[from Cubbon - Bibliography, Vol 1, 1933]
A brief notice should be taken of the first mention of the drama in the Isle of Man. The first of which there is any record is contained in the Book of Charge, Castle Rushen, under date 1603 [Ellesmere Papers C2. pp. 101-198], and under the heading 'Rewards':
Paid to my Lo: Vause's Players in Reward for a Plaie acted by them = xxs.
Mr. G. Gregory Smith, Professor of Literature, and Librarian of Belfast University, states—' Lord Vaux's Company was one of the lesser Men's Companies. There are records of their playing at Leicester in 1601-1602, at Coventry in 1603-1604 and 1607-1608, and at Skipton Castle, Craven, in 1609.'
There is no record, it appears, that this company ever occupied any of the theatres or inn yards of London. hey probably belonged to that class of players who iravelled on foot and carried their costumes on their backs. heir patron was probably Lord Vaux, son of Lord John Vaux, a writer of distinciion. It is thought that Shakespeare may have been one of the actors, as it was the period in which he was 'on the road.'
The name Vause, which must be allied to Vaux, appears in Castletown in 1511 [Man. Roll p. 14]. There was at that date a William Vause who possessed a chamber in Castletown, and in addition there was in 1511 a piece of land called Vausetown. Peter Vause was The 'Chirurgeon' (surgeon) in Castle Rushen in 1599. The personal name persisted in Castletown, and we find that the family owned 'Voase's Barn,' part of the 'Bog Croft' (which was originally a portion of Vausetown). The family is of Norman extraction, going back to the time of Stephen. The present holder is Baron Mostyn of Harrowden.
The year 1772 is an early date for showmen to visit the Island. There is in the Museum Library a MS. letter sent by a young student lawyer at Castletown addressed to his mother at Claghbane, Kirk Maughold, dated 2 February, 1772. It commences 'Honoured Madam,' and gives some accounts of exciting occurrences in the metropolis. It ends:
I have been to see Bisset the famous Wire Dancer exhibit and cannot say that I ever was so much struck with Wonder and Astonishment during the course of my Life as I have been at his Performance; tis almost incredible that any human Being should be capable of such Action. It would be tedious to give you a Discription of his Exhibitions, and likewise unnecessary as he is to be at Ramsey shortly: let it suffice to recommend it to you and to every Body who has the least Curiosity by all Means to go to see him: for my own part I would not have lost the sight upon any account. Inclosed you have one of his Bills from which you may frame an idea though a faint one, of his Performances. The Governor's Mr. Taubman's, and Mr. Quayle's Family, all attended to see him exhibit.
The writer, William Callow, became an active and patriotic member of the Keys in their struggle with the Duke of Atholl. A marble tablet to his memory is erected in St. Mary's Chapel, Castletown.
In 1788 according to ' Townley's Journal,' a theatre was built in Douglas by Captain William Barton Tenison, a member of a well known Irish family who had settled in the Isle of Man, 'with the benevolent desire to contribute to the relief of the poor. This theatre, it is understood, was really one of the two 'assembly halls' which then existed, one in Fort Street, and the other on the North Quay, close to the Parade. This was where the most noble and ancient and honourable Order of Bucks met at the end of the 18th century. In 1793 it was let by Mr. Tenison to Mr. Clarke.
Robert Caesar of Ballavilley (later called Seafield} Santan, was uncle of Margaret Cosnahan, the wife of Tenison. She was rich in her own right, having had a legacy of £2,000 Manx from her uncle, who died on 5th April, 1789. She was the daughter of the Rev. Joseph Cosnahan, vicar of Kirk Santan. With this sum of £2,000 Ballahot, Malew, was purchased for her. William Barton Tenison died at Ballahot on 21st December, 1793, aged 50. She had several sons.
According to the Kirk Braddan register, one of the sons, also William Barton Tenison, married Isabella Cosnahan on 13 January, 1805. It is interesting to note that the register was signed by Elinor Cosnahan, Mark, Hugh, M, F., and John Cosnahan and James Wilkes.
The first Manx newspaper in Man was the Manks Mercury, published in 1793. Few theatrical performances were recorded. The earliest announcement relating to the drama appears in the Mercury of 28th May, 1793, advertising an event to take place in 'The Manks Theatre' on June 5, 1793. The manager was a Mr. Clarke 'who had leased the theatre from Mr. Tenison.' In the issue of the Mercury of 31st May, 1794, there is mentioned the production by a Mr. Williamson of 'The Surrender of Calais.' In the following week, by permission of H.E. the Lieutenant-Governor, a comedy 'The Road to Ruin' was given, followed by 'The Beggars' Opera.' No name of the theatre is given. Matters did not always run smoothly at the theatre.
In consequence of some disagreeable circumstances which lately occurred at the Theatre' (the Manks Mercury says) 'T. Clague apologises for an offence given to Major Tilson. .. .'I am sorry forthe rash act ... I did not the least desire to personally injure him.'
Mr. Williamson's company of comedians is acknowledged by the critics to be the best that ever appeared on the Manks stage. Manks Mercury, 12 April, 1794.
RYLEY (S. W.), The Itinerant, or Memoirs of an Actor, li 3 vols. London: Taylor and Hessey. 1808.[2401, F65]
This is a quaint account of the struggles of an actor in the Island in the latter part of the 18th certury. Ryley resided at Peel for several months in the year 1795. When in Douglas, he says, 'I was persuaded to try 'The Brooms' one night, which I did with considerable profit, that is, the theatre was crowded in every part.. It was a pretty little place, built for private amusement, and belonged to Mrs. Tenison, a charming lively widow, to whose civility we were indebted for politeness and attention. . . . The only professional musician was gone to Ireland, but there was a doctor then in Douglas who play'd the violin decently, and by proper application might be persuaded to take his station in the orchestra.'
This was an embarrassing business for Ryley, but he overcame the doctor's scruples, and Dr. Jacob Hammer dubb'd M.D. at the College of Aberdeen, for that was his description, undertook to be the orchestra. 'The story is laughter-provoking. The doctor loses his wig while performing, it having been fished from his head by fish hooks thrown by the young sparks. The doctor soon after had to depart from the Island. 'There is, he remarked, 'no need of a doctor — there is neither money nor disease. The only disorder that I have encountered since my arrival is in my own finances. . (Vol iii pp. 219-289.)
