Greenwood Theatricals

Robert Greenwood and his family enjoyed a comfortable life in New Zealand – that is until he was bankrupted in 1886.² It was then that the musical talents of his wife and children saved the day.

Anchored by daughter Maribel, they formed a theatrical company, travelling to Australia in 1888. Their initial performance in Sydney received an unflattering review,³ but they did go on to enjoy some success across Australia, before returning to New Zealand.⁴

Back in Australia again, the Greenwood Company toured extensively around the turn of the 20th century⁵ and received favourable publicity in many regional areas.

Having been well received locally in 1901,⁶ they returned to the Manning in January 1906, scheduling performances at Wingham, Taree and Croki.⁷ Accommodation was booked at Fotheringham’s Hotel in Taree.

Elizabeth Stone, who, with her husband William, managed the hotel, was alerted by her son to the troupe’s hasty preparations for departure around midnight on Sunday 21st. When she confronted Mrs Marie Greenwood requesting settlement of the account, an argument ensued and the troupe left without paying.⁸ This was apparently not the first incident of its kind.⁹

Brought before the Police Magistrate, Mrs Greenwood was sentenced to be imprisoned until the rising of the Court.

It is not known if the company ever revisited the Manning.

Author: Penny Teerman