ANGUS MCBEAN

Dorothy Dickson (Detail) – Angus McBean
Vintage National Portrait Gallery 2006 Poster

Vintage National Portrait Gallery 2006 Poster

Country: UK
Date: 2006
Size: approx. 28 × 19.5 inches
Format: Unframed vintage exhibition poster

Description

This is an original National Portrait Gallery exhibition poster featuring Dorothy Dickson as photographed by Angus McBean. Produced in 2006 for the NPG’s celebrated display of McBean’s work, this poster is now increasingly hard to find. The image captures McBean’s signature theatrical style — dramatic lighting, surreal composition, and highly stylised portraiture.

Angus McBean (1904–1990) was one of Britain’s most important theatrical and portrait photographers. His work blended surrealism with an unmistakable stage-influenced visual language. McBean photographed major cultural figures including Audrey Hepburn, Vivien Leigh, Laurence Olivier, and Noël Coward, and his portraits remain iconic within both photography and theatrical history.

Dorothy Dickson (1893–1995) was a celebrated American-born British actress and musical theatre star. She was known for her elegance, expressive presence, and leading roles in early 20th‑century stage productions such as Funny Face and Show Boat. McBean photographed her on multiple occasions, capturing the poise and charisma that made her a favourite of the London stage.

These National Portrait Gallery posters were printed in controlled quantities for the 2006 exhibition and were not widely distributed. As a result, surviving examples are desirable among collectors of theatrical memorabilia, photography, and McBean’s distinctive visual work. Suitable for framing and ideal for lovers of 20th‑century portraiture.

Edition: National Portrait Gallery (NPG) 2006 poster

About Angus McBean

Angus McBean (1904–1990) was a celebrated British photographer best known for his highly stylised, surrealist portraiture. His work blended technical mastery with theatrical flair, often incorporating intricate staging, bold contrasts, and imaginative compositions. McBean photographed some of the most iconic performers of the 20th century, including Audrey Hepburn, Vivien Leigh, and Noël Coward. His images remain timeless for their elegance, eccentricity, and unique artistic vision.

This poster reflects McBean's signature blend of dramatic lighting, surreal composition, and his deep connection to the world of performance and theatre.

About Dorothy Dickson

Dorothy Dickson (1893–1995) was an American-born British actress, singer, and stage star of the early to mid-20th century. She gained fame for her performances in musical theatre, notably in productions such as Funny Face and Show Boat. Dickson was admired not only for her talent but also for her elegance and charisma, making her a favourite subject for portrait photographers.

Her collaboration with Angus McBean produced some of the most striking theatrical portraits of the era. McBean captured her poise and expressive presence beautifully, contributing to her lasting legacy in both theatre and photography history.

Why This Poster Is Collectible

• Represents the work of one of Britain’s most influential portrait photographers
• Features a prominent theatre figure from the golden age of stage performance
• Produced by the National Portrait Gallery as part of their celebrated exhibitions
• Increasingly difficult to find, especially in good condition

This poster is ideal for collectors of vintage theatre memorabilia, photography enthusiasts, and admirers of Angus McBean's remarkable artistic legacy.

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