Not being very pleased with Douglas, Ryley and his wife took 'a neat little [furnished] cottage at Peel within ten yards of the sea 6 ... the owner hoped Ww should not think three shillings a week an unconscionable rent. When, however, they came to take possession, the daughter of the house, 'a truly innocent creature with modest blush added to her native beauty, said: 'Sir, We hear you belong to the stage, and my mother is fearful you mean to have plays here; we are Methodists sir, and take in the preachers, and you know it would be quite out of character to have preachers and players under the same roof.' They stayed three months in this house, immediately behind which was the Methodist Chapel.
-- A re-print of Ryley's Itinerant was printed in the Oldham Chronicle, and published in 1880 by Hirst and Rennie in vol. form. pp. 128. 268x167. [7130, J64]
Further information about the actor S. W. Ryley is given in 'Selections from the Correspondence of Lieut.-Col. John Leigh Philips, of Manchester,' part iii, by W. B. Faraday (vol. 45 of Memoirs and Proc., Manchester Literary and Philosophical Soc., 1900-1). Faraday states that Ryley's mother was a schoolfellow of Lady Jane Stanley, who was for many years his patroness and who seems to have been distantly related to his wife, with whom, by the way, he eloped when she was a schoolgirl of sixtem and married at Gretna Green. Ryley was well acquainted with Col. Leigh Philips, who had visited Man in the summer of 1795; and from him received many introductions to well-known people in the Isle of Man, and the appearance of whom on the quay to welcome him on his landing at Douglas in September, 1795, he records with gratitude. 'Ryley, he said, 'had an entertainment entitled New Brooms, narrative, history, satire and sentiment, occasionally interspersed with songs. ... It is mentioned in the Liverpool papers of the time in terms of praise.'
A Captain Samuel Cable, R-N., who had seen active service, commanded the military here, and lived on the Island from 1795 to 1803. He, in a letter dated October 9, 1795, writes: 'Ryley again exhibited his 'Brooms, which produced him about seven pounds. He pleased the people of Douglas greatly by making Gobbock rhime to Havock, and introducing their favourite Herring.' It might not be out of place to add here an interesting extract from a letter of Cable, dated 7 January, 1797: 'We have been very busy for this week past in putting on our fighting face. I am entrusted with the direction of the Batteries, and have got the old Fort, and the two guns in it, quite serviceable. I have likewise constructed a pretty little Battery of two 18 pounders just beyond Whaley's Garden. If I had_ but a Corporal Trim I could almost fancy myself an Uncle Toby.' Cable for a while lived at Balla-na-How, near Conchan Church.
As to the actor Ryley, the author of 'The Itinerant,' he returned to Douglas in August, and in September, 1820, played at Dixon's Assembly Room, situate opposite the west door of Old St. Matthew's Chapel.
In 1796 a remarkable Polish nobleman visited the Isle of Man. He was a dwarf, his height being not quite thirty-nine inches. He was born near Przemysl, a town which became famous in war-time. He travelled over Europe and published in 1820 a volume describing his adventures. He gave entertainments for money. He played on the violin and guitar; he composed music, sang and danced like an opera performer. He says he was received with the utmost hospitality by the Douglas people. The Count goes on to say that
a performer from the Dublin stage arrived soon after me, who made an addition to the number of those who professed themselves enemies to the cares and labours of life. ... The Dublin actor collected in Douglas those gentry who [coming from across the water] professed the same principles as himself; among whom he thought me of the number, and honoured me with an invitation to dine. ... The situation of this performer of the stage excited my curiosity. ... I enjoyed a sort of gratification in a close inspection of persons who led a dissipated life, yet preserved a specious show of honesty.
The Dublin actors presented Shakespeare's 'Richard III.' The master of the recent feast was taking the part of the cruel Tyrrel, who announced to Richard that he had executed his orders and put to death the young princes.
It happened that one of the company [in the audience], being much in liquor, took it in earnest, and thinking the performer had killed those innocent infants, without further explanation approached him with fury and gave him a blow which produced a black eye, hallooing at the same time out of the window for a constable to take him into custody.
The actor and his assailant were prevailed upon much against their will to fight a duel in a field near St. George's Church, Ballakermeen. This the Count witnessed. 'The seconds put paper pills in their pistols. When they fired at each other they ran away in different directions. One fell in a pool of water and the other bruised his nose against a stone when falling. When the latter perceived the blood he thought a ball had passed through his head
There are few records of the Drama in the Isle of Man before the middle of the nineteenth century. An early reference is made by the Duke of Rutland in his 'Tour Through North and South Wales and the Isle of Man' Under date 15th September, 1797, the Duke tells his readers :—
After dinner we went to the Theatre, in which we had previously taken a box in the morning. The Theatre was formed from an assembly room, at the expence of a Captain Tenison. Here we saw 'Wild Oats' and 'The Farmer,' performed by' a most miserable set of actors They are at Douglas the whole summer, and come over from Whitehaven. Sir George Thunder in the play, was so intolerably drunk that, poor man, he could not utter two words together. Not unfrequently two or three of them were on the stage for several minutes without being able to speak one single syllable, while at others the whole company were talking together as loud as their voices would allow. In short, it was amusing from the extreme wretchedness of the performance. The audience was not very crouded, so little indeed, that one lady (a Miss Heywood, the greatest beauty in the town) had room to practise attitudes along one of the benches in the pit, and to lay herself at her whole length, which she did to the fullest extent and effect. The whole performance did not finish till after twelve o'clock, when we returned home.
On the 28th of August, 1809, there was an affray at a Theatre in Douglas, the name and whereabouts of which have not transpired. It appears that a half-pay officer, Major-General Stapleton, 'in a mere frolic, during an accidental interruption of the play, and whilst the curtain was drawn up, pushed a Mr. Johnson, an acquaintance, forward on the stage.' As a result of this, the General, with two others, namely, Sir John Piers and Captain Edwards, were summoned to appear at the Deemster's Court in Castle Rushen to answer a complaint by Johnson for assault and breach of the peace. Interesting proceedings followed, and a pamphlet, now very rare, giving the General's version of the matter, is now in-the Manx Museum Library [1268 : D274}.
