Seasonal explorations of the King’s Theatre’s rich heritage, drawn from the archive and brought to life through themes, stories, and voices.
The Early Years: 1906-1946
This collection brings together a rich tapestry of archival treasures relating to the early years of the King’s Theatre. Explore our historic photo galleries, read genealogical features telling the stories of theatre staff and managers, and discover how a hidden message in a bottle offered a rare glimpse into the team who first raised the curtain in 1906.
Online now:
King’s Profiles:
- Bethia Cassie: Female Lighting Technician
- W.S. Cruikshank & Son: From Contractors to Kings of Theatre
The Early Years: 1906-1946
Box 33: Posters of the King’s 1960-1964
This collection of over 70 posters covers a wide range of the shows on stage at the King’s between April 1960 and November 1964 at a pivotal moment as variety theatre began to compete with the shift to at-home entertainment.
We’ve pulled out some of our favourites from this collection to scroll through below, or you can download the entire collection at the bottom of this page.
Get hands on
Also featured:
- Tollcross Community Connections– creative responses to the archive made by families in Tollcross
- Oral History Highlights– memories captured by people interviewed about their experiences at the King’s
Future themes will include:
Shared Stage: Community Theatre at the King’s
Celebrating the enduring connection between the King’s and its local theatre companies such as Southern Light, the Bohemians, the Edinburgh Gilbert and Sullivan Society, and the Gang Show.
Magic & Mayhem: Pantomime at the King’s Theatre
Step into the sparkle of the King’s panto tradition with stories from the stars, costume sketches, and audience memories.
Top of the Bill: Variety at the King’s
A look back at the music, comedy, circus, and cabaret acts that kept the King’s buzzing with energy.
Made at the King’s: Community Responses to the Archive
Explore creative work inspired by the archive, showcasing local voices interpreting the past in new and imaginative ways.
