Theatrical Postcards, Bonynge, Richard

One of the most absorbing areas of collecting is that of theatrical memorabilia; theatrical postcards in particular provide a visual record of changes in the world of entertainment and they are widely available at realistic prices. Richard Bonynge has built an enormous collection over many years, and is well placed to compile a useful guide for those already in the field, for those who would like to start collecting, and for the many who are fascinated by the theatre and its history. He offers advice on starting a collection, categorizing theatrical postcards, finding them, and estimating their relative values. Over 200 postcards are illustrated, covering theatres in the broadest sense - including ballet, variety, pantomime, opera, circus and cinema; there are performers, playwrights and composers. The book is a portrait gallery of famous faces, not to mention fashions in theatrical dress, with many rare shots. The author's other books include The Joan Sutherland Album and Joan Sutherland Designs for a Prima Donna .