John Ward (actor) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Ward
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| Born | 24 June 1704 England
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| Died | 30 October 1773 (aged 69) England
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| Occupation | Actor |
John Ward (born June 24, 1704 – died October 30, 1773) was an important English actor. He was also a theatre manager, which means he ran theatre companies. Ward founded a famous group called the Warwickshire Company of Comedians. This company performed plays across England and Wales in the 1700s.
John Ward is also known for starting a very famous acting family. His granddaughter, Sarah Siddons, became one of the greatest actresses of her time. Ward was also the first person recorded to perform a Shakespeare play in Stratford-upon-Avon. This was Shakespeare's hometown!
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Who Was John Ward?
John Ward was born in England in 1704. He grew up to become a talented actor. But he didn't just act; he also managed his own theatre company. This company was called the Warwickshire Company of Comedians.
Touring with the Warwickshire Company
The Warwickshire Company of Comedians was based in Birmingham. They traveled a lot to perform their plays. They toured all over the West Midlands region of England. They also traveled into Wales. This was how many people got to see plays in the 1700s.
A Family of Actors
John Ward started a long line of actors. This is often called a theatrical dynasty. Many members of his family became famous performers. The most well-known was his granddaughter, Sarah Siddons. She was a very celebrated actress.
The Kemble Family Legacy
The acting family that John Ward started is known as the Kemble family. They were very important in English theatre. They helped shape how plays were performed for many years. Their talent was passed down through generations.
Bringing Shakespeare to Life
John Ward made history in Stratford-upon-Avon. He was the first person recorded to perform a Shakespeare play there. This is special because Stratford-upon-Avon was William Shakespeare's birthplace. It was a big moment for theatre history.
Preserving Hamlet
Ward also helped us understand how Shakespeare's plays were performed long ago. He wrote two of the earliest surviving prompt books for Shakespeare's play Hamlet. A prompt book is like a director's guide for a play. It has notes on how actors should move and speak.
These prompt books are very valuable. They show us how Hamlet was staged in the 1700s. They also give clues about even earlier performances. Thanks to John Ward, we have a better idea of theatre history.
