19th-Century Theatre
Circa: November 1844
Letters to Sarah M’Cready give us an insight into her management style. We know she was very resourceful, frequently visiting London to find new acts, and even paying sailors from Bristol’s docks to perform a hornpipe at the end of the evening.
This letter from Charles Kean shows the collaborative relationship between actors and managers. Actors usually had to provide their own costumes, while managers were in charge of the scenery and effects; however, Charles and Sarah’s friendship meant there was room for negotiation.
