The devil's in the detail 👹 Henry Irving’s portrayal of Mephistopheles in Faust was as electrifying as the production itself - quite literally. Known for his desire for complete accuracy and realism, Irving invested heavily in both scenery and special effects. The duel between Mephistopheles and Faust sparked with real electric flashes, an effect achieved by connecting the swords of the combatants (who wore insulated gloves) to the electrical mains. While some critics dismissed the spectacle and compared it to a pantomime, the production was a commercial success. Irving performed as Mephistopheles over 700 times, and Faust remained in the Lyceum Theatre’s repertoire from 1885 to 1902. His commitment to raising the status of the theatrical profession was recognised in 1895 when he became the first actor to be knighted for his contributions to the stage. ©Victoria & Albert Museum, London IMAGE DESCRIPTION: - 1. Theatrical ensemble of jerkin, breeches, waistcoat, purse, gorget, coif, cowl, hood, tights, cloak, shoulder drape and shoe 2. Shoe with electric connection to glove. The shoe is made from dark red suede and lined with canvas. There are two further large screws, front and back, the back screw keeping it in place, the front screw holding a braided electrical flex in place. This flex runs between the shoe and a single right hand suede glove. A section of metal chain mail has been stitched to the palm of the glove, to which the flex is attached. 3.Large circular cloak of red crepe with vandyked and beaded edge, beads are crumbling. Edged at hem with dark red knitted silk cord binding. Metal spring clip at neck.4. close up of glove and shoe in picture 2 (fb)

The smartest in the room 🤡 Often masters of juggling, dance, song, and poetry, Medieval court jesters weren't just entertainers. Beyond their laughter-inducing antics, they held a unique role as truth-tellers in the royal court. Their unique position granted them a certain level of freedom of expression beyond entertainment, allowing them to provide intellectual stimulation and political commentary. Far from being 'fools,’' some jesters like the legendary Triboulet were highly educated and became trusted advisors to kings and nobles. The stained glass panel currently on display depicts Morris dancers, musicians, a Fool, and a hobby horse. These characters would have been familiar with festivities in the 16th century, especially on May Day. The window is clear glass painted with dancing figures, and there is a maypole with the inscription 'A Merry May.'' English, ca. 1621 IMAGE DESCRIPTION: A clear glass panel painted with dancing figures of: 1. A fool 2. A man dancing 3. A man on a hobby horse 4. A man dancing 5. A man dancing 6. A man playing a pipe (fb)