Puck and the Black Puddings (c1820)
-
-
This handwritten script is located within the manuscript collection of play and pantomime texts in the Library of Birmingham's Theatre Royal collection. It had been stored with the section including various comic scenes for performance during a pantomime. There was no cover and it was unsigned and undated.
Although there is no autograph to confirm authorship, the script is not believed to be in Grimaldi's hand. Interestingly, the edges of the pages are scorched and give the appearance of having been in a fire. Records show that there was indeed a serious fire at the Theatre Royal in 1820, but this preceeded Grimaldi’s 1823 visit to Birmingham when Puck and the Black Puddings was performed.
Location: Theatre Royal Collection MS 2899-1-1-1 p18 Archives and Heritage.
"... sticking to a mans nose that don't even make him look handsomer, and now there be nothing left but to wisk them off again (the pudding drops off)
Alack that ever I was born, I verily believe that little fellow, was an erie spirit - oh - oh -
Robin: Evil or good we're made sad [?] work on't. I tell'd the to be quiet, but a woman's tongue will never be still.
Nay Robin for the matter of that, you are more to blame than I for you wish'd first (knocking at the door)
Open the door in the Kings name
... that be the name of a friend and I'd open it at the sound of it tho' my worst enemy should enter(opens door)
(Enter Sir Brushwood and Rentroll with a warrant)
I arrest you Robin Homespun for a breach of the peace
by whose Authority do you Act
the Authority of his right honourable"
