Skip to main content
Advanced Search
Mr W E Sheridan, Tragedian of the Theatre Royal
Mr W E Sheridan, Tragedian of the Theatre Royal

Mr W E Sheridan, Tragedian of the Theatre Royal

Publisher (1873 - 1889)
Artist (Australian, 1851 - 1942)
Date23 September 1882
Object number00028539
NameEngraving
MediumInk on paper
DimensionsOverall: 156 x 116 mm, 20 g
ClassificationsArt
Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds
DescriptionThis engraving from the Australiasian Sketcher depicts a portait of Mr W E Sheridan, tragedian at the Theatre Royal. Sheridan first came to Australia in 1882, sucessfully performing in King Lear, Othello, Louis XI and Ingomar the Barbarian.HistoryDuring the mid 19th century, entertainers from all over the world criss-crossed the Pacific between Australia and the United States. Like the thousands of gold prospectors, these entertainers saw the gold fields as an opportunity to strike it rich - but not by finding gold. They came in response to the demand for entertainment and amusement of the miners. American circuses, theatre and minstrel groups performed to thousands of miners in make shift tents, hotels and halls. Both Sydney and Melbourne developed major theatres, such as the Royal, which hosted diverse and sophisticated international performances. SignificanceThis engraving is representative of the advertisments for American entertainers touring in Australia in the 1860s and 1870s.