Solo Performers

Solo performers had distinct and interesting responsibilities as compared with performance groups. 


First, as a solo performer, they had time to shine while in the performance. They did not have to share the stage with anyone and if the show was a success it was all because of them. They were able to expand their careers easier because their success was not dependent on others. They also didn't have to share any of the profits from the show with anyone but themselves, which increased their abilities to earn and stay in business. 


Being a solo performer made logistics like travel much easier to deal with. They could travel on their own schedule, it was cheaper to house them and easier to mooch if they needed to. They didn't have to worry about any one else's preferences and could go wherever they wanted to go without other considerations. That provided them with a great amount of freedom in picking their performances. 


There was also a lot of protesting and negative attention from anti-theatrical groups. Being solo, they were lower on the radar from those groups because they weren't 'troupes' and could skirt any attention from them. Being able to avoid those anti-theatrical groups also allowed for higher attendance at their shows since people weren't afraid of negative repercussion from the groups that they might face by attending shows of a troupe in the groups' sights. 


With those types of advantages, its a wonder that any performer worked in a group.