Playbill produced on board HMS 'Intrepid' during the Franklin Search Expedition led by Sir Edward Belcher. Printed in black and red on cream silk. The text is surmounted by a royal crown and rose with 'VR' in red. The item is mounted in a gilt frame. Inscribed: 'V.R. / SOIRÉES FANTASTIQUES. / MELVILLE ISLAND. Under the distinguished Patronage of / Captain H. KELLETT C.B. & Commander F.L. McCLINTOCK. / The first of these Soirées will be held on board / H.M.S.V. INTREPID, / on Thursday the 9th December 1852. / The amusements of the evening will commence with a / Glee by Messrs Hood, S. Dean, & Ganniclift. / THE WIZARD OF THE NORTH, / having for the first time visited this country, will then introduce his / wonderful performances in / LEGERDEMAIN! / and being assisted by that talented NECROMANCER Lieut. Pim, / can promise his patrons, a most excellent treat!! / After which, a few COMIC SONGS by / Messrs Smith, Warne and Morgan. / To conclude with a short comic After-Piece; entitled / PAT AND THE MAGISTRATE; / or "ALL A MISTAKE" / sustained by Messrs Smith and Warne. / Doors open at six o' clock: to commence at half past six precisely. / GOD SAVE THE QUEEN / ! Melville Island Press.' The item is a bequest from a descendent of William Dean, carpenter in 'Resolute' and responsible for the scenary of these amateur performances.