Littler, Emile., 1903-1985

Emile Littler (1903-1958) was one of the greatest British theatrical impresarios of the 20th century, particularly for pantomime and musicals. The son of theatrical managers Agnes and Jules Richoux, Emile and his siblings were adopted by Frank Littler after he married their mother. Three of the Littler children - Blanche, Prince and Emile - went on to become the most influential producers of their day who understood better than most the pitfalls of a career in show business. Emile Littler started his theatrical career as assistant stage manager at the Ambassador Theatre, Southend in 1922, moving to the Royal Court Theatre in London a year later as business manager, and in 1925 becoming assistant stage manager at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre.

From the guide to the Emile Littler Archive, 1890s-1960s, (V&A Department of Theatre and Performance)