Past Shows - 1835 TO 1864
CHRONOLOGY of THE NATIONAL THEATRE
TIMELINE - 1835 to 1864
This record is a work in progress. Click below for time segments
1865 - 1899
1900 -1924
1925
- 1949
1950
- 1999
2000
- the present
Click
here for sources and other notes.
Abbreviations
SN refers to Stage for a Nation, Lee, Meersman,
Murphy, 1985, the official history of The National.
HNNT refers to History of the New National Theatre
by Alexander Hunter and J. H. Polkinhorn, November, 1954
ON refers to a series of orange notebooks containing
information taken from the files of the Washington Historical Society
on productions at the National beginning in 1835. Information culled
from The Intelligencer newspaper files of the Martin Luther King
Library. There are no program files for these entries.
Rapley Files - William W. Rapley was an owner and
manager of the theatre in the 1860's and the 1870's. He was later
succeeded by his son, Harry W. Rapley.
Sources:
List A: A first computerized partial listing of titles of attractions
at the National Theatre was assembled by General Manager Richard
Schneider about 1987, apparently from playbills.
List B: A second more elaborate computer listing from 1982 included
dates, titles, and some performer annotation. This list included
many performances other than those at the National, and seems to
be the record of one east-coast theatre-goer's programs beginning
in 1943.
Personal Recollection: On a regular basis, individuals report specific
information which they know of "first-hand." We are told,
for example, that Billie Burke, Al Jolson and Chita Rivera are all
"Washingtonians." Chita attended Haywood School here.
Compilation of information Further work was done by President Donn
B. Murphy, and Archivist Thomas S. Shorebird, from 1988 through
1993. Dr. Murphy and Anthony Stewart made entries from 1993 through
1997.
Work to incorporate material from other files into a comprehensive
chronology was done by volunteer archivists Melvin Goldberg, Bayla
White, Mary Haley, Elaine Kolodny and Celia Shapiro over a multi-year
period beginning in 2000.
Notes
Where only the year and not the specific play dates of attractions
are known, the show titles are listed prior to dated attractions,
except when the dates for other attractions known to have played
in January make it clear that the undated attractions were later
in the year.
Abbreviations
SN refers to Stage for a Nation, Lee, Meersman, Murphy, 1985, the
official history of The National.
HNNT refers to History of the New National Theatre by Alexander
Hunter and J. H. Polkinhorn, November, 1954
ON refers to a series of orange notebooks containing information
taken from the files of the Washington Historical Society on productions
at the National beginning in 1835. Information culled from The Intelligencer
newspaper files of the Martin Luther King Library. There are no
program files for these entries.
Rapley Files - William W. Rapley was an owner and manager of the
theatre in the 1860's and the 1870's. He was later succeeded by
his son, Harry W. Rapley.
PRODUCTIONS AT DATES UNKNOWN
BALLETS ESPANGNOL: TERESA AND LUISILLO
BILLIE TAYLOR
BLUE BEARD AND THE HEATHEN CHINEE
FORGOTTEN FACTOR, THE
HOW TO MAKE HOME HAPPY
MIRIAM WINSLOW AND HER DANCERS
OUTLAW, THE
OXYGEN, OR GAS IN BURLESQUE METER
PINK DOMINOES circa 1888 - based on the poem by Rudyard Kipling
SHARPS AND FLATS (1800's?)
TEN COMMANDMENTS, THE (Film)
TWO KEYS, THE
VILLAR'S DRAGOONS
ZANDER THE GREAT, April 2, ???, Alice Brady and Jerome Patrick.
Comedy by Salisbury Field, produced by Charles Frohman
1834
August, 1834
Offer to receive bids for the construction of the theatre appears
in The Intelligencer.(SN, p. 20) The construction eventually cost
in excess of $40,000. SN p. 37. Originally, it was planned to build
the theatre on Capitol Hill, but subsequently the location at 1321
E Street, NW, later to become 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, was
selected.
September 17, 1834
Stock Company formed to finance the theatre. Members of the founding
board included William Wilson Corcoran, William Brent, Cornelius
McLean, Jr., Henry Randall, Richard Smith and George Gibson. Brent
was the brother of Washington's first mayor. Both Brent and McLean
had run for mayor. (SN, p. 26)
1835
November 3rd, 1835
Meeting of the Stockholders.
Maywood, Rowbotham, Pratt, proprietors of the Chestnut Street
Theatre in Philadelphia, signed on as lessees.
December 7, 1835, Monday
THE NATIONAL THEATRE OPENS at 7:00 p.m.
The National Theatre opened in its first building. The National
Intelligencer had announced that “The lovers of the drama
will be pleased to learn that this new and beautiful theatre will
certainly open on Monday next.... The construction ... is admirable,
both for its commodiousness and for seeing and hearing.” President
Andrew Jackson was present.
Lessee: R.C. Maywood & Co. Acting and stage manager: Mr. Ward
from the Theatre Edinburgh and the Haymarket Theatre, London. Stage
machinery: Mr. Varden. Lighting fixtures by Mr. Cornelius of Philadelphia.
Artist of the painting in the dome of the theatre: Mr. Duke White
of New York. Artist of Scenery: Mr. Carr.
Admission: First tier of boxes and parquette: $1; second tier,
$.50; third tier $.50; gallery $.25; gallery for people of color
$.25. Box office hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to
5:00 p.m. Box office manager, Mr. Green
MAN OF THE WORLD a comedy starring Mr. Maywood
and TURN OUT a musical, in which Mrs. Jefferson, as Marian Ramsey,
sang “I Am Marian Ramsey.”
