Theophilus Cibber was an English actor and playwright active in the early eighteenth century. He entered the stage in 1721, a decade after his debut at Drury Lane under the management of his father, Colley Cibber. His career included managerial duties at both Drury Lane and the Haymarket. Cibber's reputation among contemporaries was largely negative, with criticisms focusing on his literary work and personal conduct.
Early Life and Education
Theophilus Cibber was the son of prominent actor-manager Colley Cibber. He received theatrical training from his father, which prepared him for a career in acting. The early stages of his education likely involved learning stagecraft and performance techniques common to apprenticeships of the period.
Career
Cibber made his first appearance on the English stage in 1721, establishing himself as an actor during a formative period for London theatre. In 1731 and 1732 he acted under his father's direction while serving as manager of Drury Lane, demonstrating involvement in both performance and administration. The following year, he assumed the role of actor-manager at the Haymarket, further expanding his managerial experience.
Achievements
Cibber's acting was regarded as competent, with his portrayal of Pistolin in Henry IV cited as a highlight of his stage work. He authored several plays; however, contemporary assessments described these works as lacking merit. His managerial roles at Drury Lane and the Haymarket represent notable positions within the theatrical community of his time.
Personal Life
In 1734 Cibber married Susanna Maria (1714–66), a singer who had trained in acting under Colley Cibber. The couple experienced marital strife, including disputes over roles in productions such as The Beggar’s Opera and alleged forced liaison incidents. Susanna Maria withdrew from the stage temporarily but later returned to become a leading actress at Drury Lane Theatre under David Garrick.
Legacy
Cibber's legacy is largely shaped by contemporary criticism of his literary output and conduct, which has led to a perception of him as a scoundrel within historical accounts. His managerial positions at prominent London theatres illustrate the roles he held, though they are often viewed in light of his overall reputation. The circumstances of his death—drowning in a shipwreck while traveling to Dublin—conclude the record of his life.