Aurora Floyd

Aurora Floyd is the name given to a number of dramatizations of the eponymous novel by Mary Elizabeth Braddon (1835-1915 ).

The original text

The original sensation novel, called Aurora Floyd, was written and published in 1863. F.C.L. Bosman. 1980. Drama en Toneel in Suid-Afrika, Deel II, 1856-1916. Pretoria: J.L. van Schaik: pp.

Translations and adaptations

Braddon's novel was immediately dramatised for the stage on its appearance by five translators, all the plays first put on in 1863.

Aurora Floyd, or The Deed in the Wood by Charles Smith Cheltnam

This version was the very first to be performed, and opened at the Princess's Theatre on 11 March, 1863.

Aurora Floyd, or The Dark Deed in the Wood by Colin Henry Hazlewood (1823–1875)

This version was first performed at the Britannia Theatre Saloon on 20 April, 1863. The script was subsequently published by Thomas Hailes Lacy's in his series Acting Edition of Plays, the 85th play in the series. Hazlewood's version was also known as Aurora Floyd, or The First and Second Marriage.

Aurora Floyd by John Beer Johnstone (18–18)

This version was first to performed at the Marlybone Theatre in May, 1863.

Aurora Floyd by William E. Suter (18–18)

This version was first to performed at the Queen's Theatre on 30 March, 1863.

Aurora Floyd by Benjamin Webster (Jr) (18–18)

This version was first to performed at the Adelphi Theatre on 14 March, 1863.

Performance history in South Africa

Because the exact version of the text used in each case is not always certain, all plays bearing "Aurora Floyd" as the title or part of the title are listed below:

1867: Performed as Aurora Floyd in the Theatre Royal, Harrington Street, Cape Town by Le Roy's Original Company on 4 April, 1867 under the patronage and presence of Captain Collins and the officers from the American war sloop Sacramento, and Naval officer J.C. Howard assisting with the play. It was billed as a "Powerful and Sensational Drama" and was accompanied by a performance of My Wife's Second Floor.

1867: Performed once more by special request as Aurora Floyd in the Theatre Royal, Harrington Street, Cape Town by Le Roy's Original Company on 12 April, under the patronage of the "Stewards of the Races", and with Naval officer J.C. Howard once more assisting. The programme also included the "interesting Extravaganza" The Alabama (Morton) , a rendering of the song The Slave Ship by Mr Spencer and a comic song by Mr Ray.