The Fairy Drama of Marina; or, The Truant Heart (theatrical playbill)

Loton Park, Shropshire: R. Davies, Printer, 7 High Street, Shrewsbury, 1845. Privately printed playbill for a Victorian theatrical performed by the children of Loton Park, the ancient Shropshire seat of the Leighton family, on January 17, 1845. The performance of “The Fairy Drama of Marina; or, The Truant Heart” was the opening entertainment of an evening hosted by Baldwin Leighton, 7th Baronet (1805-1871); the title role of Marina was played by his daughter Charlotte, then ten years old. The cast was composed of a group of Leighton children and their friends, who were treated to “a juvenile dance” after the curtain fell. Although we have been unable to find any trace of the play, which features the magician Felborn, the fisherman Bhrull, and Radiana the Fairy Queen, the lyric quoted at the head of the playbill is drawn from composer William Hawes’s popular tune, “We Fairy Folk Delight in Sport.” Playbills from private theatricals are extremely scarce. A wonderful survival. Broadside, measuring 12.25 x 7.5 inches, printed in bright blue and black. Decorative border, with royal arms at head of sheet. Light rubbing, central crease from folding. Matted to 17 x 11.5 inches.