson. Waiter Mr. Byers. Lydia Mrs. H. Wallace. Harriet " Burke. Sally " Lacombe. Rose Miss Eberle. Of those engaged in its performance, the author in his pre- face to the published work, remarks that "Mrs. Burke raised the character of the volatile Harriet far above my hopes and anticipations, while the drooping Lydia, as portrayed by Mrs. Wallack, excited the sympathy and affection of all. Mrs. La- combe rendered the frolicsome Sally a very efficient personage in the play ; and even the black Rose received a real beauty and fragrance from the pretty Miss Eberle. The part of Blandford is trifling in itself, but was rendered very interest- ing by the vocal powers of Mr. Howard, for whom the songs were expressly written and composed. Mr. Keene very gen- erously consented to play the jealous William, a character far below his talents and just pretensions, but which was thus rendered very attractive. Mr. Thayer, as Bellamy, needs no praise — the unanimous voice of a very numerous and respect- able audience pronounced it to be an excellent representa- tion. Simpson's Jonathan was every way equal to my hopes RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 489 and wishes ; and the respectable old Jersey Farmer, as por- trayed by Mr. Somerville, was eminently calculated to elevate the character of our ' lords of the soil.' " The music of the piece was of a very pleasing style, and was long popular, but is now mostly omitted in representation. The play itself is superior to nine-tenths of its class, and the character of Jona- than was one of the late u Yankee" Hill's most effective per- sonations. Oct 10th. Mr. Maywood made his first appearance since his return from Europe, in the characters of Shylock and Donald, and was received with the welcome due to an old and valued friend. He played during his first engagement, Reuben Glenroy, Count de Croissy, Rob Roy, Lovell, Virginius, and for his benefit on the 26th, Gambia, in the " Slave," and Carwin, in " Therese." He was immediately re-engaged, and, in addition to a repetition of former characters, appeared as Orozembo, in " Pizarro," Sir Pertinax McSycophant, and for his benefit, Nov. 17th, as King- Lear, and Abednego in " Jew and Doctor." On this occasion, Mr. Turnbull, formerly of the Park, made his first appearance in New York for twenty years, as the Earl of Gloster. His daughter, a fair and interesting child, also appeared as one of the Pages. Without possessing much dramatic merit, her beauty, grace and modesty finally won her many admirers on the Park Stage, where she was known successively as Miss Turnbull, Mrs. C. Pritchard, and Mrs. Lovell. When very young, she married a son of the late tragedian Pritchard, formerly of the Park. He was accident- ally killed in 1834, by falling through the hoistway of a store, in which he was employed as clerk. After a long widowhood, she married Mr. H. V. Lovell in the spring of 1843. She was afterward the leading actress of the Albany Theatre, but is now living in retirement, and again a widow. The Misses Eberle were also very beautiful and attractive young girls in the Chatham company. Fine figures, hand- some features, blonde complexions, musical voices, unfailing spirits, and perfect confidence, acquired for both in other cities a high repute as comic actresses and vocalists. Cham- 62 490 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. bermaids and hoydens have rarely been better played than by these sisters, but both were lacking in the dignity and sensi- bility requisite for tragedy, and in that refinement and polish of manner so essential to genteel comedy. Both were born in Philadelphia, and both made their first appearance on the stage of the Chestnut Street Theatre, in 1824, as Singing Fairies, in "Cherry and Fair Star." Miss Sophia Eberle, in 1828, married Mr. Charles Laforest, a noted equestrian, and is last remembered at the National Theatre in this city in 1848. Miss Elizabeth Eberle, the more distinguished of the two, be- came Mrs. W. Kent, was in New York in 1837, and afterward enjoyed the greatest popularity at Philadelphia and Cincin- nati, at which latter city she died of cholera, July 21st, 1850." Signora Bartolina, an Italian vocalist of merit, first appeared in America at this establishment, on the 21st November. She sung several serious pieces, and a comic canzonette, " Fillidi si tutta Grazia," with great applause. This was the first Italian vocalism heard in the United States, preceding, by a week, the debut of Garcia's troupe at the Park. Dec. 16th. Mrs. Greene, a pleasing vocalist, made her first appearance in America. She was in New York for two or three seasons, and was the wife of a musician in the or- chestra. Dimond's melo-drama of the " iEthiop" was produced for the first time here on the 19th, with unexampled magnifi- cence of scenery, dresses and decorations, and, like the " Lady of the Lake," had a long-protracted run : It was thus cast : jEthiop Almanzor Giaffer . . Alexis . . . Ben Moussaff Noureddin Mustapha Mr. H. Wallace. Constantine " Scott. Orasmyn . " Durang. Cephania . " Howard. Immyne . " Roberts. Grimnigra " Turnbull. Grumnilda " Herbert. Zoe . . . Mr. Petrie. Mrs. H. Wallace. " Hughes. " Lacombe. " Walstein. " Stevenson. " Waring. Mrs. Waring took her benefit on the 7th, when she per- formed the character of Madame de Guise, in a new piece called the " Rochester of France," with the aid of Mr. Bur- roughs (for that night only) as Richelieu. Mr. Somerville brought out the " Fortunes of Nigel" for his benefit, on the 31st, wherein he supported very happily the RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 491 character of James L He was ably supported by Henry Wallack as Trapbois, Scott as Her riot, Mrs. Hughes as Lady Hermione, and Mrs. Waring as Margaret Ramsay. The season terminated on the 18th of February, 1826, and was the last of Mr. Barriere's management, his death occurring on the 21st of the same month. The Lafayette Amphitheatre, a building owned by C. W. Sandford, Esq., and situated on the westerly side of Laurens Street, about one hundred feet north of Canal Street, was first opened to the public on the 4th of July, 1825. It was de- voted to the usual exercises of the Circus, with the additional performance of equestrian dramas, farces and ballets. Mr. Burroughs was the acting-manager, Mr. Dinneford, stage-manager, and Mr. Hunter, Director of the Circle. An opening address, written by Woodworth, was delivered by Mr. Dinneford. The combined dramatic and equestrian corps included (during the season) the names of Thompson, Lawson, Mes- tayer, H. Eberle, D. Eberle, Morrison, Stickney, Tatnall, Richer, Madden, A. Herbert, Richards, Harrington, (the clown) the youthful wonders, Laforest, Whitaker and Ba- con, Mrs. Tatnall, Mrs. Pelby, Mrs. Monier, Mrs. Godey, Mrs. Ford, Mrs. Edstrom, Miss Pelby, Miss Mestayer, and others. Miss Ophelia Pelby here first attracted notice in New York, although she had appeared previously at the Broadway Circus. She was born at Baltimore, July 23d, 1813, and first appeared on the stage at Boston, as Corals Child, in 1815. She now came out as Little Red Riding-hood, and her grace and beauty rendered the performance very pleasing. In 1830, Miss Pelby was at the Bowery Theatre, enjoying high popularity, and giv- ing evidence of ability which in after years ranked her among the best of American actresses. She was afterward princi- tpally attached to the Boston theatres, where, as Mrs. Ander- son, she was greatly admired. Her last appearance in New I York was at the New Chatham Theatre, in the character of \Jane Shore, June 29th, 1841. She died, after a long illness, at Roxbury, Mass., January 25th, 1852. 492 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Miss Ann Maria Me stayer first appeared here in a pas seul, August 31st, 1825. She was born at Philadelphia, and had first appeared there, as a child, in the Chestnut Street Theatre. As she progressed in years, she developed beauties of face and person rarely equaled, and exhibited talents of a high order. But with every natural requisite for success in all the depart- ments of the drama, she has fallen short of real excellence in any, unless we accord her the merit of superiority in the " Murdered Milkmaid and Hatchet of Horror" line. In gen- teel comedy, this lady (now Mrs. Charles Thorne) had a mar- velous propensity to overact, and in tragedy, generally, was very far away from home. With a voice of a quality to be envied by prima donnas, she neglected instruction, and acquired none of the skill or flexibility of an accomplished vocalist. She appeared to the most advantage as a busy, bustling, intriguing chambermaid, or country hoyden, and perhaps, in these lines, we may say she has not had many superiors. Miss Mestayer was for a time known as Mrs. French. She became Mrs. Thorne in 1831, and ever after enjoyed the highest popularity in the minor theatres of this city, especially at the New Chatham, where, under her hus- band's management, in 1840-41, &c, she was the mainstay of the establishment, and the heroine of a thousand melo-dra- matic monstrosities. Mrs. Emily Jordan is her daughter. Mr. Harry Eberle, a native of Philadelphia, was a comedian of considerable merit. He had first attempted tragedy in that city, appearing as Rolla, in 1823, but soon discovered that comedy was his forte, and therein acquired much repute at Philadelphia, Baltimore, &c. He played last in New York at the old National Theatre, 8 40-41, and died in his native city, January 19th, 1842. Mr. David Eberle also first appeared on the stage of life and its counterpart at Philadelphia, where he was afterward for many years attached to the Walnut Street Theatre. He died there, September 8th, 1864, aged 63 years. Mr. Charles Eberle was another brother, slightly known in New York. He was one of the victims of the Lexington RECORDS OF THK NEW YORK STAGE. 498 steamer's conflagration in Long Island Sound, January, 1840. These gentlemen were brothers of Mrs. Kent and Mrs. La- forest. In consequence of the death of Mr. Barriere, late manager of the Chatham Theatre, the lease of that establishment was assigned to Mr. Henry Wallack, who re-opened it on the 20th of March, 1826, with the play of " Pizarro" and the farce of the " Poor Soldier." The first new piece presented was M. Lewis's version of the "Bravo of Venice," previously dramatized by Mr. Dunlap, under the name of " Abaallino." The present, entitled " Ru- gantino," was thus cast : Rugantino . . Mr. Soott. j Stephano . . . Mr. Roberts. Contarini Stevenson. Memno "A. Simpson. Parozzi .... " Robertson. Rosabella .... Mrs. Hughes. Falieri " Dcrang. Camilla " Walstein. April 14th. The musical drama called the " Castle of Anda- lusia" was first played here, with the following cast, and became very popular : Alphonso Mr. Howard. I Philip Mr. Stevenson. Don Scipio .... u Herbert. Juan "A. Phillips. Sanguino * . . " Scott. Victoria .... Mrs. Lacombe. Pedrillo .... " Roberts. Lorenza . . . Miss Riddle. Spado * "A. Simpson. Catalina .... Mrs. H. "Wallace. May 8th. Mr. Thayer received a hearty welcome, on his first appearance this season, as Tristram Fickle. Mr. Hyatt was also engaged, and made his bow on the 9th, as Zekiel Homespun and Gregory RedtaiL Mr. Maywood was next announced as a star, in the char- acters of Shylock and Donald, on the 10th. A new comedy, called " Love and Gout," was brought out on the 17th, thus cast: Sir Simon Gander . Mr. Herbert. McDrudge .... Mr. Anderson. Old Ardent .... " Roberts. Lucy Mrs. H. Wallace. Buzz " Thayer. Lady Gander ..." Entwhtle. Rusty "A. Phillips. Miss Darnley . . . Miss Riddle. May 18th. For the benefit of the widow and children of the late Mr. Barriere, Mr. Maywood represented his favorite char- acter of Sir Pertinax, in the "Man of the World." Mrs. Entwistle was the Lady Rodolpha, which she personated with all her wonted ease and gayety. May 23d. Mr. and Mrs. Duff commenced an engagement, 494 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. the latter as Eugenia, in the " Foundling of the Forest ; " the former as Bertrand and the Three Singles. May 29th. The operatic spectacle of "Don Giovanni" was brought out, with new scenery, dresses, &c, and proved very attractive, with the following cast : Giovanni . Don Pedro . Octavio Leporello . Massetto . Principal Dancers Mr. H. Wallace. " Scott. " Stevenson. " Roberts. " Howard. Lopez . Elvira . Leonora Zerlina . Maria . Mr. Carr. Mrs. Entwistle. " Lacombe. " Waring. " Stevenson. Mr. F. Durang and Mrs. H. Wallack. Mr. Conway made his first appearance in this Theatre, June 5th, as Beverly, in the " Gamester," ably supported by Scott as Stukely, H. Wallack as Lewson, and Mrs. Duff as Mrs. Beverly. He was greatly praised by the critics, from one of whom, however, to prove the standing of Mrs. Duff, we copy the following : " Fine as was the acting of Conway, we will venture to say that a greater than Conway was there, for Mrs. Duff was unquestionably the presiding spirit of the hour. The opinion lately expressed by a contemporary, that this lady is superior to any actress on the American or British Stage, we think, has every probability of being correct ; and we are more and more inclined to believe in it every time we witness her performance." Mrs. Duff and Mr. Conway appeared together in " Macbeth," "Venice Preserved," "Romeo and Juliet," "Pizarro," the "Stranger," "Apostate," &c. On the loth, a drama by George P. Morris, called " Brier Cliff, or a Tale of the Revolution," was first put upon the stage, and met with very decided success. It had some strongly marked and well-contrasted characters, and, being carefully played, retained a long popularity. It was thus cast: Onalaska . . . Lord Howe . Maj. Waldron . Capt. Musgrave . Alfred Leslie. . Eugene Grant Doct. Meredith . Mr. Scott. " Herbert. " Durang. " Thayer. " Duff. " Stevenson. " Roberts. Parson Shepherd John McArthur Miss Jansen . Mary Jansen . Mrs. Shepherd Maud . Crazy Bet Mr. Walstein. " Anderson. Mrs. Walstein. " Waring. " Lacombe. " Stevenson. " Duff. Mr. Conway took his benefit on Caesar," with the following fine parts, viz. : Scott as Julius Ccesar, the 26th, presenting "Julius distribution of the leading H. Wallack as Marc Antony, RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 495 Conway as Brutus, Duff as Cassius, Mrs. Duff as Portia, and Mrs. Wallack as Calphurnia. For Miss Riddle's benefit, on the 29th, after the perform- ance of "Adrian and Orilla,'' with the beneficiary as Orilla, and Mrs. Duff as Madame Clermont, Mr. Ludlow, a well-known Western actor, made his first appearance in New York, as Young Wilding, in the " Liar." July 1st. On the occasion of Mr. Scott's benefit, Mr. Bernard made his debut in New York, as Frank Poppleton, in 11 Too Late for Dinner." He was afterward at the Lafayette and Bowery Theatres, and married the beautiful Miss Tilden, heretofore alluded to. Mrs. Walstein took her benefit on the 14th, when Mr. and Mrs. Barnes made their first and only appearance on the Chatham Stage, as Sir Peter and Lady Teazle. A Mr. Field, from Boston, appeared on the loth, for Mr. Thayer's benefit, as Young Norval. We are under the impres- sion that this young man was Joseph M. Field, since deceased, as he played in Boston the following year, notwithstanding his first appearance on the stage was announced at the Park Theatre several years later. The same evening, Mr. Thomas Placide, from the New Orleans Theatre, first appeared in New York, as Andrew Bang, in " Love, Law and Physic." A year or so after he was engaged at the Park, where he was kept in a very subordinate range of parts until the first representation of " Cinderella," in 1830, when he was intrusted with the character of Pedro, which he played with such ludicrous effect that he extorted the warmest approbation from the most fastidious. Thereafter he made rapid improvement, and was soon acknowledged to be a very capital low comedian, and as such has played in the principal theatres of the L^nion. As a chaste and finished actor, how- ever, he bears no comparison with his elder brother, Henry, his style being better adapted to the exaggerations of farce, rather than the more legitimate exhibitions of genuine comedy. He was for several seasons a resident of New Orleans, where he conducted a theatre called Placide's Varieties. 496 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. The Chatham season ended on the 17th, with Mr. H. Wal- laces benefit. Preparations were immediately made for a thorough renovation of the establishment, and during the recess it was refitted, refurnished and newly painted through- out. Mr. F. Grain and Mr. J. Jefferson were the principal decorative artists, and their taste and skill rendered the house one of the most beautiful in the Union. Mr. Henry Wallack continued as lessee and manager, and the stage department was intrusted to Mr. Booth, whose superior judgment ren- dered the general getting up of the performances worthy of the highest praise. In fact, nothing ever equaled the system and regularity of the stage during Mr. Booth's three months' connection with its management. In addition to the pro- prietor and his lady, the company consisted of Messrs. Scott, Blake, Howard, Roberts, Herbert, A. Simpson, Moreland, Du- rang, Stevenson, Anderson, A. Phillips, Turnbull, T. Placide, Herbert, Jr., Wray, Parker and Darke, with Mesdames Ent- wistle, Blake, (late Waring) Jones, Lacombe, Greene, Steven- son, Dennis, &c. The theatre re-opened, to a crowded audience, on the 9th of October, 1826. A poetical address was spoken by Mrs. Blake, and a National Anthem, arranged by Mr. Green, sung by the whole company. The other entertainments were the comedy of " Speed the Plough," with the following cast : Sir A. Handy Sir P. Blanford Bob Handy . Ashfield . . Henry . . . Mr. Herbert. " Scott. " H. Wallack. " Roberts. " Blake. Evergreen . . Lady Handy . Miss Blanford. Dame Ashfield Susan Ashfield Mr. Turnbull. Mrs. Lacombe. " Blake. " Jones. " H. Wallace. and the farce of " Three and the Deuce." Three Singles . . . Mr. Blake. Mons. Renard . . Mr. T. Placide. Touchit "A. Phillips. Emily . ... Mrs. H. Wallack. McFloggan .... " Anderson. Phoebe . ..." Dennis. Frank Woodbin ... M A. Simpson. Taffline . ..." Lacombe. On the 16th, Mr. Booth made his first appearance, since his return from Europe, as Richard III. Nov. 2d. Mr. Hamblin made his first appearance in this theatre, as Hamlet. He was soon after combined with Mr. Booth, and played Othello to his Iag-o, Rblla to his Orozembo, Brutus to his Cassius, &c. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 497 During this month, Mr. Booth several times appeared as Roderick Dhu, in the " Lady of the Lake," displaying unap- proachable superiority in the character. Nov. 14th. A French company appeared in the vaude- ville of "Michael et Christine." Messrs. Victor, D'Arme, Alexandre and M'lle Beauvallet were in the cast. Nov. 29th. The charming Miss Twibill (afterward Mrs. Flynn) made her first appearance in the regular drama, as Rosalie Somers, being simply announced as a young lady. Dec. 7th. Mr. George P. Morris had a benefit, when his drama of "Brier Cliff" was performed, with Miss Twibill in the part of Mary Jansen, and Maywood as Onalaska. Dec. 13th. The once greatly esteemed Dwyer made his first appearance in five years, as Goldfinch, and went through with a round of light comedy parts, taking his benefit on the 27th, in the character of St. Alme, in " Deaf and Dumb." Dec. 14th. "Rob Roy" was given with an excellence probably never equaled on our Stage, Mr. Booth representing the Scottish chieftain ; Mr. H. Wallack, Rashleigh ; Mr. How- ard, Francis; Mr. .Maywood, the Baillie; Mr. Scott, Sir F. Vernon; Mrs. Blake, Die Vernon; Mrs. Entwistle, Helen Mc- Gregor ; and Mrs. Wallack, Mattie. Dec. 28th. Mr. J. J. Adams, who had lately re-appeared at the Park, first played here as Othello, and on the 30th ap- peared as Rolla and Young Wilding for his benefit. The Irish farce called " Botheration " was brought out with great success on the 29th, thus cast: Thady O'Blarney . . Mr. Anderson. Lady Apes . . . Mrs. Jones. Jack Hopeful ..." Blake. Mrs. Varnish ..." Stevenson. Varnish " Stevenson. Rose " Wallack. Dr. Wisepate ... "A. Phillips. Jan. loth, 1827. " Sylla," a tragedy, from the French of Jouy, was played with considerable success, as follows : Sylla Mr. Booth. Faustus .... Mr. Blake. Roscius " H. Wallace. Valeria .... Mrs. Blake. Claudius " Scott. On the 17th, the translator had his benefit. Jan. 22d. Knowles' national play of "Brian Boroihme" was brought out, with every attention to correctness of scenery, costumes and appointments, and was played with so much 63 498 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. merit, that it had a run of over thirty nights. Mr. Anderson made the part of Terence entirely his own, and has never since been equaled in it. The entire cast stood as follows : Brian Boroihme O'Donohue M'Carty More Roderick . Terence Chief Bard . Mr. Scott. " H. "Wallace. " Stevenson. u . Blake. " Anderson. " Howard. Tormagnus Voltimar . Udislaus . Erina . . Emma . . Elgitha Mr. Durang. " Matwood. " Collingbourne Mrs. Blake. " Wallack. " Entwistle. For Mrs. Wallack's benefit, on the 7th of March, the ballet of "Flora's Birthday" was produced, with the fair beneficiary and Mr. Parker as the principals. At this time the lady was regarded as the most graceful dancer in the city. On this occasion, we first remember the little Misses Sarah and Jane Parker, whose infantile grace and winning manners after- ward rendered them great favorites as dancers on the Park Stage, to which they were attached for several years. One of them married Mr. Greenwood, a merchant on the west side of the town, and the other for a long period assisted her father in his dancing academy. For Mr. Anderson's benefit on the 16th, O'Keefe's " London Hermit" (played a few times at the Park in 1815) was revived, with the following cast : Tully . . . Old Pranks . Young Pranks Peregrine Natty Maggs Mr. Anderson. " Herbert. " H. Wallack. " Stevenson. " T. Placide. John Grurn Toby Thatch Diana . Mrs. Maggs Kitty Mr. F. Durang. " Collingbourne. Mrs. Lacombe. " Jones. " Wallaok. Herbert. Stevenson. Scott. Maywood. Lady Margaret Edith . . . Jeannie Mause . Mrs. Jones. " Lacombe. " Wallack. " Stevenson. The " Battle of Bothwell Brig" was also brought out, with the following cast, in which Mr. May wood made a most con- spicuous figure : Major Bellenden . . Mr. Henry Morton ..." Jonn Balfour ..." Cuddie Headrig . . " Mr. Jonathan D. Stevenson, proprietor of the saloons of the Theatre, had a benefit on the 19th. He was afterward a well- known city politician, and attracted considerable attention also during the war with Mexico. March 21st. Was produced the drama of the " Pilot," wherein Mr. Scott made his greatest hit as Long Tom Coffin, re- taining the name as a sobriquet to the day of his death. He was ably sustained by Maywood as Paul Jones, Herbert as Col. Howard, Alex. Simpson as Sergt. Drill, and Mrs. Wal- lack as Kate Plowden. The " Pilot" had a protracted run. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 499 In the latter part of April, Mr. and Mrs. Hamblin were engaged, opening as Felix and Violante, in the " Wonder ;" and soon after the public was astounded by the sudden closing of the establishment, in the midst, as was supposed, of unbounded prosperity. Mr. Wallack had previously offered the lease for sale, and it was now rumored that he was bankrupt, and that an execution levied on his property was the immediate cause of breaking up the establishment. This was the last fashionable season at the Chatham Theatre ; it passed rapidly through the hands of many succeeding mana- gers, most of whom lost either money or credit in endeavor- ing to resuscitate its failing fortunes. The immovable sta- bility of the Park, the opening of the new Bowery Theatre, the performances at the Lafayette and Mount Pitt concerns, and the attractive summer concerts at Castle Garden, so di- vided the patronage of the public, that this once popular place of amusement never regained its former ascendency. On its present closing, the members of the company betook themselves to the Broadway Circus, which they opened on the 1st of June. After a short season, however, they broke up in debt and confusion. We turn to the Lafayette Theatre, as the ex- Amphitheatre in Laurens Street was now called. Mr. Sandford having made other disposition of his equestrian corps, confined his efforts here solely to the stage. It was re-opened for the season on the 4th of July, 1826, with the farce of the " Three Hunch- backs," and (for the first time in America) the popular minor drama called the " Dumb Girl of Genoa." The latter was thus cast: Justin Mr. Fisher. Moco " H. Eberlk. Julietta .... Mrs. Godey. Strapado Mr. Burroughs. Antotiio .... " Thompson. Desperetta .... " Stickney. Count " DlNNEFORD. To give a better idea of the capacity of the company, we transcribe the bill for the next evening, July 6th : She Stoops to Conquer ; Sir C. Marlow . . . Mr. Jones. Tony Lumpkin . . Mr. Hyatt. Young Marlow ..." Blake. Mrs. Hardcastle . . Mrs. Fisher. Hardcaatle .... " Fisher. Miss Hardcastle . . Miss Tildin. Hastings " Bernard. Miss Neville . . ■ Mrs. Jones. Song Miss Soimiia Eberle. Pa* Seul Mrs. Godey. 500 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. And The Hunter of the Alps. Felix Mr. Blake. Children .... Misses Fisher. Rosalvi " Fisher. Helena .... Mrs. Fisher. Jeronymo .... " Jones. Genevieve .... " Dinneford. Baptiste " D. Eberle. Ninetta .... Miss E. Eberle. Miss Tilden had made her debut at the Chatham, in 1824, and was now an agreeable and lady-like actress. July 6th. First night of Mrs. Pelby, as Catharine, in " Tam- ing of the Shrew," and Mariette, in the " Floating Beacon." July 7th. Mr. Lindsley, formerly of the Park, appeared, after several years' absence, as Dr. Dablancceur, in the " Budget of Blunders." July 14th. Little Miss Pelby appeared, with great success, as the Four Mowbrays, in " Old and Young," its first represent- ation in New York. Mr. Thompson played Old Wilton, and Mr. Hyatt, Peter. July 18th. Messrs. Thayer and Roberts, from the Chatham, made their first appearance here, as Gossamer and Bonus, in << Laugh When You Can." Mr. and Mrs. Duff were next engaged, and the brilliant and beautiful lady made her first appearance here on the 20th, as Juliet. She had the respectable support of Bur- roughs, as Romeo, while the gay Mercutio was admirably rep- resented by Thayer. July 22d. Mr. Duff's first night, as Lord Hastings, in "Jane Shore;" and Tristram Fickle, in the "Weathercock." Mrs. Duff was, of course, the wretched heroine, and Mrs. Pelby, Alicia. During their engagement, which lasted over two months, Mrs. Duff personated the characters of Florinda, Mrs. Haller, Eugenia, ("Foundling of the Forest") Angela, Jeannie Deans, Ella Rosenberg, Annette, ("Maid and Magpie") Madame Clermont, Lady Randolph and Statira ; and her hus- band appeared as Malec, Sir Lucius O Trigger, Stranger, Count de Valmont, Earl Osmond, Storm, the Three Singles, Duke Aranza, Prince Altenberg, Murtoch Delany, Glenalvon and Alexander the Great — an example of meritorious versa- tility rarely equaled. July 26th. A Mr. Doyne made his first appearance, as Terry O'Rourke. