Joseph Ashbury facts for kids
Joseph Ashbury (1638–1720) was an English actor and a manager of theatres. He played a big part in bringing theatre back to life in Ireland during his time.
Joseph Ashbury's Early Life & Career
Joseph Ashbury was born in London in 1638. He came from an important family and went to Eton College, a famous school. After his schooling, he joined the army.
While serving in Ireland, a big change happened in England. The government led by Richard Cromwell ended. Ashbury was one of the army officers who lost their jobs during this time. He was also one of the royalist officers who helped take over Dublin Castle in December 1659. This was a key moment for those who supported the return of the King.
When King Charles II came back to power in 1660 (an event called the English Restoration), Ashbury was rewarded. He became a leader of a small army group in Dublin. In 1662, the Duke of Ormond, a powerful leader, made Ashbury part of his staff. He also became the assistant to the Master of the Revels. This role meant he helped oversee plays and entertainment.
Bringing Theatre Back to Dublin
In 1682, Joseph Ashbury became the official Master of the Revels. This meant he was in charge of all public entertainment, especially plays. However, for many years, the only theatre in Dublin, the Smock Alley Theatre (also known as the Orange Street Theatre), had been closed.
Ashbury's first wife was an actress, and he became very interested in acting himself. He even started teaching acting with great success. Around 1674, he and another famous actress, Mrs. Betterton, taught Princess Anne (who later became queen) how to act in a play.
After a major political change in Ireland in 1691, a play called 'Othello' was performed in Dublin. Most of the actors were army officers, but Ashbury was the only professional actor. He managed the show and played the character Iago.
Reopening the Smock Alley Theatre
Around the same time, Ashbury hired a group of actors from London, including a famous actor named Wilks. He wanted to bring theatre back to Ireland. On March 23, 1692, he reopened the Smock Alley Theatre with the play 'Othello'.
Ashbury was a very skilled manager. He found and encouraged new acting talent, like the famous actors Booth and Quin. Because of his hard work, the Dublin stage became very well-known and respected.
Ashbury himself was an excellent actor. His second wife was also an actress and helped him a lot. Some of his best roles included Colonel Careless in 'The Committee' and Don Quixote. He continued to act successfully even when he was 78 years old. Joseph Ashbury lived to be 82, passing away in 1720.