Best Original Prize Poetical Address spoken on Opening Night by
Mrs. Hughes. The poem was written by Mr. Vose of Baltimore who received
a $50 prize.
For complete program see SN, p. 21
December 8, 1835, Tuesday
THE STRANGER -- starring Miss Emma Wheatley as Mrs. Haller
December 9, 1835, Wednesday
HAMLET starring Mr. James Wallack and Miss Emma Wheatley
The second attraction at The National was Junius Brutus Booth
in “Hamlet” and “Othello”
December 11, 1835 [ON]
THE WONDER – comedy by Mrs. Lentlivre. Starring Emma Wheatley
and James Wallack.
December 15, 1835 [ON]
SCHOOL FOR SCANDAL – by Richard Brinsley Sheridan. Starring
Emma Wheatley and James Wallack.
December 16, 1935 [ON]
BERTRAM, SPRING AND AUTUMN – by Maturin (??). Starring Emma
Wheatley and James Wallack.
December 18, 1835 [ON]
THE DRAMATIST, RAISING THE WIND – comedies. Starring Emma
Wheatley.
December 19, 1835 [ON]
THE WAY TO GET MARRIED, GRETNA GREEN – by Mr. Rogers.
December 22, 1835 [ON]
LAUGH WHEN YOU CAN, HUNTER OF THE ALPS – comedies
December 23, 1835 [ON]
SECRETS WORTH KNOWING and LESSONS FOR LOVERS – comedies. Starring
Emma Wheatley and Mr. Ball.
December 25, 1835 [ON]
ENGLISHMEN IN INDIA, PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE WASHINGTON, HUNTER OF THE
ALPS – comedies. Starring Mr. Ball and Mrs. Jefferson.
December 28, 1835 [ON]
UNCLE JOHN, THE TURNPIKE GATE, JOHN JONES – comedy. Starring
Mr. William Burton, later stage manager of the National.
December 29, 1835 [ON]
POOR GENTLEMEN, THE MUMMY – comedy. Starring Mr. William Burton.
December 30, 1835 [ON]
SECOND THOUGHTS, PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE WASHINGTON, FORTY WINKS –
comedies. Starring Mr. William Burton.
December
THE IRISH AMBASSADOR
1836
January 1 through 7 1836 [ON]
JOHN REEVE -- Starring in Paul Pry, 1-5, Sweethearts and Wives,
The Wreck Ashore, The Married Bachelor, A Trip to Bath and The Rivals.
January 8 through January 12, 1836 [ON]
HERR CLINE, rope dancer appeared.
January 13, 1836 [ON]
ROB ROY; THE DEAD SHOT – Starring Mrs. Rogers.
January 14, 1836 [ON]
DOUGLAS; THE GOLDEN FARMER – Starring Mrs. Rogers and Mr.
Cline.
January 15, 1836 [ON]
CRAMOND BRIG; THE BATH ROAD – Starring Mr. Cline and Mr. Maywood.
January 16, 1836 [ON]
THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE; THE TWO FRIENDS – Starring Mr. Maywood
and Mr. Lewellen.
January 18, 1836 [ON]
BRIDE OF LAMMERMOOR; LOVE IN HUMBLE LIFE – Starring Mr. Maywood
and Mr. Knight.
January 19, 1836 [ON]
HAMLET; IS HE JEALOUS – Starring Mr. Abbott.
January 20, 1836 [ON]
VENICE PRESERVED; HONEST THIEVES
January 21, 1836 [ON]
THE GAMESTER; THE HUNTER OF THE ALPS – Starring Mrs. Lanchanten
January 22, 1836 [ON]
FOUNDLING OF THE FORREST; A MUSICAL MELANGE – Starring Mr.
Maywood.
January 23, 1836 [ON]
THE EXILE; A MUSICAL MELANGE; THE WEATHERCOCK – Starring Mr.
Abbott, Mr. Taylor
January 25, 1836 [ON]
THE KING’S FOOL; THE EXILE – Starring Mr. Ward and Mr.
Abbott.
January 26, 1836 [ON]
ADELGITHA; TURN OUT – Starring Mrs. Duff.
January 27, 1836 [ON]
THE STRANGER; THE WEATHERCOCK – Starring Mr. Abbott.
January 28, 1836 [ON]
THE GAMESTER; THE DAY AFTER THE WEDDING – Starring Mr. Abbott.
January 29, 1836 [ON]
ISABELLA; THE EXILE – Starring Mrs. Duff and Mr. Abbott.
January 30, 1836 [ON]
PIZARRO; THE LOTTERY TICKET – Starring Mr. Ward.
February 1, 1836 [ON]
JANE SHORE; MERCHANT OF VENICE; SIMPSON & CO. – Starring
Mr. Abbott.
February 2, 1836 [ON]
HAMLET; MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING; HUNCHBACK; ROMEO AND JULIET
February 4, 1836 [ON]
GEORGE BARNWELL; SIMPSON & CO. –
February 5, 1836 [ON]
FOUNDLING OF THE FOREST; THE SIAMESE TWINS
February 6, 1836
POCAHONTAS OR THE FIRST SETTLERS OF VIRGINIA -- written by George
Washington Parke Custis – first native playwright to have
is play produced at the National. Many original Indian artifacts
provided by Commissioner of the Indian Bureau.
