IN CHARACTER
A face you won’t forget
Maria, Countess of Coventry
Played by Martha Howe-Douglas
Maria Gunning, Countess of Coventry (1732-1760), a celebrated Irish-born beauty and London society hostess of the Georgian era who died at 27 from lead poisoning attributed to her white-lead cosmetics. Portrayed in comedy sketches as the historical figure.
1sketch in the archive
1performer in the role
In character. On screen.
Their moment in the spotlight.
Behind the character
The people in the part.
A little character study
More to the story.
Seen in the same sketches
They’re in good company.
One great character.
A whole cast to discover.