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 501 Aug. 7th. Dibdin's farce of the " Two Gregories," first per- formed in New York, with the annexed cast : John Bull .... Mr. Fisher. i Mr. Gregory . . . Mr. Dinnefoed. Lafrance .... " Lindsley. Mrs. Gregory Mrs. Fisher. Gregory " Roberts. Fanchette .... Miss Tilden. Aug. 21st. The celebrated drama, called the " Avenger, or the Moor of Sicily," was first brought out, with entire new scenery by Grain and Huggins, and very elegant costumes by A. J. Allen, and met with great success, cast in the fol- lowing manner : John di Procida . . . Mr. Bur: ouqhs. Ubaldo Mr. Tatnall. Count Bernaldo ..." -Lindsley. Maggorino ..." Hyatt. Allesandro .... M Thayer. Valentina .... Miss Tilden. Bernard " Dinneford. Stella .... Mrs. Pelby. Malcour " Walstein. Bella " Dinnefoed. Sept. 4th. Mr. Lamb, formerly of the Chatham Garden and Summer Concerts, made his first appearance in four years, as Harry Blunt, in the "Turnpike Gate." Sept. 6th. For Mrs. Pelby's benefit, the " Idiot Witness" was first played, as follows : Sieur Amaud . . . Mr. Ti ompson. | Gilbert Mr. Burroughs. Robert Arnaud ..." Bernard. Walter Arlington . Mrs. Pelby. Paul Tugscull • . " Roberts. Dame Tugscull . . " Walstein. Hans Gerthold ..." ..Tatnall. I Janet . . . . " Edsteom. Sept. 7th. Mrs. Stone and Miss Riddle made their first ap- pearance on this Stage — the former as Juliana, the latter as Vol ante and Little Pickle. Sept. 8th. For Mr. Blake's benefit, in the farce of " Turn Out," he first introduced to the public, as his wife, in the character of Marian Ramsay, the lately Mrs. Waring, of the Chatham. Or that occasion, he first attempted an elderly character, Dr. Truckle, and the whole was rendered very at- tractive by the aid of Keene, the vocalist, as Somerville, Her- bert as Restive, and Hyatt as Gregory Redtail. Sept. 20th. Was performed the opera of u Love in a Village," with Lamb as Hawthorn, Keene as Young Meadows, and Mrs. Jefferson, the late favorite Mrs. Burke, (her first appear- ance here) as Rosetta. She also played Florella, in "My Grandmother," and was welcomed with the greatest enthu- siasm. Several musical pieces were thenceforward produced, with much satisfaction to the audience. 502 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. October 3d. A pretty little drama called the " Trouba- dours" was very successfully represented as follows : Lysander Mr. Thayer. I Labonde .... Mr. Somerville. Joconde " Burroughs. Mathilde .... Miss Tilden. Lucas " Hyatt. | Jeannette .... " Riddle. Oct. 6th. Miss Riddle's mother, a very respectable actress, made her first appearance here, as Ella Rosenberg, and Ed- mond, the Blind Boy. Oct. 16th. "Rob Roy" was brought out with great magnifi- cence, and with an increased orchestra, for which Mr. Milon was engaged as leader. Mr. P. K. Moran presided at the piano, and Mr. Willis, the celebrated Kent bugler, from West Point, also lent his aid. On this occasion, Mrs. Sandford (the wife of the manager, and formerly Mrs.'Holman) returned to the stage, after an absence of three years, and in the character of Diana Vernon, proved a most important attraction. The drama was very powerfully represented, with Burroughs as the hero, Keene as Francis, and Mrs. Stone as Helen McGregor. Mr. Somerville, as the " Dougal creature," received very emphatic commendation. Oct. 19th. A new farce, called "Three Deep," was pro- duced, with Thayer as Tantalus Twist, Walstein as Capt Courton, Tatnall as Le Savon, Mrs. Riddle as the Widou Ogleman, and Mrs. Walstein as Mrs. C Flounce. Oct. 26th. Mr. Alex. Wilson, last from New Orleans, made his first appearance as Bertram, and soon after personatec Richard III., Sir Edward Mortimer, and Rolla. Nov. 2d. A play, called the " Banker of Rouen," was firs represented here, as follows : Du Quesne .... Mr. Maywood. i Barbaroux ... Mr. Thompson. Rousillon .... " Walstein. Mme. Du Quesne . . Mrs. Stone. Eugene " Dinnefobd. | Nov. 21st. The " Old Oak Chest" was first played, for th benefit of Mrs. Fisher, with Burroughs as Tinico de Lass* Thompson as Rodolph, Mrs. Fisher as Adriana, and Mi* Riddle, Roda. The French company from the Chatham appeared on tt 23d, and played for a few nights. Dec. 4th. The equestrian opera of "Lodoiska" w: RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 508 revived with great splendor, Keene being the Count Floreski, burroughs, Kera Khan, and Mrs. Sandford the Princess Lodo- iska. Prudence, however, soon after counseled the closing of the dramatic season, and the establishment was hired to Mons. Villalave, the rope-dancer, who opened it with his troupe on the 18th of December. Mr. Sandford, not content with the management of one con- cern, during the summer of 1826 erected a building in Grand Street, opposite its junction with East Broadway, then called i Harman Street, which he denominated the Mount Pitt Circus, It was first opened to the public on the 8th day of November, 1826, with a combined dramatic and equestrian company. Of its performances, we have retained no note. In the summer of 1826, the Broadway Circus, after its de- sertion by the members of the Chatham Garden Company, was again occupied by Mr. Cowell, with his detachments of Stage and Ring performers. Mr. Young, formerly of the Park, here made his first appearance in eight years, with the support of Cowell, Gale, H. and W. Isherwood, Jones, Moreland, Mrs. Entwistle, Mrs. Moreland, Mrs. Godey, &c. CHAPTER XXXIII. Park Theatre, 1826-7. H E managers of the Park Theatre, aware that they were to encounter an unusual opposition this season, particularly from the projected new establishment in the Bowery, not only secured a strong stock company, and the aid of several new and important stars, but took occasion, during the summer recess, to have the entire building re- painted and ornamented, in a very expensive and elegant manner, by the skillful hands of Messrs. Reinagle, Reinagle, Jr., Evers and Serra. A new drop-scene was also executed by Mr. J. H. Wilkins. The comedy of "Paul Pry" and the farce of "'Twas F were advertised as the opening pieces on the 28th of August, 1826, but owing to some detention, Mr. Barnes, whose services were required in the performance, and who was absent from the city, did not arrive in season, and consequently "She Stoops to Conquer" and " Sprigs of Laurel" were substituted on the spur of the moment. The next night, the Garcia Opera Troupe appeared in "Sem- iramide," and for a month gave two representations weekly, and on these nights the Park company were transferred to the Broadway Circus, where they delighted the residents of the then upper part of the city. On the 30th, Mr. Cooper appeared as Damon. His engage- ment terminated with his benefit on the 13th of September, when he appeared as Sir William Dorillofi, in " Wives as They Were." RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 505 Aug. 31st. "Der Freyschutz" was revived, with Mrs. Hackett as Linda, and Messrs. Denman and Boyle, two newly imported candidates for public favor, as Herman and Wil- helm. They did not realize the expectations of the audi- ence — the former was a cypher, and the latter, though a clever musician and afterward a great favorite at sacred concerts, was quite below the standard of Keene and Howard. Sept. 8th. A new and very amusing farce, called the u Scapegoat," was first played in America, as follows : Old Eustace Charles Robin . . Mr. Foot. M Lee. " Placide. Ignatius Polyglott Harriet Molly Maggs . . Mr. fe ARNES. Mrs. Sharpe. *' Hackett. The " Castle of Andalusia" was brought out on the 14th, and gave the vocal strength of the company a fine opportunity for display, but the opera was never popular here. It was thus cast: Mr. Don Scipio Don Ca;sar AlphonBO . Fernandez Pedrillo . Foot. Denman. Boyle. Richings. Hilbon. Spado . Victoria Lorenza Catalina Mr. Barnes. Mrs. Hackett. " Sharpe. " Di Luce. Sept. 18th. A now forgotten comedy by Poole, entitled "Quite Correct," was presented for the first time, but, al- though repeated several times, failed to attain favor. We add its cast : Sir Harry Dartforth Grojan . . . . Milford . . . . Mr. Simpson. " Barnes. " Lee Lady Almeria. Mrs. Rosemore Miss Rosemore Miss Leach . Mrs. Hackett. " Stickniy. M Hilson. " Sharpe. A more popular production was the musical romance of " Oberon," which was brought out with equal magnificence and success, on the 20th, sustained in the following manner : Sir Huon . Sir Aubert Sultan . . Caliph . . Mr. Lee. Richinqs. woodhull. Foot. Sherasmin Sadak . . Oberon Amanda . Mr. Joneb. " Hilson. Mrs. Sharps. M Hilson. Hunters Messrs. Boyle and Denman. Principal Dancers Mr. E. Conway and Miss Deblin. Invisible Spirits . . Mrs. Hackett and Mrs. De Luce. Sept. 28th. The opera of the H Cabinet" was thus per- formed : Orlando Marquis . Count Lorenxo Whimsiculo Peter . . .Mr. Boyle. Placide. Jone?. Denman. Hilson. Barnes. Floretta . Constantia Leonora Crudelia . Curiosa . Bianca Mrs. Manqeon. " Sharpe. 11 De Luce. " Stickney. " Jones. M Wheatlby. This was the first appearance on the Park Stage of Mrs. Jones, and the first appearance in America of Mrs. Mangeon, 61 506 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. a vocalist of some merit, who, however, failed to make a fa- vorable impression. She was a sister of the more distin- guished Madame Feron, and was quite a lively and pleasant actress. In person she was more than embonpoint, and on her second visit to New York, in 1831, it was satirically remarked that "the airiness of her manner contrasted agreeably with the opposite quality of her form." After introducing her son on the stage of the Bowery, as a youthful prodigy in Richard III., with little success, she played a final engagement at the Park, where she last appeared, January 31st, 1833. Sept. 30th, occurred the last performance of the Garcia troupe, and the announced last appearance on the stage of the seraphic Signorina, in the opera of the " Barber." The advertisement of Mr. Macready's first appearance in Am- erica as Virginius, on the 2d of October, attracted a crowded and enthusiastic auditory, and the criticisms of the following day pronounced him second only to Cooper. A closer ac- quaintance with his merits, as displayed in Macbeth, Damon, Hamlet, William Tell, and Coriolanus, soon forced the re- luctant acknowledgment that he was the most chaste, finished and classic actor that had ever graced the American Stage. William Charles Macready — the son of a respectable Covent Garden actor, who was afterward a well-known and successful manager at Manchester, Bristol, &c. — was born in London, March 3d, 1793. He received his education at Rugby, and in 1810 made his debut at Birmingham as Romeo. He after- ward played successfully at Bath, Dublin, &c, and made his entree on the metropolitan boards at Covent Garden, Sept. 16th, 1816, as Orestes, in the " Distrest Mother." In 1817, he per- formed the original character of Pescara (refused by Booth) with much applause, but though he was an acknowledged superior artist in the Henri Quatres, Wallaces, and Rob Roys of the drama, his merit as a tragedian was not fully estab- lished until his appearance as Virginius in 1820, which re- sulted in a complete triumph, confirmed in the following year by his masterly delineation of the character of Damon, he being the original representative of both on the London MACREADY AS VIRGINIUS W. C. MACREADY Engraved from a photograph RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 507 boards. Thenceforward he took rank with Kean, and on his declension, until the period of his own retirement, reigned the supreme and unrivaled sovereign of the British Stage. Mr. Macready returned to Europe at the end of the season, and did not revisit America until the fall of 1843, when he passed in triumph through the country, making his last ap- pearance on the Park Stage, September 27th, 1844. In October, 1848, he again presented himself at the Astor Place Opera House, announcing a farewell tour in the United States ; he also gave readings at the Stuy vesant Institute, the profits of one evening being devoted to the widow of Ed- mund Simpson. After performing at Baltimore, Philadel- phia, and other cities, and receiving a public dinner at New Orleans, Mr. Macready returned to this city, and was adver- tised to appear as Macbeth at the Astor Opera House, (then directed by Messrs. Niblo and Hackett) May 8th, 1849, when, owing to circumstances alluded to in the sketch of Mr. Forrest, he received the most disgraceful insults from a body of rioters assembled there, and his life being considered in danger from the missiles thrown upon the stage, the curtain fell when the play was but half concluded. A large number of respectable and eminent citizens thereupon addressed Mr. Macready, in- viting him to resume his engagement, and assuring him of their protection ; and in obedience to their wishes, he again performed Macbeth on the 10th inst, going through the entire play, and acknowledging at the close his appreciation of the kindness of his friends. But, in the mean while, an immense concourse of rioters and idle spectators gathered about the building, and so turbulent and violent were their proceed- gs, that the military, who had been called out to protect e theatre, finally fired, by which twenty-two men were "led and thirty-six wounded. Mr. Macready escaped undis- vered, but, notwithstanding the urgent entreaties of many o promised to sustain him to the last, he was so overcome the results of that fatal night that he bade adieu to New ork forever. Mr. Macready was the manager of Covent Garden Theatre 508 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. for two successive seasons, commencing in the fall of 1837, and, also, of Drary Lane for two seasons, commencing in the winter of 1840, and during these periods revived sev- eral of Shakspeare's plays, with the original text restored, and with an historical fidelity in the accessories of scenery, costumes and appointments, and an aggregate of talent in their representation unprecedented on the London Stage. On his last return to England, he gave a series of farewell performances, in all the principal British theatres, terminating at the London Haymarket, where he made his final appear- ance, in the character of Macbeth, February 26th, 1851. By industry and prudence, Mr. Macready acquired a handsome fortune from his professional exertions. He has been ridi- culed for certain mannerisms, and censured for penuriousness, by some of his professional brethren, whose extravagant and dissipated habits have been the cause of perpetual poverty and distress to themselves. Well would it be for his tra- ducers, and far better for the Stage, that suffers so severely from the loose principles of many of its occupants, if they could maintain characters as pure and irreproachable as his, of whom it has been said, and we believe with truth, that no " friend has ever had occasion to feel a pang for his excesses, and the public have never been called upon to pity, pardon, or condemn in him any moral transgression." Oct. 4th. The operatic version of " Oscar and Malvina" was produced, with the following cast : Oscar Mr. Boyle. Morven .... Mr. Woodhull. Fingal " Jones. Conlath .... " Lee. Shibric .... " Hilson. Malvina .... Mrs. Hackett. Cathullin " Richings. Morna " Stickney. Ruro " Placide. Oct. 12th. The " Siege of Belgrade" was revived, with Boyle as the Seraskier, and Mrs. Mangeon as Lilla. Oct. 13th. Mr. Macready appeared as William Tell, with Master William Wheatley as Albert, who attracted much notice by the good judgment he evinced in its perform- ance. He soon after appeared as Tom Thumb, and for two or three years was the principal representative of the Park juveniles. In 1833 he was at the Bowery, in the lowest path MACKEADY AS " WILLIAM TELL. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 509 of a walking gentleman. In the summer of 1834, he re- appeared at the Park in a more elevated range of the same line, and gradually worked his way into public favor by his sensible personations of whatever was intrusted to his care. In the long catalogue of characters then assigned him, such as Laertes ; Henry, in " Speed the Plough;" Michael, in " Vie- to rine ;" Nicholas Nickleby, Charles Courtly, and Henry Nor- land, in the " Heir at Law," (which Charles Kemble did not disdain to play in London) we do not remember to have seen his equal ; while as Sir Thomas Clifford, Alfred Evelyn and Claude Melnotte, he played with a truthful earnestness that quite eclipsed the efforts of more pretending performers. His temperament was scarcely mercurial enough to give due effect to the Vapids, the Gossamers and Dazzles of light comedy, nor, although he perfectly satisfied the eye in Hamlet and Romeo, would his rendition of them rank him with their best representatives. Mr. Wheatley left the Park Theatre in 1843, but fulfilled a star engagement there in 1847, in conjunction with his sister, Mrs. James Mason. He was for several years a resident of Philadelphia, where he played exclusively the highest grades of character, and as actor and manager enjoyed great popularity. In January, 1862, he re-appeared at Niblo's Garden, in conjunction with Mr. and Mrs. J. Wallack, Jr., Mrs. Barrow and Mr. E. L. Davenport, and soon reinstated himself in the good opinion of his audience, by many of whom he was almost forgotten. In the summer of that year, he became sole lessee and manager of that establishment, and still re- mains there, popular and prosperous, having given it a char- acter for the production of romantic and spectacular dramas not previously enjoyed by any theatre in the city. The splen- did " getting up" and success of the " Duke's Motto," in which his performance of Henri de Lagadere received the most rap- turous applause ; of the " Corsican Brothers," wherein he was equally happy as Louis and Fabien ; of " Satanella " and the "Enchantress," with Mr. Richings and daughter; u Bel De- monio," with Mile. Vestvali ; the " Connie Soogah," with Mr. 510 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. and Mrs. B. Williams ; and " Arrah na Pogue," with the debut of J. H. Glenney, in connection with the engagements of Ed- win Booth, Hackett, Forrest, Edwin Adams, John Collins, Mrs. Lander, Matilda Heron, Miss Bateman and Madame Methua Scheller, are the best proofs of his judgment, taste and liber- ality. Oct. 14th. The farce of "Peter Smink" was first played here, with the following cast : Chevalier Bayard Eugene . . . Hans .... Mr. Lee. " Denman. " Foot. Peter Smink Ninette Mr. Barnes. Mrs. Sharpe. Oct. 19th. First performance here of " Three Deep," thus cast: Capt. Courton Tantalus Twist Le Savon . Mr. Lee. " Simpson. " Placide. Matilda Miss Brundage. Mrs. Ogleinan . . Mrs. De Luce. Mrs. O'Flounce . . " Hackett. Fanny Tucker . . " Sharpe. For Mrs. Hackett's benefit on the 25th, the first successful performance in America of the "Comedy of Errors" took place, with the following cast: Antipholus of Syracuse Mr. Lee. Antipholus of Ephesus " Woodhull. Dromio of Syracuse . ' Barnes. Dromio of Ephesus . " Hackett. Solinus " Jones. ^Egeon Angelo Abbess Adriana Luciana Mr. Foot. " Denman. Mrs. Sticknet. " Hackett. " Sharpe. Although it was announced as Mr. Hackett's last appear- ance previous to visiting Europe, his performance so de- lighted the public, that it was repeated for his benefit on the 30th, when the demand for it was renewed so impera- tively, that the piece was presented again and again with the most tumultuous approbation, and with the largest nightly receipts of the season. Mrs. Hamblin was now added to the company, and made her first appearance on the 31st, as Letitia Hardy. Nov. 6th. Mr. J. J. Adams re-appeared after three years' retirement, as Hamlet. Nov. 9th. For Mrs. Hilson's benefit, occurred the first per- formance in America of Shakspeare's "Midsummer Night's Dream." We have but a mutilated copy of the bill, which gives the cast in part as follows : Theseus Bottom Snout . Oberon Mr. Lee. " Hilson. ' " Placide. " PvICHINGS. Puck . Titania Hypolita Hermia Mrs. Hilson. " Sharpe. " Sticknet. " Hackett. Nov. 13th. First night of Mr. Kean's farewell engagement, RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 511 as Richard III., and Mrs. Barnes' first appearance this season, as Queen Elizabeth. Nov. 23d. A comedy called "Teasing Made Easy" was brought out, with the annexed cast : Litigant .... Mr. Foot. Mrs. Teaser . . . Mrs. Wheatley. Glowworm .... " Lee. Mrs. Crompton . . u Sticknet. Gammon " Hilson. Miss Manly ..." Haokett. Pastoral 44 Barnes. Molly Mixem . 11 Sharpe. Dummy 44 Jones. " Aladdin" was revived on the 25th, with Mrs. Barnes as the hero, and had a successful run. Mr. Barnes took his benefit on the 27th, when he astounded his numerous friends by appearing as Alexander the Great. Mrs. Edward Knight, at the time a very fascinating and at- tractive vocalist, first made her appearance in America, on the 30th, as Floretta, in the " Cabinet," and was at once pro- nounced the most pleasing and finished vocalist of the Eng- lish school that had ever delighted a New York audience. This lady, formerly Miss Mary Ann Povey, was born at Bir- mingham, July 26th, 1804, and early displaying great vocal abilities, was placed under the tuition of Mr. T. Cooke, who introduced her as a singer to the stage of Drury Lane in 1817, though we believe she had previously appeared there as the hero of a pantomime, called " Jack and his Bean Stalk." In 1819, she first appeared in the regular drama, as Marg-a- retta, in " No Song, No Supper," with great success. After marrying Mr. Knight, a musician of eminence, she arrived here in the early summer of life, not beautiful in feature, but with a face full of jocund expression, and a neat, trim, plump little person, denoting the possession of health, hope and hap- piness. Her voice was rich, sweet, powerful, and sympathetic *™ quality, yet lacking in flexibility, and her style of singing as far better adapted to ballads than the more elevated ge of Italian music. Had she first appeared in 1866, pro- bly she would never have been regarded as a great singer, ut the public taste forty years ago had not its present culti- ation, nor its present fastidiousness, and consequently Mrs. night for a while stood at the very summit of popular re- d, and her songs were certainly given with a spirit and 512 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. expressiveness at that time entirely unrivaled. How she rev- eled in " The Bonnie Breastknots and " We're a' Noddin' " — what humor and archness she displayed in " Comin' thro' the Bye," and "Buy a Broom" — how merrily her voice flashed through u I've been roaming" — and what feeling and pathos she threw into the touching airs of " Home, Sweet Home !" " Savourneen Deelish," and the " Last Bose of Summer !" — yet she destroyed her early standing as a vocalist by continuing to sing long after her voice had become harsh and unmanage- able, and when listeners could scarcely believe her identical with the blooming girl who had so captivated them in other days. As an actress in comic opera, she was superior to any contemporary star; and in later life, in a broader range of chambermaids, country girls and elderly spinsters, she ac- quired a deservedly high repute. After traveling as a star for many years, Mrs. Knight joined the stock company of the Park, in 1841, continuing there until Mr. Simpson's retire- ment in 1848. Her husband died within a few years after her arrival here, and in 1845 she lost her only child, a lovely girl of seventeen, to whom she was most tenderly attached. She returned to her native land in May, 1849, reduced to par- tial blindness, from a disorder of the eyes induced by grief for the loss of her beloved child. She died at Brompton, England, October, 1861. Mr. Kean took his farewell benefit, December 4th, appear- ing as De Montfort, in Joanna Baillie's tragedy, and Tom Tug, in the " Waterman." On this occasion Mrs. Barnes gave an admirable representation of the noble Jane de Montfort. Mr. Kean's last appearance in America occurred on the 5th, in the character of Richard III. Mr. Hilson played Falslaff] in the " Merry Wives," for his benefit, on the 7th, when Mrs. Knight lent her aid as Mrs. Ford ; and a new farce was also produced, called " Paul Pry at Dover," embracing some additional adventures of the in- quisitive hero. Paul Pry was, of course, represented by Hil- son, Capt. Hazelton by Woodhull, Pommade by Placide, Laura by Mrs. Sharpe, and Crimp by Mrs. Hilson. