3-034-786 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Scene from "The Woman In White," at the Olympic Theatre, 1871. London stage production adapted from the novel by Wilkie Collins. 'Critical opinion has differed much concerning the merits of Mr. Vining's impersonation of Count Fosco. We have already rendered our testimony as to his fitness for the character, and he has been fortunate to obtain the author's verdict in his favour. The latter is not a little thing; for our theatrical experience goes to prove that in general the author is the last person to be satisfied. We recollect an irritable poet sulking with an eminent actress for six months because she had not performed the part according to his direction, but had taken a view of her own. Our Illustration gives a capital idea of Mr. Vining's general manner in the character. He is showing the utmost respect apparently for Anne Catherick, at the same time that he is feigning to give her protection, to suit his own purpose. Miss Ada Dyas performs both this part and that of Laura Fairlie; the skill with which she distinguishes each and yet retains the likeness is deserving of special recognition'. From "Illustrated London News", 1871.