£6.99
Two authentic wartime theatre programme replicas from the Palace Theatre and Liverpool Empire. Ideal for LARP, home front displays, or classroom theatre props.
This charming pair of replica theatre programmes transports one straight into the heart of wartime Britain’s treasured cultural pastimes. Lovingly reproduced from original 1940s materials, this set includes programmes from two of the country’s most notable venues: the Liverpool Empire and the Palace Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, London. Together, they serve not merely as keepsakes, but as rich emblems of the morale-boosting power of theatre during the most trying years of the twentieth century.
The Liverpool Empire programme, dated Monday 10th August 1942, captures the jovial spirit and creative expression of wartime entertainment. The cover is emblazoned with a delightful image of a theatre jester’s staff, presented against a soft Union Flag motif. The price, clearly marked at two pence, reminds us of the accessibility of the stage to all classes, from the uniformed serviceman on leave to the civilian seeking a brief escape from the daily trials of rationing, blackouts, and air raid sirens.
In complement, the Palace Theatre programme features the celebrated musical comedy Full Swing, starring the beloved duo Jack Hulbert and Cicely Courtneidge. Printed with a bold red title and set out in classical columned typography, this London-based edition reflects the capital’s proud theatrical tradition, even under the threat of enemy bombardment. Performances like these were instrumental in raising morale, offering a taste of glamour and laughter amid the drudgery and fear of war. A red stamp indicates the original four pence charge for admission, firmly rooting it in its historical commercial context.
Each programme is printed on textured, vintage-style stock to evoke the paper shortages and design sensibilities of the era. While strictly non-functional for admission, they are entirely authentic in spirit and layout, including cast listings, song titles, production credits, and even the names of scene designers and box office staff. As such, these items are ideal for those constructing a period-correct LARP experience, outfitting a wartime classroom roleplay, or furnishing a home front display with a touch of theatrical charm.
Contents:
1 x replica Liverpool Empire theatre programme (August 1942)
1 x replica Palace Theatre programme featuring Full Swing
Ideal for:
LARP, historical education, theatre displays, museum exhibits, film and stage props, or reenactment costume kits
Printed in Wales and prepared with a fine eye for historical detail, this set is a splendid nod to wartime Britain’s enduring commitment to joy, artistry, and the preservation of culture even in the face of conflict. Whether presented as part of a ration week school box, displayed with period costumes, or tucked into a soldier’s pack for a theatrical twist on your LARP impression, these programmes add both colour and authenticity to any 1940s setting.
Our shipping policy is designed to provide clear guidance while ensuring compliance with UK legislation and best practices. We partner with Royal Mail, a trusted carrier in the United Kingdom, to deliver your orders safely and efficiently. Should you have any questions, please contact us at info@therationroom.co.uk or via our helpline: 01978 312220.
Shipping Methods and Delivery Times
UK Shipping
We offer the following shipping options through Royal Mail for customers within the United Kingdom:
- Free Shipping (Orders over £35):
- Delivery aim: 2-5 working days via Royal Mail 2nd Class service.
- Tracked for added security and transparency.
- Royal Mail 2nd Class Mail:
- Delivery aim: 2-5 working days.
- Economical and reliable service for non-urgent orders.
- Royal Mail 1st Class Tracked:
- Signature required on delivery.
- Delivery aim: Next working day.
- Ideal for urgent items requiring tracking and prompt delivery.
- Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed by 1 PM:
- Delivery aim: Next working day (excluding Sundays, bank holidays, and special UK holidays such as Christmas).
- Includes compensation cover for valuable items.
- Collection from The Ration Room:
- Address: The Ration Room, c/o Delta Academy, Queensway, Wrexham, United Kingdom (UK), LL13 8UN.
- Convenient and free option for local customers.
Worldwide Shipping
We utilise Royal Mail International services to ship orders globally. Delivery aim is typically 5-7 working days, but may vary based on destination country, local postal services, and customs processes.
- Royal Mail International Tracked services provide visibility of your parcel’s journey.
- Expedited options may be available upon request; please contact us for details.
