Poster, bill

In the early 19th century many new theatres and travelling shows opened in London to cater for the capital’s growing population and their tireless appetite for entertainment. Shows competed to attract audiences, vying with each other to offer evermore exotic, extravagant and spectacular entertainments.

Playbills played a central part in advertising shows and attracting audiences. Technical developments in the printing industry brought new typefaces which were seized upon to create bold and eye-catching bills. The promised attractions were described in great detail and often illustrated with wood-block engravings. Two or more colours were used if a theatre’s resources allowed.

Performances by wild and exotic animals and trained horses were especially popular. This poster advertises a procession and show at Hammersmith by Hughes's 'Mammoth Zoological and Equestrian Establishment'. The show travelled around the country, moving on to a new area each day. According to The Times newspaper of 18 October 1847 it played at Paddington on 18 October, followed by Hampstead, Kentish Town, Islington, Hackney and finally Stepney on the 23rd.