The Manx newspapers of the early part of the nineteenth century — the Manks Mercury, the Manks Advertiser, and the Rising Sun — have been closely examined in order to get records of the Drama. Plays and concerts are frequently referred to as having taken place, but in few cases are the buildings stated beyond the terms, 'The Old Playhouse, the Assembly Room,' &c. The following are mentioned as places in which plays, concerts and 'assemblies' have heen frequently held: they are put in the order of date.
Manks Theatre, 1794. — It is not known where this was situate. It was owned by Captain William Barton Tenison. lt is likely to have been what was known as the Assembly Room, Fort Street, which later became the coal store of Andrew Knowles Company. The Hospital was established in Fort Street near by in 1850, but the Dispensary commenced in 1839.
The Manks Advertiser, which commenced in 1800, does not mention a single theatrical performance until 22nd September, 1804. Unfortunately it does not indicate the building.
Liverpool Coffee House Parade, owned by Thos. Long, mentioned 1805 and 1812.
The Old Playhouse, mentioned 1805, 1806 and 1807.
The Old Theatre, mentioned 1807 and 1808.
Banks's Dancing Room and Playhouse, near top of the Quay, sometimes called Downward's Long Room. It was 50ft. long and 40ft. high. The building was near the Bank Hill, at Clinch's Brewery. Dates mentioned 1811 and 1812.
The Old Assembly Room, Fort Street. Dates mentioned 1805, 1817, 1835.
The Assembly Room, Theatre Royal, mentioned 1809,
Downward's Assembly Room, late Theatre, Douglas, mentioned 1811. George Woods, the historian, writing in 1811, states : 'Some years ago a theatre was built, and plays were acted at Douglas; but even for a few weeks the proprietor did not meet with sufficient encouragement, and they are consequently discontinued.' This was probably Downward's Assembly Room.
The Assembly Room, Roman Catholic New Chapel, late the Assembly Room, mentioned 1812.
Assembly Room, Wellington Buildings (late Theatre). It would appear that the lower floor of the Wellington Buildings had been erected as a public market by a number of gentlemen, and that the upper floor, later called the Wellington Hall, was intended for 'assemblies.' This was used by the 'Gentleman Amateurs' in November, 1820. For a time the place was called 'The Waterloo Theatre,' and from 1820 it was advertised as 'The Theatre Royal, What was known as the 'Wellington Market' was opened in January, 1838.
Athol Street: New Club Room: 1813; ditto, New Theatre, 1823, 1828; ditto, Theatre Royal, 1827; ditto, Assembly Room, 1815. It is very likely that the above all referred to the same building, which was the hall at the corner of Athol Street and Prospect Hill, opposite the Isle of Man Bank. The Methodist Friendly Society owned it at an early date, and later, from 1830 to about 1835, it was used as the Roman Catholic Chapel. It is said that Mrs. Siddons played in this room.
Dixon's Assembly Room was often quoted as 'The Theatre.' It was situate in the British Hotel, run by Dixon, from about 1817 for a number of years. It was in the Market Place, immediately opposite the west door of the old St. Matthew's Chapel. 'Assemblies' and plays are recorded in the newspapers as having taken place from 1818 to 1836. The great English actor, Edmund Kean, appeared here in October, 1819. The Manx Sun, 28 July, 1837, advertises : —
Mr. Dixon, of the British Hotel, Market Place, has taken on lease the property of Captain Bacon on the Parade: which is to be converted into a splendid hotel. An extensive and elegant assembly room is to be attached to the premises.
According to the Manks Advertiser, 21st June, 1821 William Dixons of the British Hotel intoduced the first 'Stage Coach' 'The Majestic' into the Island. An objection was made at the time to the danger of fixing flags on top, as they were likely to scare horses.
The Manks Advertiser mentions on 6th June, 1822, ' The Theatre Royal; Pier. This probably became, the United Service Clubroom, run by retired officers and others.
In the beginning of the 19th century there was a strong feeling that performances on Saturday night at the Play- house had 'an evident tendency to unfit the mind for the solemn 'duties: of the House of God' A writer in the Manks Advertiser of 11th July, 1822, who admitted that he was not an enemy to the Theatre, declares that whenever he happened to be at the Playhouse on Saturday night he felt a strong reluctance next morning to go to church. ...'I hear the midnight actor rather than the morning preacher. I look in vain for many persons whom I witnessed at the Theatre on the preceding night; and although some of them are to be seen in the sacred assembly, yet the rubbing of their eyes, their gaping mouths, and their nodding heads bear testimony to their not having had their usual night's repose.'
A rather surprising development occurred in July, 1823, when an influential body, composed chiefly of local officials and half-pay officers, formed an association to encourage ihe drama and to help charitable objects. It will be of interest to print the list of the subscribers, for the reason that it included many figures of some importance at that lime :--
The Duke of Athol, the Lieutenant-Governor, the Attorney General, the Clerk of the Rolls, the Water Bailiff, Deemster Christian, Deemster Heywood, High Bailiff ofDouglas, Sir Wm. Hillary, Bart., General Stapleton, General Goldie, Rev. T. H. Stapleton, Colonel Wilks, Major Shum Captain Bacon, Captain Fleming, Mr. Archer, Mr. Burnell Mr. Cunninghame, Mr. Campbell, Mr. G. Drinkwater Liverpool, Mr. Foster, Mr. Kershaw, Mr. Leaden, Mr. Mungo Murray, Mr. Magee, Mr. McCrone, Dr. Oswald Major Tallan, Major Rowan, Major Hook, Captain Murray, Captain Colquitt, R.N., Captain Wood, Mr. Pooley, Mr. Quane, Mr. Roper, Mr. Richardson, Liverpool, Mr. Shaw (See 'Rising Sun,' 20th May, 15th and 29th July, 1823).
The building was opened on December 18th, 1823, and performances continued regularly, almost weekly, until July, 1825, when the committee failed for some reason to carry on. It was taken over by a Mr. Cooper, of Blackburn, and carried on for at least two seasons. The great dramatist Edmund Keane played here.