While we accept returns on eligible items in compliance with the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013, please note the following:
- Shipping costs for returning items are the customer’s responsibility and will not be refunded.
- Refunds will not include original shipping costs unless the item was faulty or incorrectly supplied.
- Returned items must be in their original condition and packaging. Returns that do not meet these criteria may not be eligible for a refund.
- Customers should retain proof of postage when returning items, as we cannot be held responsible for items lost in transit.
UK Replica Products – Legal Disclaimer & Intellectual Property Notice
All replica, reproduction, reissue or vintage‑style products offered for sale on this site are created and sold strictly for historical, decorative, theatrical, educational, commemorative, or display purposes. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, we are not affiliated, endorsed, sponsored by, or licensed by any current or former rights holders, manufacturers, or brand owners whose names, logos, or designs are represented in our replicas.
All trademarks, trade names, logos, and designs (“Brand Elements”) used on or in connection with these replica items remain the sole property of their respective owners. Our use of them is solely to provide faithful historical or aesthetic representation, not to mislead customers or imply endorsement, affiliation, or authenticity of origin.
UK Copyright & Fair Dealing
The UK Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 provides limited “fair dealing” exceptions under which copyrighted works may be reproduced without permission in certain circumstances (for example, criticism, review, research, private study, or reporting of current events). See Section 29 & Section 30, CDPA 1988. Those exceptions are restrictive and must satisfy that the copying is “fair” in each case. See also UK government guidance on permitted exceptions / fair dealing.
Additionally, since 2014, the CDPA was updated to explicitly allow reproduction for the purposes of parody, caricature or pastiche under fair dealing. See Section 30(1) CDPA 1988 which states that “fair dealing with a work for the purposes of caricature, parody or pastiche does not infringe copyright.”
UK Trade Marks & Passing Off
The Trade Marks Act 1994 grants registered trademark owners exclusive rights to use their marks in relation to particular goods or services. Use of identical or similar marks in trade for related goods may constitute infringement if there is a likelihood of confusion or association with the original brand. See Section 10, Trade Marks Act 1994 and Section 5, TMA 1994.
Where a mark is not registered, the common law tort of passing off may still provide protection. A claims under passing off require showing (1) goodwill or reputation in the mark, (2) misrepresentation by the defendant, and (3) damage to the claimant. See an overview of passing off principles at Forbes Solicitors – Passing Off Claims and UK Trade Mark Litigation Guide (passing off section).
Our Risk Mitigation & Commitments
- We clearly label all items as replicas, not originals, and refer to them as such in all product descriptions.
- We expressly state that we have no affiliation with the original brand owners or rights holders.
- We avoid altering trademarked designs in ways that might mislead consumers into believing they are buying official originals.
- We refrain from using Brand Elements in metadata, advertising or SEO in a way that misleads regarding origin or endorsement.
- We provide a clear and direct contact method for rights holders to raise concerns, request alterations or removal of any design we reproduce.
If a rights holder believes any product or listing infringes their intellectual property rights under UK law, they are requested to contact us with specific details (including proof of ownership and the alleged violation). We are committed to investigating all claims in good faith and, if legally necessary, removing or modifying the content promptly to respect IP rights.
While this disclaimer aims to be comprehensive and to reduce legal risk, it does not guarantee immunity from claims. If you operate or view this site within the UK, you agree that any disputes will be governed by English law and that the courts of England and Wales shall have exclusive jurisdiction.
Hand-Crafted in the UK
When you choose The Ration Room, you're supporting quality craftsmanship made right here in the UK. By sourcing locally and maintaining the highest standards, we guarantee that our replicas not only look the part but also stand the test of time. Whether it’s a gas mask box or a ration book, you can trust it’s been made with care, skill, and a passion for history.
Authentic Replicas You Can Truly Enjoy
Our replicas are made to be loved, handled, and enjoyed - no need to keep them locked away behind glass! Designed with play and practicality in mind, they’re perfect for re-enactments, educational activities, or just adding a touch of vintage charm to your collection. The Ration Room brings you the authentic look and feel of wartime memorabilia without the worry of damaging a priceless original. Relive history, tell its stories, and share it with others, all without holding back.
