David Garrick (19 February 1717 - 20 January 1779) was an English actor, playwright, theatre manager and producer who influenced nearly all aspects of theatrical practice throughout the 18th century and was a pupil and friend of Dr Samuel Johnson. Amateur theatricals comprised his first work on the stage, however, it was not until his appearance in the title role of Shakespeare's "Richard III" that audiences and managers began to take notice. Wikipedia
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