The theatre was situated at the corner of Prospect Hill and Athol Street, and was called the 'New Theatre. ( See the reproduction of the Playbill below) In the course of time, about 1835, the Roman Catholics used it as a chapel and Sunday school.
It should be stated that amateur companies had been operating in Douglas at a very early date. 'The Gentlemen Amateurs,' for instance, were playing in the Theatre Royal, Wellington Buildings, on 9th March, 1820; and there is proof that they had been on the boards before that date,
Associated with this new amateur movement was the ralented author of 'Ellan Vannin,' that most popular song, She was then unmarried, her name being Eliza S. Craven Her sister, Jenny Craven joined her, and they both took leading parts. Miss Eliza Craven, afterwards Mrs. Craven Green, conceived such an affection for the Isle of Man that she returned to the Island and continued to reside here. In 1825 she published her first work, 'A Legend" of Mona,' and in 1858 she brought out her volume of poems entitled 'Sea Weeds and Heath Flowers.' In 1854 she wrote the song 'Ellan Vannin,' it being first seen in print in the Manx Sun of 22nd July of that year.
The young popular actresses, Miss Eliza Craven and her sister Jenny were apparently engaged at Richmond to take part in the amateur theatricals at the New Theatre in Athol Street. This theatre was opened on 18th December, 1823, and performances continued regularly, almost weekly, until March, 1825, after which date the advertisements appear less often. In the Manx Rising Sun of 4th June, 1825, there is a long account dealing with the rumoured closing of the theatre, and a tentative suggestion made as to a benefit performance on behalf of the Misses Craven, However, plays continued to be performed there until the 12th of July, 1825, after which the theatre was taken over by a Mr. Cooper, of Blackburn, who reopened the theatre with 'The School of Reform' on 30th July, 1825. Thus ended the run of the Gentleman Amateurs after a period of one and a half year's continuous performances. 'The Misses Craven left the Island on 9th July, 1825.
According to the Manx Sun of 17th January, 1863, a. Miss Henshaw exhibited in the Liverpool Academy a picture entitled "The Old Theatre, Douglas" It was described as 'an undefined sort of a building, in outward appearance something between a Methodist meeting house and a parish school. The internal ramifications were curious, one of them being at the service of a deaf and dumb painter who took snuff immoderately. A pupil of his was the late Professor Forbes; and the writer of these notes, also a pupil, perfectly recollects working as an artist upon the same models with "Ned" Forbes, both being at the time lads of fifteen.' It is not known exactly where 'the old theatre' was situated; it was probably the Fort Street Assembly Room.
Jefferson's Guide of 1823 states: 'There are some theatrical amusements, but it must be remarked that the population is not a play going one, and has not hitherto afforded the encouragement necessary for such establishments.'
It would appear from 'Sketches of the Isle of Man,' by a Tourist, 1829, that drama in the Isle of Man was not of a very high standard at that date. A description of the theatre (presumably that in Athol Street, which was built in 1823) is given as follows: the writer was a William Bennet, of Edinburgh.
'The theatre in Douglas is neatly fitted up, with boxes, pit and gallery; and the decorations and scenery, though not of a kind to bear the most rigid criticism, are yet far from being contemptible. Would that as much could be said of the party who performed in this snug little place of amusement at the time of the writer's visit!'
The Mona's Herald of 18 April, 1834, contains an advertisement of L. Lane, auctioneer, stating he has taken ihe 'Old Theatre, North Quay.' This was probably Banks's Playhouse?
Manx Sun, May 27, 1836 — ' Mr. Banks has converted Dixon's large room in his livery yard into a neat theatre for the summer months.'
In July, 1838, according to the Manx Sun, a theatre was Opened in Drxon's large room on the Parade.
Oddfellows Hall, Athol Street, 1847. It was called the Prince of Wales Theatre in 1849 — 1853.. It was designed by Henry Robinson, architect, of Douglas, and is now the Douglas Court House.
This was built by John Mosley in 1858. He had a theatre at Bradford at the same time and managed both. Upon his death his sister, Mrs. Walter White, became the owner. Mrs. White kept a number of the early playbills, and her grandchildren presented, them to the Manx Museum). The building could seat 1000 people. The opening piece was Goldsmith's 'She Stoops to Conquer,' and a prologue was composed for the occasion by T. J. Ouseley, the writer of a volume of poems which had been printed by Quiggin of the North Quay in 1870. Mosley's sister and her husband, Walter White, ran the theatre for several years. He had a printing office in Christian Road, and his play bills were printed there. Afier it ceased to be a theatre round about 1890, it was used by a wholesader as a storehouse for liquor. Finally. before it was demolished in 1933, it became in 1887 the 'citadel' of the Salvation Army. The name of the street — Wellington Street — was fixed by Mr. Mosley with the permission of the neighbouring proprietors. Up to that time. it was known as Factory Lane, and before that it was Preaching House Lane from the fact that the first Methodist Preaching House in Douglas was erected at the junction of Thomas Street and what is now Wellington Street.
In 1855 John Mosley fitted up Sherwood's Wellington Hall as a theatre. Here he remained for three season and then purchased from William Fine Moore the sail-loft factory, Wellington Street, then known as Factory Lane, where he built the Theatre Royal.
According to the Isle of Man Times of 10th July, 1865, the season opened with a cast which included Charles Rice Henry Irving (later Sir Henry), the famous comedian Brinsley Sheridan, and others. On December 9th, 1865, Irving was on the Island again as a member of a party of four headed by Brinsley Sheridan.
The Victoria Hall, Prospect Hill, was built by Evarard in 1862. Although it was used chiefly as a theatre it was often used for concerts. It became known as the Gaiety Theatre on 1st June 1882.
The Grand Theatre was opened on 3rd July, 1882. It was built by Thomas Lightfoot and gradually took the business of the Gaiety Theatre and the Theatre Royal The Grand was rebuilt by the Palace and Derby Castle Company in 1935 as an up-to-date cinema called the Regal
Derby Castle, which was the residence of the Pollock family, was opened by A. N. Laughton, a Douglas advocate, as a place of amusement in 1877. It was rebuilt and extended in 1884. Falcon Cliff commenced in 1882, the Pavilion (Harris Promenade) about 1895, and the Gaiety Theatre on the same site in 1900.
