Festival Ballet Bradford Programme Anton Dolin Era Vintage 1950s Ballet Souvenir

This original London’s Festival Ballet Souvenir Programme was produced for the company’s one‑week engagement at the Gaumont Theatre, Bradford, commencing Monday 12th May during the mid‑1950s touring seasons. Presented under the artistic direction of Anton Dolin, the programme features a distinguished cast including Natalie Krassovska, Sonia Arova, Belinda Wright, John Gilpin, Oleg Briansky and many more — a superb line‑up from the company’s golden era.

Printed as a single folded sheet (4 pages including front and back cover), this is a classic example of mid‑century theatre ephemera: elegant typography, bold red design, and concise production details. The cover includes an ink amendment to the printed telephone number, a typical period correction often found on working theatre publicity of the time.

A wonderful collectable for ballet enthusiasts, Yorkshire theatre historians, and anyone who appreciates the early touring years of London’s Festival Ballet before its evolution into the English National Ballet.

Festival Ballet on Tour — Bringing Ballet to Britain’s Regions

During the 1950s, London’s Festival Ballet became one of the UK’s most important touring companies, taking high‑quality ballet to audiences far beyond London’s West End. The Gaumont Theatre, Bradford, was a key northern venue, hosting major productions and star performers throughout the decade.

Under Anton Dolin’s artistic leadership, the company developed a strong national presence, and provincial programmes like this are now prized for their connection to a formative period in British ballet. The cast list reads like a who’s who of mid‑century dance, and the simple 4‑page format reflects the practical, affordable style of touring publicity.

This Bradford edition is a charming survivor from a vibrant era of regional theatre and British ballet history.