Iconic Old Vic performances depicted on stamps to mark the theatre's 200th anniversary

A set of eight stamps depicting iconic performances in the Old Vic’s history have been issued to celebrate the theatre’s 200th anniversary.

The stamps show Richard Burton’s Henry V (1955), Romeo and Juliet starring John Stride and Judi Dench (1960), Laurence Olivier in The Dance of Death (1967), Hedda Gabler with Maggie Smith (1970), Ralph Richardson and John Gielgud in No Man’s Land (1975), Albert Finney’s Hamlet (1975), Sharon Benson in Carmen Jones (1991) and King Lear starring Glenda Jackson (2016).

The Old Vic stage has played host to the country’s most renowned actors and those from farther afield in its long history.

Originally called the Royal Coburg, the Old Vic was opened in May 1818. In the sixties, it ran under the artistic direction of Laurence Olivier.

It is currently under the wing of Matthew Warchus, who said at the 200th anniversary celebrations in May: “One of the things we tried to do when we took over was make sure the theatre was inviting, not intimidating, and provided access for all. I think we’re on track.”