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Cartoon, Used Up
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Cartoon, Used Up
Cartoon - Used Up - a comment on Henry Irving and the so-called legitimate theatre.
1884
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Media ID 23051708
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1884 Annual Bryan Comment Entracte Irving Legitimate Manager Managers
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Used Up: A Comment on Henry Irving and the So-called Legitimate Theatre (Cartoon - Mary Evans Picture Library, 1884) This intriguing cartoon, titled "Used Up," was published in the Annual for 1884, offering a sharp commentary on the state of the "legitimate theatre" during the Victorian era. The cartoon, created by Alfred Bryan, depicts a weary-looking Henry Irving, the renowned manager of the Lyceum Theatre in London, being carried offstage by two stagehands. The caption reads, "The Entracte is over. The Manager is 'Used Up'." During the 1880s, Irving was a dominant figure in the British theatre scene, known for his exceptional acting abilities and innovative productions. However, the term "legitimate theatre" was used to distinguish it from the popular, often more financially successful, variety and music hall performances. This distinction created a sense of hierarchy and elitism within the theatre world, with the legitimate theatre being seen as the pinnacle of artistic achievement. The cartoon's title and image suggest that Irving, despite his talent and success, has been "used up" by the demands of managing a legitimate theatre. The implication is that the relentless pursuit of artistic excellence and the financial pressures of running a theatre have left Irving drained and spent. The cartoon serves as a commentary on the sacrifices and challenges faced by theatre managers during this era, as they strived to maintain the prestige of legitimate theatre while also ensuring its financial viability. This cartoon offers a unique perspective on the behind-the-scenes world of Victorian theatre and the complex dynamics between art, commerce, and the relentless pursuit of success.
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