The Museum of the City of New York’s Collection on Theatrical Broadsides illustrates the history and culture of performance in New York City, the city’s emergence as the theatrical capital of the United States, and the stage as a mirror for reflecting the social mores, economics, and tastes of a nation. Dating from 1785 through the 1890s, these broadsides contain information on the early history of New York City’s stage, how it shaped the cultural narrative of a metropolis, and the manner in which the city both influenced and was influenced by theater across the nation. By listing the productions, performers, theaters, admission costs, and broadside printers, these items provide diverse perspectives on New York City and carry value for anyone interested in New York City’s cultural history.
Preserving Performance Past: Conservation and Digitization of the Museum of the City of New York’s Collection of Theatrical Broadsides has been made possible in part by a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Exploring the human endeavor.