This book was commissioned by The Theatres Trust, the body charged by Acts of Parliament with 'the better protection of theatres'. After decades of destruction, theatres are now recognised as significant records of the societies that produced them and valuable cultural resources for the prsent day. This book outlines the history of theatres and music halls from the late sixteenth century to the present time, noting changing fashions in entertainment and evolving official attitudes to safety that have, at various times, influenced the architectural character of the buildings. Particular attention is given to the thirty-five years before the First World War, when music hall and variety entertainment developed rapidly, accompanied by a masive surge in theatre building. The account is enlivened with illustrations of theatres, their architects and their audiences.

About the Author
John Earl worked for thirty years in the London County Council and Greater London Council on the investigation and care of historic buildings of all kinds and periods, during which time he pursued a personal specialisation in the history of the music hall and the architecture of entertainments. From 1986 to 1995 he was Director of the Theatres Trust. He is now a freelance consultant and has prepared conservation plans for a number of nationally important historic theatres.


Book Information
ISBN 9780747806271
Author John Earl
Format Paperback
Page Count 64
Imprint Shire Publications
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Weight(grams) 162g