|
Above is an engraving of John Rich as Lun, imitating a dog (1731) |
John Rich has been described as "a failure as a tragic actor and yet despite all this an inspired showman, a brilliant Harlequin, an innovator of the English pantomime and the presenter of the London premiere of The Beggar's Opera in 1728."[8] Rich established the stage name of Lunn, or Lun during his performances, and became the quintessential ideal of popular entertainment. John Rich was the son of the notorious Christopher Rich, who managed both Drury Lane and The New Theatre, Lincoln's Field Inns, in his lifetime. John Rich succeeded as manager upon his father's death, but was barely literate, and a performer at heart. Rich's pantomimes perfectly suited the tastes of the London audience during his time. His comedy, often but not always slapstick, was full of visual splendour. |
To
the right is William Hogarth's engraving of John Rich's entry into Covent
Garden (1732)