February 8, 1836 [ON]
POCAHONTAS; THE SIAMESE TWINS
February 9, 1836 [ON]
POCAHONTAS; DR. VALENTINE; LOVE IN A HUMBLE LIFE
February 10, 1836 [ON]
POCAHONTAS; DR. VALENTINE; THE INNKEEPER BRIDE
February 11, 1836 [ON]
POCAHANTAS; DR. VALENTINE; THE RENDEZVOUS
February 12, 1836 [ON]
RICHARD III; THE SIAMESE TWINS
February 13, 1836 [ON]
OTHELLO; SIMPSON & CO. – Starring Junius Brutus Booth.
February 15, 1835 [ON]
A NEW WAY TO PAY OLD DEBTS; POCAHONTAS – Starring Junius Brutus
Booth.
February 16, 1836 [ON]
VIRGINIUS; POCAHONTAS – Starring Mr. Oxley.
February 18, 1836 [ON]
DEAD SHOT – Starring Mr. Oxley.
February 19, 1836 [ON]
WILLIAM TELL; POCAHONTAS – Starring Mr. Oxley.
February 20, 1836 [ON]
BRUTUS; THERESE – Starring Mr. Oxley.
February 22, 1836 [ON]
JOAN OF ARC; SIMPSON & CO.; THE LAUNCH OF THE COLUMBIA
February 24, 1836 [ON]
DOUGLAS; THE LAUNCH OF THE COLUMBIS; FORTUNE’S FROLIC –
Starring Mr. Rogers.
February 25, 1836 [ON]
RICHARD III; THE LAUNCH OF THE COLUMBIA – Starring Junius
Brutus Booth.
February 26, 1836 [ON]
MERCHANT OF VENICE; THE SIAMESE TWINS – Starring Junius Brutus
Booth.
February 27, 1836 [ON]
THE IRON CHEST; UNCLE SAM – Starring Junius Brutus Booth.
February 29, 1836
KING LEAR; A DREAM AT SEA – Starring Junius Brutus Booth.
March 1, 1836 [ON]
JOAN OF ARC; A DREAM AT SEA
March 2, 1836 [ON]
TOWN AND COUNTRY; THE REVIEW – Starring Junius Brutus Booth.
March 3, 1836 [ON]
A DREAM AT SEA; JOAN OF ARC
March 4, 1836 [ON]
PONTIAC; TURN OUT
March 5, 1836 [ON]
PONTIAC; A DREAM AT SEA
March 7, 1836 [ON]
PONTIAC; A DREAM AT SEA
March 8, 1836 [ON]
LUKE THE LABORER; THE LAUNCH OF THE COLUMBIA – Starring Mr.
Rogers.
March 9, 1836 [ON]
THE FRENCH SPY; LA BAYADERE; THE LOTTERY TICKET
March 10, 1836 [ON]
THE FRENCH SPY; LA BAYADERE; UNCLE SAM
March 11, 1836 [ON]
THE FRENCH SPY; THE LAUNCH OF THE COLUMBIA; UNCLE SAM
March 12, 1836 [ON]
WIZARD SKIFF; LUKE THE LABORER; GRAND OPERA
March 14 through March 26, 1836 [ON]
MADAME CELINE CELESTE stars in a series of melodramas and other
productions, relying primarily on pantomine. including Wept of Wish-Ton-Wish;
Dead Shot; Danse des Folies; The Bath Road; The Wizard Skiff; Perfection;
the Greek Pirate Dance; Wild Arab Dance; La Bayadere; The Death
Plank; The French Spy; Moorish Page; Two Friends; Grand Opera Dance;
Golden Farmer; Grand Ballet Dance; Victoire; Man and Wife; A Musical
Olio; The Old Gentleman.
March 28 through April 5, 1836 [ON]
JOHN REEVE starring in 1-5, Laugh When You Can; Catching An Heiress;
The Bold Dragoons; Three and the Deuce; Love, Law and Physic; The
Rivals, The Weathercock; The Wreck Ashore; The Young Widow; Tom
and Jerry; Where Shall I Dine?; Cupid the God of Love; Raising the
Wind; Quadrapeds
April 7, 1836 [ON]
POCAHONTAS; OLIO; THE WEPT OF THE WISH-TON-WISH
April 8, 1836 [ON]
THE FOUNDLING OF THE FOREST; UNCLE SAM
April 9, 1836 [ON]
A DREAM AT SEA; THE DEAD SHOT
April 11, 1836 [ON]
MONTGOMERIE; SIAMESE TWINS
April 12, 1836 [ON]
MONTGOMERIE; LOVE IN HUMBLE LIFE
April 13, 1836
THE FLIGHT OF MERCURY; MONTGOMERIE; PERFECTION
April 14, 1836 [ON]
THE FLIGHT OF MERCURY; MAN AND WIFE; PERFECTION
April 15, 1836 [ON]
MONTGOMERIE; THE RENDEZVOUS
April 16, 1836 [ON]
THE GOLDEN FARMER; THE CARNIVAL OF VENICE; IS HE JEALOUS
April 18, 1836 [ON]
THE OLD GENTLEMAN; THE GAMBLER’S FATE; WHERE SHALL I DINE
April 19, 1836 [ON]
JOHN BULL; THE ASSASSIN FATHER
April 20, 1836 [ON]
SWEETHEARTS AND WIVES
April 21. 1836 [ON]
MARRIED LIFE; ILLUSTRIOUS STRANGER
April 22, 1836 [ON]
SPEED THE PLOUGH; THE HYPOCRITE; HIDE AND SEEK
April 23, 1836 [ON]
TYLNEY HALL; THE ACTOR OF ALL WORK; SECOND THOUGHTS
April 25, 1836 [ON]
GUY MANNERING; BOAT DUET; THE SPOILED CHILD – Starring Mr.
