The world's most prestigious auction-house, Christie's of London, is holding an online charity auction to help one of London's very oldest theatres – the Old Vic.

Christie's main auction-room, in King Street, will auction a collection of post-WW2 and contemporary art called “Illuminating The Future”. As an official sponsor of the Old Vic, all of the auction's proceeds from both direct and online sales will go to support the Old Vic Theatre. Among the lots to go under the hammer is an artwork created by the Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Mrs Leyla Aliyeva, entitled “Life”.

All the lots appearing in the auction can be seen by the public in a pop-up exhibition to be held from 25th June to 3rd July at premises at 35 Brewer Street, London W1.

The auction coincides with the premiere of a production of Arthur Miller's play “The Crucible” at the Old Vic, in which Richard Armitage plays the title role of John Proctor. The Artistic Director of the Old Vic is the American actor Kevin Spacey, who directs an enthusiastic young team of actors. The auction aims to help their development and creative work. Along with its performances, the Old Vic is also famous for its educational program, entitled “Old Vic New Voices”, which enjoys great popularity.