Theatre News

Costume Sale and a Summer School in Norwich

Anne Morley-Priestman

It caused a flurry for frocks and a queue for costumes last winter – and now there is a second chance to own a piece of Norwich’s Theatre Royal history. The venue is selling off more of its surplus wardrobe stock on 9 and 10 July. Will Hill, the theatre’s technical manager, said: “We held the first sale last November because space in our costume store was at a bit of a premium. The response was incredible with the public queuing to get the best garments – and even the local and national media splashing out on clothing when they came to cover the sale.

“We are now holding a second one to clear even more space with a whole host of costumes from previous pantomimes and productions up for grabs.” All the costumes have been professionally made for shows at the Theatre Royal over the years and will be available at knock-down prices. The garments up for grabs include pantomime costumes from previous productions of Dick Whittington, Robinson Crusoe, Babes in the Wood and Aladdin as well as soldiers’ uniforms and even a pair of Postman Pat pyjamas.

Later this summer young people aged from nine to 16 are getting the chance to pick up acting tips and showcase their skills with the help of experts from Norwich Theatre Royal. Tutors from the arts course are hosting a summer school between 3 and 14 August at The Garage to give students the chance to pick up a host of performance skills, develop their acting knowledge and also collaborate as a group working towards a performance in front of a specially invited audience at the end of the course.

Course director David Lambert said that the school will be very varied. He explained: “As well as developing their acting skills, the course will also include the making of costumes, masks or props needed for their performance. The school also encourages team-work and all members of the group are encouraged to contribute their own particular skills towards making the finished production work. It is an ideal chance to create your own production during the summer holidays.”