Ira Aldridge

Ira Frederick Aldridge, 1807 - 1867, world famous black actor, playwright, theatre manager and anti slavery campaigner.

Good Day theatre goers. Before today, did you know of me? I had such an interesting documented life that has strangely been forgotten until recently. We have such a short window so briefly - here it is. I hope you will delve further. It will be worth it. 

I was born in New York to free black parents, Reverend Daniel and Luranah Aldridge. My father was determined for me to follow in his footsteps as a preacher. I was fortunate to attend the local African Free School but I never finished my education at the Theological College. I was too excited about acting and about visiting the many local theatres.

Would you believe this? I saw black people act in Shakespearean plays in New York two hundred years ago!

I met the British Wallack brothers through the theatre and was able to assist them - sometimes even perform alongside them. They encouraged me to go to Britain. I was just 18 years old when I sailed from America. On arrival I studied Latin for a while in Glasgow.

I became famous when, in 1825, I played Othello at the Coburg Theatre in London. Then Brighton, and then all your major cities including Dublin. The critics in London were not without racist comments. I used my wealth to support my struggling black brothers and often spoke against slavery at the end of a performance. 

In 1852, I set out to tour Europe and returned after three years bedecked with medals and honours. I was now famous around the world; I had played before most of the European aristocracy, Queen Victoria had granted me British citizenship. I planned to return home to America, but unfortunately I died while on tour in Poland. 

My personal life was lively too. I was married to Margaret Gill, a quiet Yorkshire lass for forty years. Shortly after she died, I remarried a Swedish Countess with whom I had a son and three daughters. Two of my daughters became opera singers. I admit that I was not without fault, I had several affairs and illegitimate children. 

There are many portraits of me dotted around the famous galleries of this land and many books written. My life's work is acknowledged at Stratford. 

Do explore more of my extraordinary life.  

Enjoy your day.

I must go now, goodbye, Ira