Taylor and Miss Watson
April 27, 1836 [ON]
THE LORD OF THE MANOR; BAOT DUET; NO SONG, NO SUPPER – Starring
Mrs. Watson and Miss Watson
April 28, 1836 [ON]
JOHN OF PARIS; DOAT DUET; THE SPOILED CHILD – Starring Miss
Watson.
April 29, 1836 [ON]
GUY MANNERING; BOAT DUET; NO – Starring Miss Watson
April 30, 1836 [ON]
THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO; BOAT DUET; NO
May 2, 1836 [ON]
LORD OF THE MANOR; BOAT DUET; ON THE MOUNTAIN HIGH; OLD AND YOUNG
– Starring Miss Watson
May 3, 1836 [ON]
THE PET OF THE PETTICOATS; BOAT DUET; SIMPSON AND CO. – Starring
Miss Watson
May 4, 1836 [ON]
THE HAWKS OF HAWK HOLLOW; CROSSING THE LINE
A stock company actress sang "Huzza for Liberty and Texas"
as Sam Houston awaited Santa Ana on the River Brazos.
May 5, 1836 [ON]
GAMBLERS FATE; THE YOUNG WIDOW
May 6, 1835 [ON]
JANE SHORE; CROSSING THE LINE
May 7, 1835 [ON]
GREEN EYED MONSTER; VALENTINE AND ORSON
May 9, 1836 [ON]
ROMEO AND JULIET; THREE AND THE DEUCE
May 10, 1836 [ON]
ALL IN THE WRONG; JOE MILLER
May 11. 1836 [ON]
PIZARRO; WEATHERCOCK
May 12, 1836 [ON]
HUSBAND AND WIVES; THE HUNTER OF THE ALPS; WHERE SHALL I DINE?
May 13, 1836 [ON]
MACBETH; THE YOUNG WIDOW
May 14, 1836 [ON]
Mr. Thomas Ward (Manager)
SPEED THE PLOUGH; FAREWELL ADDRESS; GREEN-EYED MONSTER a farce
This production closed the theatre for the summer.
December 7, 1836
Opening of the second fall/spring season
Mr. Walton joins Mr. Ward as co-manager.
Miss V. Monier, an actress, becomes manager.
The National's company sang a pre-Irving Berlin "God Bless
America" to open the season. SN p. 36
1837
DENOUNCER
THE TRAGEDY OF BIANCA VICOUNTI
PONTIAC -- by General Alexander Macomb, then commanding the armies
of the United States. The Marine Corps was utilized in the production.
September 1837
THE MOUNTAIN SYLPH "as grand melo-dramatic spectacle"
starring Annette Nelson. The performance is attended by native American
chiefs and members of the Sioux, Iowa, Sacs and Foxes nations who
had come to the capital to negotiate treaties. They sat together
in the front rows, and impulsively presented their headdresses to
Miss Nelson. (c.f. SN, p. 16)
September 18, 1837
HONEYMOON and CLARI, MAID OF MILAN – Starring Josephine Clifton.
Thomas Ward, the National Theatre’s manager played opposite
Miss Clifton in Honeymoon.
September 19, 1837
AGNES DE VERE – melodrama starring Mr. Hill.
1838
Mr. Ward resumed management in absence of Miss Monier on a starring
trip to Europe. She returned in 1841 to resume management of the
National Theatre.
James Henry Hackett played Falstaff sometime during the year.
1840
Mr. Ward and Mr. Wilson (Managers)
German danseuse Fanny Essler appeared at theatre. Women stripped
off their jewelry and men their rings and watch chains to fling
them onto the stage as Essler "stood a veritable Danae in this
shower of gold." (c.f. SN, p.36)
1841
Ms. V. Monier (Manager) returned from Europe tour.
1842
Mr. Ward (Manager)
May 31, 1842 [xerox only]
MR. MARBLE appearing in The Yankee in Time (a drama) and All the
World’s a Stage (a comedy), preceded by the one-act farce
Advice Gratis
June 1, 1842 [xerox only]
MR. MARBLE appearing in two comedies Jonathan in England and The
Vermonter.
1843
Mr. Hield, Mr. Tuthill, Mr. Collins and Mr. Donaldson reopen the
theatre after repairing and repainting the auditorium and installing
new lamps. SN p. 36. L. M. Emery then became manager.
Early in 1843 the theatre was converted into a circus by the removal
of the parquet seating and the orchestra. The circus season, starring
the India Rubber Man as the main attraction, was short-lived. SN
p. 37.
THE STRANGER - drama starring Miss Palm and Mister Sinclair
1844
Theatre Sold to: General Van Ness, Hon. Benjamin Ogle Tayloe,
Richard Smith for $13,500.
Lessee: Mr. S. M. Emery, S. M. Emery, J. W. Vandenhoff.
January 24, 1844
JACK NONPARIEL – title role played by “the inimitable
Burton.” Farewelll benefit to mark the departure of Mr. Ward
as manager.
February 11, 1844 [no program file]
THE HUNCHBACK – Starring Miss Hildreth. Theatre reopened under
management of Mr. Hield.
March 6, 1844 [no program file]
DOUGLAS -- marking the departure as manager of Mr. Hield. He appeared
in this farewell benefit.
The National was leased by Mr. Rodney, he soon abandoned the theatre.
THEATRE CLOSED FOR TEN MONTHS.
December 25, 1844
OLE BULL – Norwegian violinist, played two nights. An Alabama
Congressman who became abusive, was evicted. SN, p. 34.
