Dickens Hires Actresses for The Frozen Deep

In the mid-19th century, Charles Dickens, a prominent English novelist, collaborated with his protégé Wilkie Collins to create a play titled 'The Frozen Deep.' This work was notable not only for its narrative but also for Dickens's decision to hire professional actresses for its performance. This marked a shift in theatrical practices of the time, as it was common for men to play female roles in many productions. By employing professional actresses, Dickens contributed to the evolving landscape of theater, which began to embrace the inclusion of women in performance roles. This decision reflected a broader cultural change, as the role of women in the arts was gradually gaining recognition and acceptance. The hiring of actresses also had personal implications for Dickens. He developed a romantic relationship with one of the actresses, Ellen Ternan, which would influence his life significantly. Their relationship, characterized by its secrecy and complexity, lasted for many years and became a focal point in Dickens's later life. The impact of this personal connection extended beyond his private affairs, as it also influenced his literary work, infusing his narratives with themes of love, loss, and societal expectations. The decision to hire actresses for 'The Frozen Deep' thus not only marked a pivotal moment in Dickens's career but also reflected the changing dynamics of gender roles in the arts during that period.