William Charles Macready (1793-1873) was a well-known and popular actor in England during the 19th century, having first appeared in one of his father's theatres in 1810 as Romeo. Within ten years, Macready would be playing in one of London's premiere theatres, the Theatre Royal Covent Garden. His prominence beginning with a successful portrayal of Shakespeare's Richard III, he became a regular player at the rival patent theatre, the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, where his success was cemented as he developed further in his Shakespearean repertoire. His biggest success was Sheridan Knowles' William Tell, however, which he first performed on May 11, 1825 after recovering from a three month illness. His next defining role would be Werner, in a play by Lord Byron of the same name. Originating this role in 1830, he added it to a repertoire which would eventually be replete with memorable performances in roles such as Virginius, William Tell, Macbeth, King Lear, and Othello. From 1837-1839 Macready managed the Theatre Royal Covent Garden, and from 1841-1843 he managed the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, the theatre to which he owed his greatest successes. In this rendering, believed to be a plate from 'The Complete Works of Shakspere [sic]' in four volumes edited by J. O. Halliwell and published by John Tallis & Co. in 1860, Mr. W. C. Macready is shown DELIVERING HIS FAREWELL ADDRESS, AT THE THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE, FEBY 26, 1851. Macready performed the role of Macbeth that night, his last night on stage before a decisive retirement. He is depicted wearing a full tuxedo and holding a top hat, standing before a curtain on his beloved stage. This particular four volume set of Shakespeare was dedicated to Mr. Macready. Artistic role(s) represented: Augustin Daly (Producer).