Henrietta Amelia Leeson facts for kids
Henrietta Amelia Leeson (born 1751, died 1826) was a famous English actress from the 1700s. After she married actor William Thomas Lewis in 1780, people knew her as Mrs Lewis. She often performed with her husband at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane in London. Henrietta appeared on the London stage more than 100 times between 1775 and 1791.
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Early Life and Acting Start
Henrietta Amelia Leeson was born in London. She became interested in theatre at a young age. Her friends encouraged her love for acting. Her father worked long hours as a printer, so he was often away. This also made her more interested in the stage.
In 1771, a famous Irish actor named Charles Macklin took her on as an apprentice. This meant he would teach her how to act. Henrietta traveled with Macklin to Ireland.
First Performances in Ireland
Henrietta made her first public appearance at the Crow Street Theatre in Dublin. She performed many roles during her tour with Macklin's acting group. Some of her famous parts included:
- Portia in The Merchant of Venice
- Desdemona in Othello
After their tour, Henrietta continued to act with Macklin's company in Dublin. Later, Macklin ended her apprenticeship. She then joined the Dawson Company at the Capel Street Theatre.
Marriage and London Stage
Henrietta began living with actor William Thomas Lewis. In 1775, they moved to England together. They got married around 1780.
She performed with William at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. At first, she was known as Mrs Leeson. After her marriage, she became known as Mrs Lewis. Henrietta also joined her husband on his acting tours around England.
Her Acting Style
People had different opinions about Henrietta's acting. Some thought she performed mostly to support her large family. However, other critics praised her.
One critic said that her first performance at Covent Garden showed "ease and nature." This meant she acted in a natural and relaxed way. Another person, Tate Wilkinson, called her "an amiable handsome woman, and a pleasing actress."
Family Life
Henrietta and William Thomas Lewis had a big family. They had five sons and three daughters:
- Harry Lewis (born 1780)
- Thomas Lewis (born 1782)
- Edward George Lewis (born 1783)
- Henry Lewis (born 1784)
- Rosa Frances Lewis (1784–1862)
- Thomas Denison Lewis (1787–1849)
- Henrietta Lenthal Lewis (1788–1842)
- Frances Lewis (1789–1809)
Her son Henry tried acting at Covent Garden. He played a few roles but did not have much success. He later performed on the Dublin stage.
Later Years
In her later years, Henrietta Leeson lived in Liverpool. She passed away there on December 6, 1826, at the age of 75.