The Pier Pavilion, a wooden erection, was opened about 1905, and was shortly after rebuilt as the Royalty Cimema in 1927,
In 1895 the Mona Theatre, Regent Street, was operating under the managership of Mr. Charles Wilson. This theatre was later known as the Bijou Theatre and finally as The Empire.
The Palace Ballroom came into being in 1889. An Opera House was added in 1894 capable of seating 1,000 persons. In 1920 a fire destroyed the ballroom, but a new one (the present day, 1935, one) was built for 1921.
The Villa Marina Public Hall (originally the Kursaal) opened in 1913.
CURPHEY (Edward), of Ballakilingan. A Sketch of a Prologue to a Farce called "Manx Litigation" MS. N.D. [c. 1790]. [1702, J 64]
This is a 4pp. foolscap folio fragment. The author was in all likelihood Edward Curphey (1765-1804), who married Isabella, daughter of John Quillin, of Copenhagen and Faroe Isles. He was a grandson of Quayle Curphey, who married Alice Christian in 1728.
Here are the opening lines. Scene: the Courthouse. enter Standish, rushing into Court, elbowing all before him and making up to the bar almost out of breath, addressing Mr. Deemster:
Pray hear me, Deemster, for I clearly can Prove to this Court that no litigious man will prosper in this Isle unless he sees That lawyers are not paid without their fees.
__ Hollantide Fair, or, The Merry Coblers. In Mx Advertiser, 11th November, 1819. [J 64]
Advertisement only.
CROSS Key (A.). The Manx Press Bill: Who inspired it; What came of it. A Drama, Serio, Tracico, Comico' in one act of many scenes; 7 By A. Cross Key, 1875, pp. 15. 175x117 Price 6d: [1084]
It does not appear who was the author.
Mc CAMMON (George A.). Verses on the opening of the Grand Theatre, Douglas, 3rd July, 1882; being a prologue recited by Miss Hilton. 1882. Broadside. 260x138.[7082, J64]
HARRISON (Oscar). Merry Manx Myths, with Comical Cuts, by Oscar Harrison, author of ' The Isle-iad,' ' The Comic Guide to the Isle of Man, etc. Contains: " The Fiddler, the Fiend, and the Fairies, in six squirms and a collapse.' pp. 47-81, B.&S. N.D., [c.1884]. [J 8]
WINDUS (W.E.). Illiam Dhone: a Drama. London Alfred Boot & Son. 1886. pp. 48. 286x220. [2556. Deemster Gill's copy]
G.W.W. Coll. The edition was limited to 200 copiem The author was a member of the publishing house of Chatto and Windus, and lived at Greeba Tower for some years. The drama is dedicated 'To my daughter-in-law Edith of Greeba.'
__ Fenella: a Drama. A sequel to 'Iliam Dhone London : Henderson & Spalding. 1890. pp. 55. 290225
[840]. Mrs. Laughton's copy, G.F.C. Col ]
[2557] Deemster Gill's copy, G.W.W. Coll]
The edition was limited to 100 copies (for private circulation). Nos. 5 and 24. G. W. Wood's copy has an autograph letter from the author.
WHITE BOYS (the). Moore's Manx Folk-lore. B. & S 1891. pp. 129-131. [E 244]
Dramatis persone: St. George, King of Egypt, Prince Valentine, Sambo, and a Doctor.
HANBY (William). King Gobnageay, or The Magic Cup and the Buggane of St. Trinian's. Manx Fairy Extravaganza. Words and lyrics by W. Hanby. Music composed and arranged by Harry Wood. B. & S. 1902. pp 47 200x127. [S705]
CAINE, Hall. The Bondman Play. Produced by Arthur Collins at Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, London, on September 20th, 1906. Daily Mail. 1906. pp. xvi 20 Illustrated. 182x125. [3016, K 18}
__The Christian. A Drama in four acts. Lyceum edition. London: Collier & Co.; Ballantyne & Co., Ltd 1907 pp. xii 178. 180x125. [3017, 8 19
QUINE (Rev. Canon M. A.). Kitty's Affair: a Comedy Manx Sun Office. 1909. pp. 22. 245x155. [3706]
A second edition was printed by S.K.B. in 1922; 32pp First. played at Peel Feb. 23, 1909.
KERMODE (Josephine). [Cushag.] The Peel Plays, or Sketches of Manx Life. [c. 1908].
Contains Rosy Basins, The Lazy Wife, and Eunys.
__ The Lazy Wife: Douglas: G. & L. Johnson 1908. pp. 16. 140x110. [1030, 3361]
__ Eunys, or The Dalby Maid. Douglas: G. & L. Johnson. 1908. pp..18. 140x110. [1029]
__ Rosy Basins, or Them Oul Times. A Winter Cooish. G. & L. Johnson. 1908. pp. 15. 140x110. [1031]
__ Glen Aldyn Plays: i The Christmas, Pudding; ii, Hommy Beg and the Guillyn Veggey; iii, Hollantide, or Jem's Mother. S.K.B. for the Manx Society. 1916. pp. 29. 213x135: [1086]
Appeared in 'I.M.Ex.' 25 Dec. 1915; 1 and 22 Jan., 1916.
__ Bunys, the Dalby Maid. A. play in thiree acts; for four players. Time, about 1750. 1916. pp. 26. 187x124. price 4d. [3596 J 64]
__ Mylecharaine. A play im three acts. S.K.B. 1920. pp. 26. 182x120. [5320]
__ The Quakers of Ballafayle. In Ramsey Courier, 4 Sept., 1926. [5507] Also in typescript.
MEYRICK (W. B.). Purrin' a Sight on Granny.
Played in 1912 at Peel and 1929 in London. Not published and not in Library.