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 513 Dec. 11th. Mr. Macready commenced his second engage- ment as Macbeth, supported hy Mrs. Barnes as Lady Macbeth. Dec. 12th. Mr. Hackett took his farewell benefit, and posi- tively made his last appearance previous to his trip to Eng- land, playing Richard, in imitation of Kean. Dec. 13th. Mr. I. S. Clason made his first appearance in two years as Icilius, to Macready's Virginius. Dec. 16th. Mr. Thomas Barry made his first appea ranee in America as the Stranger, which he personated with rare ability. This gentleman is identified with the best recollec- tions of New York dramatic history. Soon after his arrival, he was intrusted with the stage management of the Park, where his correct taste and excellent judgment were soon perceptible in the order, elegance and liberality of his ar- rangements. He remained in the situation until the summer of 1833, when he removed to Boston for the purpose of as- suming the management of the Tremont Theatre, which he directed for six years to the entire satisfaction of the public, but to the total ruin of his fortune. In 1839, he returned t<» New York, and was for a time manager of the Bowery Thea- tre, but his old position at the Park was resumed in 1841, and he remained there until the old management was broken up. From 1850 to 1854, he was manager (under Marshall) of the Broadway Theatre, and was afterward again called to Boston to take charge of the new Boston Theatre, so called. Mr. Barry is among the few whose personal character and cultivated mind give dignity to the Stage and to society. For several years he was among the most popular favorites of the public, and his excellent personations of Lord Townty, uke Aranza, Joseph Surface, and similar characters in medy, and a vast number of second parts in tragedy, fully entitled him to the position, particularly as, in his prime, he ssessed a handsome face, a graceful person, and a full and ellow voice. His second appearance was in the character of Fatcon- ndge, to Macready's King John, on the 18th. Mrs. Knight having appeared also as Lilla and Susanna, 65 514 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. took her benefit on the 27th, when she personated Annette, in General Burgoyne's " Lord of the Manor," and Rosina in the operetta of that name. The former play was new to our stage and was thus rendered : Old Contrast .... Mr. Foot. Moll Flaggon . . . Mr. Barnes. Young Contrast ..." Simpson. Annette .... Mrs. Knight. Trumore " Boyle. Sophia " Sharpe. Rashley " Richinqs. Peggy " Hackett. Lanippe " Placide. Placide was very great in the little part of Lanippe, and Barnes still greater in the less one of Moll Flaggon ; while Mrs. Knight, who enacted the heroine with, the greatest naivete, introduced for the first time the song of the " Dash- ing White Sergeant," with a success that eclipsed all her former efforts. Dec. 29th. "Henry V." was revived, with Mr. Macready as the King, Clason as Gower, Hilson as Fluellen, and Mrs. Sharpe as Katharine. "King John" was repeated on the 3d of January, 1827, for Mr. Macready's benefit, who also appeared on the occasion as Delaval, in " Matrimony." Jan. 6th. Mr. Pelby made his first appearance in this theatre for five years, as Hamlet — running through a round of tragic parts, and taking his benefit on the 17th as Charles 1 de Moor. Mr. Clason's benefit and last appearance occurred on the i 11th, when he played Othello, supported by Mr. Barry as Iago. Jan. 12th. Dimond's opera of " Native Land" was first per- formed in America, with the following cast : Guiseppo Mr. Barnes. Aurelio Mrs. Hackett. Tancredi ..... " Barry. Ccelio " Knight Marcello " Richinqs. Clymante .... " Sharpe. Peregrino " Hilson. Lavini Miss Brundage. Zanini Mrs. Wheatlet. Mrs. Hackett and Mrs. Knight both looked well in their masculine habiliments, and the latter was particularly happy in her songs, "Is't art, I pray, or nature?" and "Love was once a little boy," and in her duet with Mrs. Sharpe, " Lo ! when showers descending." Mrs. Hamblin, who had been cast for the part of Zanini, threw up her engagement that day, and Mrs. Wheatley was thrust into it on the spur of the moment. Mr. Conway commenced an engagement as Beverly, on the RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 515 19th, and a Mr. Richardson, from Virginia, made his first appearance on the 23d, as Roll a and Looney McTwoller. The latter played several parts with small success. A new farce called " Thirteen to the Dozen" was also produced about this time, with the following cast : Simon Nipper . . . Mr. Barnks. I Lilla Mrs. Sharps. Heavysacks . . . " Jones. Bridget .... " Hackett. Maurice " Placide. Mrs. Knight took her benefit on the 25th, when was revived the fine drama of " Henri Quatre," wherein she delighted the audience by her sprightly singing and acting as Louison, a part she made completely her own. Mr. Conway was the Henri, and looked and played admirably. Jan. 29th. Mrs. Barry made her first appearance in Amer- ica as Juliet, and a few nights after played Belvidera and Juliana, giving little indication of ability in such characters. The next season she had the misfortune to have a limb frac- tured, and was obliged to withdraw from the profession for a long period. On her husband's removal to Boston, she joined the stock company of the Tremont, and in 1841 again appeared at the Park, being engaged for heavy tragedy and second old women, playing for the last time in 1848. Her death occurred in this city on the 20th of February, 1854. Feb. 1st. The ballet spectacle of " Cinderella" was revived, and had a long run, with E. H. Conway as the Prince, Pla- cide as Pedro, Mesdames Sharpe, Stickney and Wheatley as the three bisters, Mr. Bancker as Hymen, Miss Brund- ;e as Venus, and Mrs. Smith as the principal dancing nymph. In the " Conquest of Taranto " played on the 5th, with Con- way as Aben Hamet, Sumner Lincoln Fairfield, the poet, first ppeared on the stage in a subordinate part. A few nights *ter he played Pandulph, in " King John," and then aban- oned the idea of adopting the profession. Mr. Macready was now engaged to perform with Conway, d with the aid of Mrs. Barnes, gave several tragedies with rare excellence. During this period, the former gentleman peared as Pierre, Romont, King John, King Henry IV, Pe~ 516 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. truchio and Cassius ; and the latter as Jaffier, Charalois, Fat- conbridge, Prince of Wales, Brutus and Murtoch Delany. The farce of " White Lies" was first performed on the 14th of February, with Barry as Sir Charles Meriton, Simpson as Frank Meriton, Hilson as Barnaby Brilliant, Mrs. Sharpe as Constantia, Mrs. Smith as Madame Torquoso, and Mrs. Wheatley as Kitty. Buckstone's domestic drama of " Luke the Laborer," in which Hilson played a character somewhat resembling Bob Tyke, with great power and excellence, was first produced here on the 17th, with the following cast : Luke . . . Squire Chase Wakefield Chas. Maydew Bobby Trott . Mr. Hilson. Woodhull. Foot. Simpson. Placide. Philip Mr. Baret. Dame Mrs. Wheatley. Clara " Sharpe. Jenny " Smith. Mrs. Knight was again engaged, and on the occasion of her benefit, March 1st, produced a new opera called the "Two Houses of Granada," thus cast : Count Valteline Don Guzman Don Carlos . Sancho . Mr. Foot. " Barnes. " Boyle. " Hilson. Julia Mrs. Knight. Maria " Hilson. Jacintha .... " Wheatley. " Giovanni in London," the celebrated musical burletta, was first played in America on the 9th of March, and received but little praise, except what was bestowed on Mrs. Hackett's per- sonation of the hero. It was thus cast : Leporello Finikin Popinjay English Pluto . Mr. Hilson. " Richings. " Simpson. " Placide, " Woodhull. Giovanni . . • Constantia Mrs. English Squalling Fan Mrs. Drainemdry Mrs. Haceett. " Sharps. " Stickney. " Smith. " Wheatley. A farce called "'Twixt the Cup and the Lip" was first played on the 13th, as follows : Mandeville . . Jack Larkins Simon Pengander Mr. Woodhull. " Simpson. " Hilson. Mrs. Freeman Mrs. Wagstaff. Charlotte . . Nancy . . . Mrs. Hilson. " Wheatley. " Sharpe. " Smith. Mr. Conway and Mrs. Barnes, on the 14th, commenced another engagement, during which they appeared as the Stranger and Mrs. Haller ; Lord and Lady Townly ; Post- humus and Imogen; Hastings and Jane Shore; Old Wilmot and Agnes, (in " Fatal Curiosity") &c. March 20th. Morton's comedy, a "School for Grown RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 517 Children," was first played in this city and with considerable success, its principal characters thus cast : Old Revel . . Young Revel Sir A. Stanmore Frank Ryland . Buttercup Mr. Barnes. Simpson. Barry. WoODHCLL. Placid*. Lady Stanmore Mrs. Revel Miss Raven Dame Ryland Fanny . Mrs. Hilson. M Sharpe. " Barry. M WuEATI.EY. " Hackett. Miss Mi tf ord's tragedy of " Foscari" was first played on the 23d, with no marked success. It was thus cast : . . . . Mr. Conway. I Cosmo Mr. Foscari Doge . Donate Conway. Barry. Foot. Cosmo . Erlzzo . Camilla Simpson. " Woodhull. Mrs. Barnes. Mr. Howard, the favorite vocalist, first appeared this season on the 24th, as Count Belino. The famous burletta of " Quadrupeds" was first played here, on the 31st, with Barry as Drill, Richings as Bernardo, Barnes as Francisco, Hilson as Abrahamides, and Mrs. Wheatley Do- rothea. The " Flying Dutchman," a nautical melo-drama, very popular on its first production, and still frequently revived at the minors, was first played at this theatre, April 10th, as follows : Mr. Vanderdecken Gov. Von Brunt Capt. Peppercoal Lieut. Mowdrey Toby Varnish Tom Willis . . Barry. Foot. Jones. Woodhcll. Richings. Nexsen. Von Bummell Smutta . . . Rockalda . . Lestelle . . Lucy . . . Mr. Placidi. '* Bancker. Mrs. Sticknby. • 4 Sharpe. " Hackett. April 16th. Knowles's play of " Caius Gracchus" was pre- sented, being the first night of Mr. Macready's new engage- ment : . Mr. Caius Gracchus Opimius Drusas . . Macready. Barry. Foot. Titus . Cornelia Licinia . Mr. Placide. Mrs. Stice.net. " Hilson. Buckstone s favorite farce of the "Dead Shot" was first played here on the 23d, with Placide as Timid, Jones as Capt. Cannon, Mrs. Hackett, Louisa, and Mrs. Wheatley, Chatter. Mrs. Hilson took her benefit on the 26th, when Mrs. Knight appeared as Rosina, in the " Barber of Seville f and a new farce without male characters was very successfully produced, called " Ladies at Home ; or, Gentlemen, we can do without you !" thus cast : Mrs. Banter . Lady Antidote Lady Lucretia Mrs. Hilson. Mrs. Prim .... Mrs. Barry. Wheatley. Jenny n Hackett. " Sharpe. Laura Miss Brindaqi. Mr. Macready took his benefit on the 30th, appearing as Cardinal Wolsey and Rob Roy. 518 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. May 2d. Moses S. Phillips made his first appearance on the stage as Mawworm and Old Brummagem, characters in which, by his close personal resemblance to Mr. Barnes, and a very clever imitation of his style, he appeared to great ad- vantage. Mr. Phillips had considerable comic ability, but still more good nature and indolence — too much, in fact, to be successful in the profession. He was at one time director of the old Chatham Theatre, and several times assumed the reins of management in other cities, but never with permanent success. He was born at Philadelphia, Feb. 23d, 1798, last appeared in New York in 1844, and died here in July, 1854. Mr. Wilson appeared here on the 3d of May, as Richard III. The musical comedy called the " Englishman in India" was first played in New York on the 4th, as follows : Sir M. Scraggs Col. Oswald . Count Glorieux Capt. Tancred Milton . . . Dorrington * Mr. Barnes. " Barry. " Placide. " Howard. " Woodhull. " RlCHINGS. Tom Tape . . Mirza . . . Gulnare . . Lady Scraggs Sally Scraggs Poplin . . . Mr. Hilson. " Simpson. Mrs. Sharps. " Wheatley. " Hackett. " Smith. It has since been reduced to a farce, called " Sketches in India." Mr. John Povey, long known as an efficient business agent of the Park, made his first appearance in America on the 7th of May, as Hawthorn, in " Love in a Village," to the Rosetta of Mrs. Knight, his sister. He had nothing to recommend him for the character, except an uncultivated base voice, but from that day, until the retirement of Mr. Simpson, was connected with the establishment as an actor of small parts and business agent. He visited England in 1849, but is now residing in New York. May 9th. The farce called a " Disagreeable Surprise" was played; Hilson as Billy Bombast, Placide as Jeremy, Mrs. Sharpe as Maria, and Mrs. Hilson as Fanny. May 11th. Mrs. Knight, for her benefit, appeared as Yarico and Priscilla Tomboy. Mr. M. S. Phillips having successfully appeared as Delph and Dromio, took his benefit on the 12th, repeating the latter character, with Barnes as his counterpart, and singing, "Barney, leave the girls alone," in very close imitation of the original. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 519 May 14th. Miss Kelly first appeared this season as Bea- trice. May 19th. Mr. Placide's benefit, when Mr. John Greene, from Philadelphia, first appeared in New York as Dennis Brulgruddery. In a range of Irish parts, previous to Power's advent, he acquired a high repute, and his Dennis we have never seen surpassed. He frequently played at our minor theatres, as the representative of old men, and was last here, at the new Chatham, in 1847. He was also connected with the management of the Philadelphia and several Western theatres. Mr. Greene was a native of Philadelphia, and a printer by trade. He made his debut at Frederickston, Md., in 1818, as Octavian. He retired from the stage in 1857, and died at Nashville, Tenn., May 21st, 1860, aged 65 years. On the above occasion, Placide played the Hon. Tom Shuffleton. May 31st. Mrs. P. K. Moran first appeared on the stage, for Mr. Howard's benefit, as Julia Mannering. Mr. Macready's farewell benefit occurred on the 4th of June, when he appeared as Macbeth and Delaval. Mr. Kilner made his first appearance in several years at this theatre, on the 11th, as Falstaff, and Larry, the Irish valet. June 12th. " Julius Ca3sar" was played for the benefit of Mr. Clarke, who had been prevented by illness from acting for many months. Mr. Conway, Mr. Henry Wallack, and Mrs. Barnes appeared in the play ; Mrs. Singleton, (formerly Miss Utt) a vocalist of no pretensions, but much merit, Mr. Metz, Mr. Howard, &c, assisted in a concert, and Mr. Kilner, Mr. Keene, and Miss Kelly appeared in the farce of " Turn Out." Two new pieces were produced on the 15th — the "Eleventh Hour," with Barry as Pierre Le Motte, Woodhull as Dunoir, Mrs. Hilson as Amelia, and Mrs. Wheatley, Bertha ; and the "Burning of the Kent East Indiaman," with Mr. and Mrs. Hilson, Barry, Woodhull, Placide, Jervis, and Howard in the cast. For Mr. Richings' benefit on the 20th, Mr. Williamson made his first appearance on this stage as Count Belino, and like- wise Mr. Dinneford as Tom, in " Tom and Jerry." 520 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. June 23d. For the benefit of Mr. Durie, prompter. Mr. Anderson, from the Chatham, appeared as the " Irish Valet ;" and in Payne's drama of "Adeline," Mr. Sinclair, a blind actor, played Dorlin, and Mrs. Hill, from the Chatham, the heroine. " A Tale of the Crusades" was produced on the 25th, with Barry as Prince Edward; Woodhull, Osmyn ; Jones, War- wick ; Mrs. Stickney, Elinor ; and Mrs. Hilson, Evelina. July 2d. Mr. Herbert, from the Chatham, appeared as Sir Willoughby Worrett, for the benefit of Mr. Jones. July 4th. Last night of the regular season — " She Would be a Soldier," &c. July 13th. A French opera company, combining consider- able musical and dramatic talentj opened here with a suc- cess that warranted a continuance of their performance for many weeks. Their first piece was " La Cenerentola," cast as follows : Prince . Baron . Alidoro Dandini " Theodore. " Richard. ' Notaire. Cenerentola Clorinda Tisbe . . Mme. Alexandre. " Paradol. " Milon. CHAPTER XXXIV. Bowery Theatre. 1826-7. — First Opening. H E vast improvements made in the eastern section of the city, and its great increase of population, in- cluding many wealthy and fashionable citizens who | located their residences in the Seventh, Tenth and Four- i; teenth Wards, (since, in their turn, deserted for more west- [; erly situations) induced the formation of a company for the I purpose of erecting a theatre in the Bowery, on the site of the 1 old Tavern and Cattle Market, known as the Bull's Head, then I belonging to George Astor. Messrs. Gouverneur, Graham, I James" A. Hamilton, George W. Brown, P. M. Wetmore, T. L. I Smith and Gilfert, were the projectors of this enterprise, and I in process of time a very elegant structure was completed, I having externally the similitude of white marble, with a spa- I cious portico and lofty columns supporting an entablature I and pediment The size, both of stage and auditorium, was I greater than any theatre in the country, the latter being able I to seat about three thousand persons, and in point of decora- I tion it was unsurpassed. It was fondly hoped by its proprie- |i tors that it would prove to be the favored dramatic temple of I New York, and that all other city theatres would sink sub- I ordinate in comparison, and consequently, though popularly I known as the BulFs Head Theatre, it was determined to give I it the more comprehensive title of The New York Theatre. I Bowery; a name which it retained until it came into the hands of Hackett and Hamblin, who designated it simply The 66 522 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Bowery Theatre ; though the latter, in a fit of naturalized patriotism on the occasion of the Anderson riot at the Park, in 1831, proclaimed a change, and announced it as the Ameri- can Theatre, by which its bills were headed for a year or two, after which its present title was resumed. The management of the New York Theatre, which here- after, for convenience, we shall simply call "The Bowery," was intrusted to Mr. Charles Gilfert, and his experience as manager and skill as a musician, aided by the undoubted taste of his accomplished wife, were deemed sufficient guar- antees of his fitness for the post. Mr. George Barrett was engaged as stage-manager, Mr. Taylor, from the Park, as leader of the orchestra, and Messrs. Coyle and Serra, very meritorious artists, as scene-painters. The prices of admission were at first fixed at fifty cents for the boxes and pit, and twenty-five cents for the gallery ; but a few nights' experience proved that to keep a portion of the house free from admixture with the vulgar and unrefined, it would be necessary to discriminate between the boxes and the pit, and the admission was raised to seventy-five cents for the former, and reduced to thirty-seven and a half for the latter, which soon produced the effect desired. The company engaged consisted of Mr. and Mrs. Duff, Mr. and Mrs. Young, Mr. and Mrs. George Barrett, Mr. and Mrs. Roberts ; Messrs. E. Forrest, Faulkner, Hyatt, Stone, Bernard, Lamb, (the singer) C. Durang, Logan, C. Scott, Hamilton, Ken- yon, Essenden, Laws, Read and Beckwell ; Mrs. Gilfert, Mrs. Hughes, old Mrs. Barrett, Mrs. Brazier, Miss Deblin, little Miss Kent, &c. The names of several other individuals were an- nounced who failed to appear. The Theatre was first opened to the public on Monday evening, October 23d, 1826, and the brilliant experiment of lighting the stage with gas, then first attempted, was hailed with the greatest satisfaction by an audience which crowded the building in every part. The following poem, written by Grenville Mellen, received the prize offered by the manager for the best opening ad- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 523 dress, and was recited by Mr. George Barrett, previous to the commencement of the play : In the old days when Athens wore her crown, And temples swelled beneath her classic frown ; When gods to leave their starry thrones began, And stooped to bless the infancy of man, Apollo claimed the empire of the mind, And formed the Drama to subdue mankind ; Rude arts at first beguiled the ruder age, His hope, the Muse — obscurity, the Stage. Severe in grace, with matchless majesty, Curled his proud lip, and glanced his eagle eye, On man he drew the consecrated bow, And laid the Python of the spirit low ; Then with the glories of his bards unfurled, He burst in radiance on a waking world, And in the vigor of undying youth, Unveiled the mirror of eternal truth ! But night came down on Athens, and red "War Fired the rich altar of the Conqueror ; The Sine in horror fled the quivering wire, And Mare' hoarse trumpet drowned Apollo's lyre ; Oblivion stared o*er Gnecia*s desert seas, And the winds moaned throughout her palaces ; Barbarian hands impelled the doom of years — Mercy was gone, and Genius stood in tears. Italia then grew beautiful — the wave That whelmed all Greece in one unpitying grave, Rolled till a rainbow broke upon its gloom, And spanned the ashes of immortal Rome I Lo ! here the god unbinds his golden hair, And his young presence fills the enchanted air ; Wild passion-sounds the listening spirit thrill, And music floats round each melodious hill. But ah ! thy palaces and halls and waves, Land of bright souls — too beautiful for graves — It was not thine to win with dew-lit flowers The Tragic Maid to dally in thy bowers : Truth, like thy marbles, was as cold and dead — The heart was wanting — and the drama fled ! Yes ; from that land of heaven-enkindled fire, Where Maro tuned his harp, and Dante smote his lyre. 524 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Not long she tarried with the troubadour, 'Mid souls as sparkling as the skies were pure — Not yet her visioned hours had come — not yet. As in her dreams, had Art and Nature met : Reason still rose o'er Fiction's painted fears. And gave but sadness where she asked for — tears. At last, as Hope, bright, sandaled Hope, went by. A high-browed minstrel startled on her eye, Hurried through Heaven — the silver summons run, She calls on Shakspeare, and her throne is won ! And ows is Shakspeare : on these splendid walls He — and his queen, shall hang their coronals: Here peerless Taste her wreath of buds shall twine. And Beauty bind it round her fragrant shrine ; Here Music bend above her sounding wires, Where Genius guards his hallowed altar-fires ; Whilst wizard Eloquence shall triumph here. And Poetry itself in steps of light appear. The first drama performed here was Holcroft's comedy of the "Road to Ruin" — an ominous title, which might have been regarded as prophetic of the subsequent conflagration of the theatre, and the utter bankruptcy of its manager. The comedy was thus cast : Goldfinch . Old Dornton . Harry Dornton Milford . . Silky . . Sulky . . . Mr. G. Barrett. " Young. " Duff. " Bernard. " Faulkner. " Stone. Smith . . . Jacob . . . Widow Warren Sophia . . . Jenny . Mrs. Ledger Mr. Logan. " Hyatt. Mrs. Barrett. " G. Barrett. " Brazier. " Roberts. After the comedy, a second prize Address, written by Dr. Farmer, was spoken by Mrs. Young, and the evening's enter- tainments concluded with the farce of " Raising the Wind," in which George Barrett played Jeremy Diddler ; Stone, Plain- way ; Bernard, Fainwould ; Hyatt, Sam; Mrs. Barrett, Miss Durable ; and Mrs. Brazier, Peggy. The performers gave general satisfaction, with the excep- tion of the elder Mrs. Barrett, who, thirty years before, had been the most stately of tragic actresses, but was now deemed incapable of doing justice to the old women of comedy, and soon after withdrew from the company. The younger Mrs. Barrett, who now first appeared under her new name, was radiant in beauty and spirits, and proved to be one of the most attractive features of the establishment. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 525 Mr. Thomas Faulkner was the only stranger of note. He was an Irishman by birth, and had first played in America at the Charleston Theatre. He was an excellent representative of old men and many Irish parts, and was afterward for many years on the Philadelphia stage. He died in 1847. Of Mr. Cornelius A. Logan we have no personal knowledge but Mr. Wemyss states that he was born in Baltimore, Mary- land, and first appeared on the stage at Tivoli Garden, Phila- delphia, in 1825, as Bertram. He has been manager of several theatres, and as a comedian obtained considerable celebrity at the West. He appeared in New York, at Burton's, May, 1849, as Aminidab Slocum, in a farce called " Chloroform," of which we believe he was the author. He died of apoplexy, February 23d, 1852, while on board of a steamboat on the river Ohio. He was the author of " Yankee Land," " Vermont Wool Dealer," and other dramas. His daughters, Eliza, Olive and Celia, have since been well known at the South and West, and have occasionally appeared in New York. Oct. 24th. Mrs. Hughes made her first appearance as Le- titia Hardy. Oct. 25th. Mr. Roberts made his first appearance, with great applause, as Doctor Pangioss, in the " Heir at Law ;" Faulkner, as Lord Duberly ; Barrett, Dick Dowlas; Hyatt, Zekiel Homespun ; and Mrs. Young, Cicely. Oct. 26th. " Much Ado About Nothing" was performed, as follows: Benedick Mr. G. Barrett. Dogberry .... Mr. Faulkner. Don Pedro .... " Bernard. Verges " Hyatt. iLeonato " Young. Beatrice .... Mrs. Gilfert. iClaudio " Logan. | Hero " Young. Mrs. Gilfert, on this occasion, made her first appearance in |four years, and though somewhat failing in physical force, igave ample evidence that her elegance and refinement of imanner were unchanged, and still entitled her to claim pre- cedence for the brilliancy and truth of her personations. Mrs. H. A. Williams made her first appearance on the 27th tas Mrs. Malaprop, in the " Rivals." ) A series of fine comedies was presented in succession, with 'excellent casts, one of which, that of the " School for Scandal," 526 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. as performed on the 30th October, we transcribe as being one of the most complete and perfect, as a whole, that had then been known in New York : Sir Peter . Sir Oliver Joseph Charles Crabtree . Sir Benjamin Careless . Mr. Roberts. " Stone. " Duff. " G. Barrett. " Faulkner. " Bernard. '• Lamb. Rowley . . . Moses . . . Trip . . . Lady Teazle . Lady Sneerwell Mrs. Candour Maria . . . Mr. Laws. " Hyatt. " Logan. Mrs. GlLFERT. " Brazihr. " Williams. " Young. Nov. 6th. Mr. Forrest made his first appearance on the stage where he established his fame as a tragedian, in the character of Othello, supported by Duff as Iago, G. Barrett as Cassio, Roberts as Roderigo, Mrs. G. Barrett and Mrs. Hughes as Desdemona and Emilia. On the 8th, he here first played Damon, and on the 14th, Jaffier. Mrs. Gilfert's benefit, on the 16th, was the first that oc- curred in the establishment, when she appeared as Miss Do- rillon, in "Wives as They Were." She also played Therese, with Forrest as Carwin, wherein he made a most powerful impression. On this occasion, Mr. Keene gave a song, and Miss Deblin a pas seul, being their first appearance. Nov. 17th. First night of the first new play acted here — being a comedy called " Dog Days in Bond Street," which, though popular in London, failed to be successful in New York. It was thus cast: Tressylian Alfred . Flashly Dimity . Mr. Faulkner. " Bernard. " G. Barrett. " Hyatt. Buzz . . Squeezecrab Rosamond Mrs. Gabb . Mr. Roberts. " Stone. Mrs. Brazier. " Williams. Nov. 18th. Mr. William Leggett, once editor of the Even- ing Post and Plaindealer, a critic of the highest intelligence, and a man of eminent literary ability, appeared as Bertram, making a failure so decided that he never again ventured to tread the boards. Mr. Conway first appeared here on the 20th, as Hamlet } and the peerless Mrs. Duff, on the 22d, as Jane Shore. Nov. 25th (Evacuation Day). Mr. Forrest played for the first time the Indian Chief, in " She Would be a Soldier," and Mr. Keene appeared as Patrick, in the " Poor Soldier." Nov. 30th. " William ' Tell" was first played here, with Forrest as the hero; and, on the 1st of December, "Julius RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 527 Caesar," with Forrest as Marc Antony, Conway as Brutus, and George Barrett as " the lean and hungry Cassius" — the length and spareness of his person being his best, if not his only re- commendation for the character. Mr. Conway took his benefit December 11th, playing Cardinal Wolsey, in "Henry VIII.," with Mrs. Duff's exquisite representation of Queen Katharine, for the first time in New York. Dec. 13th. Mr. Hamblin first appeared, where he after- ward reigned as manager triumphant, in the character of Virginvus, Dec. 14th. Mr. Forrest played, for the first time in New York, Earl Osmond, and, on Christmas night, the youthful libertine, George Barnwell. On the latter occasion a new farce was produced, called the " Smoked Miser," wherein Mr. Roberts enacted the hero, Spiderlimb. Mr. Hamblin took his benefit on the 27th, when Forrest played Lear for the first time, with Hamblin as Edgar, Duff as Edmund, Young as Kent, and Mrs. Duff as Cordelia. Mr. Hamblin and Mrs. Gilfert also appeared as Sir Charles and Lady Rackett. Dec. 29th. Mr. Forrest appeared, for the first time, as Sir Edward Mortimer, on the 30th as Octavian, and on the 3d of January, 1827, for his own benefit, as Richard III. Jan. loth, 1827. Urged by the embarrassments of her hus- band, Malibran, and tempted by the offer of five hundred dol- lars per night from Mr. Gilfert, Signorina Garcia returned to the stage, aDd first attempted a character in English opera, that of Count Belino, in the " Devil's Bridge," from which, oddly enough, all the music was cut, except the songs inci- dental to her part. With a slight foreign accent in her pro- nunciation of the language, she was as triumphant here as in the more familiar scenes of the Italian stage. Jan. 18th. Mr. Dwyer made his first appearance as Fal- staff, in the "Merry Wives." Jan. 25th. Mr. Forrest first played Rolla. Jan. 29th. The Signorina took a benefit, appearing for the first time as Rosetta, in " Love in a Village," with Denman 528 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. (late of the Park) as Hawthorn, Keene as Young 1 Meadows, Faulkner as Justice Woodcock, Hyatt as Hodge, and Mrs. Young, Lucinda. The Signorina sang in this piece the songs of " My Heart's my Own," " Cush-la-ma-chree," and " Home, Sweet Home," and, with Mr. Keene, the duet, "Begone, I Agree." She also introduced the celebrated scena from "Tancredi," "0 Patria," with the ever-favorite "Di Tanti." The talents of Mrs. Gilfert and Mrs. Duff were first com- bined in the same play on the 31st, in an entertainment for the benefit of the suffering Greeks, then struggling for inde- pendence. The former played Hermione, and the latter Ca- lanthe, to the Damon of Mr. Forrest. Feb. 5th. The Signorina commenced a new engagement as Rosetta, aided by Mrs. Blake as Lucinda, her first appearance. Feb. 7th. After the performance of "Much Ado About Nothing," a grand Pas Seul — " La Barege Coquette" — was exe- cuted by Madame Francisquy Hutin, her first appearance in America, and the first introduction of the modern French school of dancing on the American Stage. The house was crowded, and an anxious look of curiosity and expectation dwelt on every face ; but when the graceful danseuse came bounding like a startled fawn upon the stage, her light and scanty drapery floating in air, and her symmetrical proportions liberally displayed by the force of a bewildering pirouette, the cheeks of the greater portion of the audience were crim- soned with shame, and every lady in the lower tier of boxes immediately left the house. But time works wondrous changes, and though for a while Turkish trowsers were adopted by the lady, they were finally discarded, and the common ballet-dresses, indecent though they be, were gradually en- dured, and are now looked upon as a matter of course. Madame Hutin was a skillful, graceful and daring dancer, and was greatly admired by the admirers of her peculiar school of art. She afterward married Claudius Labasse, the ballet master, who did not long survive the anion. Madame Hutin Labasse — a widow, and in poverty — last appeared here in 1831. Mr. Sarzedas made his first appearance in New York, on RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 529 the 9th, as Young: Norval. He was connected with this Thea- tre for several years. He last appeared in New York in 1840, at the Park, and has since been connected with the Western theatres. " Don Giovanni " was brought out on the 12th, with George Barrett as the Don, Denman as Octavio, Roberts as Leporello, Keene as Massetto, Mrs. Blake as Leonora, and the Signorina, Zerlina. Feb. 15th. " El Hyder" was produced, with Mr. Sandford's stud of horses, and Mr. Thompson, from the Lafayette Thea- tre, as El Hyder. Feb. 20th. Mr. Blake made his first appearance as Don Felix, in the " Wonder." The Signorina took her benefit on the 27th, with "Don Giovanni " and scenes from the " Barber," in which she was assisted by Signor Rosich, his first appearance. March 1st. Mons. and Madame Achille made their first appearance in America in a Grand Pas de Deux. The gen- tleman was the best male dancer yet seen in America, and Madame, by some, was considered fully equal to Hutin. She was, perhaps, as graceful, but not so dexterous and daring. They last appeared at Richmond Hill in 1832, but a popular dancing academy was afterward kept for many years by Madame Achille, who was as great a favorite in private as on the stage. Madame Hutins benefit occurred on the 2d, when she ap- peared, for th« first time, as Florio, in the "Forest of Bondy.' Mrs. Duff's benefit took place on the 5th, when she pre- sented Dimond's play of " Adrian and Orilla," finely cast, her husband representing Prince Altenberg, and she, Maddme Clermont; also, for the first time, a new piece called "Re- turned Killed," thus cast : King Frederick . . . Mr. Stone. I Milligan .... Mr. Dufp. Baron Lindorf . . " Faulkner. Joseph ... " Kenton. Ernest " Bernard. Fritz M Hamilton. Brummenfeld ... " Logan. Mad. Lidberg . . . Mrs. Williams. Raubvogel .... " Roberts. I Victorine .... " Brazier. Mrs. Blake revived the tragedy of "Adelgitha" for her benefit on the 7th, Mr. Blake appearing as Lothair, and Mrs. 67 530 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Duff, for the first time, in her grand and thrilling character of Adelgitha. The beneficiary appeared as Marian Ramsay, in "Turn Out." For Mr. Keene's benefit on the 11th, Mr. Henry Wallack, from the Chatham, appeared as Rob Roy, Mr. Keene as Francis, Mr. Roberts as the Baillie, Mrs. Blake as Diana Vernon, and Mrs. Duff, for the first time, as Helen McGregor. It is re- corded as a proof of Mrs. Duff's excellence in Helen McGregor, that Hyatt, the comedian, who that night witnessed the per- formance from the boxes, familiar as he was with the actress in her professional walks, and thoroughly inured to the busi- ness of the Stage, was so overcome by the cunning of the scene that he was unable to restrain his tears, and that the entire audience exhibited the same unmistakable evidences of deep emotion. March 20th. Mr. Wilson made his first appearance in this theatre as Reuben Glenroy ; and on the 23d, Alexander Simp- son, from the Chatham, appeared for Hyatt's benefit, as Molino, in the "Blind Boy." April 5th. Mr. Forrest commenced a new engagement as Damon, and took his benefit on the 2d of May, as King Lear. His performances attracted a large share of public attention, and received the warmest eulogiums of the critics, interspersed with much sensible and well-meant advice. May 21st. Mr. Forrest played Virginius, we believe for the first time ; and a new farce, called " Before Breakfast," (in which the elder Mathews was very happy in London) was produced, with the following cast : Trefoil, McLaughlin, and Macabau by Mr. Roberts. Maj. Havanna ... Mr. C. Scott. I Buffer Mr. Faulkner. Lieut. Havanna ..." Bernard. Fanny Mrs. Brazier. May 22d. "Venice Preserved" was performed, with Wil- son, Forrest and Mrs. Duff in the cast ; and in the afterpiece of the " Sleep Walker," Mr. Roberts, as Somno, not only gave admirable imitations of Booth, Kean, Macready, Maywood, Hilson, Barnes, Cowell, Hyatt, Simpson, Clarke, Herbert Keene and Andrew Allen, but greatly amused the audience by imita- ting Moses Phillips' imitations of Barnes, and Roberts himself. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 531 May 24th. The nautical melo-drama of the " Flying Dutch- man" was produced here, with the following great cast, which insured a great run : Vanderdecken . . . Mr. G. Barrett. Von Bummell . . Mr. Roberts. Von Brunt .... " Faulkner. Lestelle .... Mrs. G. Barrett. Lieut. Mowdrey ... " Bernard. Lucy . ..." Young. Tom Willis .... " Young. I Kockalda .... " Doff. The latter character soon descended to Mr. Logan, and has always since, we believe, had a male representative. June 1st. For the benefit of Mr. Wilson, who was quite successful here, a Mr. Osborne first appeared in America as Glenalvon, in the tragedy of " Douglas," with Forrest as Young Norval, for the first time in New York ; Wilson as Old Norvab and Mrs. Duff as Lady Randolph. June 8th. Mr. George Barrett's benefit, and first night of a comedy, called the "Wife's Stratagem," modernized from Shirley's old play of the " Gamesters," thus cast : Wilding Mr. G. Barrett. Acreless .... Mr. Logan. Volatile " Bernard. Sellaway .... "J. Barrt. Barnacle " Faulkner. Mrs. Wilding . Mrs. Young. Bob Barnacle . ..." Hyatt. | Arabella .... u G.Barrett. Also the first performance of Buckstone's farce of the " Lot- tery Ticket," in which Roberts made a great hit as Worm- wood, with G. Barrett as Capias, C. Scott as Charles, Mrs. Williams as Mrs. Corset, and Mrs. G. Barrett, Susan. June 9th. Henry Wallack commenced an engagement as Roll a, and on the 11th appeared as Octavian, in the " Mount- aineers" when Mrs. H. Wallack made her first appearance as Agnes. On the latter evening, a grand ballet of action, entitled the "Deserter," was produced, under the direction of Mons. Achille, with the following cast : Alexis Mr. H. Wallace. I Louise Mme. Hutin. General " Young Jeannette .... " A chills. Jean Louis ... C. Durang. Countess .... Mrs. Rouerts. Montauciel .... Mons. Achille. Attendant .... Miss Kent. Nica^e Sig. Angrisani. i Aunt " Armstrong. On the occasion of Mr. Henry Wallack's benefit, Mr. Hanib- lin appeared as Macbeth, Mr. Wallack as Macduff, and his sister, Mrs. Hill, from the Chatham, as Lady Macbeth. Mr. and Mrs. Wallack also appeared in " Of Age To-morrow " as Willinghurst and Maria. June 27th. In the " School for Scandal," Mrs. Gilfert re- 532 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. appeared, after her Southern tour, as Lady Teazle, and Mr. Quin made his first appearance in New York as Moses. In 1832, poor Quin died in the Philadelphia Almshouse. Immediately after the comedy, a pas seul, from the ballet of the " Twelve Pages," was executed by Mademoiselle Celeste, her first appearance in America. This best of melo- dramatic actresses is said to have been born in Paris, August 6tb, 1814, and at a very early age was placed as a pupil in the Conser- vatoire of the Academie Royale de Musique. While there, as a child, she appeared with Talma, the greatest of French tra- gedians, and with Madame Pasta, the most sublime of singers. She was a child in years when she first appeared here, but her grace and beauty attracted universal admiration, and won for her the hand of Mr. Elliott, an American gentleman, to whom she was married in 1828, and by whom she became the mother of an only daughter, since united to a gentleman of Balti- more. After dancing with success in the principal theatres of the Union, she sailed from New Orleans for Liverpool, and there first appeared upon the British stage as Fenella, in " Masaniello," in which she achieved a signal success. She went the round of the provincial theatres, and then appeared in London at Drury Lane, and at the Queen's Theatre, where she first gained a metropolitan repute by her astonishing performance of Mathilde, in the "French Spy," being soon recognized as a brilliant star in all the best minor theatres of London. After visiting France, Italy, and Germany, she re- turned to London, and was triumphantly welcomed at Drury Lane, where she appeared in " La Bayadere," " Prince Leboo," " Revolt of the Harem," &c. On the 17th of November, 1834, she again appeared in New York, at the Bowery, as Mathilde, and during the season there played some of the most brilliant and successful engagements on record. Understanding the value of the puff preliminary, she was heralded in every paper of the Union in terms of unqualified praise, and curiosity was on tiptoe to witness her performances wherever she went. During this tour, which extended to 1837, it is said that she netted the sum of forty thousand pounds, with which she re- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 533 turned to England. She made us a third visit in 1838, and played her farewell engagement then, at the Park Theatre, in January, 1840. In 1843, she managed, with the co-operation of Mr. Webster, a theatre in Liverpool, and in 1844, with the same gentleman, became lessee of the Adelphi, London. Her next visit to America was in the fall of 1851, when she made her first appearance at the Broadway Theatre, on the. 18th of Oc- tober, as Miami, in " Green Bushes," and took her farewell benefit there in June, 1852. On the 25th of September, 1865, after an absence of thirteen years, Celeste unexpectedly pre- sented herself at the new Broadway Theatre as Miriam, the Hebrew Mother, in a new play called the " Woman in Red,*' and, as of yore, excited her audience to the very highest pitch of enthusiasm. It was rumored that her re-appearance was rendered neces- sary by some unfortunate investments which had seriously impaired her hitherto ample fortune. In her prime, to the greatest elegance and symmetry of person, she added a handsome face, most eloquent dark eyes, and an expressiveness of feature, beyond any actress of the age. Every movement was full of grace, and every attitude a picture. The power, pathos, and effect of her pantomimic acting have never been approached, while her assumptions of male attire and heroic character, in such parts as Vander- decken, in the "Flying Dutchman," and Valentine, in "Val- entine and Orson/' were marvelous exhibitions of daring am- bition and successful achievement. Her success in America has been equaled among women only by Fanny Kemble and Jenny Lind, and among the multitude she was undoubtedly the most popular of the trio. On her last appearance, her face indicated the ravages of time, by an increased sharpness of feature, and her whole person seemed emaciated, but her powers as an actress were in no wise diminished. A fourth French danseuse, who also acquired considerable favor, was Mademoiselle Heloise, who made her first appear- ance on the 7th of July in a grand pas seul. 534 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. July 11th. Mrs. Gilfert had her benefit, playing Juliana, in the " Honeymoon," Celeste dancing a pas seul, and Signo- rina Garcia appearing in the "Tancredi" landing-scene. July 14th. "Love among the Roses," a farce, was first played, as follows : Aid. Marigold . . . Mr. C. Scott. Sharpset .... Mr. Bernard. Capt. Gorgon . . . '' Faulkner. Holyhock .... " Kenyon.. Edmund " Logan Rose .... Mrs. Brazier. The "Hundred-Pound Note," which attained great popu- larity, was next played on the 18th, with the annexed cast : MontmoreDcy . . . Mr. G. Barrett. Bilker Mr. C. Durang. O'Snocknesey. ... " C. Scott. Lady Pedigree . . Mrs. Williams. Billy Black . . . " Roberts. Mrs. Arlington . . " Hughes. Morgan .... " Faulkner. Harriet Arlington " G. Barrett. Janus " Kenton. Nurse " Roberts. Roberts as Billy Black, with his batch of conumdrums, and his everlasting " D'ye give it up ?" was perfectly irresistible. July 23d. Mr. Forrest played Shylock for the first time, and Mr. Collingbourne made his first appearance here in the part of Antonio. Aug. 3d. The proceeds of the evening were for the benefit of the widow of William Spiller, the late favorite comedian of the Park and Chatham. Aug. 8th. Major Stevens, the dwarf, first appeared as Tom Thumb. Aug. 10th. Andrew Allen, the costumer, took a benefit, on which occasion he slipped on the sock as Governor HeariaH, and Sir Harry, in " High Life Below Stairs," and introduced some reminiscences of the Stage for the previous quarter of a century. Aug. 14th. Mr. Hamblin commenced an engagement as Brutus, and on the 20th appeared, for the first time, as Lord Townly, with Mrs. Gilfert as the Lady. Aug. 22d. A benefit was given to the widow of Mr. Coyle, the artist, who lost his life by being accidentally thrown from a cart by the sudden starting of the horse from fright. Aug. 24th. Mrs. Williams played Richard III. for her benefit, when her husband made his first appearance here as Richmond. No cessation of performance took place during the summer, but the continuance of the season we defer for a future chapter. CHAPTER XXXV. Park Theatre, 1827-8. H E company engaged for the new season at the Park included Messrs. Barry, Simpson, Woodhull, Hilson, Rees, Placide, Howard, Boyle, Foot, W. Jones, H. Williams, H. Knight, Jervis, T. Placide, Povey, Nexsen, Wray, Wheatley, Parker and Durie ; Mesdames Hil- son, Hackett, Stickney, Sharpe, Wheatley, Barry, Godey, Durie, Moreland and Benjamin, and the Misses Brundage, Bland and Julia Wheatley. Barnes and Hackett were to appear occasionally, and among the promised stars were Cooper, Mrs. Duff, Miss Kelly, Mrs. Knight, Mrs. Barnes, Horn the vocalist, and Miss Clara Fisher. Clarke, Lee, Richings, Bancker, Denman, Miss E. Placide, (who retired on her marriage with Mr. Asbury) Mrs. De Luce and Mrs. Smith, were no longer on the stock list. The establishment was re-occupied for the first time by the regular company, September 3d, 1827. " Paul Pry" was performed, with Hilson as Pan/, Placide as Col. Hardy, H. Williams as Frank, and Barry as Harry Stanley, the remain- der of the characters as originally performed. A ballet fol- lowed, entitled the u Highland Wedding,'' in which Mr. Parker and Mrs. Godey appeared, and the entertainments terminated 'with the "Burning of the Kent." The French Opera, for a period, was given twice a week, on which nights the comedians migrated to their old place of refuge, the Broadway Circus. 536 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Sept. 5th. Mr. Hackett made his first appearance, after his return from Europe, as Richard III., in imitation of Kean ; and, on the 7th, in conjunction with Mr. Barnes, appeared in the " Comedy of Errors," in which he was far more admired and applauded. Mrs. Moreland made her first appearance in a fancy dance on the 5th, with great approbation. Sept. 11th. "The Will" was performed, with Miss Clara Fisher as Altrina Mandeville , succeeded by the farce of " Old and Young," in which she personated the four Mowbrays, sup- ported by Jones as Old Wilton, Nexsen as Mowbray, Placide as Peter, and Mrs. Wheatley, Peggy. Clara Fisher's first list of characters on the Park boards, following the above, con- sisted of Goldfinch, Maria, ("Actress of All Work") Helen Worrett, Letitia Hardy, Crack, Little Pickle, Young Norval, Harriet, ("Is He Jealous?") Priscilla Tomboy, Lydia Lan- guish, Cherubino, Clari and Marian Ramsay, in all of which her success was unprecedented, and words were wanting by the critics to express a due opinion of her merits. Miss Clara Fisher (now Mrs. Maeder) was born in England, July 14th, 1811. Her father, Mr. Frederick George Fisher, a gentleman of fine literary taste, was, at one time, proprietor of a noted library at Brighton, and afterward an active auc- tioneer in London. Displaying unconsciously, at the earliest age, a natural genius for dramatic performance, she was taken when six years old to witness a rehearsal of " Gulliver in Lilliput," at Drury Lane Theatre, the performers being children between the years of six and ten, and was so fascin- ated with the scene that she eagerly begged her father's per- mission to join the little troupe, and having recited a speech from " Jane Shore" to the manager, she was at once engaged, and on her account a masque, written by Mr. Fisher, was added to the drama, introducing the last act of Richard III.," in which character (as Lord Flimnap) Miss Clara first came be- fore the public with a success so decided that the burlesque was repeated seventeen nights, and immediately after the youthful Roscia was engaged at Covent Garden, where she RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 537 appeared with equal eclat. It is worthy of remark that among the Lilliputian army at Drury Lane, two eminent New York favorites, Mrs. Vernon and Mrs. Hamblin (Shaw) first paced the boards of a theatre. So marvelous was Miss Fisher's excellence in Richard, and so intense the curiosity to witness her performance, that ap- plications for her services poured in from every quarter, and in the course of a few years she had appeared with corre- sponding success in all the principal cities and towns of Great Britain and Ireland; in fact, she was the wonder of her times, and as a juvenile performer, eclipsed all predecessors and successors. After five years spent in starring, an engagement for three years, at a large salary, was accepted for her at Drury Lane, where she re-appeared as Little Pickle, December 3d, 1822, with the most rapturous applause, which she commanded in every succeeding character while she remained there. On her arrival in America, she had not yet reached her seventeenth year, and though not possessing strict beauty of feature, was certainly one of the most bewitching specimens of feminine creation that eyes had ever looked on. Her person, below the middle height, and just reaching, but not exceeding a delicate plumpness, was exquisitely formed ; her manners were sprightly and vivacious, yet per- fectly natural and artless; her expression arch and intelli- gent ; her cheeks dimpling with smiles, and her eyes were " So modestly beaming, Of mischief she could not be dreaming, Yet many can tell how fatal the spell That lurked in the eyes of — " the song says — Kate Kearney; but Truth might justly, if not harmoniously, substitute the name of our fair heroine. Appearing, as she constantly did, in the characters of boys and striplings, she had her fine hair closely cut on the back of the head, while on her brow she wore the then fashionable rolls or puffs, a style that was immediately adopted by all fashionable ladies under twenty-five, and by some of more 68 538 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. mature age ; while an imitation of her delicate hut natural lisp was considered equally indispensable. In fact, she he- longed to the royal family of lions, and her name was bor- rowed to give popularity to new fashions and old hotels, slow stages and fast racers ; and anything or anybody that could claim the most distant connection with the " celebrated Clara Fisher" was sure of attracting notice and distinction. On her appearance as Albina, a feeling of disappointment was felt by the audience during the earlier portion of the play, until she introduced, for the first time in America, the song of " Hurrah ! for the Bonnets of Blue," which went like an electric flash through the house, and drew down that spirit-stirring applause so necessary to give confidence to one appearing for the first time before a crowd of strangers. But from that moment all was life, animation and success, and her performance of the soldier, the fop, and the glutton, in the Four Mowbrays, stamped her the very best of actresses in light and eccentric comedy. For several years her popularity was unbounded, and when at last it began to wane, it could be attributed only to the fickleness of public taste and the immense influx of foreign rivals, for no diminution of merit was at all perceptible. Her intellect was capable of grasping the most masterly creations of the most exalted minds, and in childhood her success was equally apparent in tragedy, opera, or farce, but on reaching womanhood, her face, voice and person were adapted principally to the lighter characters of opera and comedy, and in the latter line we consider her the most per- fect and finished actress that has ever trod the American Stage. Her best character in tragedy was Ophelia, which she played with the most touching grace and winning simplicity ; her Viola, too, was a beautiful personation ; yet she produced far more effect in the more e very-day character of Clari, which she played with a pathos so irresistible and natural, that tears were always forced from every eye that saw it. In the fashionable lady of high comedy, she had all the RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 539 ease and grace and elegance requisite for the part, but her diminutive figure lent no aid to support its dignity, and she often appeared the child aping the woman ; yet her Lady Teazle was a very charming performance, and we have seen her play Lady Gay Spanker far more to our liking than its first representative, Miss Cushman, who divested the character of everything like refinement or delicacy. In opera, Clara Fisher appeared to every advantage that a thorough knowl- edge of music with a limited extent of voice permitted. She has personated with approbation the Prince, in " Cinderella," Arbaces, in " Artaxerxes ;" Susanna, Liza, &c, but her best vocal efforts were found in those ballads to which her inimit- able expression gave a lasting popularity. Among these may be enumerated, " Fall not in love, dear girls, beware !" " I should very much like to know," " Kate Kearney," " Love was once a little boy" "Ah! I remember that sweet hour," "Merry mountain horn," " Honi soit qui mal y pense," " The girl that I love," and a hundred others. One indeed will never be for- gotten by those who heard it from the lips of Little Pickle, " Since then I'm doomed this sad reverse to prove," which was given with such plaintive sadness as to move every heart to pity. Her Sailors Hornpipe, too, in this character, proba- bly gave more real pleasure than any fantastic pas ever exe- cuted by a French dancer. The line of characters in