ROGERS, George Herbert (1820-1872)

actor

was born at St Albans, Herts, England, on 11 July 1820, (Kenyon Manuscripts at Melbourne public library). He was the son of Thomas Rogers, a surgeon, and brother of Henry Rogers, a well-known essayist and author of The Eclipse of Faith, a book which went into many editions. G. H. Rogers, having quarrelled with his family, enlisted in the army and came to Hobart with his regiment in July 1839 (Kenyon). He became a corporal and, having shown great talent in regimental theatricals, his discharge was purchased by public subscription. He was playing with a local company when he was engaged by Coppin (q.v.) who was then visiting Hobart. Though Rogers had been well-educated he had had no training for the stage. Under Coppin's management he played in the leading cities of Australia, and by the beginning of 1848 though still in his twenties had established a great reputation in old men's parts. For a time he drew large salaries but fell into misfortune in later years, and was in ill-health for two years before his death at Melbourne on 12 February 1872. He was married twice and was survived by sons and daughters.

All accounts agree as to the great merit of Rogers as an actor. He sank himself in his parts and completely lost his individuality. He was as inimitable in burlesque as in serious drama, and played such diverse parts as the Widow Twankey in Aladdin, Falstaff, Antonio in Merchant of Venice and Fagan in 0liver Twist. But his greatest triumphs were in old English comedy, and though possibly Lambert may have equalled his performance of Sir Anthony Absolute, Roger's Sir Peter Teazle stood alone on the Australian stage. In private life he was genial and kind-hearted, much beloved by his friends.

The Age and The Argus, 14 February 1872; F. C. Brewer, The Drama and Music in New South Wales; The Cyclopedia of Victoria, vol. III, p. 2; P. Mennell, The Dictionary of Australasian Biography.