Background
Barry was born in Bath, England, to an apothecary named James Street.
Barry was born in Bath, England, to an apothecary named James Street.
Her brother, William Street, later became the Mayor of Bath. Lear was played by Spranger Barry in the same play and the two began an affair. Barry"s then-husband William Dancer died in 1759, allowing the couple to continue their relationship and later marry in 1768.
In 1759 she appeared in Dublin, where she played a number of leading roles to limited success.
At some point during the following nine years, she moved to London with Spranger Barry and performed at Drury Lane. Her performances at Drury Lane were well received and raised her reputation as an actress.
Her last known appearance was as Lady Randolph in John Home"s Douglas at in 1798. Her portrayal of Lady Randolph and Desdemona were credited as her greatest roles, with one contemporary actress (Sarah Siddons) writing a letter in which she describes her fear of Barry"s skill.
Barry was buried in Westminster Abbey following her death in 1801.