The Mirror of Literature, Amusement, and Instruction. Volume 13, No. 371, May 23, 1829

Step into a lively snapshot of early‑19th‑century culture, where the pages turn to the storied Fortune Playhouse. The article recounts how Edward Alleyn, the celebrated actor‑entrepreneur of Shakespeare’s era, built and revived this brick theatre after a devastating fire. Readers learn of its royal‑armed façade, the curious treasure rumored to have been uncovered during its foundations, and the surprising ways Alleyn’s fortunes were bolstered by royal menageries as well as the stage.

Switching to the present, the journal offers a keen, conversational tour of the Royal Academy’s latest exhibition at Somerset House. It highlights the vivid portraits and genre scenes that dominate the galleries, from Wilkie’s character‑rich canvases to Callcott’s tranquil fountains and Etty’s bold biblical compositions. The writer’s lively commentary captures the buzz of critics gathering around each work, inviting listeners to appreciate both the art and the spirited discourse surrounding it.