1845
January 4, 1845 [Rapley file]
N.A. HOWES EQUESTRIAN TROUPE
January 10, 1845
Mr. William E. Burton, Lessee of the Philadelphia and Baltimore
theatres, announced that he had leased the National Theatre
March 4, 1845
President Polk Inaugural Ball was held in The National Theatre.
Henry Clay and 11 other Whig candidates refuse to attend.
March 5, 1845
FIRE: THE CONGO MELODISTS from Boston in THE STAR-STRUCK NIGGER.
Theatre burned between 8:00 and 9:00 p.m. The fire began in the
"oil room" backstage while the performance was in progress.
No injuries resulted. Only the bare walls were left standing. William
E. Burton was lessee at this time. Rebuilding will take six years.
(Wash Star 2-3-63; SN, pp 31 plate, 37).
1845 to 1850
THEATRE STOOD AS AN EMPTY BLACKENED SHELL.
1850
The "SECOND NATIONAL": To present Jenny Lind, Willard
of Willard's Hotel and "Land Admiral" Reeside purchased
the blackened shell and hurriedly rebuilt the theatre to accommodate
3,500 patrons.
Theatre renamed THE NEW NATIONAL HALL.
December 16 and 17, 1850
JENNY LIND IN CONCERT presented by Phineas T. Barnum
The "entire Washington police force" was required to protect
Jenny Lind "The Swedish Nightingale" at the National.
President and Mrs. Millard Fillmore attended both concerts. Senator
Daniel Webster and Senator Henry Clay attended the opening. Webster
sang with the star during part of one song. The President and other
luminaries sat in special chairs at the front of the orchestra.
Tickets ranged from $3 to $7. SN, p. 38
Jenny Lind's performance grossed $15,385.60
Willard and Reeside (Managers)
Business Manager: Jas. E. Welsh
Willard and Reeside sold the theatre.
1851
January, 1851
THE "SECOND NATIONAL" COLLAPSES
Manager Rufus Welch remodels the theatre as a circus for a French
equestrian troupe. Prior to the first performance a 30-foot-long
section of 6-tiered seating on the west side of the building collapsed,
carrying at least 100 people 16 feet into the basement. Injuries
were reportedly only "bruises of no serious importance."
(This was evidently an era of little negligence litigation.) The
audience remained and the performance, an equestrian troupe supported
by Monsieur W.F. Wallet (an "intellectual clown" who gave
comic speeches on women's rights and mesmirism) went on. [SN, p.
39].
The theatre closed again in less than a week.
E.A. Marshall, proprietor also of the Walnut Street Theatre in
Philadelpia and the Broadway Theatre in New York, leased the National.
THEATRE "STRONGLY REBUILT AND ENTIRELY REMODELED."
The theater was renamed the National Theatre, with a seating capacity
of 3,000 and room for an additional 1,000 seats in the aisles for
spectators. Box tickets were priced at $6, with orchestra, reserved
seats in the dress circle and parquet sections at 75 cents. The
family circle, gallery, and third tier remained a quarter. [SN,
p.40]
December 15 through December 20, 1851 [no program file]
THE HUNCHBACK – by Sheridan Knowles. The audience for the
performance included President and Mrs. Fillmore, Daniel Webster
and other dignitaries. [SN, p.40]
LONDON ASSURANCE -- by Dion Boucicault. Starring Julia Dean
LOLA MONTEZ danced and drew full houses of men only.
MACBETH starring Charlotte Cushman as Lady Macbeth.
Edwin Forrest packed 4,000 patrons in on his last night at the
National.
1852
Lessee: E. A. Marshall
Saturday October 31, 1852, poster
1. UNCLE TOM'S CABIN based on the novel of Harriet Beecher Stowe
2. AGNES DE VERE
3. OLD AND YOUNG
All three starred Little Cordelia Howard
Monday, November 22, 1852, poster:
1. New Dramatic Opera--FLORINE! or THE PRIDE OF THE CANTON! by Sheridan
Mann
The seventh night with Miss Caroline Richings as Florine.
2. Variations from LUCIA DI LAMMERMOOR with a violoncello
3. A farce (first act) CAPTAIN CHARLOTTE!
Saturday, November 27, 1852, poster:
Miss Caroline Riching's last night
1. Donizetti's opera, THE LAST SPELL.
2. "La Zingarella," a dance with Mr Smith and Miss Annie
Walters
3. "The Old Folks at Home," performance by orchestra
4. a farce, DEAD SHOT
Wednesday, December 1, 1852, poster:
1st appearance of W. Wheatley
3rd night of Misses Susan and Kate Denin
2nd night of John Winans
1. John Sheridan Knowles's play, THE WIFE or THE TALE OF MANTUA
2. "La Cachuc," a dance with Miss Annie Walters
3. THE WANDERING BOYS or THE CASTLE OF OLIVAL--a melodrama in 2
acts.
