Maria Ann Campion facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Maria Ann Campion
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by Sir Martin Archer Shee
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| Born | 1775 |
| Died | 18 June 1803 |
| Nationality | British |
Maria Ann Campion (born around 1775 – died 18 June 1803) was a very popular Irish actress. She was the second wife of another actor named Alexander Pope. Maria was born in Waterford, Ireland. She became famous for her acting skills. She passed away in London when she was quite young, and was buried in Westminster Abbey.
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Maria Campion's Acting Journey
Maria Ann Campion decided to become an actress when she was a teenager. Her father had passed away, and she wanted to help support her mother and sister. This was a brave choice for a young woman at that time.
First Steps on Stage
Maria first performed in Dublin on 17 February 1790. She was playing a character called Monimia in a play called The Orphan. However, she was so nervous that she almost couldn't go on stage. The director had to gently push her out! Despite her stage fright, she finished the show.
After this, Maria became a favorite actress in Dublin. People loved watching her perform. Her talent led her to be hired by the famous Covent Garden Theatre in London.
Life as a London Actress
Maria made her first appearance in London at Covent-Garden Theatre on 13 October 1797. She played the same character, Monimia, that she had performed in Dublin. A few months later, on 24 January 1798, she married Alexander Pope, who was also an actor.
After her London debut, Maria returned to Dublin for a short time. She performed at a theatre there. Later, she traveled to York. For a while, she used the name Mrs. Spencer. In June 1799, Maria gave birth to a baby boy, but sadly, he died soon after.
In June 1801, Maria and her husband left Covent Garden. They then started performing at another well-known theatre, Drury Lane, in January 1802.
Her Final Years and Legacy
On 10 June 1803, Maria became ill while performing on stage. She was playing Desdemona in a play. Another actress had to finish the performance for her. Just eight days later, on 18 June, Maria collapsed and passed away. She was only about twenty-six years old.
Maria was survived by a daughter. Her own mother had died the year before. On 25 June, Maria was buried in Westminster Abbey. She was laid to rest next to Alexander Pope's first wife, Elizabeth Younge.
It is also believed that Maria Ann Campion wrote two novels during her lifetime.
