Scope and arrangement
The collection contains microfiche copies of prompt books held by the Victoria and Albert Theatre Museum and the Garrick Club. Included are the prompt books of William Poel, James Hackett, Mrs. Patrick Campbell, The Old Vic and John Philip Kemble.
The Prompt books and actor's copies [microform] / Theatre Museum, V&A, London is arranged in two series:
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This series contains the prompt books of William Poel, James Hackett, Mrs. Patrick Campbell and the Old Vic. William Poel (1852-1934) was an actor and producer. He was manager of the Old Vic for two years and founded the Elizabethan Stage Society which produced the plays of Shakespeare and Elizabethan playwrights in their original style. Financially unsuccessful, it was artistically a great success. The series includes many of his signature productions.
James Henry Hackett (1800-1871) was an American actor-manager. An important influence in the promotion of American dramatists, he encouraged writers by offering prizes for new American plays. Hackett was the first American actor to appear in London and was the manager of the Astor Place Opera House during the Macready riot. The series includes many of his signature Yankee plays including Jonathan in England and Rip Van Winkle.
Mrs. Patrick Campbell (1865-1940) was a reknowned actress of the English stage. The prompt books include almost all of signature roles including Pygmalion which was created for her by George Bernard Shaw.
The Old Vic was famous for its Shakespearean productions and the prompt books in this series includes all the plays of Shakespeare.
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John Philip Kemble (1757-1823) was one of the great English actors of his day. Known for his gentle and philosphical portrayal of many great roles, his style was unparalled. The prompt books in the series include some of his most famous roles including Coriolanus, Cato and Pizarro, in which he played Rollo.