Planché, J. R. (James Robinson), 1796-1880

Variant names
Dates:
Birth 1796-02-27
Death 1880-05-30
Britons,
English,

Biographical notes:

English dramatist, librettsit, antiquarian, and costume authority.

From the description of Autograph letter signed, dated : [London], 30 May 1878, to Lewis Wingfield, 1878 May 30. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 270675035

From the description of Autograph letter signed, dated : East Retford, 8 April 1864, to Mrs. Skeffington Smith, 1864 Apr. 8. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 270675030

James Robinson Planché, a dramatist, antiquary, and officer of arms, was born in Piccadilly, London, on February 27, 1796; the son of Huguenot refugees. He wrote or adapted over 170 plays over the course of his 60 year career; these included extravaganzas, farces, comedies, burlettas, melodramas, and operas. Planche was also the first to introduce historically accurate costume into 19th century British theatre; he also wrote several important works on costume as an acknowledged expert. His antiquary research led him to be appointed Rogue Croix Pursuivant in 1854 and promoted to Somerset Herald in 1866. Planché married Elizabeth St. George (1796-1846), on April 26, 1821; she was also a published playwright. They had two daughters, Katherine Frances (b. 1823), who later married William Curteis, and Matilda Anne (b. 1826), who became a children's author under her married name of Mackarness. Planché continued to write and pursue his antiquarian studies until the last year of his life; he died in Chelsea, on May 30, 1880.

From the description of Papers of James Robinson Planché, 1794-1882. (Huntington Library, Art Collections & Botanical Gardens). WorldCat record id: 779354034

James Robinson Planché (1796-1880) was an English dramatist.

From the description of Papers of J. R. Planché, ca. 1794-1880. (Huntington Library, Art Collections & Botanical Gardens). WorldCat record id: 122545601

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Subjects:

  • Theater
  • English drama
  • Dramatists
  • Prompt-book
  • Theater 19th century

Occupations:

  • Librettists
  • Translator

Places:

  • Great Britain (as recorded)
  • Great Britain (as recorded)

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