JOSEPHINE BAKER IN LONDON: Prince Edward Theatre, London, Refreshment Account Book 1930 - 1935 [Prince Edward Theatre] Ephemera

Front of House manuscript account book for the Prince Edward Theatre covering the extraordinary month when it hosted the American-born, French dancer, singer and entertainer Josephine Baker in October 1933. This printed book which is accomplished in manuscript covers the period from the theatre's grand opening in April 1930 until the closure of its doors in February 1935 with weekly summaries of receipts, expenditure and net profits which commenced on April 5th 1930 during the first performance of the musical Rio Rita. Entries continued weekly until February 14th 1931 after which more sporadic entries eventually ceased in February 1935. The striking thing is the revival in the theatre's fortunes during the month-long residency of 'Josephine Baker's Revue' with four pages covering October 1933 which record the weekly receipts for sales of Josephine Baker programmes, cloakrooms, music, opera glasses and advertisements. It is noticeable that during her final week at the theatre the receipts were about fifty times that of the 'Pictures' that followed. Expenditure costs comprise those due to depreciation, renewals, stock, programmes, wages, cost of music and petty cash. Names of weekly performances are noted throughout. One of the first internationally recognised African American entertainers Josephine Baker (1906-1975) performed with the Folies Bergeres, aided the French Resistance and adopted 12 children. In 2021 she was inducted into the Pantheon. Her spell at the Prince Edward Theatre in 1933 were much her longest run or performances in London. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Purpose made account book ruled and printed for use in theatres. In very good condition. Pale cream cloth boards titled 'Prince Edward Theatre from w/c 5th April 1930' to front. 'PET' penned to spine. Approximately 3/4, about 150 leaves have been dated and completed by hand. The remainder are left blank. Binding very sound. Measures 21 cm x 15 cm. Please contact Christian White Rare Books Ltd for more information or images of this item