The Poor of Melbourne explained
The Poor of Melbourne, and Fall of the Provident Institute is a 1863 Australian play by William Akhurst.[1] It adapted an American play The Poor of New York to Melbourne.[2] [3]
The play was a rare non-musical work from Akhurst.[4]
Reception
The Age said "We cannot honestly admire either the construction of the play or its wretched claptrap sentiment."[5]
The Leader said the play "was very favorably received... by a large audience. Mr Fawcett's efforts in the quaint character which has fallen to his lot received special recognition. Some of the local scenery is remarkably good."[6]
Bell's Life said the play was "not unskilfully arranged, and with a sufficient amount of local material to give an original appearance".[7]
The Herald thought the play's ambition was greater than the author's ability.[8]
The Argus said the piece was "a great success" commercially.[9]
Notes and References
- News: Advertising . . 5,386 . Victoria, Australia . 10 September 1863 . 12 May 2024 . 8 . National Library of Australia.
- News: Advertising . . 2,765 . Victoria, Australia . 7 September 1863 . 12 May 2024 . 1 . National Library of Australia.
- News: The Theatres . . 5,384 . Victoria, Australia . 8 September 1863 . 12 May 2024 . 5 . National Library of Australia.
- https://ozvta.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/akhurst-w.m-2442020.pdf William Akhurst
- News: Princess Theatre . . 2,766 . Victoria, Australia . 8 September 1863 . 12 May 2024 . 5 . National Library of Australia.
- News: The Theatres . . X . 402 . Victoria, Australia . 12 September 1863 . 12 May 2024 . 15 . National Library of Australia.
- News: Theatricals and music . . 8 . 279 . Victoria, Australia . 12 September 1863 . 12 May 2024 . 2 . National Library of Australia.
- News: The Theatres . . LXXIV . 5489 . Victoria, Australia . 8 September 1863 . 12 May 2024 . 2 . National Library of Australia.
- News: Saturday September 12, 1863. . . 5,388 . Victoria, Australia . 12 September 1863 . 12 May 2024 . 4 . National Library of Australia.
