London Theatres in 1900: Covent Garden

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Arthur H. Beavan continued his survey of London's theatres, in Imperial London, published in 1901, with this look at Covent Garden:

The original Covent Garden Theatre, or Royal Italian Opera House, dates back to 1732, the present being the third built upon the site, each of the others having perished by fire.

In the second Covent Garden Theatre took place, in 1809, the celebrated O.P. (Old Price's) riots, which continued for seventy-seven nights, in consequence of an increase in the charge of admission.

In the year 1856, just as a masqued ball was about to conclude, without the slightest warning a blazing piece of timber fell upon the stage from the workshops above.

This was the first indication of the fatal fire, which quickly became so uncontrollable, that by daylight the building was destroyed.

Phoenix-like, it rose from its ruins in 1858, to all outward appearance much as we see it now - a lofty theatre, 240 feet long and 120 feet broad, with a bold Corinthian portico in front.

In area and in seating capacity - about 3000 - it is exceeded by Drury Lane, as also in the depth of its stage - about 70 feet - but it still ranks sixth or seventh amongst the great opera-houses of Europe.

The predominant tone of its gracefully-shaped interior, has always been white, gold, and pale blue, modified from time to time; and although in the matter of lighting (the stage is lighted electrically) and other desirable improvements it is excelled by the newer theatres, it presents on the opening night of the opera season, an appearance of splendour which cannot be equalled anywhere: a full array of boxes and stalls, a densely-crowded amphitheatre, and a far-off gallery overflowing into the further-most corners of the "slips," everywhere an embarrassing wealth of splendid toilettes, and a blaze of diamonds.

Then, when the National Anthem, according to custom, is rendered by full orchestra and opera company combined, and the people all rise to their feet to view the occupants of the Royal box, the sensation experienced is hard to beat.

On the boards of the old theatre - first devoted to Italian opera in 1847, Alboni, Grisi, Mario, and Viardot made their earliest and greatest successes, with whose names must ever be associated the great conductor, Sir Michael Costa.

Next: London's Theatres in 1900: Sadler's Wells