Mary Porter (actress) facts for kids
Mary Porter was a famous English actress from a long time ago. She was known for her amazing performances on stage. She lived until February 24, 1765.
Mary Porter's Acting Career
Mary Porter was discovered by a well-known actress named Elizabeth Barry. Elizabeth saw Mary perform in a play called the Fairy Queen at a big fair called Bartholomew Fair. Elizabeth then introduced Mary to Thomas Betterton, who was a very important theater manager.
Mary started her acting career in Betterton's theater company in 1699. She was especially good at acting in tragedies. These are serious plays with sad endings. But she also performed in many comedies, which are funny plays.
Over time, other famous actresses like Elizabeth Barry, Anne Bracegirdle, and Anne Oldfield retired from the stage. When they left, Mary Porter became the most important and popular actress of her time. People called her the "undisputed queen" of the stage.
Mary also appeared in plays by a famous writer named John Gay. In 1713, she acted in his comedy The Wife of Bath. Later, in 1724, she played a character named Astarbe in his tragedy The Captives. Astarbe was the Queen of Media in the play.
Famous Roles Mary Porter Played
Mary Porter played many different characters during her career. Here are some of her well-known roles:
- Mirabel in The Rival Fools by Colley Cibber (1709)
- Alicia in Jane Shore by Nicholas Rowe (1714)
- Lady Woodvill in The Non-Juror by Colley Cibber (1717)
- Eudocia in The Siege of Damascus by John Hughes (1720)
- Astarbe in The Captives by John Gay (1724)
