Page from Theatre Digs Visitors' Book , 1943 / 1944

Page from Theatre Digs Visitors' Book , 1943 / 1944

1943 / 1944

This is a page from the Vistors' Book kept by Mr and Mrs Waplington in their lodgings at 5 Dryden Street, Nottingham.

From the 1930s Mr and Mrs Waplington ran a theatre lodgings at No. 5 Dryden Street Nottingham for many of the performers who played at the Theatre Royal Nottingham. Here is a page of the book, which contains entries written by performers who visited the Theatre Royal during the Second World War. With a warm welcome, a generous meal and a good night’s sleep these quotes highlight how important it is for the theatrical landlady to provide a real home from home for the busy touring actor.

The entries here read as follows:
Verso:

To Mr & Mrs Woplington very many
thanks for a comfortable though short
stay Sincerely Yrs
Digby Marriott
Rep Theatre
14.11.43



Very many thanks indeed for a most happy
And comfortable stay. Here’s to
the next time!
Ruth and Haydn Davies
19 March 1944

“Hit the Deck” Co May 21st 1944
Thank you Mr & Mrs Waplington
for a most happy fortnight during our
stay with you. We are loath to leave
Mr & Mrs A Adams


Many thanks. Most comfortable – always
pleased to return
J Bradley
Publicity Manager
[Mr] James Shirvell

Recto:

If all landladies were like you
touring would be a real pleasure
Many, many thanks for a really
lovely week. Looking forward to a
speedy return!
Mara and Dolores Prado
International Ballet
June 25th 1944


“Arsenic & Old Lace” Co
Theatre Royal
July 3rd 1944

Very many thanks for
a most comfortable & happy
week.
Sincerely

David Banner

Manuscript book

Theatre Royal and Royal Concert Hall

Researcher: Kelly Hart

Transcribers: David Chilton and Charlotte White