| Citation |
NYM(G.777.015
27 Jan 1777:32 (1318)
On Saturday evening last the little Theatre in John-street,
in this city, was opened, with the celebrated burlisque
entertainment of Tom Thumb, written by the late Mr.
Fielding, to ridicule the bathos of several dramatic pieces
that at his time to the disgrace of the British stage, had
engrossed both the London theatres. The characters were
performed by gentlemen of the navy and army; the spirit with
which this favourite piece was supported by the performers,
prove their taste and strong conception of the humour.
Saturday's performance convince us that a good education and
knowledge of polite life, are essentially necessary to form
a good actor. The play was introduced by a prologue written
and spoken by Captain Stanly; we have great pleasure in
applauding this first effort of his infant muse, as replete
with true poetic genius. The scenes painted by Captain De
Lancey has great merit, and would not disgrace a theatre,
tho' under the management of a Garrick. The house was
crouded with company, and the ladies made a brilliant
appearance.
|