The Recollections and Reflections of J. R. Planche: A Professional Autobiography

Published in 1872, this two-volume autobiography by the British playwright J. R. Planche (1796-1880) tells the story of his long and varied life in the theatre. Planche wrote, adapted or collaborated on 176 plays over the course of his career, covering a wide range of theatrical genres including comedy, opera, extravaganza and pantomime. He also became an acknowledged expert on stage costume, and argued the importance of historically accurate costumes in productions of Shakespeare's plays. Engagingly written, these volumes contain fascinating anecdotes on the famous theatrical and musical figures of the time, including Charles Kemble, Eliza Vestris and Carl Maria von Weber. Volume 1 contains Planche's descriptions of his childhood, and recollections of the beginnings of his career at Drury Lane and Covent Garden. The work confirms Planche's permanent place in the history of theatre practice, and provides an intriguing glimpse into the Regency and early Victorian London stage.