Mr G.V. Brooke as Fabian in the Corsican Brothers

Engraved theatrical portrait plate of the actor Mr G.V.Brooke in the role of Fabian in the Corsican Brothers. Such items were sold as theatrical souvenirs. This print has been hand coloured.

Brooke's theatrical success began when he was 14 and played William Tell. Born in Dublin, he then joined a tour of Ireland, Scotland and England before London theatres sought him out. His performances of tragedies were compared favourably to the most celebrated actors of his time, and Brooke travelled to America and Australia where he performed the roles of the twins Fabian and Louis in the Corsican Brothers. On his return to London Brooke was frustrated with his reception and soon boarded the S.S. London, in order to travel back to Australia. The steamship sank, taking 200 lives. G.V. Brooke was posthumously commended for his bravery and composure.