One of its most popular star actors, Esther Leach,[1] suggested the construction of a new theatre to replace it.
She was supported by the art connoisseur Mr. Stocqueler, and funds collected from the British and elite Indian theatre enthusiasts of Calcutta, such as Governor-General Lord Auckland and Prince Dwarkanath Tagore.
The Sans Souci Theatre enjoyed remarkable success during its first years, when Esther Leach was its manager and director.
The perhaps most significant occasion on the Sans Souci Theatre was on 19 August 1848, when Baboo Baishnab Charan Addy performed the lead role of Othello, which was the first time an Indian actor performed in an English role in an English theatre on stage.
[2] The Sans Souci Theatre never really recuperated after the death of Esther Leach, and it was forced to close in 1849.