Friday, December 3, 1852 poster:
1. E.L. Bulwer's play, [probably Edward Bulwer Lytton's] LADY OF
LYONS with Miss Susan and Kate Denin
2. "Pas Zanette," a dance with Miss Annie Walters
3. a comedy in 3 acts, HONEYMOON, with the Denin sisters
Monday, December 6, 1852 poster:
1st night of Niblo's Dancers
1. THE TWO BONNYCASTLES, a farce
2. "Ballet Divertisement," the first part
3. GOOD FOR NOTHING, a new comic drama
4. "Ballet Divertisement," the second part
Wednesday, December 8, 1852 poster:
3rd night of Niblo's Dancers
1. a farce, SKETCHES IN INDIA
2. "Ballet Divertisement," the first part
3. a farce, GOOD FOR NOTHING
4. "Ballet Divertisement," the second part
Friday, December 10, 1852 poster:
1. BOX AND COX, a farce
2. "Grand Ballet Divertisement," first part
3. SOMEBODY ELSE, a farce
4. "Ballet Divertisement," second part
December 15, 1852 [HNNT]
THE HUNCHBACK -- by Sheridan Knowles. Starring Matilda Heron, with
her stock company. President and Mrs. Millard Fillmore, Daniel Webster,
and other dignitaries attended the opening performance. SN, p. 40
Thursday, December 16, 1852 poster:
1. ALL THE WORLD'S A STAGE, a farce
2. "Ballet Divertisement," first part
3. "Ballet Divertisement," second part
4. DEAD SHOT, a farce
Monday, December 20, 1852 poster:
Miss Emma Fitzpatrick from Drury Lane Theatre, London
1. BELLE'S STRATEGEM with Miss Fitzpatrick
2. "Grande Ballet Divertisement"
3. A ROLAND FOR AN OLIVER, a farce in 2 acts
Wednesday, December 22, 1852 [HNNT]
THE GRAND ITALIAN OPERA presents Rossini’s Cinderella, marking
their first performance in Washington. Featuring Madame Torronte,
soprano and Signor Vorrello, tenor.
Thursday, December 23, 1852 poster:
4th night of Miss Fitzpatrick
4th night of French and Spanish Dancers, Niblo's Dancers
1. For the first time in this theatre Sheridan's comedy, THE RIVALS.
2. "Grande Ballet Divertisement"
3. BOX AND COX, MARRIED AND SETTLED--for the second time
1853
THE TEXAS STRUGGLE FOR LIBERTY
MORNING COP
January 12 through January 15, 1853 [HNNT]
THE HUNCHBACK – by Sheridan Knowles. Starring Julia Dean in
her Washington debut.
Thursday, January 20, 1853 poster:
2nd appearance of Mrs Mowatt in
MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING as Beatrice
2. A "Dance" with Miss Annie Walters
3. YOUR LIFE'S IN DANGER, a farce
Friday, January 21, 1853 poster:
3rd appearance of Mrs Mowatt
Mrs Mowatt as Ion in Talfourd's Classical Tragedy, ION or THE FOUNDLING
OF ARGOS
2. A Dance by Miss Annie Walters
3. A petite comedy in 1 act, MORNING CALL
Sunday, January 23, 1853 poster:
6th appearance of Mrs Mowatt
1. BRIDE OF LAMMERMOOR with Mrs Mowatt as Lucy Ashton
2. A "Pas La Bayedere" with Annie Walters
3. THE WINDMILL, a petite comedy in 1 act
Tuesday, January 25, 1853 poster:
6th appearance of Mrs Mowatt who will appear as her character, Lucy
Ashton, in the 3 act play of dramatised Sir Walter Scott's novel,
THE BRIDE OF LAMMERMOOR.
2. "Pas la Bayedere" with Annie Walters
3. THE WINDMILL
Friday, January 29, 1853 poster:
Farewell Performance of Mrs Mowatt as Blanche in her 5 act play,
ARMAND or THE PEER AND THE PEASANT
During the piece a grand MAY POLE dance by Mr Fenno and Mrs Mowatt,
assisted by Corps de Ballet
2. "El Espagno" with Annie Walters
3. "FOLLIES OF A NIGHT," a petite comedy in 2 acts by
Planche
Monday, January 31, 1853 poster:
Mrs Mowatt in a 3-night extension
1. J. Sheridan Knowles' play in 5 acts LOVE! or THE COUNTESS AND
THE SERF
2. "La Sylphide" with Annie Walters
3. YOUR LIFE'S IN DANGER, a farce
Wednesday, February 2, 1853 poster:
Farewell Benefit and last appearance this season of Mrs Mowatt who
will sustain on this occasion her celebrated characters of Mrs Helen
and Juliana in her popular plays of the STRANGER and THE HONEYMOON
1. STRANGER or MISANTHROPY AND REPENTANCE by Augustus Von Kotzabue's
in 5 acts
2. THE HONEYMOON, Tobin's admirable comedy in 3 acts
Tomorrow Mr Wheatley's acting and stage manager's last performance
farewell benefit as Rover in WILD OATS.
Thursday, February 3, 1853 poster:
1. WILD OATS in five acts--Wheatley's last performance
2. The DiaVolo Family performers--Antonio, Lorenzo, Augustus and
Alphonso in ACROBATIC SCENES, bending the body in every position
Performance to conclude with the conjunction of Lorenzo and Augustus
Wednesday, February 9, 1853 poster:
1. WINE WORKS WONDERS or THE INCONSTANT, 3 act comedy with Tragedian
and comedian, Mr Murdoch
2. "La Sylphide" by Annie Walters
3. KATHERINE AND PETRUCHIO, a 3 act Shakespeare comedy
Thursday, February 10, 1853 poster:
1. Schiller's play in 5 acts, THE ROBBERS with Mr Murdoch as Charles
de Moor
2. PERFECTION or THE MAID OF MUNSTER, a petite comedy in one act
March 2 and 3(??), 1853
THE CHINESE PERFORMERS – Wan Sing, knife thrower, Tuck Quy,
the ballplayer, Ar Hee, the popular boy acrobat. Also Yan Yow, Tong
Ming, Ching Moon, Wan Nuy.
March 4, 1853
MORNING CALL – comedy starring Miss A. Lonsdale, Mrs. Chillingtone,
Sir Edward Ardent, Mr. C. Wheatleigh.
