Memoirs of the Life of John Philip Kemble, Esq.: Volume 1
Including a History of the Stage, from the Time of Garrick to the Present Period

Published in 1825, this two-volume theatrical biography was described by Sir Walter Scott as 'grave, critical, full and laudably accurate'.

James Boaden (Author)

9781108064927, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 5 September 2013

526 pages
21.6 x 14 x 3 cm, 0.66 kg

Born into the theatre, though originally intended for Catholic holy orders, John Philip Kemble (1757–1823) made as great a name for himself on the English stage as his gifted older sister, Sarah Siddons. Known for his mastery of tragic Shakespearian roles, among which Coriolanus was deemed his finest, Kemble also distinguished himself as acting manager at Drury Lane under Sheridan. Described by Sir Walter Scott as 'grave, critical, full and laudably accurate', this extensive two-volume biography was the work of James Boaden (1762–1839), an author well acquainted with the foremost theatrical personalities of his day. Boaden's biographies of Sarah Siddons, Elizabeth Inchbald and Dorothy Jordan have also been reissued in this series, along with his edition of David Garrick's correspondence. Volume 1 of the present work covers Kemble's career through to his first season in charge at Drury Lane in 1788–9.

Introduction
Part I: 1. Preliminary reflections
2. His York engagement
3. Mr Kemble arrives in town
4. Covent Garden
5. Mr Kemble's first appearance in London
6. Range of parts at this period
7. Mrs Abington
8. Mr Kemble's acting
9. Winter season of 1784–5
10. Mr Pope's 'Oroonoko'
11. Close of the season 1784–5
12. Season of 1785–6
13. Haymarket
14. Summer of 1787
Part II: 1. Season of 1788–9
2. Other novelties
Illustrations.

Subject Areas: Theatre studies [AN]