We’d like to say a huge thank-you...
BT is very grateful to the University of Bristol Theatre Collection for its help with this article.
The collection, one of the world’s largest archives of British theatre history and live art, has recently been awarded “Designated status” by the Arts Council England (ACE).
ACE’s Designation Scheme recognises, celebrates and champions collections of national and international significance held outside of national museums, based on each collection’s historic importance, quality and research value.
The Theatre Collection was founded in 1951 and contains materials going back four centuries, both from local companies and actors (including the Bristol Old Vic) and from national organisations such as London’s Old Vic.
The collection’s hundreds of thousands of items include archives, artwork, costumes, designs, personal effects, photographs, playbills, posters, props and scripts.
It’s currently based in the Drama Building on Park Row but will be moving to the University’s new landmark library when it opens, though this is some years away.
Jo Elsworth, Theatre Collection director, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this esteemed award …
“The Theatre Collection is a truly unique archive; it is the culmination of over 60 years support from actors, collectors, designers, directors, performers and writers all of whom have helped us build this remarkable collection.
“The new university library will create further opportunities for us to share the collection in new and innovative ways and we have an exciting future ahead of us.”
For more on the Bristol University Theatre Collection, see www.bristol.ac. uk/theatre-collection/