Herbert Beerbohm Tree

Date of Birth: December 17, 1852

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: July 2, 1917

Biography

Herbert Beerbohm Tree was a distinguished English actor and theatre manager, renowned for his innovative contributions to the theatrical arts in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born Herbert Draper Beerbohm on December 17, 1852, in Kensington, London, he adopted the stage name Herbert Beerbohm Tree as he embarked on a career that would span several decades and leave an indelible mark on British theatre. Tree began his acting career in the 1870s, quickly gaining a reputation for his versatility and expressive performances. He founded the Haymarket Theatre in 1887 and later the Her Majesty’s Theatre, where he produced and starred in numerous Shakespearean plays and contemporary productions. Tree’s theatrical style was noted for its grandiosity and meticulous attention to detail, often incorporating elaborate sets and costumes that enhanced the overall spectacle. As a manager, Tree was instrumental in elevating the status of the actor-manager system, and he was known for his mentorship of young actors and playwrights. His dedication to the craft earned him a knighthood in 1909, recognizing his significant contributions to the arts.

5 Interesting Facts about Herbert Beerbohm Tree

1. Herbert Beerbohm Tree was the founder of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in 1904, which remains one of the most prestigious drama schools in the world.

2. He was known for his elaborate and innovative stage productions, which often included groundbreaking special effects and elaborate set designs.

3. Tree played the role of Professor Higgins in the first stage adaptation of George Bernard Shaw’s “Pygmalion” in 1914.

4. His daughter, Viola Tree, followed in his footsteps and became a renowned actress and playwright.

5. Tree was knighted in 1909 in recognition of his contributions to the theatre industry.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Herbert Beerbohm Tree

1. “I am an optimist. Anyone interested in the future has to be otherwise he would simply shoot himself.”

2. “The foundation of every state is the education of its youth.”

3. “Acting is the most personal of our crafts. The makeup of a human being, his physical, mental, and emotional habits, influence his acting to a far greater extent than commonly recognized.”

4. “A man cannot be an actor alone, he is part of a whole, part of an ensemble.”

5. “Every man is a potential genius until he does something.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Herbert Beerbohm Tree’s net worth was estimated to be around £1 million, a substantial sum for the early 20th century, reflecting his success as both an actor and theatre manager.

Children

Herbert Beerbohm Tree had several children, among them: – Viola Tree (1884-1938), who became a celebrated actress and playwright. – Felicity Tree (1895-1978), who was an actress and socialite. – Iris Tree (1897-1968), who was a poet, actress, and artist.