An original silk souvenir from "A Gigantic Matinee, held on Thursday, 9th February 1893, at the Theatre Royal in Newcastle upon Tyne." by kind permission of Mesrs Howard & Wyndham, In aid of the Medical Charities." Silk theatre programmes were premium, highly collectible souvenirs printed on fine silk or satin fabric rather than paper. They were specifically produced to commemorate high-profile theatrical events, such as Royal Command Performances, charity benefits, or grand opening nights. Printed by Andrew Reid, Sons & Co. Newcastle-upon-Tyne. The programme explicitly notes the event happened "by kind permission of Messrs Howard & Wyndham." This refers to the legendary theatrical partnership between John B. Howard and Frederick W. P. Wyndham. Because they were expensive to produce, silk programmes were typically reserved for the wealthiest patrons sitting in the premium boxes or stalls.
