St James's Theatre
The St James's Theatre in London was used occasionally by amateurs in the nineteenth century. The Histrionics made this venue their home during the 1840s, for example. On 15 may 1847 one newspaper wrote that the St James's is 'a "class" theatre, and can scarcely be said to derive its support from play-goers. It is the resort of an elegant and refined audience, for an entertainment, which, even in these days of advanced education, addresses itself, comparatively, to a few, and would keep on its even way uninfluenced by any general theatrical depression or excitement'. The manager of the theatre during this period was Mitchell of Old Bond Street, known for his box office management and ticket selling. In June 1849 he was presented with plate by patrons of the theatre, led by the Duke of Beaufort and Lord Chesterfield, for his success as manager for the past eight years.
In 1845 Ben Jonson's Every Man in His Humour was performed at the venue by Charles Dickens and his amateur company. Other members included H Mayhew, Frederick Dickens, Mark Lemon, John Leech, Augustus Dickens, Dudley Costello, Douglas Jerrold. On 29 November 1845 The Illustrated London News reported on the performances and included sketches on some of the amateurs in costume (H Mayhew as Knowell and Mark lemon as Brainworm).
In January 1846 there was an amateur performance at the venue in aid of the Artists' General Benevolent Institution (founded in 1814). This was also reported in The Illustrated London News and includes a sketch of characters in a scene from Bombastes Furioso, a popular play with amateurs. It was partnered with Morton's The School of Reform.
In May 1847 an amateur performance was organised for 'the distressed Irish and Scotch'. It was reported that the performance would consist of a translation of Victor Hugo's romantic drama Hernani by Lord Ellesmere and Planche's comedy Faint Heart Never Won Fair Lady. After the event, it was reported that the piece performed was The Hunchback and there was no after piece. The Queen and Prince Albert were in attendance as well as many other elite members of society - including many known for their interest in theatre and amateur theatre. Three professionals accompanied the amateurs - Mr Vandenhoff, Mrs Butler (returning to the stage after 14-15 years absence) and Miss Jane Mordaunt. A prologue was written by Lord Morpeth and an epilogue by Lady Dufferin - but both were spoken by professionals (Mr Vandenhoff and Mrs Butler). Amateurs in the cast included Captain de Bathe (Scots Fusiliers).
On 6 May 1848 The Illustrated London News reported on the Amateur Artists' Performance of The Heir at Law accompanied by a sketch of some of the amateurs in character. They suggested that 'the Artists, as might be expected, proved themselves proficients in matters of costume'. The cast consisted of Mr. J Wilson junior, Mr R. J. Hamerton, Mr F. Holl, Mr J. Tenniel, Mr. T. W. Angell, Mr. F. W. Topham, Mr. M. Wood, Mr. W. Wilson, Mr Stanley, Mr J. D. Wingfield, Mrs Tayleure, Miss Cooper, Miss Murray, Mr. J. F. Redgrave, Mr. G. Cruikshank, Mr Wingfield, Miss Young, Mrs Drake.
On 18 May 1850 the Artists' Amateur Performance took place again in aid of the Artists' General Benevolent Institution. They perform Douglas Jerrold's drama The Rent Day followed by Coleman's comedy The Poor Gentleman. Between the acts George Cruikshank sang the ballad Lord Bateman. The cast included messrs W Wilson, Hammerton, F. W. Topham, Thomas. W. Angell, Frank Holl, John Tenniell, J. D. Wingfield, C. B. Stanley, Matthew Wood, George Cruickshank, John Wilson, and C. W Cope. Actresses accompanying included Miss Cooper and Mrs Griffiths. The event was held under the patronage of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.