The Chairs and The Lesson were the first plays that Kenneth MacMillan directed for the theatre. The double bill opened on 16 Jul 1982 at the New Inn Theatre, London. Material comprises

1. Single cash bound book with handwritten notes by Kenneth MacMillan on the mood of the play, the characters, and notes for the performances. 30 pages with notes, two for Dance of Death, the subsequent play he directed
2. Copy of typed letter requesting performing rights for the plays. Unsigned, n.d.
3. Programme for the performances, with The New Inn St Marys Rd Ealing W5 written by Kenneth MacMillan in pencil on the cover
4. Typed letter from John Holloway to Kenneth MacMillan, with audience breakdown and payment details. Also thanking Kenneth MacMillan for the success of the double bill and inviting him to work at the New Inn whenever he likes. With two pages of accounts, n.d.
5. Typed Petty Cash claim from Adam Harrison to Kenneth MacMillan, with five receipts, 19 Jul 1982
6. Typed letter from Adam Harrison, Stage Manager, to Kenneth MacMillan with final details, 7 Aug 1982
7. Handwritten letter from Armand [Gerrard] at The Touring Office apologising for being unable to find backing to take the plays to Edinburgh, 11Jul 1982
8. Handwritten letter from Shelagh Fraser asking Kenneth MacMillan to read a play she has written, 12 Jul (1982)
9. Handwritten letter from Richard Denning apologising to Kenneth MacMillan for pulling out of the production, 20 Jul 1982
10. Handwritten good luck postcard from Mary [Miller] to Kenneth MacMIllan, n.d.
11. Handwritten postcard from Mary [Miller] to Kenneth MacMillan, n.d.
12. Handwritten letter from 'Prince Charles' to 'Lord MacMillan' with congratulations, 26 Jul 1982