Capital Theatres unveils King’s Theatre Heritage Project, celebrating Edinburgh’s theatre history
Capital Theatres has today launched the King’s Theatre Heritage Project, a new initiative dedicated to celebrating the rich history of Edinburgh’s theatre community.
At the heart of the project is The People’s Archive, a comprehensive digital platform offering access to digitised programmes, photographs, playbills, press articles and oral histories, shared by members of the community and those who have enjoyed performing and working at the King’s . With over 2,700 items, this searchable catalogue will enable users to immerse themselves in the history of the King’s Theatre through diverse research projects, ranging from genealogy articles to model boxes and costume design.
While the complete archive will launch in spring 2025, Capital Theatres has released a taster of what people can expect. Inspired by a newspaper article from 1937, a mini online exhibition tells the story of Bethia Cassie a cleaner at the King’s Theatre in 1917 who eventually became a lighting technician – a very unusual job for a woman at that time. Heritage Project volunteers used census records, archive photographs and interviews with Bethia’s descendants to uncover her story, the first of many which will be told as part of The People’s Archive.
Complementing the archive is a series of Heritage Talks which invite audiences to explore the rich history, heritage, and storytelling behind theatre productions, both on and off the stage. Supported by Historic Environment Scotland and The National Lottery Heritage Fund, The People’s Archive and Heritage Talks are part of Capital Theatres’ ongoing commitment to preserve and promote Edinburgh’s theatre heritage for future generations.
Three talks per season will be held on select Wednesdays at 5:30pm in the Event Rooms at Festival Theatre, ahead of evening performances. The Heritage Talks feature expert guest speakers and provide a unique opportunity for audience members to engage directly with professionals in the field of theatre heritage, history, and production.
Heritage Talks Programme:
- 11 December 2024: Abby Pendlebury and Capital Theatres archive contributors delve into the magical history of Cinderella at the King’s Theatre, offering exclusive insights into pantomime traditions past and present.
- 5 February 2025: Dr Sian Barber from Queen’s University Belfast discusses the transition from film to theatre, censorship, and British film history behind Mary Poppins.
- 12 March 2025: Ruth McKay, Chair of Capital Theatres Youth Advisory Board, highlights the archives of the King’s Theatre with a talk on community theatre, focusing on a discussion of Show Boat through the ages.
- 9 April 2025: King’s Theatre staff lead a special Q&A on the conservation of the King’s Theatre, giving a behind-the-scenes look at this historic project.
A taster of the People’s Archive can be viewed here: https://www.capitaltheatres.com/kings-future/kings-stories/peoples-archive-kings-profiles
Tickets for each talk comprise of a £2 donation to Capital Theatres. For more information and to book tickets, visit www.capitaltheatres.com or contact the Festival Theatre Box Office on 0131 529 6000.