Thomas Hallam (actor) facts for kids

Thomas Hallam (died 1735) was a British stage actor. He was known for his work in plays during the 1700s.

Thomas Hallam's Acting Career

Thomas Hallam was the first in a family of actors. His sons, Lewis Hallam and William Hallam, later started a theatre company. This company was one of the first to bring plays to the United States. His granddaughter, Isabella Mattocks, also became a famous actress.

Hallam acted at the Smock Alley Theatre in Dublin for many years. In 1725, he joined the Drury Lane company in London. He stayed there for about ten years. He was also part of a big event called the Actor Rebellion of 1733. This was when actors stood up for their rights.

Another actor named Adam Hallam appeared in some plays by Henry Fielding. These included The Author's Farce and Tom Thumb. This Adam was likely one of Thomas Hallam's sons. By 1731, Adam was also acting at Drury Lane with his father.

Thomas Hallam wanted to play the main characters in plays. However, he often got smaller, supporting parts.

An Unfortunate Event

On May 10, 1735, Thomas Hallam was performing in a play called Trick for Trick. During the show, he had a disagreement with another actor, Charles Macklin. They were arguing about a wig they used in the play.

During this argument, an unfortunate accident happened involving a cane. Thomas Hallam was seriously injured. Sadly, he passed away from his injuries. Charles Macklin later returned to acting. However, this sad event was remembered by the public.