Our Collections

J.C. Williamson’s 1909 Diary

This 1909 diary of J.C. Williamson provides a rare firsthand insight into the international networks that shaped Australian theatre in the early twentieth century. Recognised on the UNESCO Australian Memory of the World Register, it is one of the Foundation’s most significant archival treasures.

Marionette Theatre of Australia Collection

For more than two decades, the Marionette Theatre of Australia captivated audiences across Australia and overseas with its innovative puppet productions. Today, the S,B&W Foundation Archives cares for an extensive collection of puppets, photographs, programs, posters, audiovisual material and company records.

Allan Lees Collection

Explore Allan Lees’ remarkable collection of set boxes—scale models used to design theatre sets before they were built for the stage. These set boxes offer fascinating insight into the creative process behind theatre, opera, and ballet productions.

Griffin Theatre Company Archives

The Griffin Theatre Company Archives document three decades of one of Australia’s leading companies devoted to new Australian writing, preserving the creative and administrative history of productions staged at the Stables Theatre from 1979 to 2009.

John West Collection

Broadcaster, theatre historian, and collector John West documented nearly four decades of Australian theatre through his radio programs, research, and remarkable personal collection.

Sydney Irving Papers

From historic theatre photographs to salary books and administrative records, the Sydney Irving Papers reveal the day-to-day operation of J.C. Williamson Ltd. – “The Firm” that dominated Australian theatre for much of the twentieth century.