William Blanchard

Vocation

English comedian and actor. In 1785 he made his first appearance as Allan-a-Dale in M'Nally's 'Robin Hood.' For four years he played under the name of Bentley, but from 1789 in his own name. He took the parts of Achmet, Douglas, and even Romeo. He next became a manager, opening theatres at Penrith, Hexham, Barnard Castle, and Bishop Auckland. He lost money, and joined Mr. Brunton's company of players on the Norwich circuit, and took to comic parts. His first appearance in London was made at Covent Garden on 1 October 1800 as Bob Acres, in which he succeeded remarkably, and as Crack in the musical farce of the 'Turnpike Gate.' At Covent Garden Theatre, saving only for a brief professional visit to America in 1832, Blanchard remained continuously for thirty-four years. He was especially noted for his Shakespearian impersonations of Fluellen, Sir Hugh Evans, Menenius, and Polonius. The last character created by him was that of Counsellor Crowsfoot in Douglas Jerrold's comedy of 'Nell Gwynne,' produced at Covent Garden Theatre on 9 January 1833. Blanchard's death occurred very suddenly on 8 May 1835. Link to Wikipedia biography