David Garrick (1717-1779) was the most celebrated actor-manager of his day. He was a friend of Samuel Johnson and a regular guest of the Bluestocking circle. He managed the Drury Lane Theatre for 29 years, during which time he encouraged new playwrights, including the young Hannah More. He was particularly celebrated for performing Shakespeare’s plays in what was considered to be a naturalistic style, and increasingly their popularity with the public. He was also a prolific playwright. He retired from the stage in 1776 but died three years later, and was interred in Poets’ Corner in Westminster Abbey.