J.H. Melvyn

J.H. Melvyn (fl 1860s) was an American singer and actor.

Also known as Mr Melvyn

Contribution to SA theatre, film, media and/or performance

A member of the "original" Christy Minstrels that visited South Africa in 1862, he was apparently the leading actor in their performances of the burlesque La Somnambula and probably the leader of the troupe.

The company's successful appearances had a huge impact on popular entertainment in Cape Town and the country during the 19th century.

Sources

Sydney Morning Herald, 5 May, 1863[1]

The Australian Circus History Society Website[2]

W.J. Mahar. 1999. Behind the Burnt Cork Mask: Early Blackface Minstrelsy and Antebellum American Popular Culture. Volume 442 of Music in American life. University of Illinois Press, 1999

F.C.L. Bosman. 1980. Drama en Toneel in Suid-Afrika, Deel II, 1856-1916. Pretoria: J.L. van Schaik: pp. 139-141, 178.

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