On May 10, 1849, New York City was overrun by a massive crowd protesting a dispute between two renowned Shakespearean actors.
A large crowd assembled at the Astor Place Theatre, an elegant opera venue, leading to a rapidly escalating and violent confrontation. This incident became one of the most severe public disturbances in New York City’s history, known as the Astor Place Riots. The clash resulted in over 20 fatalities and numerous injuries as military forces attempted to control the situation.
The conflict was sparked by a longstanding feud between William Charles Macready, a renowned British actor, and Edwin Forrest, a prominent American actor.
The Astor Place Riots were more than just a conflict over which actor was superior. They exposed profound class divisions in 19th-century America, a time marked by significant economic disparity. The two actors involved symbolized opposing social classes, reflecting the broader societal tensions of the era.
In the mid-19th century, Shakespeare’s works were widely read across all levels of society. Edwin Forrest, known for his commanding stage presence and robust physique, became a beloved figure in America. He symbolized the nation’s newfound independence from British influence and was celebrated as a hero.
Conversely, William Charles Macready was often perceived as overly formal, rigid, and distinctly English. As a seasoned actor renowned for his portrayal of Hamlet, Macready’s mannerisms and demeanor contrasted sharply with the more diverse working-class American audience. Despite their varied backgrounds, these Americans shared a common sentiment of disdain towards the English.
In the past, the competition between Forrest and Macready was largely amicable and light-hearted. However, the dynamic changed drastically when Forrest attended Macready’s Hamlet performance in England. From the audience, Forrest hissed at Macready, accusing him of causing poor attendance during his own tour in England. This incident marked the beginning of a bitter and hostile feud between the two actors.
Macready’s supporters in England ensured that Forrest’s performances were met with tepid reviews from the British media. Meanwhile, Forrest’s admirers would disrupt Macready’s shows in America, hindering his ability to deliver a stellar performance.
As the dispute between the two actors escalated, the social divide in America became increasingly evident. In New York, the upper class supported Macready, while the lower classes rallied behind Forrester.
On the evening of May 7, 1849, Macready performed as Macbeth at the Astor Place Theatre.
The performance was abruptly canceled after the working-class New Yorkers in the audience reacted with boos and threw trash at him.
The following day, a furious Macready announced his decision to leave America at once. Nevertheless, his high-society admirers convinced him to remain, expressing their eagerness to witness his performance. They reassured him of his safety, promising their unwavering support.
The production of Macbeth was postponed to May 10. As word of Macready’s performance circulated throughout the city, approximately 200 police officers were deployed both inside and outside the opera house that evening.
Large groups of demonstrators filled the streets surrounding the building. As the protesters attempted to breach the premises, law enforcement officers were instructed to use their rifles to manage the escalating situation.
At least 22 individuals were killed, and over 100 others sustained injuries. Macready managed to flee through a rear exit.
The riots intensified the rift between the elite and the lower classes. For example, the realm of theater saw a notable transformation: the affluent persisted in their appreciation of Shakespeare, while the working class increasingly embraced vaudeville.
Regarding political consequences, some historians argue that the Astor Place Riot anticipated the 1863 Draft Riots, which occurred at the peak of the Civil War.