Thalian Hall Art & Archive Collection

The Thalian Hall Archives is the most comprehensive theatre archives focusing on Wilmington and eastern North Carolina. The collection provides a unique opportunity to interpret the importance of theatre in the context of Wilmington’s economic and social history. The collection includes architectural drawings and documents, playbills, photographs,  biographies of significant performers and figures, and much more going back to the conception of Thalian Hall. Like our one-of-a-kind curtain, the Thunder Roll, and our theater itself, its many historical artifacts must be maintained for future generations. 

Additionally, Thalian Hall maintains a large collection of art related to the history of Thalian Hall, theatre, and the Cape Fear region including works from noted artists related to Wilmington. These pieces serve to illustrate the story of Thalian Hall.

While paying tribute to our past, we never lose sight of the future. We are in the process of digitizing the entire collection to launch a searchable archive to ensure that the rich history of Thalian Hall and the performing arts community of Wilmington is available to all.