__ Betsy Lee. Prog. of a Dramatic presentation of 'Betsy Lee' in the Palace Coliseum on Hollantide lieht, 12 Nov., 1913, under the auspices of the World Manx Association. The oration to the memory of Thomas Edward Brown was delivered by Rev. Canon Quine, M.A. B & S. 4p 270x215, 1913 [6889]
KINLEY (W. Clucas) Ellie's Stranger: a Manx Domestic Comedy. Mannin, pp. 439-474. 1916. [L 6]
In the Manx Society's Literary Competition in 1913, the play secured first prize. A few copies were made up in pamphlet form from the same type.
CAINE (Philip W.). The New School of Manx Drama. in Manx Quar. Oct. 1921.
__ The White Boys. In I.M.Ex, 4 March, 1927. Quine (Rev. Canon, M.A.). Kitty's Affair: a Comedy Second edition. S.K.B. 1922. pp. 32. 182x125. Price 1/- (3766, J 64]
Douglas Amusements. A paper by Chas. Fox, I.M. Weekly Times, 13th Nov. 1926. [C 400]
GELLING (Stephen Tynwald). Buggane Sheauwhallian 1926. [5789, J 64]
A short play for seven characters.Not published,
DOUGLAS CHORAL UNION. Souvenir of The Douglas Choral Union, founded in 1896. Douglas: Victoria Press. 1926. pp. 32. 190x260. [5200]
Many portraits of those chiefly associated.
MEYRICK (William B.). Old Quinley's Daughter: a Manx dialect play in five scenes. [J 64]
Only Programme. No copy in Library. Played by London Manx Society, 1st Dee, 1928.
Outline of a Manx Historical Scene for the Scouts' Jamboree, in July, 1929. By J.J. Kneen and W. Cubbon
The period is 1066 A.D. Produced by a Manx Company at the Birkenhead Jamboree. Not published.
MOORE (Arthur Q.).Fifty Years of Manx amusements M. Illd. 23 Feb 190d.
CAINE (Philip W.) Theatre Royal, Douglas, and sketch of Early Drama. in I.M.T. Aug 12 1933
MOORE (Arthur Q.). The Ballakilberry Gorilla: one act play in Manx dialect. 1933.
Produced first time at Ramsey in 1933. No Copy in Library.
CANNELL (J.C.) Over the Hill: a three-act drama of Manx life. Notice in M.H., 14th Mar., 1933.
Played by Port Erin Cushags. Not: in Library.
42nd Manx Music Festival, 1933. Special class for Amateur Dramatic Societies. [L. 14]
This was the first year this class was held. The scope was extended in the following years.
Proramme of a demonstration of Manx Dances, Songs, and the White Boys' Mumming Play, at Picton Hall, William Brown Street, Liverpool, on 25 May, 1935, by a Group of Junior and Adult Dancers from Albert Road School, Ramsey, Isle of Man. Lecturer: Miss Mona Douglas. 1935. PP: A. 210x134. [7213, J 64]
Pageant of Greyabbey: the Story of Sir John de Courcy and Affreca his wife (daughter of Godred King of Man), uid how they brought the Cistercians to the Barony of Ards. Belfast News-Letter. 1935. pp. 54, illustrated. 210x140. (7253, J 64]
The pageant took place in the Abbey Grounds, Greyabbey, Co, Down, Ireland, on 12th, 13th, and 15th June, 1935; twice each day, The narrative was by Miss Magdalen King-Hall, and was produced by E. H. Emery, Mus Bac, Miss Montgomery, Greyabbey House, being secretary. The Abbey was founded in A.D. 1193 by Affreca, wife of John de Courcy, daughter of Godred, King of Man. It was a colony or daughter house of the important abbey of Holm Cultram in Cumberland. According to tradition Affreca, caught in a storm at sea when journeying from the Isle of Man, vowed to erect such a foundation if she came safely to shore, The new establishment was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin, and had the Latin title 'De Jugo Dei in Ultonia': 'or the Yoke of God in Ulster.'
SHIMMIN (Christopher,R., M.H.K), The Charm: a Manx Comedy. Peel: W. K. Palmer For M.L.S 1912. 182x122 [1089]
It was first played in Peel, Nov. 7th; 1912, by the newly- formed Peel Players.
__ Iliam Kodhere's Will: a Manx play in four acts. Peel: W. K. Palmer For M.L.S 1913. pp 53 178x118 [255, 1090, 3566, 5025)|
Portraits of the author, Evelyn Christian, Amy Preston, John J. Joughin, and W. B. Meysick, alli im character.
__ Luss ny Graih: a Manx Comedy in two acts. L. G. Mayer for M.L.S. 1913. pp 27. 212x140 [3867]
Also in 'Mannin, pp. 97-123.
__ The Dooinney Moyllee: a Manx Comedy in two acts, Douglas : The Manx Society. 1914. pp. 39. 211x138. [1092]
__The Third Boat : a Tragedy in three acts, S.K.B. 1913 pp. 16. 225x154 price 1/-
Written for the London Manx Society and first performed in London.
__ The Club Day: a Manx Comedy of one act. Not in Library.
__ Edward Christian; or, For Ellan Vannin. Unpublished. Not in Library.
KNEEN (J. J.. M.A.). Gool on Cushags.
First produced in 1911 at Port. Erin. Revised and produced some years later in the Gaiety Theatre by Port Erin Cushags.
__ Cushial Keoi (the Smuggler): Not published. Written c. 1913.
__ Shelg y Dreain (the Hunting of the Wren): a Manx Fairy Play. Written c. 1913. Not published.
__ A Li'l' Smook: a Play in three acts, for five players. 1913. (?)
Took first prize in plays competition organised by the Manx Society. First produced by the Ballasalla Players at Ballasalla. May lst, 1920. Played in London and Liverpool.
__ Yn Blaa Sooree (The Courting Flower). A Manx Sketch. In Four Manx Plays. Manx Soc. 1921.
Written c. 1913; revised later and published in 1921 Published with three other plays by Mona Douglas under the title of 'Four Manx Plays' by S.K. B. Produced many times in the Island, Liverpool, London, Canada, aad U.S.A.
__ Putting up the Banns: a Comedy,
Written c. 1922. Produced many times in the Island and elsewhere.
__ Ivar and Matilda. A Manx Drama founded the legend of 'Ivar and Matilda.'
Written in 1925; not yet published.
