THEATRE
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The State Library of Queensland’s collection includes the many aspects of theatre, encompassing theatrical traditions from all cultures and periods. Coverage embraces production and design, stage lighting and techniques, theatrical make up and costuming, practitioners, plays and musical theatre.
Queensland and Australian titles are a primary focus.
A strong collection of 20th century monographs document the theatrical traditions of both the United States of Amarica and the United Kingdom.
Reference resources
- The encyclopedia of the musical theatre
- The dictionary of performing arts in Australia
- The concise companion to theatre in Australia.
Ephemera
The State Library houses an extensive collection of theatre programs dating back to the 1800s.
Online resources
Search for the following performing via the library catalogue to access full text articles about theatre:
- Performing arts journal
- The journal of arts management and law
- Platform: postgraduate e-journal of theatre and performing arts
- Performing arts & entertainment in Canada
Did you know?
The South Bank cultural precinct was also the cultural hub of Brisbane city in the 1800s, with a variety of venues (mainly open air theatres) entertaining the crowds with both professional and vaudeville acts.
How do I access items in this collection?
Access at the State Library of Queensland
- Find items in the collection via our One Search catalogue .
- Browse Levels 2, 3 and 4 or request items from onsite ‘Closed Access’ storage with your e-services card. If you order Closed Access items via the One Search catalogue ahead of your visit, items should be waiting for you when you arrive. You can order up to 3 days in advance. See delivery times for more information.
- Use our e-collections computers on level 2 to search the library’s catalogue; to search our databases for electronic journal, magazine and newspaper articles and to view images and manuscripts from our collection. These e-collections computers do not need to be booked and have no time limits on their use.
- You can also access our electronic resources via the State Library’s free wireless service if you have a laptop. Check our Info Guide on how to access wireless for details.
Access offsite
- If you are at home, you can access selected offsite databases to search for electronic journal, magazine and newspaper articles. You will be prompted to login with your e-services card or QPL account.
- Some State Library items are available for loan to other libraries. Contact your local library for information about interlibrary loan and copy services.
Search our collections:
Related links
Discover
- Theatre history
- The history of the Australian theatre
- Theatre lighting and design
- Theatrical make-up and costumes
- Plays
External links
Last updated: 22nd December 2011
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