William Clarkson
William (Willie/ Willy) Berry Clarkson (31 March 1861 - 12/13 October 1934) was a theatre personality and leading costumier and perruquier. His father was William Henry Clarkson, a wigmaker of Jewish descent, and Willy was the eldest of his twelve children. His father's business had focussed mainly on wigs for judges and barristers, but when Willy took over he quickly expanded the theatrical side of the business. By the end of the nineteenth century he had established his reputation as the leading wigmaker in Britain, which was not challenged until Madame Gustave became a key rival in the 1920s.[1]
Clarkson's supplied costumes for fancy dress balls, military events and professional theatres in London, the regions, and in key cities around the world, such as Paris and New York. However, his business model also heavily relied on the booming amateur theatre sector in the second half of the nineteenth century. From 1889, his company had royal patronage, which only increased his reputation. He provided costumes for Queen Victoria's theatricals and tableaux vivants, performed by members of her family and close courtiers, at Osborne House on the Isle of Wight.[2]
Clarkson's wig and costume warehouse was initially in Wellington Street, London. In 1905, he moved to new premises, designed for him by H. M. Oakley, in 41-43 Wardour Street, London. The building consisted of a shop with a flat above, which is where he lived until his death.
Clarkson was an avid 'first nighter', attending many of the first nights of new London plays and productions. He became a well-known and well-loved theatrical personality. He was flamboyant and eccentric, being described by contemporaries as a Dickensian character.
Clarkson died at the age of 75 and was buried in Brookwood cemetery,