GRIMALDI JOSEPH: (1778-1837) English Actor, Comedian & Dancer, the most popular English entertainer of the Regency era.

Rare A.L.S., J. Grimaldi, one page, 4to, Spa Fields, 5th September 1817, to R. W. Elliston at the Theatre Royal, Birmingham. Grimaldi informs his colleague that he has returned to London following 'a most successful tour' and continues 'With respect to terms we cannot agree - If I work I must be paid - I can have no objection to visit Birmingham at the time proposed if I can obtain permission - And terms proposed by me accepted - the best nights receipt clear out of the week'. With integral address leaf in Grimaldi's hand and signed ('J. Grimaldi') by him. With a red wax seal and a small area of paper loss where originally broken. Some very minor, light dust staining to the edges, not affecting the text or signature, VGRobert William Elliston (1774-1831) English Actor and Theatre Manager. Elliston had an interest in the Theatre Royal, Birmingham, a patent theatre, however ill health and misfortune culminated in his bankruptcy in 1826.In the early 1800s Joseph Grimaldi expanded the role of Clown in the harlequinade that formed part of British pantomimes, most notably at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. The actor is recognised as by far being the most popular English entertainer of his day and the Victoria and Albert Museum (among others) have concluded that no other Clown has achieved Grimaldi's level of fame.