The Derek Smee Collection

Scope and Content

Collection of material documenting the work of English actor Derek Smee.

The collection, which has been built up over time, includes scripts, notes, programmes, contracts, correspondence and photographs relating to individual projects and productions. Smee contributed to theatre productions such as The Magistrate, Bussy D’Ambois, She Stoops to Conquer and Peter Pan.

Administrative / Biographical History

Smee documented his work in the theatre over 49 years and saved many of his scripts still with his original notes. He also kept labelled photographs from several productions and collected legal documentation such as his contracts and publications from Equity.

Access Information

This archive collection is available for consultation in the V&A Blythe House Archive and Library Study Room by appointment only. Full details of access arrangements may be found here: http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/articles/a/archives/.

Access to some of the material may be restricted. These are noted in the catalogue where relevant.

Acquisition Information

Gift of the Rutter family in memory of Derek Smee, 2014.

Conditions Governing Use

Information on copying and commercial reproduction may be found here: http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/articles/a/archives/.

Appraisal Information

This collection was appraised in line with the collection management policy.

Accruals

No further accruals are expected.

Related Material

See also the core collections of the V&A Department of Theatre and Performance. Material relating to Derek Smee may be found in several collections, including the biographical, productions, company and photographs files.

Please ask for details.