Window cards are of interest to collectors of memorabilia of certain plays, particular actors or directors, or from performances in certain theaters. As with posters, playbills, and programs, window cards from opening and closing nights are worth more than performances in between. Autographs can enhance their value.
Souvenir programs are only of noticeable value if principals in the play or musical have autographed them, or if the program is from the opening or closing performance. Even then, programs must be in mint condition, so care should be taken to preserve them from damage and deterioration.
Collectors desire scripts and songbooks from popular plays and musicals. The most coveted items are those that have notes and revisions written in them. Songbooks and musical scores with notations are difficult to come by, and so their value is increased. If the script or songbook can be attributed to a particular performer, that is even better.
Collectors of theatrical events seek props and wardrobe items as long as the items have historical significance. The play or musical must be important to the development of theater in some way – first or last performance of a long-running play, used or worn by an understudy who went on to greater fame in starring roles, or the item has achieved iconic status (Tevye’s prayer shawl). Because props and wardrobe are items that get used on stage, condition is not much of a factor in determining their value.
Posters, like other printed promotional material, has value to collectors if the play or the actors or production staff are famous. The poster must be in pristine condition, and original. Reproductions and posters released for revivals have diminished value. Autographed posters can generate excitement under the right combination of conditions.
Playbills from opening and closing nights of important plays have an audience. The condition of the item is important, so care should be taken to preserve it. In addition, autographed playbills, especially if the signers are famous actors or directors from the play itself, are considered highly valuable and are pursued by collectors.