Collection history:

In 1996 the National Theatre Archives was initiated by The Abbey Theatre. A full time archivist was appointed to carry out the core functions of acquisition, preservation and provision of access to the archival material held by the institution. Previous to this initiative archival material had been placed on loan at the National Library of Ireland during the 1970s. This material can currently be accessed at the National Library. It is classified as the Abbey Theatre Papers and comprises of a large collection of scripts and prompt scripts, scrapbooks (1905 - 1971), photographic collection, correspondence and other related material. In the 1980s the minute books of the company were added as an additional loan but this collection remains closed to researchers. The Abbey Theatre fire of 1951 resulted in the destruction of much archival material. However, it became apparent in 1996 that a substantial amount had survived. Since then the archivist has been tackling the backlog of unlisted material, actively seeking donations to augment the collection and carrying out outreach activities including lectures, talks, recording oral histories, mounting exhibitions and developing educational resource packs. In 1999 the National Theatre Archives collaborated with the National Library of Ireland in the curating of Brian Friel: A Celebration, an exhibition of archival material relating to the life and career of Brian Friel. At present the Archivist is developing a database of all Abbey Theatre productions. When complete it will form part of a comprehensive archive website.

Development:

The developmental priorities for the National Theatre Archives include: the identification and acquisition of all archival material belonging to or of significance for the institution. the protection and preservation of archival material by means of appropriate storage conditions, planned conservation programmes and security microfilming to ensure its continued survival. The promotion of access to and awareness of that material by means of descriptive lists, indexes and other finding aids. ongoing implementation of a Records Management and Accession Programme to ensure that important and appropriate records routinely make their way into secure archival storage. participation in the celebration of the Abbey Theatre's centenary in 2004.

Nature and scope of holdings:

The National Theatre Archives comprises a substantial collection relating to the theatrical, literary, historical, administrative, legal, financial and educational activities of the Abbey Theatre. The collection houses production information from 1904 to present day including original programmes (1904 - ), posters, handbills, production photographs, scripts, prompt scripts, press cuttings files (1976 - 2001), stage management records, music scores, reference books, correspondence, financial records, model boxes, plans and drawings, administrative records and videos of productions. At present there are 5 rooms of records on- site and over 500 boxes of material stored off-site. A substantial portion of the pre 1951 records are fire- and water-damaged and as a consequence access to these items is restricted.

Strengths:

The documentary heritage held in the National Theatre Archives constitutes a vital resource for the institution itself and a rich vein of primary source material for all those interested in Irish literary and theatrical history. The strengths of the collection lie in the documentation of productions in both the Abbey and Peacock theatres especially from the 1970s onwards.

Using the National Theatre Archives:

The National Theatre Archives is located at the Abbey Theatre via the Stage Door on Abbey Street. Researchers with an interest in the Abbey Theatre's history are welcome. However, access is granted strictly by prior appointment with the Archivist. Conditions of access apply and are at the discretion of the archivist. As a large portion of the collection is held off-site the archivist will require advance notice of the researcher's needs. The National Theatre Archives is not a lending institution and all material must be consulted under supervision on the premises. In some circumstances restrictions controlling the use of material will be enforced on conservation and security grounds. Photocopying or reproduction of material is subject to copyright restrictions and the preservation needs of the item in question. Such reproduction is at the discretion of the archivist. Material from the National Theatre Archives cannot be reproduced without the prior written consent of the National Theatre Society Limi ted and the user is obliged to have cleared copyright. Although the archivist is happy to help with any enquiry concerning the history of the Abbey Theatre it is not possible for the archive service to undertake extensive research. Researchers with detailed research enquiries are encouraged to visit in person. Original copies of posters or programmes cannot be supplied by the Archives.