which Clara Fisher appeared with most success was the same in which Mrs. Jordan and Madame Vestris achieved their greatest triumphs — the former as the true actress of nature ; the latter as the most elaborate ex- emplar of artificial life. She was nature itself in the mis- chievous boys and romping girls of the Stage, while the pert chambermaid and the belle of the saloon were hit off with an unexampled fidelity. What could be more perfect than her Vincent, in " John of Paris," or her Cherubino, or her Paul the Pet ? Who could have excelled her in Peggy, the " Country Girl," or Letitia Hardy, or Helen Worrett, or Harriet Arling- ton ? Were there ever such amusing Abigails as her Betty Finikin, or PJicebe, in " Paul Pry," or Virtoire, in the " Invin- 540 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. cibles?" How different, yet equally admirable, were her Giovanni and Cowslip, Nell Gwynne and Amanthis, Dolly Bull, Cicely Homespun and Kate O'Brien — in sooth, one might extend the list indefinitely, and arrive at the same conclusion in the end, that she was unequaled. One of the best characters of her later days was the Fool, in "Lear, r which she made a very important personage when Macready brought out the play as originally written; and during the last few years she has played with the most con- summate ability such characters as Mrs. Page, Mrs. Trictrac, Mrs. Candour, Barbara Manly, in "Romance and Reality," Mrs. Bob Crotchet, the Widow Green, Audrey, &c. &c. Clara Fisher never sought vulgar admiration — she never forced a point and then solicited applause. Like Mrs. Duff in tragedy, her unity of conception was most remarkable, and she never willingly raised a smile at the expense of consist- ency. Her attention to the minutiae of a part was wonderful, and the skill and carefulness she has evinced during the present season (1866) prove that it was not her youthful freshness alone nor the credulity of her admirers that rendered her so long an idol. On the 6th of December, 1834, she was united in marriage to Mr. James G. Maeder, a distinguished musician, and the vocal preceptor of Mr. Wood, Charlotte Cushman, and other celebrities. Much of the ample fortune she acquired in her earlier years was lost in the ruin of the United States Bank, and much in unfortunate attempts at theatrical management. Her last engagement at the Park was in the disastrous season of 1840-41, when she was in the stock company. On the 28th of September, 1841, she had the honor of receiving a complimentary benefit there, arranged for her by a committee of ladies, the receipts of which amounted to nearly two thou- sand dollars. Her last appearance on that Stage, the scene of her many triumphs, was in the character of Lydia Languish, for the benefit of her sister, Mrs. Vernon, November 6th, 1844. After a residence of several years in Albany, she returned to this city in the fall of 1851, and appeared for one season at RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 541 Brougham's Lyceum, and afterward occasionally assisted in Madame Thillon's opera troupe at Niblo's. Of her personal character, we are assured by one who knows her well that in private life alone can her virtues and worth be properly ap- preciated, and that she truly is the blessing and pride of her domestic circle. Sept. 15th. Mr. C. W. Armstrong, editor of the New York Spy, had a benefit, on which occasion Mr. Rees, who proved to be a valuable actor in comic old men, made his first ap- pearance in America as Justice Woodcock, in " Love in a Vil- lage;" Mr. Richings made an only appearance in Young' Meadows ; Ferdinand Durang, ditto, in a hornpipe ; and Mr. Duff played Looney McTwolter, his first appearance here in four years. Sept. 19th. Mr. Hackett appeared as Paris, in Massinger's " Roman Actor," with his celebrated defense of the Stage. The attempt was pronounced "a little heavy, but no less divine." Mr. Cooper commenced an engagement on the 24th, as Virginius, and to strengthen his failing attraction, the aid of Mrs.. Duff was called in, who, on the 27th, made her first ap- pearance here in four years as Belvidera. The "Hundred-Pound Note" was first played here on the 29th, with Hilson as Billy Black; Simpson, Montmorency; Rees, O'Shaughnessy ; Mrs. Wheatley as Lady Pedigree ; and Mrs. Sharpe, Harriet. Miss Clara Fisher's first benefit in America occurred Oc- tober 1st, when she appeared in " Clari," "Is He Jealous?" and " Turn Out." Miss Kelly first appeared this season on the 3d; as Beatrice and Rosina ; and on the 4th, for the first time, personated Gil Bias. Oct. 5th. After the performance of " Bertram," with Cooper and Mrs. Duff, a scene from the "Man of the World" was given, in which Mr. Hackett first attempted the character of McSycopIiant. Oct. 8th. The farce of "Comfortable Lodgings" was first 542 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. played, in which Mr. Rees made a capital hit as Sir Hipping- ton Miff, with Placide as Captain Bonassus, Hilson as Rigma- role, Mrs. Wheatley as Mme. Bonassus, and Mrs. Sharpe, An- toinette. Oct. 9th. Mr. Henry Knight made his first appearance in America as Tom, in "Intrigue," and Robin Roughead. He was a son of the famous London comedian, and was himself an amusing actor, though not of the first class. He married the elder Miss Kent, daughter of the former comedian of the Park, and is last remembered in New York at the Richmond Hill, in 1832. He died at Elktown, Maryland, December 15th, 1839, from the effects of an injury received while at- tempting to jump on a rail-car when in motion. Oct. 11th. Soane's legendary romance of "Faustus" was produced with great splendor, and the following cast : Faustus Mr. Simpson. Mephistophiles . . Mr. Barry. Ct. Orsino .... " Howard. Adine Mrs. Knight. Ct. Cassanova ..." Placide. Rosolia .... " Sharpe. Montolio " Woodhuli. Lucetta .... " Hackett. Wagner " Hilson. The music, by Bishop and Horn, had ample justice done it, and Mrs. Knight, who made her first appearance this season, gave especial satisfaction in her songs, u Come, Love, to Me," and « Saul, King!" Mrs. Duff took her farewell benefit on the 12th, appearing, for the first time in New York, as Virginia, to Cooper's Vir- ginius. Mr. Duff also appeared as Murtoch Delany, in which he gave the original song and planxty. They sailed for Eng- land on the 4th of December. Oct. 17th. Mr. Charles E. Horn made his first appearance in America as the Seraskier, in the " Siege of Belgrade." He soon after appeared as Prince Orlando, Don Sylvio, Henry Bertram, and Trumore, (" Lord of Manor ") with Mrs. Knight's aid as Floretta, Isadora, &c. Mr. Horn was born in London, (of German descent) A.D. 1788. His father was a distin- guished musician, and instructed him on the piano-forte ; the science of music was imparted by Baumgarten, and his vocal tutors were Rauzzini and T. Welsh. He first performed in the orchestra at Covent Garden, on the double base, and afterward RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 543 at the Italian opera, on the second violoncello. He made his appearance as a singer at the Lyceum Theatre, June 26th, 1809, and rising rapidly in favor, soon attained a high posi- tion on the boards of Drury Lane. While he retained his voice, he was equally admired here, but its failure caused him to leave the stage about 1835, although he afterward frequently appeared in the concert-room as vocalist and an accompanyist on the piano. He also at one time was engaged in business as music-seller and publisher. As a composer and adapter, he was very happy. Several of his songs, " I've been Roaming," " Deep, deep Sea," " Cherry Ripe," " Mermaid's Cave," " Dark-eyed One," &c, attained great popularity. The music of the "Bee Hive," "Woodman's Hut," "Ninth Statue," "Lalla Rookh," "Dido," &c, was of his composition, and he also arranged many foreign operas for the English Stage. His last original opera, " Ahmed Al Kamel, or the Pilgrim of Love," was produced at the old National Theatre, in 1840. Mr. Horn died at Boston of typhoid fever, October 22d, 1849. His first wife was Miss Ray, a London actress, and his second, whom he married here, was the vocalist Miss Horton, who survived him. Miss Kelly took her benefit on the 30th, when she appeared as Caroline, in the " Prize," and Rosantha, in " Brother and Sister," aided by Horn and Mrs. Knight, and Clara Fisher played the Mowbrays. Mr. Horn's first benefit came off November 5th, when he ap- peared as Lord Winlove, in " Fontainbleau," with Mrs. Knight as Rosa, and Clara Fisher as Dolly Bull. Miss Kelly also ap- peared, and the musical farce of "Abon Hassan" was first played, with the following cast: AboD Hassan . . . Mr. Horn. Zobeide .... Mre. Stickney. Caliph " Jones. Zuliema .... " Knight. Mesrour " Rees. Noxamoul .... " Wheatlet. Zabouc u Placide. Nov. 7th. Mrs. Knight's benefit, when the "Duenna" was revived, with Horn as Carlos, Howard as Ferdinand, Placide (first time) as Don Jerome, Miss Kelly, Clara, and Mrs. Knight, Louisa. Clara Fisher likewise appeared as Paul, to Mrs. Knight's Virginia. 544 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Nov. 8th. A new version of " Der Freyschutz," with Weber's music, was given, with the following cast : Caspar Mr. Horn. I Killian Mr. Placide. Adolph Miss Kelly. Linda Mrs. Knight. Ottocar Mr. Howard. Rose " Sharpe. Bernhard " Woodhull. | Caspar was the best part that Horn ever played or sung, and he has never since been equaled in it, while Mrs. Knight's Linda was justly considered one of her happiest efforts. Nov. 9th. Mr. Cooper commenced his farewell engagement in his best part, Virginius, Mrs. Barnes making her first ap- pearance this season as Virginia. Nov. 12th. The farce of " Bears not Beasts" was first played, as follows : Snapall Mr. Placide. Babalonk .... Mr. Jones. Puddifat " Rees. Zaida Mrs. Sharpe. Bashaw " "Woodhull. Fatima " Godet. Nov. 15th. The Frenchy drama of the " Gambler's Fate" was brought out with much success, and was throughout ex- ceedingly well played by the following performers : Old Germain .... Mr. Jervis. i Baalamb .... Mr. Placide. Albert " Barry. Julia Mrs. Barnes. Henry Mrs. Sharpe. Mme. Belcour. . . " Sticknet. Malcour .... Mr. Woodhull. I Mrs. Baalamb . . " Wheatlet. Nov. 16th. Mrs. Hackett's benefit. The " Marriage of Fig- aro," with Mrs. Barnes as Cherubino, Miss Kelly as Susanna, and Mrs. Hackett as the Countess ; also the " Hundred-Pound Note," with Hackett, for the first time, as Montmorency, and Barnes as Billy Black. Nov. 21st. Mrs. Barnes's benefit. Adelgitha, for the first time, by Mrs. Barnes; the "Citizen" with Miss Kelly as Maria, and the " Gambler's Fate," with little Charlotte Barnes as the child Rose. Nov. 23d. First night of "Peter Wilkins, or the Flying Islanders," with Miss Kelly as Peter, Jervis as the Nondescript, Woodhull as John Adams, Rees as O'Scud, Placide as Crow- quill, Mrs. Sharpe as Yourakee, and Mrs. Godey, Hallicarnia. It did not prove as popular here as at the Bowery. Morris's drama of " Brier Cliff" was first played here on the 26th, with Barry as Onalaska, Simpson as Capt. Mus grave, Placide as Doctor Meredith, and* Mrs. Hilson, Mary Jansen. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 545 Nov. 28th. The " Comedy of Errors," &c, for the benefit of the widow of the late Mr. Pritchard. Nov. 30th. Mrs. Hemans's beautiful drama, entitled the "Vespers of Palermo," was produced by Mrs. Hilson, for her benefit, cast as follows : Count di Procida . . Mr. Barry. Anselmo .... Mr. Foot. Raimond " Simpson. Vettoria .... Mrs. Babry. Ezibert " Woodhcll. Constance .... M Hilson. Montalba " Jones. We believe it was never repeated. Dec. 3d. For Mr. Simpson's benefit, a trashy drama, called the " Cornish Miners," was first represented, and Mr. Hackett appeared, for the first time, as Tristram Fickle, in the " Weather- cock." Dec. 8th. During the performance of " Faustus," owing to an accident haj3pening to the machinery, Mrs. Barry and Messrs. Barry and Simpson were very severely injured by falling — the lady having one of her legs broken. Dec. 10th. First night of Miss Clara Fisher's second en- gagement. The " Will," and " Old and Young," were per- formed. Dec. 14th. Mr. William Forrest (brother of the tragedian) made his first appearance in this theatre, as Harry Dornton. Dec. 18th. Mrs. Sharpe took her benefit, appearing for the first time as Count Bel i no, and reviving an old farce called the " Recontre," thus cast : Boucueur Mr. Rees. j Pierre Mr. Placide. DeCourcy '* Woodhull. lime. Merville . . Mrs. Sharpe. St. Leoq " Howard. Justine " Hackett. Dec. 28th. For Miss Clara Fisher's benefit, Mr. Archer, from the Bowery, appeared as Romeo, the lady personating Juliet, for the first time, and appearing in a new piece called the " Ten Mowbrays ! !" Dec. 31st. Mr. Barry's benefit occurred, when he appeared, for the first time since his accident, on crutches, as Capt. Bertram, in " Fraternal Discord," with Clara Fisher as Char- lotte, who also played for the first time Capt. All clack, in the "Invisible Girl." Jan. 2d, 1828. The beautiful Mrs. Austin made her first appearance in New York as Rosetta, in "Love in a Village," 69 546 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. followed by her subsequent assumptions of Mary Copp, Ro- sina, Lucy Bertram, Clara, in the " Duenna," &c. This bril- liant songstress, who had just concluded a successful engage- ment in Philadelphia, where she had first appeared in Am- erica, on the 10th of December, 1827, was more accom- plished in the Italian school of music than any vocalist who had preceded her, Malibran alone excepted. Her voice ex- tended to nearly three octaves, and possessed remarkable purity and sweetness, " its liquid tones coming as softly on the sense of hearing as snow upon the waters, or dew upon the flowers." Her merit was confined exclusively to her singing and to a very lovely personal appearance. She was no actress, nor had she the archness, expression or feeling re- quisite for a successful ballad singer. Under the skillful management of her musical director, Mr. F. H. F. Berkeley, she attained a popularity superior to any English singer, Mrs. Wood excepted, on whose appearance she was naturally thrown in the shade. Mrs. Austin was the original heroine here of "Cinderella," " Artaxerxes," the "White Lady," "Caliph of Bagdad," " Fra Diavolo," and other operas, which owed their success principally to her exertions. Her Ariel, in the " Tem- pest," and Apollo, in " Midas," to this day remain unajjproached in excellence. She played her farewell engagement at the Park in 1835, making her last appearance there on the 8th of April, but was induced by liberal offers afterward to play a few nights at the Bowery, where she made her last appear- ance in America, on the 8th of May, 1835, as Diana Vernon and Virginia. We believe she still lives in Europe. Jan. 8th. The romance of the " Sleeping Beauty" was first produced, and received much applause, with the following cast : Aldibert Mr. Barry. Edward .... Mrs. Godey. Edgar " Howard. Ethelinde .... " Sharpe. Oswin " Reed. Ellen . . . . Hackett. Launcelot .... " Placide. Jan. 11th. Mr. Pearman's first appearance this season, as Trumore, in the " Lord of the Manor," for the benefit of Mrs Austin, who played Annette. Jan. 14th. Miss Kelly's first night, as Rosalind, to Mr. Maywood's Jacques. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 547 Jan. 17th. For the benefit of Mr. Barnes, the celebrated comedy from Plautus, entitled " Amphytrion, or the Two Sosias, ' with the following cast : Shakspeare doubtless took his " Comedy of Errors" from this drama, and, although better adapted to the modern stage, it lacks all of the nature and probability of the original. Jan. 18th. First night of a series of operas, embracing " Lionel and Clarissa," " Marriage of Figaro," " Der Frei- schutz," " Castle of Andalusia," " Clari," " Abon Hassan," « No Song, No Supper," and "Midas," in which Mrs. Austin ap- peared for the first time as Clarissa, the Countess, Linda, Lo- renzo, and Margaretta ; Mr. Horn as Count Almaviva, Miss Kelly as Alphonso, Pearman as Lionel, Figaro, Adolph, Ferdi- nand, and Apollo, and Mrs. Knight as Clari, Zuliema, &c. Jan. 31st. Arne's celebrated recitative opera of " Arta- xerxes," the first English one of the class, was produced with great care, and with a corresponding success. Horn, Pear- man, and Mrs. Austin were triumphant in the characters of Artabanes, Arbaces, and Mandane, and were ably seconded by Mrs. Hackett as Artaxerxes, and Mrs. Sharpe as Semira. Feb. 4th. Mrs. Sloman, from Covent Garden, made her first appearance in New York as Isabella. Her succeeding characters were Mrs. Holler, Belvidera, Jane Shore, (with Hackett as Glosler) Juliet, Evadne, and Mrs. Beverly, the latter for her benefit on the 18th, when Mr. Sloman made his first appearance as Sam Savory, and sung several comic songs that attained great popularity. Mrs. Sloman's maiden name was Whitaker, and in early life she married Henry Dowton, a son of the great comedian. On his death, she married John Slo- man, and appeared successfully in London in 1824. Her American debut took place at Philadelphia, December 7th, 1827, and she there played a triumphant engagement. In New York, she never had the same popularity; although a correct and ladylike actress, she was too coldly classical to suit the multitude. Her declamation was remarkably fine. Mercury . (as Sosia) . Mr. Hackett. Jupiter " Reed. Amphytrion .... " Woodhull. Sosia ...... " Barnes. Alcmena Phoedra Bromia MrB- Sharpe. ** Hack>tt. " Wheatley. 548 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Mr. Sloman, who was a Christianized Jew, possessed merit as a farceur, but his forte was comic singing, wherein he de- veloped a burlesque humor that was very taking. His " Betsy Baker," "Major Longbow," "Sweet Kitty Clover," and other ditties, were entertainments that during his first visit never failed to secure him overwhelming benefits. After two or three years they returned to England, but came to America again in 1839, when their attraction as stars was entirely gone. Mrs. Sloman last played in the Park stock company, A.D, 1845, and after residing with her husband in Charleston, S. C, for many years, died there in January, 1858. Their daughter, Miss Jane Sloman, some years since created a sen- sation here as apiauiste of the highest rank. Feb. 13th. First performance of " Alfred the Great :" Alfred . Edwy . Greybald Guthrum Mr. Woodhcll. Gog Mr. Hilson. " Williams. Judith Mrs. Sharpe. " Rees. Blanche .... " Hackett. " Reed. Bertha " Wheatlet. Feb. 27th. First performance of the " Goldsmith :" Count Rosenberg Oliver .... Bernard . . . Mr. Simpson. Woodhull. Placide. Countess Isabella Margaret Mrs. Stickney. " Sharpe. " Wheatlet. March 3d. Second benefit of Mrs. Sloman, who appeared as the * Grecian Daughter, ' and Lisette, in the new and beau- tiful drama called the " Sergeant's Wife." Mr. Rees played Old Cartouch ; Mr. Woodhull, Dennis ; Mr. Placide, Robin ; and Mrs. Hackett, Margot. March 6th. The " Courier of Naples," for the first time : Sorelto Ferdinand Sanetro Mr. Reed. " Barry. " Simpson. Alserno Pedro . . Georgette . Mr. Woodhcll. " Jones. Mrs. Hilson. Major Stevens, the Dwarf, appeared as Tom Thumb, on the 11th, which he repeated for his benefit on the 13th, with Goliah, in the "Young Quaker." March 17th. First night of a new comedy, called "Forget and Forgive :" Sir Gregory Ogle Baron Ledoux . Cameron . . Sidney . / . Rumbold . Mr. Rees. Placide. Barrt. Simpson. Hilson. Georgette . . Jeannette . Lady Ogle Lady Radcliff Miss Cateaton Miss Clara Fisher. Mrs. Hilson. " Wheatlet. " Sharpe. " Hackett. Miss Fisher's new characters during this engagement were Marplot, Maria Darling-ton, Amelia Wiidenheim, the Young Widow, and, for her benefit, Richard III. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 549 March 24th. The "Knights of the Cross," (from Scott's Talisman) was first played in New York, as follows : March 27th. Miss George, from the Bowery, first appeared here, for Mr. Sloman's benefit, as Lucy Bertram, in " Guy Man- nering," with Mrs. Sloman as Meg Merrilies. April 1st. Peake's amusing farce of the "Haunted Inn" was brought out, with Jones as Sir Tomyn Probe, Hilson as Tommy Tadpole, Simpson as Capt. Levant, Placide as Corporal Trot, Miss Brundage as Angelica, Mrs. Wheatley as Mrs, Gristle, and Mrs. Hackett as Jenny Toft. April 8th. Mr. Cooper's first appearance since his return from Europe, where his unceremonious condemnation by the critics had caused his visit to be brief, and had awakened here a feeling which rendered his reception enthusiastic. He appeared as Macbeth, supported by Mrs. Hill, from the Chatham and Lafayette Theatres, her first engagement here. April 9th. The opera of "Dido," music selected from Ros- sini, and arranged by Horn, was first represented here by Pear- man as JEneas, Horn as Jasbus, Howard as Ararpas, Mrs. Sharpe as Selene, and Mrs. Austin as Dido. It was not very suc- cessful. April 15th. Miss Hamilton, a young lady brought by Cooper to this country, made her debut as Virginia, and Sophia, (" Rendezvous") We believe she appeared but once more, on the 21st, for Cooper's benefit, as Desdemona, when Mr. Forrest played Iago, to the veteran's Othello. April 25th. For Mr. Simpson's benefit, after the perform- ance of the " Siege of Belgrade/' a grand pas de quatre was executed by Mons. and Mme. Achille, Mile. Heloise, and M. Angrisani, for the first time on the Park boards. About this time Mr. Sloman concluded his third engage- ment, and Mr. Maywood, Miss Kelly, Mr. Somerville and Master Collett, an excellent dancer, were engaged, the two latter appearing for the first time on these boards. King Richard King Philip Sir Kenneth Saladin Mr. Simpson. " Nexsen. " Barry. 11 woodiiull. Charegite . Blondel . Queen . . Edith . . Mr. Jones . Mrs. Hackett. " Hilson. " SllARPE. 550 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. May 1st. The "Red Rover" (from Cooper's novel) was first played here, as follows : Red Rover Lieut. Wilder Dick Fid . . Nightingale . Mr. Simpson. " Barry. " Hilson. " woodhull. Homespun Mrs. Willys . Gertrude . . Mme. De Lacy Mr. Placide. Mrs. Hill. " Hilson. " Wheatley. May 13th. For his benefit, Mr. Hackett first attempted Falstaff, with Henry Wallack's aid as Hotspur. May 14th. Mr. May wood, for his benefit, introduced a new farce, called " An Aunt in Virginia," wherein he personated Mrs. Clatterpenny, an old Scotch lady. He also appeared as Rolamo, and Old Cartouch, in the " Sergeant's Wife." May 16th. Miss Kelly's benefit, the lady appearing as Mrs. Banter and Lady Contest, and the first performance of Moncrieff's famous comedy of " Paris and London," with its celebrated dioramic scenery. Viscount Volatil Fred. Froth . Capt. Gobble . Jeau Frisacque Thomas Trot . Mr. Barry. " Simpson. " Jones. " Placide. " Hilson. Barney . Viscountess Rose . . Sally Trot . Coralie . . Mr. Barnes. Mrs. Hilson. " Hackett. " Wheatley. " Sharpe. May 22d. Mrs. Hilson's benefit, and first night of Mon- crieff's " Somnambulist," in which the admired beneficiary made a deep impression as the heroine. It was thus cast : Rosambert Edmund . Colin de Trop Oliver . . . Mr. Simpson. '* Barry. " Hilson. " Placide. Ernestine . Gertrude . . Dame Michaud Mrs. Hilson. " Sharpe. " Wheatley. May 24th. Mr. C. E. Muzzy made his debut on the stage as Rolla. May 26th. Morton's burletta of the " Invincibles " was brought out with great appl/ use, Miss Clara Fisher as Victoire, one of her best parts, Barneys Gen. Verdun, Howard as Flori- ville, Woodhull as (J Slash, ^ r JPlacide as Brusque. The Bowery Theatre ha^k er » ->een destroyed by fire on the 24th inst., a benefit was of a i the suffering members of the company on the 29th', be following brilliant bill was presented, combining aV gc array of talent than had ever before been gathered tc 7 Lar. Messrs. Barnes, Hilson, Barry, Simpson and Stevenson, if M » Wheatley and Mrs. Hilson, appeared in the fourth act of the x r D oor Gentleman." An act of " Damon and Pythias " 1 followed, with Forrest as Damon, and Mrs. G. Barrett as Hermione, Mfessrs. Barnes, Archer and RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 551 G. Barrett, with Miss Kelly, gave the "School for Scandal" screen-scene. A grand concert succeeded, in which Mrs. Austin, Mrs. Knight, Miss George, Miss Clara Fisher, Mrs. Hackett, Mrs. Sharpe, and Messrs. Horn, Pearman, Geo. Hol- land, Sloman and Howard took part. The entertainments concluded with the " Hundred-Pound Note," in which Billy Black was personated in the first act by W. B. Chapman, and in the second act by Roberts. George Barrett played Mont- morency ; Coiner, O Shaughnessey ; Collingbourne, Morgan; Mrs. Jones, Lady Pedigree, and Miss Rock, Harriet Arlington. June 3d. Mr. H. A. Williams's benefit, and first appearance on this stage, in the character of Little Pickle, of Miss Louisa Lane, aged eight years, since a favorite performer as Mrs. Henry Hunt and Mrs. John Drew. June 7th. Benefit of the little Misses Parker, who, as dancers, were great favorites. Miss Wells, afterward the first wife of John Sefton, and a danseuse of some pretensions, as- sisted. June 9th. First night of a new opera, " Isidore de Merida," with Horn as Isidore; Hilson, Benito; Howard, Laurens; Mrs. Sharpe, Mgonda; and Mrs. Austin, Florimante. June 10th. Mr. Placide's benefit. First time in America of the play called " John Rock," with Barry as the hero, Simp- son as D'Orville, Placide as Dennis O'Shea; Mrs. Sharpe, Clara, and Mrs. Hill, Mary. On this occasion the beautiful Mile. Constance first appeared in America in a grand pas de deux, in conjunction with her fascinating sister, Celeste. July 14th. Mile. Rosalie, another favorite French dan- seuse, made her debut on the occasion of George Barrett's benefit. June 28th. The " Apostate " was performed, with Booth as Pescara, Maywood as Malec, and Mrs. Duff (for this night only) as Florinda, being, we think, her last appearance on the Park Stage. Mrs. Duff had lately returned from England, where she had played a successful engagement at Brighton, and on the 1st of March had appeared at Drury Lane as Isa- bella, when her fright was so excessive as to completely para- 552 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. lyze her powers. Being "damned with faint praise," she immediately resolved to return to the land where she was better known and appreciated, though we believe a longer trial would have won her transatlantic fame ; for certainly at that time there was no actress on the British Stage who could be called her equal. July 1st. Celeste's first benefit at this theatre, when Mrs. Austin appeared for the first time in " Giovanni in London." July 2d. Mr. Booth's benefit, when he appeared as Mac- beth and Geoffrey Muffincap, with Mrs. Gilfert as Lady Macbeth, (her first appearance here in five years) and Mr. John R. Scott as Malcolm, his first appearance in New York, or indeed on any stage. His next attempt was at the Tremont Theatre, Boston, as a servant in " Speed the Plough," a part of two lines in length, which he delivered incorrectly, and for three months after was not allowed to speak at all, being confined solely to walking in processions, filling up groupings, &c. He, however, persevered there with such indomitable spirit that he was rewarded with high promotion the next season, and a year or two after was allowed to attempt leading char- acters in tragedy at the Arch Street Theatre, Philadelphia, where he made a very favorable impression. Mr. Scott made his second appearance in New York at the great Payne benefit, as Titus, in " Brutus," November 29th, 1832, and soon after became a great favorite at the Bowery and other minor thea- tres as a principal tragic and melo-dramatic actor. Possessing a fine personal appearance and great natural abilities, he might, with proper caution in his personal habits and a closer application to study, have ranked among the very highest of our actors. His school was that of Forrest, but he was not a servile imitator, and, like Booth, in the latter part of his career he was apt to disappoint his audiences by sudden dis- appearances. In 1847, Mr. Scott appeared in London at the Princess's Theatre. He was a native of Philadelphia, born October 17th, 1808, and died suddenly in New York in the summer of 1856. