Theatrical Mementoes at Smallhythe Place
From scripts and costumes to props, discover what theatrical treasures you can see at Smallhythe Place.
Installing our new exhibition
Please note that our costume room is currently closed for installation of a new exhibition on the 1888 production of Macbeth which will feature Ellen Terry's Banqueting Dress, freshly conserved by The National Trust's Textile Conservation Studio.
At heart, Smallhythe Place is a theatre museum, a place dedicated to preserving the legacy of its former owner Dame Ellen Terry.
The house has been carefully curated to balance the theatrical dynasty of Ellen Terry and her associates with the domestic bliss she found in this countryside retreat.
An extensive collection of scripts, photographs, illustrations, costumes and more set the scene for visitors to discover the prowess of Ellen Terry.
Read below to find out what there is to see at Smallhythe Place.
Scripts and props
There are many fascinating texts at Smallhythe Place. A lot of Ellen Terry's scripts have survived, complete with her handwritten notes sprawled across the pages.
These texts are not only significant theatrical relics, but they also provide modern day audiences a glimpse into Ellen Terry's mind. By studying her notes, we begin to understand her innovative approaches to her roles.
Other noteable props on display include daggers, textile fabrics from costumes and shoes.
Henry Irving
Henry Irving was a celebrated actor, director and long-time colleague of Ellen Terry. He directed and starrred opposite Ellen in many productions at the Lyceum Theatre, of which he was also the theatre manager.
The aptly named Lyceum Room at Smallhythe is full of mementoes from past productions at the theatre including prop swords, scripts and costume accessories. Some visitors may be able to spot Henry Irving's death mask that hangs on the wall too.
Paintings
Ellen Terry was no stranger to having her likeness captured on canvas. Paintings depicting her both on and off the stage are displayed throughout the house at Smallhythe Place. Some commemorate her greatest roles such as Lady Macbeth, while others portray a more vulnerable side to the actress.
Clare 'Tony' Atwood
Clare Atwood was a talented painter who resided here with her partners Chris St John and Edith Craig (Ellen Terry's daughter) and who often portrayed scenes of life at Smallhythe Place in her work.
Atwood studied at the prestigious Westminster School of Art and the Slade School of Fine Art. During the First World War, she was commissioned by the Women's Work Sub-committee of the Imperial War Museum to produce several pieces depicting the activities of the Women's Voluntary Service.
Today, her artwork is held in collections around the world, including the Tate, the V&A and at Smallhythe Place.
Embroidered cushion
This delicate and beautiful hand-embroidered cushion is on display in Ellen Terry's bedroom after a period of conservation by Zenzie Tinker Conservation.
The ownership of the design element is still somewhat of a mystery to our experts. It is theorised that artist Pamela Coleman Smith, friend to Ellen Terry, may have worked on the embroidery, or that it was Ellen herself who worked on the embroidery based on Coleman Smith's design.
