The Pantomime Life of Joseph Grimaldi: Laughter, Madness and the Story of Britain's Greatest Comedian.

SKU: 16264

Grimaldi [1778-1837] created much of what constitutes the modern clown - he was the first to wear white-face, he tumbled and contorted as part of the pantomime - and also what we think of as the modern comedian. Under the outward show of joy, he struggled against depression and personal tragedies, and pain from the damage his stunts caused to his body. Most of all, this book gives an excellent inside look at the world of the Georgian and Regency theatre during Austen's lifetime. Meticulously researched. Endnotes, Appendices, Index, extensive bibliography. Canongate. Hb, Dj. NEW. $15.00

$15.00