Performers in Eighteenth Century British Theatre

In this essay, the author

• Explains that the eighteenth century british theatre was the starting point that would evolve into modern theatre. the actors and actresses played an important role in making the theatre what it was.
• Explains that the social standing of actors and actresses in the late eighteenth century was mostly understood to be of the lower class but they were not always treated so.
• Explains that in a season that could involve 200 nights of performances over 100 plays may be produced. many actors and actresses would need to be available to play many parts.

• Explains that the eighteenth century british theatre was the starting point that would evolve into modern theatre. the actors and actresses played an important role in making the theatre what it was.
• Explains that the social standing of actors and actresses in the late eighteenth century was mostly understood to be of the lower class but they were not always treated so.
• Explains that in a season that could involve 200 nights of performances over 100 plays may be produced. many actors and actresses would need to be available to play many parts.
• Analyzes how hogan provides an example from michael kelly's reminiscences that is perfect in showing the focus and discipline performers had to have.
• Explains that theatre companies showed great teamwork in having to know so many parts. the performers would grow to understand how all the other performers worked and could play off one another.
• Explains that acting was becoming a craft that performers began to focus on perfecting. "directors" were coaching more about stage presence and maintaining character throughout the performance.
• Explains that beginning actors would often play many parts in order to discover the acting types they are best at playing. they would join a company on trial basis, learning from the more experienced actors.
• Explains that performers were asked to sign a binding agreement that holds them for three to five years, and their pay could become larger. performers for smaller parts were often hired on season to season basis.
• Explains that david garrick (1717-1779), charles macklin (1699-1797), john philip kemble, and sarah siddons contributed to later generations of the british theatre.
• Explains that garrick and macklin used the "natural" acting style and both were highly acclaimed for it.
• Analyzes how john philip kemble and sarah siddons reigned over the stage for their intense portrayals of their characters, conquering audiences throughout england.
• Narrates how the kemble family, particularly john philip, would run drury lane theatre and then the covent garden theatre. his farewell performance was sold out “weeks before” and he was making his final role as macbeth.
• Explains that the performers shaped the eighteenth century british theatre not only in their performances, but also in managing and owning individual theatres. they helped shape the theatre of today and tomorrow.
• Describes the works of oscar g. brockett, charles beecher, linda kelly, john philip kemble, sarah siddons, and the london stage.