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Theatre programme, Compiegne Palace
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Theatre programme, Compiegne Palace
Theatre programme, Compiegne Palace, 29 October 1856, two one-act comedies played before the Emperor. Date: 1856
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Media ID 32259814
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1850s 1856 Actors Ball Chateau Clement Comedies Comedy Compiegne Masked Programme Bougeoir
EDITORS COMMENTS
This exquisite theatre programme from the Château de Compiègne in France, dated 29 October 1856, offers a glimpse into the grandeur and elegance of imperial entertainment during the Second French Empire. The programme announces the performance of two one-act comedies, "Le Bougeoir" by Clement Caraguel and "Mme de Bawr" by Mme de la Bague, which were presented before Emperor Napoléon III and his court. The Château de Compiègne, a magnificent palace and hunting lodge, was renowned for its opulent theatrical productions. The theatre within the château was a grand affair, with a capacity for over 1,000 spectators. The programme's intricate design, adorned with gold embellishments and masks, reflects the festive atmosphere of the evening. The first comedy, "Le Bougeoir," was a farce by the popular playwright Clement Caraguel. The plot revolves around a servant who mistakenly believes that a candle (bougeoir in French) has been stolen and sets out to find the thief, leading to a series of comedic misunderstandings. The second comedy, "Mme de Bawr," was penned by Mme de la Bague, a lesser-known playwright of the time. The title character, Mme de Bawr, is a wealthy and vain woman who schemes to marry a wealthy count, only to be outwitted by her own schemes. The theatre programme's presence today serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of France during the Second Empire, a time when the arts flourished and imperial entertainment was a grand spectacle. This beautiful programme, with its intricate design and historical significance, offers a window into the past and the world of imperial theatre.
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