Complimentary Benefit for George Darrell's Recovery

George Darrell, Esq. August 23, 1887: an ornate, leather-bound hand-lettered manuscript congratulating Darrell on his 'Recovery from a long and dangerous illness, and your Return to the duties of the Profession of which you have been, so many years, a most worthy Member.' signed by 43 of Darrell's friends and theatrical associates. George Frederick price Darrell (1851-1921), dramatist and theatrical manager, was born in England. In 1865 he went to the New Zealand goldfields, but soon joined Simonsen's New Zealand touring opera Company. By 1869 he was in Melbourne and Sydney as a leading juvenile actor. By 1877 he had formed 'Darrell's dramatic Company for the production of Australian Plays', and presented his 'Transported for Life' and the next year 'Back from the Grave' in spectacular productions at Melbourne and Sydney. On 23 August 1887, following a lengthy illness, a complimentary benefit at Melbourne, organized by his confreres, realized more than £400. George Coppin presented him with this illuminated address for his services to the native drama. James Edward Neild, J.C. Williamson, Thomas Kennedy, Fanny Simonsen, William Hughes & James F. Cathcart are among the signatories.