Edward Alleyn

Edward "Ned" Alleyn (/ˈælɪn/; 1566–1626) was an English actor who was a major figure of the Elizabethan theatre and founder of Dulwich College and Alleyn's School.

Early life

Alleyn was born in Bishopsgate, London, a younger son of Edward Alleyn, an innkeeper and porter to the queen, and Margaret Townley. His mother's link to the Lancashire Townley family is somewhat of a mystery. Alleyn said she was the daughter of John Townley of Townley but the claim does not easily fit with the available information on the Townley family tree. Regardless the road that passes his school was named after her in 1884. He was baptised at St Botolph-without-Bishopsgate. He was known to contemporaries as "Ned"; his surname is variously spelled Allen or Alleyne.

Acting career

It is not known at what date he began to act, but in 1583 his name was on the list of the Earl of Worcester's players. He was rated by common consent as the foremost actor of his time; his only close rival was Richard Burbage.

Edward Alleyn (disambiguation)

Edward Alleyn (1566–1626) was an English actor.

Edward Alleyn may also refer to:

See also