The Knowledge Quarter is delighted to invite staff and friends from Knowledge Quarter organisations to the next in our series of private tours and views. It will be on this occasion hosted at the London Metropolitan Archives. You are invited to an exclusive morning curator tour of the Archive’s new exhibit Life on the London Stage.

Life on the London Stage is a new exhibition at London Metropolitan Archives which uncovers the lives of some of the actors and actresses recorded in our archives, capturing both professional and personal details that provide a glimpse of the challenges and joys of theatrical life since the days of Elizabeth I.

Drawing on a wide variety of photographs, prints and documents, we have brought together a collection of stories which illustrate different aspects of the lives of London’s performers, from those who achieved great success to those who endured poverty and hardship.

Documents recording the life of Edmund Shakespeare, William’s forgotten brother, appear together for the first time presenting the seemingly tragic story of the young actor who followed his older brother to London.

Ledgers and letters document the lives of some of London’s most celebrated stars, including Kenneth Williams, Dame Ellen Terry and Eliza (Madam) Vestris. The houses associated with Nell Gwyn, surely one of London’s greatest rags to riches stories, are presented alongside Sir Laurence Olivier’s bespoke orders from one of the capital’s most prestigious boot makers.

Please Note, there are only 15 places for this event. Please only register if you are confident you will be able to attend on the day.

Registration: Please click here to book your place.