This is the first biography of Christopher Rich (1647 1714), the Somerset lawyer who, largely by chance, became the manager of Drury Lane Theatre from 1694 1709. Author Paul Sawyer looks at several of Rich's accomplishments during his tenure at Drury Lane and also explores Rich's frequent quarrels and litigation with performers, theatre shareholders, and the Lord Chamberlain. Father of pantomimist and manager John Rich, Christopher Rich is also credited for his many innovations relating to the financial side of the theatre.