barney’s first big hit (c. 1840) was as pat rooney in "the omnibus" (williams: p. 69). this play was written by his mentor tyrone powers probably around 1833. maria made her stage debut at the chatham theatre – as a member of the corps de ballet, in the first production of a burlesque entitled "new york assurance", which was a travesty on "london assurance". see clapp: p. 386; and players: p. 387. barney is also credited as introducing irish clog dancing to america.