SOURCE: Wood, E. R. Introduction to Plays by David Garrick and George Colman the Elder: The Lying Valet, The Jealous Wife, The Clandestine Marriage, The Irish Widow, Bon Ton, edited by E. R. Wood, pp. 8-28. Cambridge, Eng.: Cambridge University Press, 1982.

In the following excerpt, Wood provides background information on Colman's theatrical career and his association with David Garrick.

Colman as Man of the Theatre

Colman's association with Drury Lane began as a member of Garrick's circle of friends and admirers, and it was as an amateur, earning his real living as a barrister, that he began writing plays. When Garrick set out in September 1763 for his prolonged continental tour, he left the theatre in the joint care of his partner James Lacy, his brother George, and his friend George Colman. Of the three, Colman was the best suited for choosing and adapting plays, recruiting and encouraging players...