The original texts

Mary Turner by William Brough (1868?)

The original text

According to F.C.L. Bosman (1980: p250), citing the publicity material of Steele and Norton's Christy's Minstrels, the burlesque of Maritana was written specifically for the company by William Brough (1826-1870)[1].

Translations and adaptations

Mary Turner, or The Wicious Willin and Wictorious Wirtue by F.C. Burnand (18**)

Full title also found as Mary Turner, or The Wicious Willin and Wictorious Wirtue! or referred to simply as Mary Turner in some sources.

The original text

A burlesque of Maritana in one act written by Francis Cowley Burnand (1836-1917)[2], it was first performed by Sefton Parry at the Holborn Theatre Royal, October 26, 1867. Published by Thomas Hailes Lacy

Translations and adaptations

Performance history of both versions in South Africa

1868-9: Mary Turner (credited to Brough) performed as a key part of their repertoire by Steele and Norton's Christy's Minstrels while on tour in South Africa. The company consisted of Carl Steele, Wash Norton, Mr Raynor and N. Coyle, with a Mr Sturt joining them for Mary Turner. They opened with it in the Commercial Exchange, Cape Town, on 7-9 September, then after visits to Stellenbosch and Paarl, went on to the Orange Free State, Transvaal and Natal, before returning to Cape Town for their farewell in April, 1869.