2-888-125 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Mrs. Fanny Kemble's Readings of Shakespeare, at the St. James's Theatre, [London], 1850. 'Ardent as were the expectations formed of this highly-cultivated lady on her first appearance as an actress, these dramatic readings more than realise her early promise...the reading of an entire drama presumes the tasteful assumption of many characters. Each must be brought into alternate prominence...Both sexes, too, have to be discriminated, with the different ranks of person and education. Mrs. Kemble's success in these particulars is perfectly marvellous...the general impression produced is that rather of wonder than admiration...as a reader, Mrs. Kemble's reputation is likely to be greater than any she can now gain as an actress. Her powers, however, and qualifications, with one exception, are greater than those of any other tragedienne at present on the English stage'. From "Illustrated London News", 1850.