Little Jack Sheppard 

The 1885 Musical Burlesque

By Henry Pottinger Stephens and William Yardley

"Little Jack Sheppard" is a musical burlesque that premiered in 1885 at the Gaiety Theatre in London. This play is a fascinating exemplar of late Victorian musical theatre, blending humor, satire, and melodrama to captivate its audience.

The Gaiety Theatre, renowned for its lively and entertaining performances, was the perfect venue for "Little Jack Sheppard." The theatre itself played a crucial role in the development of musical burlesque, and this production was a testament to its reputation. 

The storyline of "Little Jack Sheppard" is a parody of the historical figure Jack Sheppard, an infamous 18th-century English thief and escape artist whose life had already inspired various works of fiction and drama, including John Gay's "The Beggar's Opera." Stephens and Yardley took the basic elements of Sheppard's life and imbued them with humor and whimsy, creating a piece that was both engaging and satirical.

One of the notable aspects of "Little Jack Sheppard" is its music, which was composed by Meyer Lutz. The score is a vibrant blend of catchy melodies and lively rhythms, complementing the energetic and humorous tone of the production. The songs and musical numbers are integral to the storytelling, often advancing the plot or deepening characterizations in a manner typical of musical burlesques of the period.

"Little Jack Sheppard" exemplifies the Victorian era's penchant for entertainment that combined humor with a touch of irreverence. It reflects the period's theatrical tastes, where audiences were eager for light-hearted, escapist fare that poked fun at established narratives and historical figures. 

 ISBN  979-8328123884 

$10.95

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