A new exhibition opened yesterday offering theatre fans a new insight into the theatrical world of the 18th century. Behind The Scenes: The Hidden Life Of Georgian Theatre 1737-1784 is held at the house of Samuel Johnson, playwright and creator of the first comprehensive English Dictionary. Among the exhibits on display are David Garrick's powder puff and dressing room mirror, and Johnson's contract for his 1765 edition of Shakespeare's plays, along with tickets, playbills and memorabilia.
Behind The Scenes, which runs until 18 September, aims, as its name suggests, to illuminate Georgian theatre's most intimate, notorious and hidden spaces; taking patrons into areas such as the Green Room and dressing rooms. More specifically it explores the lives of Johnson and Garrick, two of the London theatre world's most influential characters.
For more information about the collection, which also includes miniatures, prints and paintings, visit www.drjohnsonshouse.org
MA