Description
Entertaining Mr Coppin retraces Coppin’s epic journey across a fractured continent – from the gold rush towns of California to the snow-covered peaks of British Columbia, the bustling streets of New York to the steamy jungles of Panama. Drawing on journals, playbills, personal papers and rarely seen photographs, this scrupulously researched biography follows Coppin – the most industrious impresario in the Australian Colonies – as he traverses North America on sailing boats and steam trains. Numerous hazards almost derailed the tourists but not even Lincoln’s assassination – by an actor! – could stop the indomitable Mr Coppin. Lavishly illustrated and four years in the making, this enthralling tale brings to life a forgotten world of mid-19th century show business in both America and Australia. Coppin rubbed shoulders with minstrels, magicians and the legendary Barnum; he hoisted beers with politicians, journalists and businessmen and in letters to the Melbourne Herald, made acute observations about ruinously divided America.
Specifications:
Publisher: Theatre Heritage Australia
Year: 2025
Format: Paperback
Pages: 322
ISBN: 9780648454441
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