The Ideological Concept of the Monograph “Theatrical and Dramatic Collections of the World”

Abstract

This monograph presents the first comprehensive study of museums and private collections of theatrical and dramatic profile. Addressing the origins of the creation and the process of formation of collections, the author focuses on the peculiarities of works and objects displayed in the exhibitions and stored in the collections of theatre museums of the world. The author devotes attention to the most interesting and significant collections of different countries. The presented rarities range from the rarest, unique things and works of art acquired in the time of the creation of the museum funds to the monuments of theatrical culture coming to museums these days. The author considers the specifics of theatrical collections, classifying them by type: theatre museums, museums in theatres, private theatrical collections, and dramatic museums. The majestic and chamber architecture of the museums located in the central squares and old streets of the cities leads the readers to the museum halls, where they can get acquainted with the theatrical heritage, touch the expressive and picturesque nature of the theatre language reflected in documentary photos, portraits, sketches of costumes and scenery, personal belongings of artists, written sources, and other materials. The monograph is written in the genre of review with extensive use of illustrative and reference tools, providing analytical conclusions for each chapter. The study is based on the use of art materials, archival documents in private collections, domestic and foreign museums, as well as catalogues of various collections and exhibitions.