Archives on Show: Music Hall

Our Archives on Show events are a chance for us to show you the wide range of material we hold at The London Archives.

Whether you are new to archives and curious to see what we hold, or you are an experienced researcher that wants to learn more, these relaxed events offer a chance for you to see a selection of original materials on a changing monthly theme.

This month's theme: Music Hall

Music Hall was the dominant form of popular entertainment in London and Middlesex from the 1890s to the 1920s, far removed from its humble beginnings in pub back-rooms. Purpose-built venues sprang up along high streets, offering variety bills of comedy, song, dance, and spectacle to packed houses night after night. Music Hall was truly mass entertainment—accessible, lively, and beloved across class divides—shaping the cultural life of the capital like no other art form of its time.

To complement our display “Spotlight on Music Hall” this event will allow you to explore in more detail the stories of venues, performers and the way they were regulated by London’s authorities.

What to expect:

• Curated display of archival material from our collections - available for you to handle and explore at your own pace.
• Informal atmosphere with staff on hand to answer queries about items on display.
• Spend as long as you like looking at the material within the session time - while it doesn't include a formal talk, members of our team will be on hand to answer questions and to discuss the selection of items.
• Each month we focus on a specific topic, type of record, or theme.

Booking Essential: You can book for a one hour session at 1pm or 2pm.

Please note, this event takes place on-site at The London Archives only.

The London Archives is a free public archive focusing on the history of London, from 1067 to the present day. We preserve and share millions of historical manuscripts, maps, photographs, books which tell the story of London. You can find us in central London in Clerkenwell, nearest station Farringdon. More details on our Getting to The London Archives webpage.