Frances Boothby

Frances Boothby (fl. 1669–1670) was an English playwright and the first woman to have a play professionally produced in London. Title page of Frances Boothby's Marcelia: or the Treacherous Friend. London, 1670

Life Little is known of Boothby's life but the dedications of her two extant works have led to speculation that she may have been the daughter of Walter Boothby, a "prosperous merchant" with aristocratic connections. The published play is dedicated to Lady Mary Yate, of Harvington Hall in Worcestershire, whom she addresses as her kinswoman.

Marcelia is "a conservative work." Audiences likely perceived implicit criticism of King Charles II in the character of the lustful king; such criticism of the monarch was "widespread, but as yet tactful." though one scholar writes that the play went off "with some success." She also left a collection of recipes.

Works Marcelia: or the Treacherous Friend. A Tragicomedy. As it is Acted at the Theatre-Royal, by His Majesties Servants. Written by Mrs. F. Boothby. Licenc'd, October 9, 1669. Roger L'Estrange. London: Printed for Will. Cademan at the Popes-Head in the lower Walk of the New-Exchange, and Giles Widdowes at the Maiden-head in Aldersgate-street, 1670: Etext, British Library