The Poor of Melbourne
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[edit]
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]
References[edit]
- ^ "Advertising". The Argus (Melbourne). No. 5, 386. Victoria, Australia. 10 September 1863. p. 8. Retrieved 12 May 2024 – via National Library of Australia.
- ^ "Advertising". The Age. No. 2, 765. Victoria, Australia. 7 September 1863. p. 1. Retrieved 12 May 2024 – via National Library of Australia.
- ^ "The Theatres". The Argus (Melbourne). No. 5, 384. Victoria, Australia. 8 September 1863. p. 5. Retrieved 12 May 2024 – via National Library of Australia.
- ^ William Akhurst at Australian Variety
- ^ "Princess Theatre". The Age. No. 2, 766. Victoria, Australia. 8 September 1863. p. 5. Retrieved 12 May 2024 – via National Library of Australia.
- ^ "The Theatres". Leader. Vol. X, no. 402. Victoria, Australia. 12 September 1863. p. 15. Retrieved 12 May 2024 – via National Library of Australia.
- ^ "Theatricals and music". Bell's Life In Victoria And Sporting Chronicle. Vol. 8, no. 279. Victoria, Australia. 12 September 1863. p. 2. Retrieved 12 May 2024 – via National Library of Australia.
- ^ "The Theatres". The Herald. Vol. LXXIV, no. 5489. Victoria, Australia. 8 September 1863. p. 2. Retrieved 12 May 2024 – via National Library of Australia.
- ^ "Saturday September 12, 1863". The Argus (Melbourne). No. 5, 388. Victoria, Australia. 12 September 1863. p. 4. Retrieved 12 May 2024 – via National Library of Australia.