New Theatre Royal, Drury Lane - For the Benefit of Mr. Liston Being his Last Appearance this Season Playbill June 2, 1823Playbill June 2, 1823 J. Tabby, Theatre Royal, Drury lane Single sheet. Fine. During the early 19th Century the most popular low comedian on the English stage was John Liston (1776 1846). Liston performed regularly in London theatres from 1805 until his retirement in 1837. After spending the early part of his career at Covent Garden he moved to Drury Lane where, in the late 1820's he was the only 'star' capable of attracting large audiences.(Davis;