John J. Ricketts further papers

MLMSS 11889

fonds

1884-1940

9670403

0.16 metres of textual and graphic material (1 box)

John J. (Jack) Ricketts was a scenic artist who worked, from his apprenticeship at the age of 16 in 1881, for at least 5 decades in 20th century Sydney, including at the Tivoli, Hippodrome, Lyceum, Criterium and Palace theatres. He was described as ‘exceedingly popular in the profession and much thought of by the outside public.’1 Ricketts became scenic artist for theatrical entrepreneur William Anderson’s dramatic company and went on to manage Anderson’s Wonderland City at Tamarama, the largest open air amusement park in the southern hemisphere. In his later years, Ricketts corresponded through Australian newspapers about the state of the theatre in Australia, based on his lived experiences.
Reference: Library correspondence file

Leann Richards purchased Jack Rickett’s papers, including the diaries, in 2008 from Len Hend who was married to a descendant of Jack Ricketts.

John J. (Jack) Ricketts further papers, 1884-1940, mainly pocket diaries and bank books, 1900-1940.

25 pocket diaries and date books (1900-1940) containing Rickett’s work tasks, appointments and payments as well as the additional information included in the diaries by the printing companies, postal and rail services, first aid, public halls and provincial populations, new release products, and industry news. Diaries are printed by Collins, JJ Miller Printing Company, H Pole and Co, Woods Australian Diary and Australasian Films Ltd.

4 lined notebooks containing minimal notes and sketches.

7 bank books (1884,1901,1908,1909,1916,1923,1928-29) belonging to John Joseph and Ellen Catherine Ricketts, showing transactions but also containing additional information about banking rules and regulations, account charges, guidance for depositors and bank opening hours.

2 bank books (1903-1906,1911) belonging to William Anderson, for whom Ricketts managed Wonderland City, showing breakdown of theatre costs.

Cheque book stub from Criterion and Palace Theatres Sydney (1911) including payees and costs

Indenture document between William Anderson and Showman’s Association of Australasia to work the Wonderland City site

‘Theatrical Certificate’ ticket book providing concession on railway travel to performers filling engagements between Melbourne and Sydney. Recipients include actor Robert Inman and scenic artist John Brunton.

​The diaries have detailed notes about who Ricketts worked for, what he was paid and what his expenses were. They document his work activities such as painting, building and attending rehearsals and some include sketches or scene measurements. Diaries also include personal memoranda about, for example, being x-rayed at Sydney Hospital, the deaths of family members and the burial of Queen Victoria. Combined, the diaries and letters form a unique portrait of a working scenic designer in Australia in the early 20th century and would enhance the Library’s historic performing arts collection.