Charles Farley

He came to notice in legitimate drama as Osric in Hamlet, Trip in The School for Scandal, and similar parts.

He also assisted Thomas Dibdin in the composition of Harlequin and Mother Goose, the show which boosted Grimaldi to stardom.

From 1806 to 1834 the Covent Garden pantomimes owed much of their success to Farley's inventive mind and diligent superintendence.

As a theatrical machinist he was in his time without a rival, and he was the originator of many of the incidents and tricks introduced into the dramas and pantomimes at this house.

He retired from public life in 1834, and died at his residence, 42 Ampthill Square, Hampstead Road, London, on 28 January 1859. Notable roles include Sanguinback in Cherry and Fair Star, Grindoff in The Miller and his Men (a piece for which Sir H. R. Bishop wrote charming music), Robinson Crusoe, and his Timour the Tartar.