William Macready, English actor and manager (b. 1793)

William Charles Macready, born on March 3, 1793, was far more than just an English actor; he was a towering figure whose influence profoundly shaped the British stage throughout the 19th century, leaving an indelible mark before his passing on April 27, 1873. Renowned for his intellectual approach to performance and his efforts to elevate the status of the acting profession, Macready’s career spanned decades, during which he championed a more naturalistic style of acting and instituted significant reforms in theatrical management.

The Emergence of a Theatrical Titan

Born in London, Macready was the son of William Macready Sr., a theatrical manager and actor. Initially, young William was destined for a career in law, attending Rugby School. However, his father’s financial difficulties eventually drew him into the family business. He made his stage debut in Birmingham in 1810, playing Romeo, a role that hinted at the dramatic power and romantic intensity he would bring to his future performances. His early years were spent honing his craft in provincial theatres, building a reputation before making his London debut.

A Distinctive Acting Style

Macready arrived on the London stage at Covent Garden in 1816, quickly distinguishing himself from the more declamatory and flamboyant styles prevalent at the time, epitomized by actors like Edmund Kean. Macready’s approach was marked by a deeper psychological realism, a meticulous attention to character detail, and a deliberate, often intense delivery that became known as the "Macready pause." This technique involved strategic silences to build tension and emphasize meaning, allowing audiences to absorb the emotional weight of a scene. He shunned the more exaggerated gestures of his predecessors, striving for an authenticity that resonated deeply with the burgeoning Romantic movement. His most celebrated roles included Macbeth, King Lear, Hamlet, and Werner, a part specifically written for him by Lord Byron.

Reforms and Management

Beyond his formidable presence as an actor, Macready took on the challenging role of theatre manager at Covent Garden (1837–39) and Drury Lane (1841–43). During these tenures, he sought to elevate the artistic integrity of the stage, pushing for greater historical accuracy in costume and scenery, rehearsing productions with unprecedented rigor, and emphasizing ensemble acting rather than just star performances. He was also instrumental in improving working conditions for actors and was a staunch advocate for dramatic poetry. His commitment to quality often came at a significant personal cost, as theatre management in the 19th century was notoriously fraught with financial and logistical challenges.

The Astor Place Riot and Later Career

Macready’s career was not without its intense rivalries and controversies. His long-standing professional rivalry with the American actor Edwin Forrest culminated in one of the most tragic events in theatrical history: the Astor Place Riot in New York City in 1849. This incident, fueled by nationalistic sentiments and class divisions, led to a violent confrontation outside the Astor Place Opera House where Macready was performing, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries. It remains a grim reminder of the passions theatre could ignite in the 19th century.

Despite this traumatic event, Macready continued to perform, though the experience deeply affected him. He embarked on several farewell tours, finally retiring from the stage in 1851 after a poignant performance of Macbeth at Drury Lane. He spent his retirement largely in quiet domesticity, dedicating himself to his family and writing his extensive diaries, which offer invaluable insights into Victorian theatre and society. William Charles Macready passed away in Cheltenham on April 27, 1873, leaving behind a legacy that transformed the art of acting and laid foundational elements for modern theatrical practice.

Frequently Asked Questions About William Charles Macready

What was William Charles Macready best known for?
William Charles Macready was primarily known for his innovative, naturalistic acting style, which contrasted with the more declamatory methods of his contemporaries. He was also celebrated for his efforts as a theatre manager to reform and elevate the artistic standards of the British stage, particularly regarding historical accuracy and ensemble performance.
What was the "Macready pause"?
The "Macready pause" was a distinctive element of his acting technique. It involved strategic, often elongated silences during dialogue to build tension, allow the audience to process emotional weight, and emphasize the psychological depth of his characters. This intentional use of silence was a hallmark of his more realistic approach to performance.
Which roles were most famous for Macready?
Macready was celebrated for his profound interpretations of numerous Shakespearean tragic heroes, most notably Macbeth, King Lear, and Hamlet. He also achieved significant acclaim for his portrayal of Werner, a character created for him by Lord Byron.
What was his connection to the Astor Place Riot?
William Charles Macready was at the center of the Astor Place Riot in New York City in 1849. A bitter professional rivalry with American actor Edwin Forrest, exacerbated by nationalistic sentiment and social tensions, led to a violent clash between their respective supporters outside the theatre where Macready was performing. This tragic event resulted in numerous fatalities.
How did Macready influence theatre management?
As a theatre manager at Covent Garden and Drury Lane, Macready instituted several significant reforms. He championed historical accuracy in costumes and scenery, demanded more rigorous rehearsals, and promoted a greater emphasis on ensemble acting rather than solely focusing on star performers. His aim was to elevate the artistic and intellectual standing of the theatre.
When did William Charles Macready retire from the stage?
William Charles Macready retired from acting in 1851, following a memorable farewell performance as Macbeth at Drury Lane in London. He subsequently lived a quieter life, focusing on his family and personal writings.