The Recollections and Reflections of J. R. Planché
A Professional Autobiography

J. R. Planché's two-volume 1872 autobiography describes his long, distinguished and varied working life in the world of theatre.

J. R. Planché (Author)

9781108038829, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 8 November 2011

342 pages, 3 b/w illus.
21.6 x 14 x 1.9 cm, 0.44 kg

Published in 1872, this two-volume autobiography by the British playwright J. R. Planché (1796–1880) tells the story of his long and varied life in the theatre. Planché wrote, adapted or collaborated on 176 plays over the course of his career, covering a wide range of theatrical genres including comedy, opera, extravaganza and pantomime. He also became an acknowledged expert on stage costume, and argued the importance of historically accurate costumes in productions of Shakespeare's plays. Engagingly written, these volumes contain fascinating anecdotes on the famous theatrical and musical figures of the time, including Charles Kemble, Eliza Vestris and Carl Maria von Weber. Volume 1 contains Planché's descriptions of his childhood, and recollections of the beginnings of his career at Drury Lane and Covent Garden. The work confirms Planché's permanent place in the history of theatre practice, and provides an intriguing glimpse into the Regency and early Victorian London stage.

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1. Letter to Walter Arnold
2. Early recollections
3. My first visit to Paris
4. Reform of theatrical costume
5. Weber's Oberon
6. Vauxhall Gardens
7. New acquaintances
8. Shere Afkun
9. American relations
10. Marschner's 'Der Vampire'
11. Elected Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries
12. Captain Polhill and Alexander Lee take Drury Lane Theatre
13. 1832–3. Laporte lessee of covent Garden
14. The Dramatic Authors' Act and its consequences
15. 1833–4. Production of 'Gustavus Third'
16. Publication of The History of British Costume
17. Engagement with Bunn
18. Mission to Paris
19. Introduction to the Duchess-Countess of Sutherland
20. Introduction to the Countess of Blessington
21. Engagement by Chappell and co. to write an opera for Mendelssohn.

Subject Areas: Music [AV]