Dion Boucicault

Dion Boucicault was a prolific and influential playwright, actor, and theatrical manager of the 19th century. He wrote or adapted more than 150 plays, many of which were successful on both sides of the Atlantic. He was known for his melodramas, which combined sensational plots, realistic dialogue, and spectacular effects. He also introduced social themes and Irish characters to the stage, and championed the cause of playwrights' rights. He began his career in London, where he made his debut as a playwright with London Assurance in 1841. He later moved to New York, where he became a popular star and manager. He also toured extensively in America, Australia, and Europe. He was married three times, twice bigamously, and had six children who followed him into the theatre. He died in New York in 1890, after suffering from pneumonia. He was buried in Mount Hope Cemetery, where a monument was erected in his honor.