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 553 Mr. Rees' benefit, and last night of the season, occurred on the 5th of July, when Master Mercer, a lad of much vocal ability, first appeared in New York. A summer season im- mediately followed. Mr. Jones, on the 15th, (his benefit night) introduced Mr. Grey, from the Southern and Western Theatres, as Gen. Tar- ragon, in the " School of Reform." He was an able repre- sentative of old men, and a great favorite in his usual circuit. He was born in Pennsylvania, September 30th, 1796, and died in 1837. Mr. Hutchings, an indifferent English tenor, from Phila- delphia, appeared on the 16th as Patrick, taking his place in the stock company. Little Miss Lane was engaged as a star, and appeared as Albert, in « William Tell ;" the Actress of All Work, Goldfinch, Doctor Pang-loss, Prince Arthur, Amelia Wildlove, in " Twelve Precisely," &c. A Miss Sibley about this time made her debut, and played Emily Worthington, on the 23d, for her benefit. July 17th. First night of the very amusing farce called the " Poachers :"- Count Eberfelt . . . Mr. Barry. I Countess de Lisle . Mrs. IIilson. Wolfenstein .... " Woodhull. Countess Eberfelt . " Sharpe. Sourcrout .... " Barnes. Grisette .... " Hackett. July 18th. Blind Sinclair appeared as Dorlin, in "Ade- line," for his benefit. July 19th. Mr. C. E. Muzzy's second appearance on the stage as Achmet, in " Barbarossa." He took his benefit on the 25th, as Rolla. July 21st. Benefit of Mile. Constance, who appeared as Myrtillo, in the " Broken Sword," with Celeste as the Dumb Girl of Genoa. July 22d. " Barber of Seville,'' with Pearman as the Count, and Mrs. Pearman as Rosina, her first appearance on the New York Stage. On the 24th she played Diana Vernon, and for her benefit, on the 28th, repeated Rosina. This lady was an accomplished singer, but rarely came before the public. July 29th. u Valentine and Orson" was played, with Ce- 70 554 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. leste as Valentine, and Constance as the Princess Eglantine, first time. Aug. 2d. Last night of the season. On the occasion of various benefits during the year, Miss Jane Placide, Madame Hutin Labasse, Mr. John Woodhull, and Mr. John Sefton, appeared for the first time on the Park Stage, and Mrs. Hamblin, Messrs. Cowell, Stanley, and Lud- low, were brought forward in favorite characters. The novelty and variety of the entertainments exceeded any previous season, but the powerful opposition at the Bowery and other theaties rendered them unprofitable. Stars absorbed the larger portion of the receipts, and the reduction of admission to seventy-five cents for the boxes had but little effect in replenishing the treasury. CHAPTER XXXVI. Bowery Theatre, 1827-8 — Sans Souci — Chatham — Lafayette. L T H U G H there had been no cessation of per- formances at the Bowery Theatre during the summer months, we may consider the 1st of September, 1827, as dating the commencement of a new season, on which occa- sion " Richard III." was played — Richard by Mr. Archer, his first appearance in America. Though not equal to the part of Richard, Mr. Thomas Archer was nevertheless a respectable and valued actor in the second line of tragedy and the more serious parts of comedy. Born at Bath, in 1789, he occupied a favorable posi- tion on the stage of that city, and of Birmingham, until 1823, when he appeared at Drury Lane in such characters as Henry IV., Collalinus, Baron Steinfort, &c. He was afterward, at one time, manager of the Arch Street Theatre, Philadelphia in conjunction with May wood and Walton. He returned to London, and died in 1848. Sept. 3d. For the first time in America, under the direc- tion of Mods. Labasse, was performed the grand ballet, en- titled the " Caliph of Bagdad ;" the music selected from Ros- sini, and the cast as follows : Caliph . . . Cadi . . . Yelniadin I . Chief Arab j . Chief Eunuch Moob. Aohille. " DtRANQ. '• Anqrisani. " schinotti. Zelulbe Fatime Kessie . Favorite Lemaide Mile. Celeste. " Heloise. lime. Achille. " HCTIN. " Passage. Sept. 7th. After the performance of " Venice Preserved," with Archer as Pierre, Forrest as Jaffier, and Mrs. Gilfert, 556 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Belvidera, Mr. Thomas Comer made his first appearance in America as Forage, in " Turn Out." Mr. Comer was born at Bath, England, and there first appeared upon the boards of a theatre. He was a reputable actor in many comic parts, a singer of considerable ability, of great science and skill as a musician, and a man of personal respectability. In the fall of 1828, he was called to Boston to take the musical direction of the new Tremont Theatre, and in that city he has since principally resided, as occasional actor, leader of orchestra, or general musical director, in various establishments. Mrs. Jones was now engaged as a substitute for Mrs. Wil- liams in old ladies. Sept. 10th. Mr. Forrest played Rolla ; Mr. Wilson, Pizarro ; Mr. Archer, Alonzo ; Mrs. George Barrett, Cora ; and Mrs. Gilfert, Elvira. Mr. Wilson attracted a fair share of atten- tion, and had become quite a favorite with the audience. Sept. 11th. The night that Clara Fisher made her debut at the Park, her brother and sister, Mr. John Fisher and Miss Jane Fisher, together with her future brother-in-law, Mr. George Vernon, first appeared in America at this Theatre in the several characters of Zekiel and Cicely Homespun, and Lord Duberly. Mr. Vernon possessed undoubted comic abilities, and secured many admirers during his brief con- nection with the New York Stage. He married Miss Jane Fisher, October 6th, 1827, and died at Woodstock farm, near Albany, June 13th, 1830, aged 33 years. He possessed a fine architectural taste, and designed the beautiful pulpit in St. Paul's Church, Albany. John Aubrey Fisher was born at Brighthelmstone, England, and possessed a large share of his family's heritage — genius and comic talent. After various vicissitudes in America, he happened to be in New York at the re-opening of the Park Theatre, in the cholera season of 1832, when the opportunity offered of appearing as the Chevalier Renard, in the " National Guard," as the substitute of Placide, who had fallen suddenly ill, and in that character he first came upon the Park stage on the 29th of August, with such success that Mr. Simpson RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 557 immediately engaged him for the season. From that stage he never after separated until he was summoned to another world. Poor John Fisher will be remembered with the fondest pleasure by all who ever saw his comic phiz, or knew his many excellent points of character, either as man or actor. Comedian never possessed greater versatility, nor good nature a more devoted disciple. To accommodate his manager and gratify his audience seemed his only ambition, and whatever his part, or how often changed to suit the whims or abilities of new-comers, he always gave it with all his ability, and rarely without success. In the "Heir at Law" we have known him to appear as Lord Duberly, Doctor Pangloss, and Zekiel Homespun ; in the " Rivals," as Bob Acres, Old Absolute, Sir Lucius O' Trigger, and David ; and in the " Rent Day," as Old Crumbs, Toby Heywood, Silver Jack, Hyssop, and Bull- frog! Testy old gentlemen, and vapid young ones — friv- olous fops, or Shakspearean clowns — simple Yorkshiremen, or chattering Frenchmen — bluff sailors, tough soldiers, in- triguing valets,- or forward pages, all fell into good hands when trusted to his care. If he seldom rose pre-eminently great, he as rarely fell into dull mediocrity, and with justice he was entitled to be called as valuable an artist as ever walked the Park boards. Mr. Fisher was a man of fine lite- rary attainments, and a thorough Shakspearean scholar. He was small in person, plain in features, and of limited power of voice, wLich, however, in early life, he managed with much ability, even in music of considerable difficulty. He died in New York, from bleeding of the lungs, July, 1847. Of the three debutants, Miss Jane Marchant Fisher un- doubtedly possessed the greatest amount of talent, although her audience was slow to discover it, and several years elapsed before she was acknowledged as the best comic actress in her line upon the New York Stage, and the worthy successor of the well-remembered Mrs. Oldmixon, whose place upon the boards had never before been adequately filled. Miss Fisher became Mrs. Vernon soon after her arrival in 558 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. this country, and after playing at the Bowery and old Chat- ham Theatres, was engaged for country girls and chamber- maids at the Park, where she first appeared on the 21st of December, 1830, as Minette, in the " Bold Stroke for a Hus- band." By her great comic humor, her keen perception of the ludicrous, her clear understanding of her author, her in- imitable skill in rendering prominent every point of wit or satire, her easy assumption of the graces and affectations of the extra fashionable, and her equally happy faculty of mim- icking to the life the parvenu airs of the vulgar rich, together with the greatest tact in managing the intrigues of chamber- maids, and adopting the coarser mannerisms of the lowest class of servants and rustics — she at length attained the highest regard of the public, by whom she was ranked among actresses as Placide and Burton are among actors. With but a few months' exception, when she visited New Orleans for the benefit of her health, Mrs. Vernon continued faithful to her post until the 17th of December, 1847, when she played there for the last time as Miss Pickle and Mrs, Bundle. The wretched poverty of the management, then on the verge of dissolution, and the necessity of earning a liveli- hood, alone drove her from its walls, and since its destruction, with the exception of one or two seasons, she has been en- gaged at Burton's, the old Broadway, or Wallack's Theatre, where she still retains the approbation of the public, who probably have for her a degree of personal regard deeper than for any other lady on the stage. In early life, Mrs. Vernon was better capable of personating Lady Teazle, and Lelitia Hardy, than many actresses who were recognized as stars, and we have seen her Mrs. Candour, (which was unmatched in merit) and her Widow Rackett (al- most equally excellent) throw them entirely in the shade. In the dissipated women of fashion, like the Ladies Mary Raffle, Susan Courtly, and Caroline Braymore, her portraitures were inimitable ; while attempt to imitate who might, no one ever approached her excellence as Madame Marabout, or Madame Mantalini, or Niece Hawk, or Clementina Allspice, or Eveleen RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 559 Moonshine, or Mrs. Pontifex, or any similar part. • No one who ever saw her Mrs. Dove, in " Married Life," or her Miss Biggs, in the " Boarding School ," or Caroline Coy, in " Single Life," can ever forget their incomparable drollness, nor her Barba- rina, in the " Marriage of Figaro," nor Pert, in " London Assur- ance," without wondering how it was possible to create such irresistible effect from such trifling materials. Her Nelly, in " No Song, No Supper," was a perfect gem ; so was her Pa- tience Pipkin, in the "May Queen," and her Nancy Strap, in the " Pleasant Neighbor while, with the slightest dash of a melo-dramatic tinge, how capital was her representation of Elise, in " Victorine." In opera, for many years, Mrs. Vernon was capable of giving due effect to second parts. She was the original Thisbe in " Cinderella," and the Stage of the Union has never produced its equal for singing and acting combined. She also gave the characters of Lady Allcash, Zanini, ("Native Land") and Teresa, (" Sonnambula ") with much skill, and when voice was lacking, the excellence of her acting compensated in a great measure for the deficiency. In burlettas and burlesques of any kind, she gave a more heightened effect, a more brilliant and fantastic coloring than any actress we have had the fortune to see. Among this class of characters, we would enumerate her Tilberina, Distqffina, My sis, ("Midas") Amphitrite, ("Deep Sea") Mrs. Venus Smith, in Jack Reeve's " Cupid," and several others. With her Kitty, in "High Life Below Stairs," we associate all the Jane Chatterlys, Sally Giggles and Susan Twists, of that position in society, and, as a body, can assure them, that never did a representa- tive do them better justice. For several years past, Mrs. Vernon has had antiquated dowagers, and spinsters in the last stage of desperation, exclusively in her charge, and in that line she still maintains her well-earned position of supe- riority. Her temperament is exceedingly lively and viva- cious, and in some plain and unassuming old ladies she lacks the repose and quiet humor that distinguished the favorite Mrs. Wheatley; but this bustling activity is her only fault, and is nothing compared with the sharp snappishness of man- 560 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. ner, the dull, languid indifference, and the hard, stiff and stony style of some prominent " old ladies," at present or lately on the Stage. Like the other members of her gifted family, in literary culture, Mrs. Vernon has been most assiduous. Pos- sessing a thorough knowledge of Shakspeare's mighty dramas, we are informed that, during her connection with the Park Theatre, her opinion in all passages of disputed reading was considered final. In private, her kindness of heart and self- forgetfulness are proverbial, and no one in the profession is more generally respected and esteemed. Mrs. Vernon is tall, and still retains a graceful figure, and if never noted for beauty, possessed an intelligent and expressive face and a polished manner that at once denoted the woman of intellect and refinement. The next novelty was the appearance of Mr. George Hol- land, the present well-known comedian, who made his first bow on the American Stage, September 12th, as Jerry, in the burletta called " A Day After the Fair," in which, as a smart servant, he assumed the characters of a drunken cobbler, an old ballad-singer, a drummer, a French songstress, and a mad- man, with the greatest possible success. In the first perform- ance of this piece he was assisted by Mr. Comer as Clod, and Mrs. G. Barrett as Polly, who likewise assumed the parts of Sukey Scrub, a washerwoman, and Mrs. Maypole, a manageress. Mr. Holland's next character was Thomas, in the " Secret," wherein he has never been equaled. He was a very amusing comic singer, and occasionally introduced ventriloquial ex- periments and barnyard imitations with great spirit and gusto. Mr. Holland, after being in New York a few seasons, went South, and was long a favorite at New Orleans. He returned to New York in 1843, and became a principal at- traction at Mitchell's Olympic, where he remained six years. After another long Southern trip, he became a valued mem- ber of Wallack's Theatre, where he continued until the great depression in the winter of 1857, when the desire for re- trenchment on the part of the management caused him to re- sign his situation, and join the minstrel troupe of Wood and RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 561 George Christy, where his irresistible drollery rendered him an especial favorite in their various Ethiopian burlesques. He has since re-appeared at Wallack's with undiminished ap- plause. Mr. Holland is a native of England, born December 6th, 1791, and we know of no other comedian of equal age who retains so large a share of popularity. His present wife is the daughter of Mrs. De Luce, formerly of the Park. Another candidate for public favor appeared on the 13th, as Cracky and Billy Lackaday. This was Mr. William B. Chapman, an excellent comedian, and a member of a most re- markable Thespian family, to whom we shall hereafter more particularly allude. He made his first appearance on the London Stage in 1823, as Crack, and was well known through- out the Union, particularly at Philadelphia and Baltimore, on the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, and in California, where he resided several years. He died after a fortnight's illness, at San Francisco, November, 1857, aged about 56 years. The press of San Francisco accorded to Mr. W. B. Chapman the credit of being the finest comedian who had appeared in California, and spoke of him as u a most meritorious citizen ; as a gentleman, kindly-hearted, urbane, and universally es- teemed ; an industrious, abstemious, and most worthy member of society." Mr. De Camp, who was now engaged to take charge of the stage, made his first appearance here, on the 17th, as Gos- samer, and Sylvester Dag-gerwood. He had not improved since his appearance at the Park, and failed to give satis- faction either as manager or actor. Mons. Barbiere, a good French dancer, made his debut on the 18th, in a pas de trois, with Hutin and Celeste. A petite drama called " Love and Reason" was first played on the 26th, as follows : Gen. Dornton . . . Mr. Youno. Dingle Mr. Holland. Adjt. Vincent ... " De Camp. Mrs Dingle . . . Miss J. Fisueb. Col. Albert .... " Stevenson. I Alice Mrs. G. Barrett. Mr. Forrest having, in conjunction with Mr. Wilson, gone through a very successful engagement, took his benefit on the 8th of October, as Lucius Brutus, with Mrs. Gilfert as Tullia. 71 562 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. In the farce of "No Song, No Supper" he appeared as End- less! with Mr. Wilson as Robin. Signorina Garcia was again engaged, and appeared on the 9th as Rosina, in the " Barber," with Signor Rosich as Barlolo, and Mr. Comer as Figaro. On the 12th, she appeared as Tan- credi ; on the 16th as Roselta, with Keene as Young' Meadows, (his first night) ; on the 19th as Zerlina, with Keene as Mas- setto ; and on the 28th took her farewell benefit, and made her final appearance on the American Stage, in Boildieu's opera of " John of Paris," which was thus cast : John Mr. Keene. | ViDcent Mrs. G. Barrett. Chamberlain. ..." Comer. Princess Signorina Garcia. Pedrigo " W. Chapman. j Rose Miss J. Fisher. A selection of music followed, and, when the programme had been completed, the Signorina came forward and seated herself at her harp, but, seemingly overcome with emotion, again rose, and Mr. Etienne, the pianist, took up the pre- lude to a farewell song, written for the occasion, which, on regaining her composure, she sang in a most touching and effective manner. So ended the American career of this young, beautiful, and brilliant child of song. " Peter Wilkins, or the Flying Islanders," was produced on the 22d (a month before its representation at the Park) with very great success, every performer making a hit. Peter was represented in the dialogue by Mrs. Young, and in the dances by Madame Hutin ; Vernon was John Adams ; W. Chapman, Crow quill ; Comer, O'Scud; John Fisher, the Nondescript; Mrs. George Barrett, Yourakee ; and Celeste, Hallicarnia. For Mr. W. Chapman's benefit, on November 6th, he sang the duet called, " When a Little Farm we Keep," with Miss Amelia Fisher, (another of Clara's sisters) her first appearance in America. With highly respectable abil- ities, both as singer and actress, this young lady never at- tained the prominent place in the profession accorded to her more brilliant and, perhaps, more talented sisters. She last appeared in New York at the Park Theatre, in the fall of 1840. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 563 The lively comedy of "Spring and Autumn" was first played on the 7th, with the following cast : Rattle Mr. G. Barrett. Clara Mrs. Roberts. Maj. Ormond .... *• Stevenson. Mrs. Dartmouth . . " Young. Sir Simon Slack . . . " Vernon. Mrs. Rattle ..." Vernon. the latter lady assuming her marital title for the first time. Nov. 13th. For the benefit of Jared W. Bell, printer of the establishment, Mr. Wm. Forrest first appeared in New York as Matthew, in the "Warlock of the Glen." He was afterward at different times connected with the management of the Albany Theatre, and of Arch Street, Philadelphia. He was born in the latter city, and died there suddenly about the year 1833. A very charming and versatile actress, Miss Rock, from Dublin, made her first appearance in New York, on the 19th, as Letitia Hardy, and Miss Jenny Transit, in the first per- formance of the burletta called " Winning a Husband," in which she was supported by De Camp as Sir Roderick, Holland as Davy, and Mrs. Schinotti as Lucinda. Miss Rock had just made a brilliant debut at Boston, and now performed in succession Albina Mandeville, Widow Cheerly, Therese, Juliana, Maria, (" Citizen") Rosina, and Marian Ram- say, with such decided ability, that had not Clara Fisher's star been already in the ascendant, paling by its brilliant light all other glittering orbs, she would have been regarded, per- haps, as the brightest luminary of the season. As it was, she proved a powerful rival, although in New York she never at- tained equal popularity. She had not the advantages of a fine face or person, nor was her taste in costume according to the prevailing mode, but the spirit, naivete and archness that she displayed made one forget, as trifling, all minor defects. She sang with great taste and sweetness the ballads of the day, to which her manner lent a peculiar charm. After a few starring engagements, Miss Rock resided generally at Boston, where she was regarded as one of the principal ornaments of the drama. She last playe d in New York at the Bowery Theatre, October 2d, 1840, as Julie de Mortemar, and Violante. In private life she is known as Mrs. Murray. 564 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Nov. 21st. " Love in a Village" was performed, with Keene as Young Meadows, Comer as Hawthorn, Mrs. Gill's first ap- pearance in New York as Lucinda, and Miss George (her first appearance in America) as Rosetta. Miss George followed up her debut by personating Floretta, Isadora, Norah, Clari, and Princess of Navarre, and was fully entitled, by her science, taste and skill, to rank with the best English vocalists then known to our Stage. She was young and prepossessing in appearance, and though of small account as an actress, was admired for her fine voice and brilliant execution. Miss George last sang at the Park Theatre, in 1830, and shortly after returned to Europe. Dec. 10th. Mr. Pearman made his first appearance in four years as Count Belino, to Miss George's Countess, and the two afterward appeared conjointly as Henry and Lucy Bertram, Jocoso and Vespina, Capt. Seymour and Rosa, in "Fontain- bleau," Prince Orlando and Floretta, Robin and Margaretta ; and on the 24th, in the new opera of the "Freebooters," which was produced as follows : Edwardo Mr. Peafman. Gianni Mr. De Camp Uberto " Cosier. Isabella .... Miss George. Oggera ... " Keene. | Lena . . . . ' Amelia Fishee. Mr. Pearman had in no wise deteriorated, and his hand- some person and finished style of singing added greatly to the attractions of the operas he appeared in. Mr. Forrest, on the completion of his second engagement, took his benefit on the 18th, as Lucius Brutus ; and on the 20th, for Mr. Wilson's benefit, "Evadne" was performed in a very satisfactory manner, the beneficiary receiving great ap- plause for his excellent delineation of Colonna. He was supported by Forrest as Ludovico, Archer as Vincentio, Mrs. Young as Olivia, and Mrs. Gilfert, Evadne. Mr. Faulkner, on this occasion, made his first appearance this season as Totter ton, in " Love Laughs at Locksmiths." . Dec. 28th. Mr. De Camp for his benefit brought out, for the first time, the drama called " One Hundred and Two, or the Veteran and His Progeny," the hero of which was after- ward poor Finn's exclusive property. De Camp now played RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 565 Philip Garbois ; Faulkner, Jerome; Youug, Pierre; Mrs. Jones, Madame Leronde ; and Mrs. G. Barrett, Isabel. Jan. 5th, 1828. "Alfred the Great" was announced, (some weeks previous to its production at the Park) with the fol- lowing cast : Alfred Mr. G. Barrett. Oddune " Stevenson. Edwy " Archer. Greybauld .... " Faulkner. Guthrum 44 Wilson. Gog 44 Comer. OsirJc Mr. John Fisher. Hatgar 44 Read. Judith Mrs. Younq. Elswitha .... 