Description
Book SynopsisThis book explores the institutions, genres, and performance history of an illegitimate theatre which emerged in British dramatic culture towards the end of the eighteenth century.
Trade Review'This is exciting work.' History
'Illegitimate Theatre does more than enough in recreating and celebrating the energy and multifariousness of unlicensed drama. Like the productions it describes, its exuberant detail can be breathtaking. … an impressively scholarly piece of work … a pleasurable read.' Romanticism
'Moody's book is rich in detailed research and vivid examples, and she never loses the sense of vitality and entertainment that lies at the heart of her subject … an indispensable contribution to the study of theatrical culture in the period.' New Theatre Quarterly
Table of ContentsList of illustrations; Acknowledgements; List of abbreviations; Prologue; 1. The invention of illegitimate culture; 2. The disintegration of legitimate theatre; 3. Illegitimate production; 4. Illegitimate Shakespeares; 5. Reading the theatrical city; 6. Westminster laughter; 7. Illegitimate celebrities; Epilogue; Select bibliography; Index.
