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Theatrical Mementoes at Smallhythe Place

The Beetlewing dress at Smallhythe Place
The Beetlewing dress at Smallhythe Place | © National Trust Images/Cassie Dickson

From scripts and costumes to props, discover what theatrical treasures you can see at Smallhythe Place.

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.

Costumes

Smallhythe is home to the largest Portfolio of costumes from Ellen Terry's lengthy career.

Ellen often had a hand in designing the costumes she wore on stage, ensuring that they were made with the utmost care and that they also embodied each character she played.

Due to frality and age, most of these costumes are kept in carefully regulated conditions that control light, temperature and humidity, but textiles are notoriously susceptible to pests. However, we currently have several pieces of her costumes on display including the newly conserved Banqueting Dress from the 1888 Lyceum production of 'Macbeth'.

The sumptuous dress Ellen wore as Beatrice in the 1882 production of 'Much Ado About Nothing' was recently taken off display to rest, but why not have a closer look at the costume with this interactive 3D model below:

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.

Ellen Terry's notes on a script for Henry Irving's 1888 production of Macbeth performed at the Lyceum Theatre
Ellen Terry's notes on a script for Henry Irving's 1888 production of Macbeth performed at the Lyceum Theatre | © National Trust Images/David Levenson

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.

Henry Irving's props and death mask in the Lyceum Room at Smallhythe Place
Henry Irving's props and death mask in the Lyceum Room at Smallhythe Place | © National Trust Images/James Dobson

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.

Portraits of Ellen Terry throughout her career at Smallhythe Place
Portraits of Ellen Terry throughout her career at Smallhythe Place | © National Trust Images/Cassie Dickson