Other outstanding Australian collections
Recommended resource
AusStage is a freely accessible database which supports research into live performance in Australia.
The Library holds one of Australia’s largest collections of performing arts materials. These archives document the long and rich history of live performance in Australia, and Australians performing overseas.
The collections are an important record of the work of prominent individuals and organisations that have shaped our performing arts: companies, actors, dancers, singers, directors, choreographers, costume designers, production designers, agents and promoters. They cover a range of performing arts including dance, theatre, musical theatre and opera, circus, illusion and festivals.
Material in the collection includes:
Major collections include the extensive archives of J.C. Williamson Ltd (1874-1976), the dominant theatrical agency in Australia for over a century; the papers of iconic artists including Dame Nellie Melba, designer Kristian Fredrikson, dancer and dance activist Margaret Walker, theatre producer Jim Sharman, and ballet performer Ross Stretton; and the theatre photographs of Don McMurdo.
Find tips for researching the performing arts, specialised resources and collections, answers to frequently asked questions and research case studies.
Information is arranged by genre under the categories of Dance, Music (Performance), Theatre and Variety.
The highlights in this guide represent a sample of our extensive performing arts collection and, by necessity, will omit some persons and performances of significance. If you wish to find out about an artist or subject not featured here, please enquire through Ask a Librarian.
