Author to reopen theatre costume store

A best-selling author is to reopen a treasure trove of costumes and theatrical accessories after a flood of donations to save it.

The costume store at The Quay Theatre in Sudbury, Suffolk, will re-open from Monday 4 May with local author, Erica James, due to cut the ribbon.

The costume hire service had been paused for some months due to a need for space, refurbishment and funds.

But now, thanks to volunteers and donors, it will return with an array of vintage outfits, party costumes, theatrical garments, headgear, jewellery, make-up and props that members of the community can hire for parties and productions.

James, author of The Ideal Husband, will welcome people to the new store on Bank Holiday Monday.

Theatre manager Krystle Charlton said: "We are so excited to be able to bring this great feature back to the community. It's been much missed.

"Our volunteers have worked so hard to source items, help with cleaning and have donate much needed funds."

Julie Moss, who will run the service, has worked with The Quay's team to bring the store back, as well as donating herself.

"I am thrilled and so relieved too, that in a time of diminishing resources, this valuable and much-loved facility for the Sudbury community is to be reinstated," she said.

The service will reopen at The Quay on Wednesdays to Fridays from 10:00 to 13:00 pm or by private appointment.

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