This series of illustrations formed part of the dramatic, visual language that supported the theatrical narrative of the Curtain Up exhibition. We wanted to explore scale and the architectural differences between London and New York and took inspiration from photographing the theatre districts in both cities to capture the dizzying scale and perspectives of billboards, signs and buildings looming above street level. The resulting backdrops placed the visitor in the scene and drew them through the space. The idea of playing with perspective views from the street was also reflected in Northover&Brown’s graphic interpretation.

Curtain Up was a joint collaboration between the V&A and The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center, to celebrate 40 years of the Olivier Awards.