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By permission of the Mitchell Library
Issue Details: First known date: 1905... 1905 The Theatre : An Illustrated Monthly Devoted to the Stage
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AbstractHistoryArchive Description

The Theatre introduced itself simply as a 'Monthly Theatrical Review'. Published in both Sydney and Melbourne, it was 'devoted to the advancement of Theatrical Interests'. Initially, it covered drama, popular and amateur theatre, music, and amusements, as well as authors, playwrights, managers, and stars, with many represented in black-and-white or one-tint photographs, caricatures, and cartoons. It argued strongly for state subsidy of local art and drama, and published stage gossip and sometimes barbed critique. From its fifth issue, it incorporated the earlier stage magazine, The Player.

At the end of 1905, a new editor promised stability and wider coverage, from 'all the other States and Colonies, and in England and America'. It became the key source of information and commentary on developments in both the theatrical and moving picture worlds. Each January issue contained a Resume of the Year. The activities of T.J. West and J.C. Williamson, their pictures and plays and stars, occupied much space well into the 'teens, but lesser players also received due regard: George Rignold, Annette Kellerman, C. Spencer, Apache dancers, Tittell Brune, Snowy Baker, Pathe Pictures, Hugh D. Mcintosh, Beaumont Smith, roller skating, vaudeville, and chorus girls.

In October 1912, the magazine converted into a limited company, but continued with limited change as The Theatre Magazine.

Notes

Publication Details of Only Known VersionEarliest 2 Known Versions of

First known date: 1905

PeriodicalNewspaper Details

Subtitle:
Subtitle varies; Cover subtitle: An Illustrated Theatrical Journal
Frequency:
Monthly for four issues, then fortnightly till November 1905, thereafter monthly.
Range:
Vol. 2, no. 1 (Mar. 1905)-v. 10, no. 10 (Oct. 1912). Vol.1 seems to have comprised one issue of The Theatre. An Illustrated Stage Annual for 1903-4.
Continues:
The Players', from Vol.2, no.5 (1 July 1905)
Continued by:
Size:
22-32pp.
Price:
Three pence
Graphics:
Photographic portraits and stage scenes
Advertising:
Extensive theatrical, domestic, and personal
Note:
Issued also in a Victorian ed. that differs in contents, advertising, and numbering, May 1905 - Jan. 1906.
Last amended 16 Sep 2015 08:28:46
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