The Recollections and Reflections of J. R. Planche: A Professional Autobiography

Published in 1872, this two-volume autobiography by the British playwright J. R. Planché (1796-1880) tells the story of his long and varied life in the theatre. Planché wrote, adapted or collaborated on 176 plays over the course of his career, covering a wide range of theatrical genres including comedy, opera, extravaganza and pantomime. He also became an acknowledged expert on stage costume, and argued the importance of historically accurate costumes in productions of Shakespeare's plays. Engagingly written, these volumes contain fascinating anecdotes on the famous theatrical and musical figures of the time, including Charles Kemble, Eliza Vestris and Carl Maria von Weber. Volume 1 contains Planché's descriptions of his childhood, and recollections of the beginnings of his career at Drury Lane and Covent Garden. Volume 2 traces the continued development of his career, covering his productions at the Olympic, Drury Lane, Covent Garden and Haymarket theatres.