__ Illiam Dhone. A Manx historical Drama which won the Cruinnaght Gold Medals 1924. S.K.B. 1926. pp. 19. 245x156. [J 64]
Won the first prize for a Manx play at the Cruinnaght, 1924. It was written in 1914.
__ Ann: a Comedy.
Written in 1927. Produced by Port Erin Cushags many times. Not published.
__ Cooking his Goose: a Comedy.
Written c. 1928. Produced by Buck's Road players in Douglas and Liverpool. Not published.
__ Cruittag Veg (The Little Hunchback): c 1928 pp. 4 [5511]
'Not published. Not in Library.
__The Magpies: a Comedy.
Written 1929. Produced in the Gaiety Theatre and elsewhere.
__ Johnny Jem Beg puts up for the Keys.
Produced at the Music Guild 1934. Unpublished. Not in Library.
DOUGLAS (Mona) and KNEEN (J.J.). Four Manx Plays: (1) The Churning: a Comedy in one act. (2) [The Lips of the Sea: a Play, time about 1800. (3) The Faery Tune; these by Mona Douglas. (4) Yn Blaa Sooree, by J. J. Kneen. Douglas: The Manx Society. 1921. pp. 28 200x163. [404]
'The Churning' was printed in 'I.M.Ex.' 30 Oct., 1920, and 'The Fairy Tune' 23 April, 1921.
__ The Sea Womam. a Piay for children 1923: [1943. J 64] Not published.
__ The Laxey Pageant of Manx Folk-lore: (i.) The Tithe of the Rushes; (ii) Our Ancient Heritage, N.D. [c 1923] Not published.
__ Kebeg: a Legend of Glenroy.
Written for children and played in Minorca Schoo) Laxey, 18 Nov., 1926.
__ The Master of Raby. Not published. Played in Gaiety Theatre.
Programme of Manx May-Day Pageant, by the Boy Scouts and Girl Guides at the Nunnery, May 5th, 1923. L.G.M. 1923. pp. 4 268x210. [1924, J 64]
Scenes: (1) Procession of Manx characters. (2) The meeting of Teeval and Conchobar. (3) St. Maughald visits the Nunnery and preaches to the inmates, (4) Manx May Day Festival, as celebrated in ancient days (5) White Boy Mummers Play. (6) Marriage of Auirca to Earl of Ulster. (7) Ancient Tynwald Ceremony, (8) Last Queen of Man — an incident in the life of Charlotte, Countess of Derby. (9) Origin of the Malew Parish Church Chalice, still in use. (10) Final Episode World Wide Greetings.
'THE GENTLEMAN AMATEURS OF Douglas' started to play at the New Theatre, Athol Street, in 1823 and continued till 1825. After a break they recommenced. According to the 'Manx Sun' of 20th March, 1852, they apologige to the public for not having given a statement of their receipts and disbursements (arising from their last performance) at an earlier period. The delay was occasioned by the length of time that elapsed ere the replies of the committee of the House of Industry and of the Sailors Home, to whom their small profits were tendered, reached them, and to which they regret having to add were refused
It would appear that the Ladies' Soup Dispensary had declined financial help from the Amateurs for several years before this date. The House of Industry committee also respectfully declined a subscription from this source. But the churchwardens of St. Thomas's had no scruples; they accepted £7 in aid of the funds for the building of the St. Thomas's School in Finch Road. The Gentlemen Amateurs' accounts are interesting:
The expenses came to £7 9s. 0d., made up of printing £1 17s. 9d., music £1 15s. 0d., hire of theatre £1 10s, 0d, attendance, etc., 13s. 6d., McCaskie, hairdresser, Von oad calico for seats, 7s. 0d., Mr. Jones, for properties, 3s. 6d., washing, 4s. 6d., advertising 4s. 9d —. £7 9s. 0d. The total receipts of the house, £14 9s. 0d. The Isle of Man General Hospital in 1851 received £11 10s. as the proceeds of an amateur theatrical performance. Details are given in: Manx Sun 17 April 1852.
A company under the title of the DOUGLAS CHORAL UNION according to the 'Manx Sun' of 24 Jan., 1863, performed in the Victoria Hall, Prospect Hill, afterwards the Gaiety Theatre. It is not known how long the company was in existence.
What is now known as the DOUGLAS CHORAL UNION was founded in 1896. A souvenir was issued in 1916, and another in 1926.
KING WILLIAM'S COLLEGE DRAMATIC SOCIETY has existed for a longer period than any other similar organisation. It is not known when it originated, but in the first number of the 'Barrovian', dated 1st March, 1879, mention is made of the Histrionic Society's Christmas entertainment of the previous year, 1878. In the 'Barrovian' of April, 1880, a full account is given of the year's theatrical performances, wiich included scenes from 'The Merchant of Vemice' Mr. Pleignier, a friend of the poet Brown, was the producer. Charles H. Gill was 'Shylock, S. H. W. Hughes-Games was 'Antonio, and W. H. Bragg (later Sir Wilham) was ' Bassanio. The farce "Turn Him Out" followed, and in this the ' Barrovian' says 'the whole life of the piece was Bragg, as "Susan, the maid of all work."
THE PEEL PLAYERS met for the first time in Christian Street School in July, 1912, and commenced playing in 1913. They produced in that year in the David Lewis Theatre, Liverpool, 'Iliam Kodhere's Will' and 'The Charm' They continued to play the dramas and comedies of Christopher Shimmin, who was himself the producer. "Catchin Kirree,' by F. Corris, and ' Ellie's Stranger, by W. Clucas Kinley, were also done.
PORT IRON CUSHAGS commenced m the winter of 1922-3. They first produced Shimmin's "Dooinney Movyllee' and 'The Charm, and they went through all the printed plays of J.J. Kneen and others. The company are very successful in Manx plays, and have played in various towns in England.
The Gentlemen Amateurs, before ............ 1823 to 1852
Douglas Choral Union. ...........1863
St. Mary's Dramatic Club, Douglas ...........1875
KW. College Dramatic Society, before 1878
Pickwick Dramatic' Club, Douglas ...........1879-1883.
