University of Bristol, Theatre Collections

The Theatre Collection’s stores and strong rooms are not usually open to the public, so this is a rare opportunity to explore behind the scenes.

Throughout the tours, experts will be on hand to answer questions and share additional insights.

What the tour will include:
• Archival treasures on display: Featuring materials dating from the 17th century to the present, including prompt scripts, playbills, posters, set models, costume designs, and even rare artefacts like Bristol Old Vic silver tokens.
• Expert-led insights: Dedicated archivists and specialists will be on hand throughout the tour to field questions and share captivating stories, from stagecraft and costume creation to live art and theatre history.
• Interactive displays and collections: Expect to come close to objects and archives such as prompt books, costume bibles, set models and designs, hear real anecdotes that bring the archives to life, and see how we are digitally preserving our audio-visual heritage

Timings & Tours

Saturday 20 September:

Tours will take place at 10 am, 11 am, 12 pm, 2 pm and 3 pm

Location & directions

Vandyck Building, 21 Park Row, Bristol , Bristol, BS1  5LT

Directions:

When you arrive please ring the buzzer to the right of the front door to be let in. For help finding the venue, you can view the precise location on the University's interactive campus map via: https://link.mazemap.com/IGAjH2Nd

Telephone number:

+441173315045

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

If you book a place but later find you’re unable to attend, please cancel your booking as soon as possible. We have a waiting list in place and would like to offer any available spots to others who are keen to join. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Booking website:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/heritage-open-day-theatre-collections-tours-tickets-1526562362119?aff=oddtdtcreator

Booking opens:

14 Aug 2025 12:00 AM

Booking closes:

19 Sep 2025 12:00 AM

Accessibility details

This site is not normally open to the public. There are accessible toilets on-site, however access to the Strong Room is limited, and some areas include narrow corridors which are not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. We apologise for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

Additional information

If you have any questions about access or would like to discuss your specific requirements, please contact us in advance, so that we can best support your visit.

Max no of people per tour:

8

Est. tour duration:

0 hour(s) 45 minute(s)

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