Monday, March 7, 1853 poster:
1. THE GOLDEN FARMER, a drama in 2 acts
2. After which the Rosset Family and Mons. Maugin will appear in
a Grande Divertisement
3. Overture by Full Orchestra
4. Grande Divertisement
A reward of Twenty Dollars will be paid by the management on the
detection and conviction of persons destroying or mutilating the
Bills of this Theater.
Tuesday, March 8, 1853 poster:
2nd night of French Dancers, Caroline Rosset and her sisters
1. SKETCHES IN INDIA, a laughable farce with the sisters
2. A New Divertisement, terminating with a successful Pas de Deux
of LA MANOLA
3. Overture by Full Orchestra
4. New Ballet Divertisement, "The Follies" and scenes
from THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO
5. A farce, CAPTAIN CHARLOTTE
Thursday, March 10, 1853 poster:
1. Drama in 2 act by Bayles Barnard, author of "Lucille,"
WEPT OF THE WISH-TON-WISH
The performance of which is pronounced one of the most effective
representation of Pantomime that has ever yet been exhibited on
the American stage.
2. TWO OF THE B'HOYS, a laughable piece in one act (first time,
here)
3. A new ballet in 4 Tableaux by M Maugin and music by M Guerin,
SPIRIT OF THE WOOD
Friday, March 11, 1853 poster: [filed under 12 Dances]
1. 12 DANCES performed by the Four Sisters Rousset
2. MRS. CHILLINGTONE performed by Miss A. Lonsdale.
Saturday, March 12, 1853 poster [filed under He’s Not A-Miss]
1. HE’S NOT A-MISS – farce starring Mr. Sefton.
2. FIRST GRAND DIVERTISEMENT including La Smolenski, El Jaleo de
Jeres, Highland Fling and La Jota Aragonaise.
3. OVERTURE performed by the Orchestra.
4. THE MILLERS comic ballet
5. MORNING CALL – a one-act comedy starring Miss A. Lonsdale
and Mr. C. Wheatleigh
Friday, March 18, 1853 poster:
1. Patriotic drama in 2 acts REVOLUTION or THE SPIRIT OF '76 with
Mr C. Burke as Prissy Braxley
2. "Highland Fling," with Miss Annie Walters
3. KISS IN THE DARK, Buckstone's farce in one act with C. Burke
as Selim Pettibone
4. NEW YORK IN SCENES, one act frolic with C. Burke as Mose
Wednesday, March 23, 1853 poster:
1. Sheridan's play in 3 acts, PIZARRO or THE DEATH OF ROLLA
2. Mr Jordan will sing local song, "Does your Mother know you
are out?"
3. THE REVOLUTION with C. Burke as Mesopotamia Jenkins
4. "El Zapeteado" with Annie Walters
5. NEW YORK IN SCENES with C. Burke as Mose
Saturday, March 26, 1853 poster:
1. Mr Charles Burke, popular comedian in TOM CRINGLE'S LOG, a national
drama in 3 acts, as Gypsy Jack
2. "La Polonaise" with Annie Walters
3. ROBERT MACAIRE, a successful drama. During the piece, the "Pas
Styrian" by Clementine and Robert Macaire.
----------------------------------------
Tuesday, March 29, 1853 poster:
1. SWEETHEARTS AND WIVES, a popular comedy with C. Burke as Billy
Lackaday
2. "La Espagnol" with Annie Walters
3. ALL THAT GLITTERS IS NOT GOLD
-----------------------------------------------
Sunday, April 3, 1853
Lessee: E. A. Marshall (also of the Broadway, NY, and Walnut Street
Theatres, Philadelphia
Acting and Stage manager: A. W. Fenno
Monday and Tuesday, April 4th and 5th, 1853 poster:
Mr B. Clark and his horse, Roscius under WJ Smith management
1. PERFECTION, or THE MAID OF MUNSTER, a farce before the play
2. PUTNAM, a drama in 3 acts by Nathanial Bannister. The play commences
with an Allegory, illustrative of The Spirit of Freedom.
Friday, April 8, 1853 poster:
1. An equestrian drama, ROOKWOOD or RICHARD TURPIN, THE HIGHWAYMAN
AND THE GIPSY QUEEN with WJ Smith as Dick Turpin.
2. A Comic Song with Mr J Seymour
3. PADDY MILES' BOY, an Irish farce in one act with J Seymour as
Paddy Miles
Saturday, April 9, 1853 poster:
1. ROOKWOOD or RICHARD TURPIN, THE HOGHWAYMAN AND THE GIPSY QUEEN
– with W. J. Smith as Dick Turpin and Mrs. Gladstone as Lady
Rookwood.
2. Song – “Can’t I Do The Thing” performed
by H.O. Jordan
3. THE WOOL DEALER – farce Starring H.C. Jordan and Mrs. Cunningham.
Monday, April 11, 1853 poster:
1. A Roman equestrian on Byron's poem of MAZEPPA or THE WILD HORSE
OF TARTARY
2. A farce, THE DOUBLE-BEDDED ROOM
Wednesday, April 13, 1853 poster:
1. Equestrian drama of western life in 3 acts, KIT CARSON--THE HERO
OF THE PRAIRIE, or THE BOLD ROBBERS OF CALIFORNIA
2. THE IRISH TUTOR, a farce with J Seymour as Dr O'Toole
November, 1853
MONSIEUR JULLIEN AND HIS ORCHESTRA
President Millard Fillmore attended. SN, p. 41.
