Aquatic Theatre, Sadler’s Wells. Easter Monday, April 15, 1816 (Joseph Grimaldi)

Playbill. Single sheet. (18x48 cent.)

Features “Clown (with a song) Mr. Grimaldi.”

Grimaldi (1779-1837) is one of the most influential comic actors and celebrated clowns of all time. He transformed comic theatre and left a legacy still seen in pantomime today. He is generally regarded as the first modern clown. He had a long and storied connection with Sadler’s Wells, making his first public appearance there under this name as an infant dancer (1881). Eventually he purchased a share in the theatre (1818). He last appeared there for a benefit in 1828 (his 2nd last public performance).

Near Fine. A beautiful example.