The Adelaide Repertory Theatre Company (the Rep) holds a significant place in Australia’s cultural history. As the oldest repertory company in the nation and the longest surviving amateur theatre company in the southern hemisphere, the Rep has been entertaining audiences since 1908.

Over its 117-year history, the company has grown into a thriving theatre community – owning its own venue and featuring talented actors, directors, and technicians. Many of its alumni have gone on to enjoy professional careers, while audiences have delighted in performances staged in some of Adelaide’s most iconic theatres.

Like many other amateur organisations, the Rep is also supported by volunteers. 

Alongside its performance history, the Rep has accumulated an extensive collection of memorabilia, including photographs, posters, programs, scripts, and meeting minutes. Managed by a dedicated volunteer sub-committee, the collection represents more than a century of theatre history.

Thanks to a Community Heritage Grant, the Rep is now looking forward to working with an experienced museum consultant to develop the collection.

This project will help the Rep understand the stories and narratives behind the collection, develop supporting policies for its management, and identify training opportunities for volunteers. It will also explore improved storage and display solutions to minimise environmental risks to these valuable but often fragile items.

Learn more about Community Heritage Grants and how they support community organisations who care for nationally significant collections.