The First Musicals
From 'The Beggar’s Opera', of 1728 to ‘Chu Chin Chow’ of 1916, this article explores the roots and early development of musical theatre in Britain.
Read article
Modern American Musicals
The first American musical, The Black Crook, opened in 1866 at Niblo’s Garden on Broadway. It was an extravaganza with lots of scene changes and big musical numbers includi…
Read article
British Musicals
In contrast to the slick, sophisticated American musicals of the 1930s, Britain evolved the ‘nostalgia’ musical such as Noël Coward's 'Bitter Sweet' (1929). The 1960s broug…
Read article
Interviews with Wicked cast members
Watch videos of cast members of the hit musical Wicked. Dianne Pilkington and Jeremy Legat talk about costume changes and Alexia Khadime explains the make-up process she un…
Read article
Ivor Novello
Ivor Novello (1893 – 1951) shot to fame overnight with his 1914 song ‘Keep the Home Fires Burning’. Like his contemporary Noël Coward, Novello was a multi-talented matinee …
Read article
Fred and Adele Astaire
Fred Astaire (1899–1987) was one of the greatest dancers of the 20th century. He and his sister Adele (1896–1981) were child stars in American Vaudeville before moving into…
Read article
Gertrude Lawrence
Gertrude Lawrence (1898–1952) hit the big time in Charlot’s revue, in the 1920s before going on to perform in works written for her by Noël Coward. Rodgers and Hammerstein …
Read article
Jack Buchanan
Walter John 'Jack' Buchanan (1891–1957) was the major British musical stage and screen star of his day. He appeared in a series of musical comedies many of which were later…
Read article
Jessie Matthews
Jessie Matthews (1907–1981) was Britain’s favourite 1930's musical film star. She made her name in theatre before starring in a number of successful musicals such as Rodger…
Read articleBecome a V&A Member
V&A Members enjoy a wealth of benefits, including free entry to exhibitions, previews, exciting events and the V&A Members’ Room. In addition, you will be supporting the vital work of the V&A.
Buy or Renew Membership OnlineShop online
Moleskine Music Journal

This embossed journal has been specially designed for musicians and music lovers, the music journal allows you to keep track of your favourite bands a…
Buy nowEvent - Mini Musicians
Sat 25 May 2013–Sun 02 June 2013

FAMILY EVENT: Use your body and musical instruments to explore rhythm & music making.

















