This exhibition explores the extraordinary life of the celebrated
tenor, John Beard – Handel’s ‘tenor of choice’.
This theatre star and 18th century celebrity premiered several
roles for Handel in a variety of opera and oratorio, wowed the
public at the pleasure gardens with patriotic ballads and
nonsense songs, and expertly managed the Covent Garden Theatre
until his retirement.
This exhibition presents the curious circumstances of his first
marriage, music scores with Beard’s own performance markings,
evidence of his kind philanthropy and many other fascinating
items from his life. Alongside this, a painting of John Rich,
Theatre Manager and Beard’s father-in-law, attributed to
William Hogarth will be displayed in Handel’s Music Room in
its first public outing, alongside an iconic painting of
John Beard by Thomas Hudson.
Come and delve into the theatrical world of John Beard.
Please select from the list below to see further details