Theatre and performance archives

Keith's Contract, Taney; Roshier; Arthur; Frost, 1874

Keith's Contract, Taney; Roshier; Arthur; Frost, 1874

Archives held in the Theatre and Performance collections

The V&A Theatre and Performance collections include many archives from performing arts companies and other organisations, as well as from individuals such as performers, stage designers and private collectors.

The archives reflect the subject areas of theatre and performance as a whole. Particular strengths are the archives of key theatres, theatre and dance companies, 20th century stage designers, actors and directors, photographers and government bodies such as the Arts Council.

Typically, they may contain a wide range of materials such as diaries, letters, manuscripts, photographs, ephemera, business papers, newspaper cuttings, and designs or sketches.

Accessing the archives in person

The V&A Theatre and Performance Collections archives can be accessed in the reading room at Blythe House in Kensington Olympia. You will need to make an appointment by contacting TMenquiries@vam.ac.uk

Discovering theatre and performance archives

All the archives are catalogued at the broadest level on the National Art Library online library catalogue.

These theatre and performance archive catalogues are available online:

British Design 1948–2012: Innovation in the Modern Age

31 March–12 August 2012

Showcasing over 300 British design objects, this exhibition celebrates the best of British post-war art and design from the 1948 ‘Austerity Games' to the summer of 2012.

More details

Shop online

Catalogue of Paintings at the Theatre Museum

Catalogue of Paintings at the Theatre Museum

An illustrated catalogue raisonne of the collection of over 100 paintings at the Theatre Museum

Buy now

Event - Theatre & Performance Galleries Tour

Fri 19 February 2010–Mon 31 December 2012

TOUR: Take a guided tour of the V&A's exciting theatre and performance collections, including rock & pop posters, theatre and ballet costumes, puppets, stage sets and more! See new costumes from the Lion King now on display.

More details