Historic England Collection

We appreciate finding great sources online! Enjoy these images from the Historic England archive, which holds more than 7 million photographs of England’s architecture, archaeology, local and social history.  In the first image, ropes and rigging supporting the interchangeable hand-painted hanging scenery, known as ‘flats’, above the stage at the Theatre Royal, Birmingham. In this view, the auditorium is to the left. The ropes lead to the ‘fly floors’ at the top of frame.

You can also see images of a ‘thunder run’, workbenches and tools in the carpenters’ workshop, and props like replica armor including helmets and breastplates, and a Roman Imperial standard, stored in the props room of the Theatre Royal, Birmingham.

Enjoy browsing this amazing resource!

ABOUT THEATRE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA:

Founded by Ben Hall in 1969, the Theatre Historical Society of America (THS) celebrates, documents and promotes the architectural, cultural and social relevance of America’s historic theatres. Through its preservation of the collections in the American Theatre Architecture Archive, its signature publication Marquee™ and Conclave Theatre Tour, THS increases awareness, appreciation and scholarly study of America’s theatres.
Learn more about historic theatres in the THS American Theatre Architecture Archives and on our website at historictheatres.org