Gainsborough & the Theatre: Inspired by the Stage
Fri, Mar 27
|Foundling Museum & Online
In the 18th century people flocked to the stage to see plays, ballet and opera. But beyond the music there was another world. In this talk, Matthew will look at the entwined histories of Gainsborough’s portrait painting and the theatre in the 18th century.
Time & Location
Mar 27, 2026, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Foundling Museum & Online, 40 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AZ, UK
About the Event
Please note this event is organised in partnership with the Foundling Museum. You will be redirected to their website for booking.
Dive into the beauty and bawdiness of the 18th-century theatre, as seen through the eyes of artist Thomas Gainsborough.
In the 18th century people flocked to the stage to see plays, ballet and opera. But beyond the music there was another world. Theatres were notorious as places of ill-repute, where fights were common and actresses and dancers were commonly believed to be of questionable respectability. Nevertheless, the stage provided inspiration for many artists, none more so than Thomas Gainsborough. In this talk, Dr Matthew Morgan will look at the entwined histories of Gainsborough’s portrait painting and the theatre in the 18th century.
The talk will serve as an introduction to the topic, and no prior knowledge is necessary to join us. Attend live at the Museum or stream online…