Background
Mackaye, James Morrison Steele was born on June 6, 1842 in Buffalo, New York, United States. Son of James Morrison and Emily (Steele) McKay.
Mackaye, James Morrison Steele was born on June 6, 1842 in Buffalo, New York, United States. Son of James Morrison and Emily (Steele) McKay.
Educated École des Beaux-Arts, Paris, 1858-1859.
Several children, including Percy. Made 1st stage appearance as Hamlet in a regimental performance during Civil War, 1862. Inventor “photo-sculpture,” launched company to commercialize lieutenant
Made debut in Monaldi, New York City, 1872.
Played Hamlet, Paris, 1872, 1st American to play role in England, London, 1873. Opened an acting school, New York City, 1875.
Wrote Won at Last, acted at Wallacks, 1877. Opened Madison Square Theatre (one of earliest small theatres), 1879.
Wrote Hazel Kirke (his most notable play), 1880, ran for over a year.
Built Lyceum Theatre, New York City, established 1st dramatic school in American (later American Academy Dramatic Arts). Inventor mechanic and electrical stage devices. 1st to light New York theatre entirely by electricity, 1884.
Began erection of unsuccessful Spectatorium (vast auditorium) at Chicago World’s Fair, 1892.
Married Jennie Spring, June 30, 1862. Married second, Mary Medbery, June 6, 1865.