Novelty acts continued to appear at the theater, including a troupe
of Chinese magicians, the Ravels with their aerial acrobatics and
Professor Anderson, "The Great Wizard of the North", who
lectured on witchcraft, demonology, and spiritualism. SN, p.41
Mr. Donizetti's acting monkeys, dogs and goats were the closing
draw of the season.
1854
Manager: George Kunkle
Treasurer: John Thompson Ford
February 6 through February 12, 1854
HAMLET – drama by William Shakespeare. Starring Mr. Forrest.
1855
January 1855
Soprano Gialotto Grisi and baritone Mario commanded the highest
prices thus far at the National. The cheapest seats sold for $5,
with orchestra at $10, upper boxes $50 and lower boxes $75.
W. Mowbray, successor to Kunkle and Ford, abandoned the theater
with several debts.
Manager: J. A. Keenan
George Kunkle retires
Manager: Henry C. Jarrett (Owner of the Museum of Baltimore)
Stage Manager: Joseph Jefferson
National Theatre First Matinee
December 29, 1855
Lessee-Manager: Miss Fanny Morant
Intelligence Report
1856
May 14, 1856 [no program file]
THE ‘SEA OF ICE’ – “The ‘Sea of Ice’
was performed at the National Theatre to a crowded and fashionable
audience. It is perhaps the finest spectacle piece ever produced
in this city.”-- from the Evening Star newspaper.
November 1856 [HNNT]
EDWIN BOOTH appears in three Shakespeare plays, Richard III, Merchant
of Venice, and Taming of the Shrew, as well as the lead in The Iron
Chest (Colman), and in the comedy Little Toddlekins.
January 12, 1857
FIRE!! Fire burned the theatre during a performance of Olympic Rivals
according to records of the Columbia Historical Society. Not rebuilt
for six years; property passed through several hands
February 6, 1857
Fire broke out in the upper part of the theatre and completely
engulfed the building, according to STAGE FOR NATION.
1857 - 1861 - NATIONAL THEATRE DARK
June 13th, 1858
Ruling of Equity Court established Davidge and Ennis as trustees.
They sold the property to W.E. Spaulding and William W. Rapley for
$35,000.
1861
KING’S AMPHITHEATER was built on the site of the burnt National
Theater for the purpose of holding circus performances. It lasted
five months before becoming the New National Theater (also known
as Grover's National Theater.)
1862
BUILDING RECONSTRUCTED (The Fourth Building? on the site) -- Spring
Completion
Owner: W. E. Spalding; Manager-Lessee: Leonard Grover
W.W. Rapley and Spaulding purchased National Theatre (or had they
purchased it in 1858?)
April 22, 1862
New National Theater opens.
Opening the new season-
THE SERIOUS FAMILY - by Morris Barnett, starring Lotty Hough, Sophie
Gimber, Julia Nelson, Mrs. S. Germon, Mr. D. Setchell, Mr. J.M.
Ward, Mr. R.S. Meldrum..
J.J.OF THE WAR DEPARTMENT - a farce starring Mr. D. Setchell.
Music by the Marine Band
April 24, 1862
Mr. Tilton recited " The Seven Ages of Man" in recognition
of Shakespeare's birthday, and Miss Houghes sang "Josiah's
Courtship." SN, p. 46
May 5, 1862 [Rapley file]
ITALIAN OPERA, starring Mme. Elena D’Angier and Geginor Bugnoli.
May 30, 1862 [Rapley file]
LUCIA DI LAMMERMOOR – Starring Annie Louise Kellogg.
September 15, 1862 [Rapley file]
BORN TO GOOD LUCK – Starring Mr. & Mrs. W.J. Florence.
September 22, 1862 [Rapley file]
DAMON AND PYTHIAS – Starring E.L. Davenport.
October & November, 1862 [Rapley file]
CAMILLE – Starring Lucille Western played for 6 weeks.
December 1862 [Rapley file]
THE TIMES OF ‘76 – Starring Yankee Robinson.
1862
SIX DEGREES OF CRIME
1863
January 5, 1863 [Rapley file]
NELL GWYNN – Starring Annie Provost.
March 16, 1863 [Rapley file]
SHAKESPEARE PLAYS – Starring W.L. Davenport, J.W. Wallack,
Ada Parker.
April 1863
ROMEO AND JULIET - Susan Denin appeared as Romeo to Annette Ince's
Juliet.
April 11, 1863
RICHARD III by William Shakespeare starring John Wilkes Booth in
his Washington debut in this role. President Abraham Lincoln was
in attendance, sitting in the presidential box.
SALE: A decree of sale was made June 13th 1856 and W.D. Davidge
and Charles Wallach went south. Mr. John F. Ennis was substituted.
1864
BUILDING RECONSTRUCTED (The Fifth Building on the site)
Owners: Spalding and Rapley
Lessee: Leonard Grover
Builders: Entwistle and Barron
February 15 through February 19 (??), 1864
EDWIN BOOTH – appearing in Richelieu or the Conspiracy; The
Iron Chest; Catherine and Petruchio; and Ruy Blas.
MAZEPPA, OR THE WILD HORSE OF TARTARY (last play of the season)
June 8, 1864
LINCOLN ATTENDED - President Lincoln received word at National Theatre,
that he was again to be the standard bearer for the GOP.
September 5, 1864 [Rapley file]
NARCISSE – William Warren Combination and Mme. Ponise.
October 1864 [Rapley file]
IRON MASK – Starring E.L. Davenport.
November 1864 [Rapley file]
GAMESTER – Starring Mr. & Mrs. J.W. Wallach.
December 1864 [Rapley file]
RAVEL TROUPE
Christmas Week 1864 [Rapley file]
RELIEF OF LUCKNOW
| 