44 G. Barrett. Bertha 44 Jones. Blanche .... Miss Amelia Fisher. Jan. 12th. Master Macredy, aged 13, and Master Henry, aged 15, severally made their first appearance on the stage as Norval and Glenalvon, with the aid of Mrs. Entwistle as Lady Randolph, her first, and we believe, her only appearance on the Bowery Stage. About this time, the grand ballet of "Cleopatra" was brought out, with Mme. Hutin as Cleopatra, Mile. Celeste as Julius Ccesar, Schinotti as Ptolemy, Barbiere as Apollodorus, and Achille as Achyllas. Mr. Forrest was again entitled to a benefit on the 30th, when he played, for the first time in New York, Macbeth, sup- ported by Archer as Macduff, and Mrs. Gilfert as Lady Mac- beth. Feb. 12th. Miss Rock commenced a new engagement, during which she appeared, for the first time, as Helen Wor- rett, Annette, Zephyrina, Harriet Arlington, &c. A very amusing farce, called "Mr. Tibbs," was played on the 19th, with George Barrett as Mr. Tibbs, John Fisher as Vacant, Coringbourne as Crankey, Mrs. Jones as Mrs, Tibbs, and Mrs. Roberts, Mrs. McSnalchet. The beautiful drama from Scott, called the "Bride of Lam- mermoor," was first played, for Mr. Young's benefit, on the 20th, receiving the warmest marks of approval. It was thus cast : Caleb Balderstone . . [first appearance] . . Mr. Pomerville. Lady Ash Sir W. Ashton Col. Ashton . Arthur Bucklaw Craigenfelt Raimond . on ... . [first appearance] . . Mrs. Hill. Mr. Young. Henry Miss Kent. " Lindslet. Lucy Ashton ... 44 Rock. " G. Barrett. Alice Mrs. Jones. 44 Stevenson. Mysie 44 Roberts. 44 Reed. Dunlap's drama, taken from the French, called "Thirty 566 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Years, or the Life of a Gamester" was first put upon the stage February 20th, and attracted considerable attention Mr. George Barrett played George St. Germain; Mr. Archer, Warner; Mrs. G. Barrett, Albert; Mrs. Gilfert, Amelia St. Germain ; and Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Burman. Mr. Forrest commenced a new engagement on the 26th, as Virginius, and Miss Rock re-appeared on the 1st of March. Celeste took the first of her oft-repeated "farewell" benefits on the 4th of March, appearing as Julio, in "Deaf and Dumb." The same night, Payne's farce of the "Lancers" was first played, and with great success, as follows : Ad. Etiquette . . . Mr. Faulkner. I Peter .... Mr. John Fisher. Frank Lenox ..." G.Barrett. Louisa Miss Amelia Fisher. Chas. Bel con .... " Stevenson. I Little Stevens appeared for one night on the 19th, in his characters of Goliah and Tom Thumb. Mr. Holland, for his benefit on the 22d, brought out the celebrated travestie of " Hamlet," wherein he appeared as the Gravedigger and Ophelia, with De Camp as Hamlet, and Mrs. Young as the Queen. On the 28th, Miss Louisa Lane made her first appearance in New York as Little Pickle, and on the 31st personated the Four Mowbrays. Miss Lane was born in England, January 10th, 1820, and made her entree on the stage at Liverpool, in 1826, as Agib, in " Timour the Tartar." She soon after came to this country with her mother, Mrs. Kinloch, and made her debut at the Walnut Street Theatre, Philadelphia, in 1827, as little York, in " Richard III." For one of her years, she displayed considerable skill, and after playing as a juve- nile star, was at length attached to the Bowery stock com- pany during the season of 1833. After a long absence at the South and West, she re-appeared at the Park, in 1842, as Mrs. Henry Hunt, in the prime of womanly beauty, and exhibiting talents that soon caused her to be acknowledged as one of the very best actresses in light comedy and burletta known to the stage. Nor was she defi- cient in merit in a more elevated range, her Ophelia, Portia, and Julie de Mortimar being very beautiful specimens of act- RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 567 ing. On the Park Stage she was the original representative of Fortunio, in the burletta of that name, and of Graceful, in the " Fair One with the Golden Locks," and her capital acting and singing in those parts rendered them the mainstay ot the theatre during the season. About the year 1847, she separated from Mr. Hunt, and became the wife of Mr. Mossop, who, dying in 1849, gave her the opportunity of again chang- ing her name, which she did soon after by marrying Mr. John Drew, whose widow we believe she still remains. She last ap- peared in New York at Niblo's, in 1852, and has since played principally at Philadelphia. Mrs. Sloman made her first appearance at this establish- ment on the 1st of April, as Belvidera, Mr. Forrest playing Jaffier, and George Barrett, Pierre. April 2d. Mr. Wilson's benefit, when he appeared as Pyth- ias, playing the character, according to the critics, better than any previous representative. Mr. Forrest was the Damon, and Miss Emery, from the Chatham, Calanthe. In the afterpiece of "Mons. Tonson," Mr. Wilson played Mor~ bleau, and Mr. Crooke, (also from the Chatham) Tom Xing'. After nearly six months' absence from the company, Mr. Roberts resumed his old position about this time, repeating with success his favorite characters of Wormwood, Bill?/ Black, Doctor Pangloss, Gaby Grim, &c. Mrs. Sloman's benefit occurred on the 14th. She appeared as Evadne, and Mr. Sloman made his first appearance as Tom, in "Intrigue." Mr. Forrest again had a benefit on the 16th, when he ap- peared as Othello, with Wilson as Iago, Mrs. Sloman as Des- demona, and Mrs. Hughes (her first appearance in eight months) as Emilia. He was again engaged, playing Sir Giles Overreach, &c, and on the 23d again took a benefit in the character of Othello, when Mr. Cooper made his first appearance on these boards as Iago. April 26th. Miss Rock commenced another engagement as Htlen Worrett. April 29th. George P. Morris had a benefit night, when 568 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. his drama of "Brier Cliff" was performed, with Roberts, Thayer, and Anderson in their original parts; Archer as Alfred Leslie, Mrs. G. Barrett as Mary Jansen, and Mrs. Hughes, Crazy Bet. April 30th. First night of Mr. Hamblin, who appeared as Hamlet, with Miss Bock as Ophelia. The latter took her benefit May 5th, playing Juliet to his Romeo. Little Miss Lane's benefit was announced on the 6th, when she perpetrated Goldfinch, in the " Boad to Ruin." Mr. Hamblin's benefit came off on the 8th, when " A Bold Stroke for a Husband " and " Is He Jealous ?" were performed, with Mr. and Mrs. Hamblin as Don Julio and Donna Olivia ; Belmour and Harriet. May 9th. Commenced a joint engagement with Cooper and Forrest, during which the former played Pierre, Othello, Bru- tus, Leon, and Iago, and the latter, Jqffier, Iago, Marc Antony and Othello. On their benefit nights, "Damon and Pythias" was performed, one time with Cooper as Damon, and Forrest as Pythias, and on the other with the characters reversed. On the 12th, Seiltanzer Herr Cline, as he was dubbed, ap- peared for the first time in America, in his graceful exercises on the elastic cord. He was a most daring and dexterous per- former in the various feats of his profession, in which he was entirely unrivaled until the appearance of the Ravel troupe. He occupied a very profitable starring position for several seasons, at Castle Garden, Niblo's, Barnum's Museum, &c. The same night, the amusing "Invincibles" took their stand on the Bowery boards, with Miss Rock as Victoire, Roberts as Gen. Verdun, De Camp as Brusque, and Comer as O Slash. The musical farce called "No, or the Glorious Minority," was also first played about this time, with the fol- lowing cast: Sir G. Doubtful . . . Mr. Archer. Lady Doubtful . . Mra. Young. Com. Hurricane ..." Faulkner. Maria " G. Barrett. Frederick .... " Stevenson. j Deborah ...» " Jones. Miss Rock took her benefit on the 23d, appearing as Vic- toire, and presenting, for the first time, the beautiful drama of the " Somnambulist," in which she appeared as Ernestine. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 569 For Monday evening, May 26th, Mrs. Gilfert announced her benefit, and intended appearance as Amelia, in the "Life of a Gamester," with her little daughter Sophia as Georgette ; but early on that evening, before the audience and performers had assembled, the theatre was discovered to be on fire, and in a short time was totally destroyed. Fortunately the owners and lessees suffered little, their interest being princi- pally covered by insurance, but many of the performers lost valuable wardrobes, and being thrown out of employment, suffered great inconvenience. For their benefit, an entertain- ment was given at the Park, on the 31st, and the manager of the Lafayette politely assigned a night at his establishment for the benefit of Mrs. Gilfert. As soon as the necessary preparations could be completed, a little theatre, dubbed the Sans Souci, was opened by Mr. Gilfert at Niblo's Garden, corner of Broadway and Prince Street. On the opening night, July 4th, the "Hundred- Pound Note" was performed, with George Barrett, W. B. Chap- man, Anderson, Stone, Mrs. G. Barrett, Mrs. Jones and Mrs. Stevenson in the cast. Herr Cline followed on the tight-rope, and M. Barbiere, Mme. Labasse, and Mile. Rosalie gave a pas de trois. Holland took a benefit on the 24th, when he introduced his celebrated entertainment called the Whims of a Comedian, interspersed with ventriloquism. The farce of " Is it a Lie ?" was first played in New York on the 26th, as follows : Chatterton .... Mr. G. Barrett. Trance Mr. W. Chapman. Credulous " Stone. Maria Mrs. Stevenson. Lord Stately .... " Someryille. Lucy " G.Barrett. Aug. 6th. Mr. and Mrs. Blake and Mr. Roberts made their first appearance here, and the season terminated on the 19th, when the opera of " Rosina" was performed, with Howard as Belville, Walton as Mr. Belville, W. Chapman as William, Mrs. Lacombe as Rosina, and Mrs. Blake, Phcebe. After the failure of Mr. Henry Wallack, the lease of the Chatham Theatre passed into* the hands of Mr. Megary, who opened it on the 6th of June, 1827, with the comedies of the 72 570 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. "Road to Ruin," and "Catharine and Petruchio," in which Messrs. Dwyer, Blake, Stone, Moses Phillips, Mrs. Bernard, Mrs. Turner and Mrs. Dinneford, took the principal parts. June 7th. Brought out "Pizarro," with Mrs. Blake as Cora, Mr. Thompson, from the Lafayette, as Pizarro, and Mr. Charles Webb, his first appearance in New York, as Rolla. The latter was long a favorite at the Philadelphia and South- ern theatres. He was a native of Pennsylvania, large and portly in person, and unfortunately addicted to habits of in- temperance. He played an engagement at the Park, with Miss Vos, in 1835, and was found drowned near Washington, D. C, March 6th, 1851. Mr. William Conway made his first appearance in America on the 8th, as Lord Duberly. He soon subsided into a lower range of parts, and was afterward in the Park company. He was found dying, from the effects of strong drink, at the age of 35, in a public street of this city, February 11th, 1833. A more important personage was announced on the 11th, as Euphrasia. This was Mrs. Hill, (originally Mary Wallack) from the London Theatres, where she at one time played as Mrs. Stanley. She was a sister of James and Henry Wallack, and possessed very superior abilities for the heavier walks of tragedy and melo-drama. She was in New York for two or three seasons, and then went South, where she married a wealthy planter, and died at New Orleans, in 1834. June 12th. Mr. J. J. Adams commenced an engagement as Hamlet. June 14th. " Love in a Village " was performed, with Mr. Denman as Hawthorn, Mr. Keene as Young Meadows, and Signora Papanti as Rosetta (the first appearance of the latter in New York). We believe she was an English lady, with an Italian musician for her husband. Her singing was ap- plauded, and she was also a very clever actress, appearing during her engagement as Morgiana, Julia Mannering, Blanche of Devon, Jessica, Marian Ramsay, Diana Vernon, &c. At Boston she was favorably received for several years. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 571 Frederick Brown made his first appearance this season as Shylock, on the 20th. Mrs. Hill took her first benefit on the 25th, when she appeared as Helen McGregor, with her brother Henry as Rob Roy. Mr. Moreland and Miss Riddle were now added to the com- pany, and Mr. Barry, from the Park, with Williamson, the singer, appeared for Moses Phillips' benefit, July 9th. Mrs. Jefferson (late Burke) sung for a few nights. Fred. Brown took his benefit on the 16th, and soon after the season ended, and the Theatre was subjected to a thorough process of altera- tion and repair. The proscenium was raised twelve feet, the stage enlarged, the front of the boxes was painted in fresco, divided into panels, and displayed basso relievo heads of Byron, Scott, and other distinguished poets. The house was lighted with gas throughout, and a magnificent glass chande- lier hung from the center of the dome. In point of elegance and comfort, it was supposed to be unsurpassed in the Union. Mr. Megary, the lessee, employed Mr. Maywood as his stage- director, and the company included Messrs. W. Forrest, Kel- sey, Moreland, Vernon, M. S. Phillips, Sarzedas, Edwards, Quin, Mrs. Entwistle, Mrs. Vernon, Mrs. H. A. Williams, Mrs # Turner, (for old ladies) the beautiful Miss Twibill, Mrs. Ste- venson, &c. Mr. Kelsey was the only stranger of any note. He was a very fair melo-dramatic actor, and is last remem- bered here in 1833. The Theatre was re-opened on the 3d of December, 1827, and the " Man of the World/' with Maywood as McSycophant, and "Family Jars," with Phillips as Delph,were the initial performances. Dec. 4th. Mr. Finn made his first appearance in two years in his great characters of Paul Pry and Buskin. He also personated Dr. Ollapod, Baron Willing-hurst, Baillie Jarvie, Looney McTwoller, Bob Logic and Doctor Lenitive, with great ability, omitting, for the first time, all attempts at tragedy. Dec. 11th, occurred the first appearance in New York of Mr. John Woodhull, (brother of the well-known Park actor) 572 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. in the character of Rolla. He had a fine personal appearance, but possessed little merit as an artist. He died of consump- tion, in this city, in 1838. The same evening, Miss Jane Placide made her first ap- pearance in New York, since childhood, as Elvira and Pris- cilia Tomboy. We have before alluded to this lady, and her present engagement, during which she also appeared as Flo- rinda, Mrs. Haller, and Belvidera, confirmed the high opinion of her merits expressed by Southern critics. We are not aware that she ever after appeared in New York, but at New Orleans she was long pre-eminently the star of the drama. In 1833, for the benefit of her health, Miss Placide made a trip to Europe, and played Elvira twice at Covent Garden. The voyage was but of temporary .benefit, and soon after her return to New Orleans, her disorder returned with increased violence, and she expired there in May, 1835. Dec. 14th. Mr. Fielding, from the Boston Theatre, made his first appearance in New York as Hemeya, in the " Apos- tate." He never attained popularity here. He was last at Richmond Hill, in 1835. Mr. Charles W. Taylor, the well-known actor and dramatist, made his first appearance in New York on the 22d, as Somer- ville, in " Turn Out. 5 ' This gentleman was born in England, and made his first appearance in America in 1819, at Norfolk, Va. He was a good-looking young man, with a voice of fine quality, which, had it received proper training, would have given him a high standing as a vocalist. He became ulti- mately a very respectable representative of a hearty country squire, or any frank, open and honest character suited to his increasing years, and was long a favorite actor in such parts at the National Theatre, Chatham Street. He retired from the Stage with a farewell benefit at Wallack's Theatre, Sep- tember 3d, 1860, when he appeared as Max Harkaway, in "London Assurance." Mr. Taylor still lives, and must be nearly 70. He was the dramatizer of the "Water Witch," which had an immense run at the Bowery Theatre in 1831, and has also RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 573 written and arranged many other pieces that have enjoyed temporary popularity. Mr. John Mills Brown, an Englishman by birth, and a popu- lar comedian of Boston, where he had first appeared in 1821, came out on the 31st, as Farmer Ashfield and Risk. He had already played at the Lafayette Theatre, and though an actor of much humor, failed to gain a permanent footing on the New York boards. He occasionally appeared until 1838. After a retirement of several years, Mr. Brown died at his residence at Cold Spring, New York, on the 15th of April, 1859, aged 77 years. Mrs. H. Williams took her benefit on the 28th of January, 1828, when she appeared as Rolla, and Billy Black ! ! Jan. 31st. Poor Tom Flynn made his first appearance in New York, as Rover. This humorous, eccentric, and unfortunate man was born December 22d, 1804, and made his debut at the Surrey Theatre, London, as Florian, in the "Foundling of the Forest," March, 1822. For several months after, Mr. Flynn was in a provincial circuit, until he was engaged by Mr. Elliston for Drury Lane, but on that gentleman's withdrawal from the establishment, he followed him to the Surrey again, where, in 1826, he opened in the characters of Floriville and Humphrey Grizzle. From this stage he was taken by Mr. Finn for the Federal Street Theatre, Boston, where he made his American debut as Capt. Absolute, September 10th, 1827. He came thence to New York, where he for a while managed the Chatham. In 1833-4, he was stage-manager of the Bowery — afterward had the Richmond Hill for a short time. In 1836, he opened the National Theatre, (late Italian Opera House) corner of Church and Leonard Streets, where he brought out Mitchell, the fa- mous Olympic comedian, Charles Howard, Morley, the singer, and others. He also, with Mr. Willard, built the New Chat- ham Theatre, (afterward called Purdy's National) which was first opened in 1839. He did not long continue its manage- ment, but, joining the great Temperance movement of the day, became an ardent public advocate of the cause. For- 574 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. tunate would it have been for him had his strength of reso- lution equaled his force of conviction. He knew that the " social glass" — that demon in disguise — was hurrying him to destruction, and though he made one long and hopeful halt upon the journey, it finally drove him to the bitter end, in poverty, shame and degradation. Mr. Flynn married Matilda Twibill, at that time the belle and beauty of the stage, March 30th, 1828. He died in New York, of cholera, June 23d, 1849. He was noted for his strong friendship to Mr. Booth, and, in his own better days, was almost the only man who could control the latter in his fits of wildness. As an actor, in his best estate, he was inferior to most of those who sus- tained the same lines of character, and for several years his corpulence unfitted him for appearing in his favorite range of light comedy. In private, he was a jovial companion, free, easy and generous, taking no heed for the morrow ; and though, from his wife's brilliant talents, and his own success in management, he was at times supposed to be accumulating a fortune, yet his career ended, as before stated, in neglect and wretchedness. Mr. Higgs, the proprietor of the saloons of the Theatre, and also well remembered as the host of the old Star Coffee House, took a benefit on the 14th of February, when Miss George made her first appearance here as Diana Vernon, and Mr. E. Metz as Francis Osbaldi stone. Mrs. Gill also appeared as Virginia, with Miss George as Paul, in the operetta of " Paul and Virginia." Feb. 20th. Mr. Crooke made his first appearance in Amer- ica as Goldfinch and Tristram Fickle. We have no knowledge of his merits. He married Mrs. Entwistle, and went South, where he soon after died. The season was brought to a conclusion early in March. On the 17th of the same month, it was re-opened, we be- lieve, by Messrs. Ryder and Stevenson, with Mr. Flynn as manager, and with the principal members of the former com- pany. "Fazio" was performed, with Mr. Crooke as Fazio, and Miss Emery (her first appearance in New York) as Bianca. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 575 The afterpiece was " Don Juan," with Crooke as the libertine, and Wood, the famous pantomirnist, as Scaramouch, Miss Emery, in scenes of intense passion, was an actress of great skill and power. She was brought from the Surrey Theatre, by Mr. Wemyss, for the Chestnut Street Theatre, Philadelphia, where she first appeared, November 1st, 1827, as Belvidera, and her en- gagement throughout created a marked sensation. In New York, the Stage being already crowded with favorites, and her debut occurring in a declining theatre, she did not attract gene- ral attention, but the few who saw her fully acknowledged her great merit. Her career was short and disastrous. In 1831, she played a few nights under the name of Mrs. Burroughs. In 1832, according to the record of Mr. Wemyss, she perished in abject misery, in that sink of wretchedness and vice, the Five Points of New York. During her first engagement here, she played Belvidera, Alicia, Bellamira, Elvira, and Crazy Jane, in the drama of that name, which was first played on the 28th of March, with the following cast : Lord Raymond . . Mr. Crooke. Frauds .... Mr. Quin. Henry " W. Fokeest. Lady Jane .... Mrs. Entwistle. Edwin " Wood. Crazy Jane . . . Miss Emery. Walter J. Woodhull. Robinette .... " Twibill. Mr. Scott, from the Lafayette, opened an engagement on the 24th, as Othello and Rob Roy. Miss Emery took her benefit on the 31st, appearing very successfully as Evadne and Mrs. Simpson. In the tragedy, she was assisted by Mr. Wilson (his first appearance) as Colonna, and in the farce, by Mr. W. B. Chapman as Mr. Simpson. The " divine Celeste" also contributed a pas seul. April 17th. " Rob Roy" was performed, with Wilson as Rob, Garner as Francis, (his first appearance in two years) and Mrs. Kinloch as Diana Vernon, her first appearance in New York. Mrs. Kinloch was the mother of Miss Lane, here- tofore alluded to, and possessed some merit as a light singing actress. She was a native of London, and first appeared in America, at Walnut Street, Philadelphia, as Margaretta, July, 1827. She was the representative of old ladies at the Bowery Theatre in 1833, and was well known in that line in several cities of the Union. Mr. Turnbull and his 576 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. daughters were in the company at this period, and we first note Miss Julia Turnbull's appearance on the 26th of April, when she sung the popular song of the "Dashing White Ser- geant." She was probably about six years old. She after- ward became widely known as a danseuse of merit. Mr. Flynn's season terminated previous to May 1st. Notwithstanding the continued failures of its managers, another attempt was made to restore the fortunes of the Chatham Theatre by Messrs. Kilner and Maywood, who as- sumed its direction, and again opened its doors to the public on the 9th of June, 1828, with a company composed of Scott, Blake, Roberts, Herbert, George Andrews, Thomas Walton, Crooke, Vernon, Stevenson, Charnock, John Fisher, Colling- bourne, and Quin ; Mesdames Blake, Hughes, Vernon, Turner, Kinloch and Roberts, Miss Amelia Fisher, Miss Kent, and Mr. and Miss Wells, the two latter dancers. These, with the two managers, formed a powerful and efficient corps for every de- partment of the drama- June 10th. In the farce of " Turn Out," Mr. Walton made his first appearance in New York as Somerville, creating a very favorable impression by the excellence of his singing and the ease and finish of his acting, which was far superior to the usual style of vocalists. His person also was distingue, and his face handsome. He was a native of England, and had first appeared in America, at Boston, as Henry Bertram, in the fall of 1827. He was afterward connected with the manage- ment of the Philadelphia and Baltimore theatres. He first appeared at the Park Theatre, in the opera of the " Maid of Judah," as Cedric, in company with Mr. and Mrs. Wood, No- vember 11th, 1833. We last remember him here in the fall of 1836. He returned to England, and became stage-manager of the Princess's Theatre, London. Mr. Walton died July 19th, 1847, from the effects of poison, improperly administered during an attack of illness. June 11th. Mr. George Andrews made his first appearance in New York as Zekiel Homespun, and John Lump. This gentle- man was also born in England in 1798, and at the age of twenty RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STACK. 577 made his debut on the stage at Manchester, as Lot hair, in " Adelgitha." He came to America in 1827, and first ap- peared at the Federal Street Theatre, Boston, in October of that year, as Bob Acres. He was a good low comedian, and in the character of a Yorkshireman, either serious or comic, has probably not been surpassed on our Stage. He married Miss Woodward, a favorite songstress of Boston, and was himself a vocalist of no mean repute. In 1845-6-7, Mr. George An- drews was in the Park company, afterward at the Broadway Theatre, and Burton's, and played at the Winter Garden as lately as 1865 in the character of Polonius to Edwin Booth's Hamlet. He died in New York, April 7th, 1866, leaving an enviable reputation, both private and professional. Mrs. Duff made her first appearance, since her return from Europe, in the character of Mrs. Haller, June 17th, supported by Maywood as the Stranger, and Scott as Barm Steinfort, their first appearance. Miss George was brought out on the 18th, as Diana Vernon, and Georgette Clairville. On the 20th, she appeared as Rosina, when Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Barrett were announced as stars, as Belmour and Harriet, in "Is He Jealous?" Mr. George An- drews, on that night, also made a powerful impression as Luke the Laborer, a character in which he remained un- rivaled. July 1st. Mrs. Duff' played Belvidera for her benefit, sup- ported by Wilson as Pierre, and Booth as Jqffier. In the afterpiece cf the "Citizen," Miss Rock played Maria, and Kilner and G. Barrett Old and Young Philpot. Miss Emery was the next luminary, appearing on the 7th as Bianca, in " Fazio." July 8th. A drama from the French, called the " Prodi- gal Son," was produced with considerable applause, thus cast : Azael Mr. Blake. I Siostris .... Mr. Lindsley. Ozonath " Scott. Zorai Mrs. Huohes. Naboth " Crooke. Jeptha .... " Blake. Laban " Stevenson. Naphtali .... " Turner. A version of the same piece was played at the Broadway, in 1851. 