Early Theatres of Colonial Adelaide 1836-1856

Ian’s talk will detail the story of the first 13 theatres opened in Adelaide between 1836 and 1856. He will provide information on the colourful proprietors and actors of these times and give an insight into the entertainment enjoyed by early colonists. His talk will be interwoven with stories of crime and daily life in Adelaide at the time that impinged on the entertainment of the theatre goers.

Ian is a retired self-employed electrical contractor whose interest in Adelaide’s colonial history has led to the publication of three books Chasing Ancient Sea Shores, detailing the history of Australia`s inland sea, Early Theatre Life in Adelaide SA, 1836-56, which provides the content of this talk and recently Charles Hill, Colonial Painter, 1824-1915.