Sir Henry Irving—A Record of Over Twenty Years at the Lyceum

Name: Sir Henry Irving—A Record of Over Twenty Years at the Lyceum
Author: Percy Fitzgerald

By Percy Fitzgerald

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About This Book

A detailed portrait traces the life and career of Henry Irving from childhood and early schooling through his rise in provincial theatres to more than twenty years at the Lyceum. It combines chronological narrative of notable productions and roles, including many Shakespearean and popular dramas, with contemporaneous criticism, managerial and stagecraft discussion, and reflections on rehearsal, company, and honours. Drawing on the author's long acquaintance, reviews, and documentary material, it offers an independent assessment of artistic merits, theatrical methods, and the discipline behind sustained success, and concludes with added particulars and a reflective closing chapter.

About the Author

Percy Fitzgerald

Percy Fitzgerald (1810-1895) was an English author and journalist known for his contributions to literature and theatre. He gained prominence for his works that often explored the intricacies of Victorian society, as seen in titles like "Bardell v. Pickwick" and "Pickwickian Manners and Customs," which reflect his engagement with Charles Dickens' legacy. Fitzgerald was also a keen observer of the arts, as demonstrated in his biography of Sir Henry Irving, capturing the essence of theatrical life in the 19th century. His travel writing, particularly in "A Day's Tour / A Journey through France and Belgium," showcases his ability to blend personal narrative with cultural commentary.