73 578 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. July 9th. Mr. William Duffy, of Albany (where he was born in 1801, and first appeared upon a Thespian stage in 1822), made his first appearance in New York, as Colonna, in " Evadne." He was a better actor in a light comedy part, and at Albany and Philadelphia was quite a favorite. In the latter city he was, at one time, manager of the Arch Street Theatre, in conjunction with Jones and Forrest. In an affray with Mr. James Hamilton, an actor, at Albany, in 1835, he received a dagger wound, which caused his death. July 11th. The interesting drama of " Charlotte Temple" was first performed here for Mr. Herbert's benefit, thus cast: Temple Mr. Scott. Charlotte Temple Mrs. Hughes. Capt. Montreville . . " Crooke. Mme. Larue ..." Stevenson. Belcour " Stevenson. Mme. Dupont ..." Kinloch. Mr. and Mrs. Hilson, on this occasion, appeared for the first time on this stage, as Paul Pry, and Phcebe. Mr. Henry Wallack was engaged as a star, opening, on the 16th. as Macbeth, with Miss Emery as Lady Macbeth. On the 28th, for his benefit, he appeared as Falconbridge, to May- wood's King- John, with Mrs. Gilfert as Constance. The popular Mr. Higgs, of the Saloons, took a benefit on the 4th of August, when he appeared on the stage for the first time, as Count Romaldi, in the " Tale of Mystery." Notwithstanding the spirit and energy of the managers, the excellence of the company, and the variety in the entertain- ments, the season soon after terminated for want of a remu- nerative support. The Lafayette Theatre was entirely rebuilt this season, by Mr. Sandford, from the plans of Mr. Grain, and on its completion was acknowledged to be the largest and most splendid theatre in the Union. The front was of Eastern white granite, presenting a novel and beautiful appearance, and the interior was decorated in a style equally chaste and elegant. The boxes were supported by bronze columns, with Ionic capitals carved and gilded, and a superb glass chan- delier hung from the center of the dome — the latter attract- ing universal admiration for the beauty and harmony of its proportions. The stage was one hundred and twenty feet RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 579 deep, and, in part, one hundred feet wide, being larger than any then existing in England or America. It was considered a vast improvement that it was lighted from above, and thai the stage machinery was also managed from the same ele- vated position. Mr. Burroughs was retained as stage-manager, Mr. Godey was treasurer, and Messrs. Grain and Jones, scene-painters. The acting company consisted of Messrs. H. Wallack, Burroughs, Scott, Thayer, Faulkner, Hyatt, Anderson, J. M. Brown, H. Eberle, Fisher, Walstein, Richings, Denman, Somerville, Din- neford, Doyne, Collins, D. Eberle, B. Blaike, Tatnall, Stick- ney, Carr, Hamilton, Richards, T. Placide, W. Conway, E. H. Conway, and Katen ; Mesdames Hill, Stone, H. Wallack, Fisher, Walstein, Green, Edstrom, Morgan, Spiller and E. H. Conway ; Misses Twibill, S. and E. Eberle, Deblin, Alexina Fisher, &c. The season commenced on the 29th of September, 1827. The opening address was admirably delivered by Mrs. Hill. It was the production of Prosper M. Wetmore, Esq., and in point of merit, is certainly far superior to the general run of similar poems : In legend lore and history's radiant page, The rich memorials of a classic age, Bright o'er the hallowed records shines a ray, The herald of the Drama's after day : Its morn arose with envious clouds oppressed, The noon appears in rainbow splendors dressed, Far distant be the shadows of that night Which shrouds in gloom these visions of delight. In vernal groves, the Paradise of earth, Were sung the tidings of the Drama's birth ; From rose-wreathed harps the sounds of rapture came, And thrilled to ecstasy the minstrel's frame ; Then youthful Taste, with her attendant train, Assumed the sceptre and began her reign ; The sylvan scene was gemmed with choicest flowers, Which sweetly blushed thro' tears from summer showers Forth from her bower, in radiant splendor bright, The Queen appeared, arrayed in robes of light ; 580 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. And soft-voiced Music breathed upon her lute, Each sound was hushed, and every hp was mute. Young Genius threw his eagle glance around, And moved with eager step that spurned the ground ; He seized the pen and traced in lines of light, The glowing thought with Fancy's visions bright ; Chaste Truth beheld — her magic wand displayed, Her sacred signet on the tablets laid — That seal to Nature's reigning impulse true, Its silver lustre o'er the pages threw ; Then forth the mandate came — " Through every age Be Truth the guardian of the moral stage ; Each line be dra^n to strengthen Virtue's cause, And every scene be true to Nature's laws." This fiat given — in one rude crash of sound The harps were struck, and music breathed around. To fairy lands, where gay illusions dwell, Those forms have fled who lived in Fancy's spell ! Behold ! where moves with melancholy mien, The tearful mistress of the tragic scene ; Her laboring bosom heaves the trembling sigh — The glance of madness flashes from her eye ! With blanched cheek and wildly streaming hair, She calls on Death ! and rushes in despair ! The pointed steel is drawn with sudden gleam — It strikes ! — she falls ! — life yields its purple stream. What fairy form glides through the distant grove ? With pleasure's step, and looks of joy and love It comes ; and now, a shade of sadness steals Across that brow — the falling tear reveals The soul of feeling, shrined where mirth resides, Gay, sportive " Mirth, which wrinkled Care derides." Those eyes of sparkling light — that winning grace — And all the thrilling eloquence of face, Are thine, Thalia — thine the witching power To shade with grief, or gild the passing hour. In yon dark form, the deepest passions dwell, In this, the gentler, softer charms excel ; Through these, Life's varied scenes are shadowed forth — Vice drops her crest — Truth crowns neglected Worth ; And thus, with intellectual power, the Stage Guards with its shield the morals of the age. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 581 Matrons ! with joy we trend the mimic scene, In Wisdom's robes — or clad in sportive mien — Our steady aim is still to win your smile ; That sun-lit beam can all our cares beguile : Vain were our hopes to aid the Drama's cause, Unless our efforts win your kind applause. The Temple reared — the envied task is ours To light the mind with god-like Reason's powers ; And yours the glory to create a name For this fair dome, upon the scroll of Fame ! The entertainments consisted of the "Honeymoon," with Henry Wallack as Duke Aranza, and Mrs. Stone as Juliana, and the drama of the " Wandering Boys," with Mrs. Wallack as Paul, and Mrs. Fisher as Justin. Monday, October 1st, how- ever, presented a better display of the resources of the estab- lishment, when the opera of "Rosina" was performed, with Richings as Mr. Belville, Denman as Capt. Belville, H. Eberle as William, Anderson as the Irishman, Mrs. Green as Rosina, and Mrs. Wallack, Phoebe. The " Bride of Abydos" was also brought out with a degree of splendor hitherto unattempted, and the excellence of its performance secured general appro- bation. Burroughs played Selim ; Scott, Giaffir ; Rich- ings, Osman Bey ; Mrs. Wallack, Zulieka ; and Mrs. Green, Zobeide. A succession of standard comedies, operas and melo- dramas was presented with fine effect: — Mrs. Hill played Lady Randolph, Meg Merrilies, Stella di Procida, Mill- wood, &c. ; Miss Twibill — Rosalie Somers, Cicely Home- spun, &c. ; Mrs. Green — Lucy Bertram, Lodoiska and Nor ah ; Mrs. Stone — Bisarre, Mrs. Glenroy and Miss Hardcastle ; Mrs. Walstein— all the respectable old ladies; and Mrs. Fisher, a little of everything, from deepest tragedy to broadest farce. Among the principal masculines of the company, Henry Wallack played Reuben Glenroy, Dick Dowlas, Kera Khan, Harvey Birch and Tekeli ; Burroughs went on for Young Norval, Leporello, Fitz James and Earl of Leicester ; Thayer delighted everybody with his Seoul, Splash, Docl. Pangloss, 582 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. Young Marlow and Belmour ; while Scott gave the ruffian Hatteraick, the miller Grindoff, the stern Glenalvon, the savage Onalaska, and the sailor Jack, with almost equal merit and success. Bichings and Denman divided the principal vocalization; Anderson was the "boy" for the Hibernians; Faulkner took charge of the bluff old gentlemen ; while Hyatt, Mills Brown and Harry Eberle raised many a merry laugh by their irresistible drolleries. The " Pringles in Town," an amusing farce, was brought out November 12th, with the following cast : Old Pringle . Old Dingle . Jacky Pringle Pumkinhead . Mr. Faulkner. " Fisher. " H. Eberle. " J. M. Brown. Flourish . Trumps Betsy Pringle Maggy . . . Mr. Collins. •' Denman. . Miss Eberle. . Mrs. Fisher. "Brier Cliff" was played during the latter part of the month. Its author, George P. Morris, had a benefit on the 8th of December. From his numerous benefits, Mr. Morris must have realized a handsome sum from his first dramatic at- tempt. Dec. 11th. For Mr. H. Wallack's benefit, the drama called " Joan of Arc " was first played with the following cast : Prince Charles Beauvais . . Scales . Richemont Chalons . . Mr. Scott. " Collins. " Denman. " Stickney. " B. Blaike. De Camora Valianto Florine Joan Lucille Mr. Walstein. " J. M. Brown. " Thayer. Mrs. Hill. " Wallace. Jan. 11th, 1828. For Mr. Bichings' benefit, a drama called the " Blood Red Knight" was first played, as follows : Sir Rowland Oliver . . Charles Mr. Richings. " Scott. " Stickney. Peter . . Lady Isabel Emma . . Mr. SOMERVILLE. Mrs. Hill. " Green. " Dolly and the Bat," a new farce, was brought out about this time, with Somerville as Dicky Scragg ; Walstein, Jere- miah Dip; Stickney, Tom Brisket; Mrs. Walstein, Mrs. Brisket ; and Mrs. Fisher, Dolly. " Gilderoy" was also pro- duced, with the following cast : Gilderoy . . Walter Logan Johnie Howie Mr. H. Wallace. " Walstein. " Richings. Bailie McNab Andrew Jessy Logan Mr. Somerville. " H. Eberle. Mrs. Wallace. March 3d. For Mr. Burroughs' benefit, Mrs. Sandford made her first appearance this season as Diana Vernon. Mr. Mestayer played Will Steady, in the " Purse," on the 11th, his only appearance. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 583 The celebrated drama called the " Sons of Erin" was played on St. Patrick's Day, cast as follows : Sir Frederick . . . Mr. Thayer. Patrick .... Mr. Anderson. Rivers " Walstein. Lady Lovell . . . Mrs. Stone. Capt. Rivers .... " Riciiings. Miss Rivers ..." Walstein. Fitzedward .... " Scott. After the 22d, the Theatre was closed for a fortnight, during which time the company played at Mount Pitt Circus. Re-opening April 7th, Mrs. Sandford was made a promi- nent attraction. Mr. and Mrs. Blake were added to the company, making their first appearance May 5th, as Wildlove, and Zephyrina. The same night the " Battle of Waterloo" was first played, in which Mr. Kinloch made his first appearance in New York as Napoleon. Mr. Kinloch " made up " the character admi- rably, and the piece had a run. The " Red Rover" was played on the 26th, and had likewise considerable success, with the following cast : Red Rover .... Mr. Burroughs. Homespun .... Mr. Walstein. Dick Fid " H. Wallace. 1 Mrs. Wyllys . . . Mrs. Stone. Lieut. Wilder ..." Richings. Mine, de Lacy. . . " Walstein. Scipio " Soott. Gertrude .... " Sandford. June 2d. For Mr. H. Wallack's benefit, Mr. Hilson appeared as Falstaff, and Mr. Hackett as Morbleau, besides repeating his Yankee stories. Mrs. Gilfert's benefit, which she was prevented from taking at the Bowery by the conflagration of that establishment, came off here on the 6th of June, when Mr. Cooper played Damon ; Mr. Forrest, Pythias ; Mrs. Gilfert, Hermione ; and Mrs. Hughes, Calanthe. Messrs. G. Barrett, Roberts, Hackett, Pearman, Holland, Burroughs, Hyatt and Barbiere, with Mrs. Sandf jrd, Mme. Labasse, and Mile. Celeste, appeared in a melange of recitation, music and dancing. June 7th. For Mrs. Kinloch's benefit, the old farce called " Miss in Her Teens " was revived, with her daughter, little Miss Lane, as Flash; John Sefton (his first appearance in New York) as Fribble, Mrs. Blake as Miss Biddy Bellair, and Mrs. Kinloch, Tag. Mr. Sefton had little versatility of talent, and could not be called a good general comedian, but in some particular parts he has displayed a degree of merit scarcely approached by any other actor. He struggled with neglect, 584 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. or bare toleration, for several years, till, against his own will, he was forced into the character of Jemmy Twitcher, at the Walnut Street Theatre, Philadelphia, and his performance of the part at once established his fame and fortune. Nothing like its perfection had appeared upon our stage. In dress, voice, slang and manner, he was the very vagrant himself, and the simple, but oft-repeated ejaculation, "Veil, vot ov it?" invariably convulsed the house with laughter. His Silky, in the "Road to Ruin," we have never seen equaled, and in Doctor Cams he is excelled only by Placide. In Cupid, Tom Twigg, Billy Downy, and several other of John Reeve's great parts, he was also very happy. Mr. Sefton was born in Liver- pool, January 15th, 1805, and first appeared on the American Stage at Philadelphia, June, 1827. .He was long employed by Mr. Niblo as director of his dramatic entertainments, and has been (under Mr. E. A. Marshall) manager of the Walnut Street Theatre, Philadelphia. Mr. Sefton has been twice married ; his first wife was Miss Wells, a dancer, and his second the well-known Mrs. Watts, of this city. He has been for several seasons past at Wallack's. Mr. De Camp commenced a star engagement on the 9th, as Gossamer, and took his benefit on the 17th, as Kera Khan and Corinthian Tom. About this time, the pretty Sophy Eberle was first an- nounced, as Mrs. Laforest. June 20th. Mr. A. W. Jackson, from the Western theatres, made his first appearance in New York as Col. Rigolio, in the "Broken Sword" He was for several years connected with our minor theatres, but displayed little merit as an actor. He became manager of the Bowery Theatre in 1845, where, in a short time, he accumulated a fortune. He also had the man- agement of the Winter Garden for one or two seasons. Mr. Jackson died in New York, May, 1866. June 23d. For the benefit of Mrs. Wallack, Mrs. John Greene, from the Philadelphia theatres, made her first ap- pearance in New York as' Elvira, in " Pizarro." This lady was born at Boston, March 23d, 1800. Her maiden name was RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 585 Ann Nuskey. She made her stage debut at Norfolk, Va,, with Beaumont's company, in 1815, and soon after married Henry Lewis, a son of Lewis, the great London comedian, from whom she separated on account of ill-treatment and learning that he had a wife and children living in Europe. She married Greene in 1818, and endured with him an innumerable variety of in- cidents, joyful and sorrowful, in their mutual long theatrical career. She was for many years attached to the Chestnut Street Theatre, Philadelphia, and, after passing through nearly every city of the Union, finally settled at Nashville, Tenn., where her husband was manager for several seasons. She survived him about two years, dying on the 19th of January, 1862, aged nearly 62 years. She possessed no great diversity of talent, but in the highest range of walking ladies — the serious mothers, the distressed wives, and stately bar- onesses of the stage — we have never seen her surpassed. Her Hermionej in " Damon and Pythias," was a fine performance ; her Queen Elizabeth, in " Richard III.," we have never seen excelled, and her Queen Gertrude, in " Hamlet," we have never known equaled. In personal appearance she was tall and commanding, and her costume was generally elegant and ap- propriate. Mrs. Greene has been well known at our minor theatres, where she often moved like a goddess among the mortals that surrounded her. July 2d. For the benefit of Mrs. Walstein, Mr. Barnes made his only appearance on this stage as Dro?nio, (doubled by Bur- roughs) Mawworm, and Johnny Atkins ("Mogul Tale"). July 7th. The ballet called the " Marriage" introduced to the American Stage an entirely new troupe of French dancers, composed of Miles. Estelle, Ravenot, Clara, Louise, Esther, and Hyacinthe, with Messrs. Feltman, Duruissell, and Benoni. With considerable merit among its different members, it failed to create the sensation produced by its predecessors at the Bowery. July 19th. George W. Dixon made his first appearance in New York as a singer of comic songs. He attained consider- able notoriety with his " Coal-Black Rose," and other negro 74 586 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. ditties, before Rice and his " Jim Crow" popularity had had their day. Dixon afterward made himself odious in New York by his publication of a scurrilous paper called the Polyanthos, whose slanders became so gross and outrageous that he was finally compelled to leave the city. In August, Mr. Burroughs took his farewell benefit ; Mr. Garner appeared; Mrs. Hamblin had a star engagement; Rice played his first prominent character in New York on the 23d, (Johnny Atkins) and early in September we find on the bills of the establishment the additional names of Laid ley, Grey, Blakely, Neilson, Miss Costar, &c. Before the end of the month the season was brought to a termination. CHAPTER XXXVII. Park Theatre, 1828-9— Bowery— Chatham and Lafayette Theatres. N its re-opening, September 1st, 1828, the Park Theatre astonished and delighted its friends by the elegance of its interior, which had been entirely renewed during the vacation. A new drop-curtain was not the least important of its very tasteful embellishments. . The opening pieces were the " Rivals" and " 'Twas I !" with their well-known and favorite casts — Mrs. Wallack's first ap- pearance in the character of Julia being the only variation. Sept. 2d, introduced to the New York public Mr. James H. Caldwell, as Belcour, in the "West Indian," and the Three Singles, in " Three and the Deuce !" Of this gentleman we are unable to speak from personal knowledge, never having had the fortune to witness his per- formances, but the critics of New York have not awarded him that distinguished position in the profession which he en- joyed in the South and West, where, as a genteel comedian, he surpassed all rivalry, and in New Orleans, especially, was pre-eminently the favorite of the public. Born in England, in 1793, he first appeared as a child in the Manchester Theatre. He was brought to this country by Mr. Holman, and first appeared in America at Charleston, S. C, November, 1816, as Belcour and the Singles. In 1817, he managed a theatre in Washington, and in 1818 built the theatre in Petersburg, Va. In January, 1820, he engaged the French Theatre in New Orleans for English performances, and im- parted a degree of respectability to the drama there hitherto 588 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. unknown. He commenced building the first American theatre there in 1822, and opened it January 1st, 1824. In 1826, he built the Nashville Theatre. In 1827, he converted a build- ing at St. Louis, Mo., into a theatre. In 1828, he completed a deserted theatre at Natchez, Miss. He built a fine theatre at Cincinnati, and opened it on the 4th of July, 1832. In 1833, he sold out his theatrical circuit to Messrs. Russell and Rowe, and devoted his time and energies to the introduction of gas at New Orleans. He commenced the great St. Charles Theatre in that city on the 9th of May, 1835, and opened it on the 30th of November in the same year. In point of size and elegance, it surpassed every theatre in the Union, and rivaled the most famous of the old world. It was destroyed by fire, March 13th, 1842, and its enterprising proprietor finally aban- doned his interest in the cause of the drama, and retired from the profession January 14th, 1843, making his farewell bow as Vapid, in the "Dramatist." He afterward occupied im- portant public stations in New Orleans, where he long con- tinued his residence, his untiring industry having secured him a very handsome fortune. Mr. Caldwell was twice mar- ried, first to Mrs. Twomley, of Fredericksburg, Va., and, second, to Miss Rowe, daughter of the Southern manager of that name. He died during the war of the rebellion, while temporarily re- sident in New York, September 11th, 1863, at the age of 70. Mr. Caldwell's first series of characters in New York in- cluded Doricourt, Willinghurst, Duke Aranza, Benedick, Young" Wilding, Charles Surface, Frank Heartall, Felix, (" Hunter of the Alps") and Gossamer, in most of which he was ably sup- ported by the spirited Miss Kelly, who commenced her en- gagement September 3d, as Letitia Hardy. Sept. 11th. Little Miss Russell, (now Mrs. Farren) hereto- fore alluded to, made her first appearance on this stage, as Young Norval and Little Pickle. Sept. 13th. The French ballet troupe, late of the Lafayette Theatre, comprising Messieurs Benoni, Duruissell, St. Clair, and Feltman, and Miles. Estelle, Ravenot, Louise, Hyacinthe, &c, made their debut at this establishment. RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 589 A new comedy, called " Ups and Downs," was produced on the 16th, with the following cast, but was not very successful : Mammenton Mulberry . Higgins . Jack Pointer Delainere . Mr. Barry. " Barnes. " WoonnuLL. " Simpson. " RlCHINQS. Countess . Lady Charlewood Amelia Kitty . . . Mrs. Corduroy ■ Mrs. SlIARPE. Wallace. Hilson. Hackett. Wheatley. Mr. James Wallack, in the full zenith of his fame, returned from Europe, and made his first appearance in six years, on the 17th, as Roll a, in " Pizarro," supported by Mrs. Drake, as Elvira, her first appearance in New York in three years. Mrs. Sandford, from the closed Lafayette Theatre, appeared, on the 18th, as Vespina, and Mr. Thompson, from the same establishment, on the 23d, as Reuben Glenroy. The ever-favorite Mrs. Barnes, having returned from an English tour, made her first appearance on the 26th, as Juliet, to the Romeo of Mr. Wallack, who also personated Walter, in the " Children in the Wood." On this occasion, as one of the Children, we first remember noticing Miss Emma Wheatley, afterward highly distinguished in the profession by the amia- bility of her personal character and her eminent theatrical ability. Her natural genius displayed itself even at this early period, when she had not yet completed her sixth year, all characters suited to her age being portrayed by her with a fidelity to nature almost unexampled. As her years increased, she was intrusted with parts of more importance, until, in 1832, her excellent representation of Arthur, in "King John," attracted the admiring notice of Fanny Kemble, (the Constance of the play) who aided and encouraged her by advice and suggestion, and ere she had at- tained her thirteenth year, for the benefit of her mother, June 25th, 1834, she made what may be termed her regular debut, as Julia, in the "Hunchback," with triumphant success. She soon after appeared as Bianca, Mariana, and Juliet, in all of which she deepened the favorable impression she had created. During the visit of Sheridan Knowles to this country, she played in company with him here, and at the first establishments in our sister cities. Until the fall of 1837, Miss E. Wheatley was under the control of the Park manage- 590 RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. ment, but the offers of Mr. Wallack, then manager of the old National Theatre, induced her to accept an engagement there, and on the 4th of September in that year she first appeared on that stage as Julia, in the 8 Rivals," and was thereafter in- stalled as the leading actress of the establishment, although not yet sixteen years of age. The elder Vandenhoff was then playing his first engagement in this country, and Miss Wheat- ley supported him with a brilliancy and force that surprised her warmest friends. Her whole engagement was a continuous triumph — she became the paramount favorite of the theatre, and was still improving as an actress, when she retired to pri- vate life in the spring of 1838, previous to the close of the season. Having married Mr. James Mason, on the 9th September, 1837, she continued on the stage until his father (then Presi- dent of the Chemical Bank) purchased for them a pleasant rural residence, and with a liberal allowance placed them in circumstances which rendered life, for a while, a paradise. On the death of the elder Mr. Mason, a will was produced which gave her husband a trifling annuity, and distributed a large fortune among other heirs who were already abounding in riches. To contest the legality of this will, Mr. James Mason de- voted his time, energy and means, while Mrs. Mason, though in ill health, resumed her profession, and made her first ap- pearance in nine years, at the Park Theatre, January 11th, 1847, in the character of Juliet. In the spring she played a second engagement, which terminated with a complimentary benefit on the 4th of June, tendered her by Messrs. Hone, Laight, Ogden, Emmett, Duer, Livingston, Schuyler, Clinton, King, Costar, Hamilton, Brevoort, Robertson, Leroy, Newbold, &c, an array of names, appended to a written testimonial, of which the recipient might well be proud. She played Julia, in the 8 Hunchback," being her last appearance on the stage. Justice, though slow, at last rewarded their efforts with suc- cess. Mr. James Mason was declared to be entitled to an equal share of his father's estate, and came into possession RECORDS OF THE NEW YORK STAGE. 591 of a handsome fortune, which, had life and health been spared, would have crowned the future with ease and comfort. But in the full fruition of hope, when wealth was showered upon her, and years of happiness might have been confidently anti- cipated, an insidious disease that had long preyed in secret, (a chronic ulceration of the bowels) seized Mrs. Mason with renewed violence, and terminated her existence on the 16th July, 1854, at the age of 32. Exemplary in all the relations of life, a devoted daughter, an affectionate sister, a true-hearted wife — treading the dan- gerous walks of her profession without once raising a whisper of reproach — she lived an ornament to the Stage and to society, and died bewailed by her family and friends, and sincerely re- gretted by an admiring public, in whose memory her name will ever be enshrined as one of those whose lives have given di