125 Years on Display
August, 2024
We are incredibly fortunate to have not only a stunning, historical theatre, but lots of beautiful artifacts relating to its history in our possession. From old programmes and posters, signed headshots and portraits of performers, to press cuttings and architectural drawings. Many of these items are on display throughout the building in our bars, foyer, box office and dressing rooms.
Throughout the Stalls Bar are framed items showcasing the early days of Richmond Theatre. A personal favourite are the photographs of the previous ‘Richmond Theatre’ located on the adjacent side of The Green, on display around the corner as you enter the bar. You can also find plans from the theatre’s early days, showing the original seating layout which offer a clue as to the location of the ‘Stalls Exit’ sign (also on display).
Not all items relating to our history are small. Have you noticed the mahogany corner unit in the Dress Circle? It dates back to 1899 and was originally located in the bar under the foyer in the space now occupied by the Stalls Toilets.
The Upper Bar displays a more modern record of the theatre’s history, in particular its 110th year in 2009-2010. Taken by Peter Schiazza, this series of portraits highlights just some of the world class performers who graced the stage that year. Richard E Grant appeared in God of Carnage in 2009, Ken Stott appeared in A View From the Bridge and Bonnie Langford was in that year’s pantomime of Peter Pan alongside Simon Callow.
Backstage, our dressing rooms are decorated with posters and production images from some of our biggest shows including Vanya, A Little Life, Animal Farm and panto!
To see more material from our archive, come along to the Open Day on 21st September or book a tour to learn more about the items on display both front and back of house.
Written by Gabriella Bush, aided by the work of Norman Fenner.
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