Castletown Amateur Dramatic Society ......... 1882-1884
Douglas Amateur Minstrels. ...........1890-1892
Douglas Choral Union ...........1896
Peel Players ...........1913
Port Iron Cushags...........1922
Ballasallas Players ...........1926
1st Malew Group Boy Scouts ...........1927
The "Legion" Players, Douglas )...........1931
The. Stanley Players ...........1943
Manx Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society.
Rushen Amateur Dramatic Society.
St. Paul's Players, Ramsey.
Ramsey Grammar School Old Scholars' Dramatic Society'
The Un-Named Dramatic Society.
Castletown Players.
Western Players, Peel.
The Good Companions. 1935
New Theatre, Athol Street. 'Hamlet' and ' Simpson & Co.' Thursday Evening, Aug. 4th, 1825. J. Penrice, Sun Office, Douglas, 1825. 300>190. [3034 |
'Places for the boxes may be taken at the Manx Museum, where tickets may be had. . . . No copper taken at the doors.- Vide play bill.
Prince of Wales Theatre, Atholl Street, Douglas,Wednesday, 30th May, 1849. ' Asmodeus,' ' State Secrets ' and 'My Husband's Ghost.' M. A. Quiggin, 52, North Quay. 1849. 512x251. [3034]
Prince of Wales Theatre, Atholl Street. Tuesday Evening, July 17th, 1849. 'The Hunchback!' and 'The Serjeant's Wedding.' M. A. Quiggin. 1849. eae 3034 |
Prince of Wales Theatre. Friday Evening, July 20th, 1849, (1) 'The Gamester!' and (2) 'The Day after the Fair' M. A. Quiggin. 1849. 505x254. [3034]
Prince of Wales Theatre. Thursday Evening, July 26th, (1) Lady of Lyons' "and (2) "Katharine and Petruchio." M. A. Quiggin. 1849. 505x250. [3034]
In the most interesting collection of playbills in the Museum is one which concerns a pantomime performed in Liverpool, in the Theatre Royal, Williamson Square, in January, 1853. Its title was, 'Three Legs, King of Man; or Harlequin, Lord Stanley and the Eagle and Child' The words ' Three Legs' in the bill are formed of legs after the fashion of the Manx emblem, every stroke being a leg. The pantomime was founded on the legend of the Eagle and Child associated with the beginnings of the Stanley Family. It was highly fantastic, and seems to have been very clever.
Theatre Royal, Wellington Street, (Douglas.- Saturday. evening, Aug. 14th, 1858. (1) ' Still Waters Run Deep!' and (2) 'The Irish Lion | W.. White, No. 1 Christian Road, Finch Road, Douglas. 1858. 355x168. [3034, J 64]
'If the inhabitants of Douglas and its vicinage have not Bills regularly delivered at their houses, the manager will feel obliged by being informed of the omission; at the same time he solicits tradesmen to allow the' bills when read, to be put into the windows of their shops.
Constables will be in attendance to preserve order.''- Vide playbill.Wellington Street was named so at the instance of Mosley of Bradford, who commenced the theatre. It was previously "New Factory Lane,' and before that its name was 'Preaching House Lane' from the fact that the first Thomas Street Methodist Chapel was erected there about 1790.
Theatre Royal, Wellington Street. Wednesday Evening, Aug. 25th, 1858:, "Othello!" and: "The Happy Man" W.White. 1858 355x167, [3034]
See "Manx Sun, Jume 26th, 1858) for particulars. of theatre and new name Wellington Street.
Theatre Royal, Wellington Street. ' William Tell,' ' Somebody Else,' and 'The Dancing Barber.' Monday Evening, Sept. 16th, 1861. W. White, Wellington Street, Douglas. 1861. 381x162: [3034]
The printer had changed his business office.
Theatre Royal, Wellington Street. Thursday Evening, Sept. 19th 1861'Don Cesar De Bezan' and 'Love's Quarrels' and ' Wilful Murder.' W. White, Wellington street, Douglas. 1861. 376x167. [3034]
On Friday, 20th, 'The School for Scandal' and "2 Lost Ship,' for the benefit of Mr. Swinbourne, being the last night of his engagement.
'Pass-out checks are not transferable. Children in arms not admitted to any part of the theatre, and no smoking allowed on any account.'
Notice: Persons frequenting the gallery are cautiong against shouting and personally addressing the musicians or other individuals in the theatre to the annoyance of the audience, as prompt and efficient means will be us to punish the offenders.
Carriages advised to set down with horses head towards Duke Street.
Theatre Royal, Wellington Street. Wednesday Evening Sept. 18th, 1861. 'A New Way to Pay Old Debts!" and 'A Cure for the Heart-Ache!' W. White, Wellington Street, Douglas. 1861. 380x165. [3044] For the benefit of Mr. W. A. Phillips.
Theatre Royal, Wellington Street. Tuesday Evening, Sep 17th, 1861. ' Virginius' and 'Our Clerks!' W.White 1861, 377x165; [3034]
Theatre Royal, Wellington Street. Saturday Evening, Sept 14th, 1861. 'Belphegor!' and 'Grimshaw, Bagshaw and Bradshaw.' W. White. 1861. 382x167. [3034]
Theatre Royal, Wellington Street. Wednesday Evening, Sept. lith, 1861. 'Ingomar' and " Wilful Murdeny White. 1861. 385x166. [ 3034]
Theatre Royal, Wellington Street. Tuesday Evening, Sept 10th, 1861. 'Werner!' and 'Our Clerks!' W. White LS6d.y 1370x163: [3034]
Theatre Royal, Wellington Street. Monday Evening, Sept 23rd, 1861. 'Catherine Howard!' and ' His Last Legs' W. White. 1861. 385x168. [3034]
For the benefit of Mr. Roughton.
Snaefell. An entirely original and fantastic drama, in three acts, entitled ' Snaefell,' a Manx legend, written by Paul Meritt and Henry Spry. The overture, music and choruses composed and conducted bv Oscar H. Barrett. At the Gaiety Theatre, Strand, London (John Hollingshead), June 30th, 1873, and following evenings.
Portion of a printed daybill. Not in Library.
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