Bag a famous character costume in the Playhouse sale
- Alan Hulme
- Jun 9
- 2 min read
Leeds Playhouse is throwing open its wardrobe department doors to offer pieces of theatrical history. The Playhouse, which has been home to productions for more than five decades, is giving fashion fans and theatre aficionados the chance to buy costumes from its extensive archive.
From kimonos, wedding dresses and evening gowns to frock coats, military uniforms and even a worm costume and a polar bear head, the free event offers a treasure trove of theatrical curios.
Buyers can browse the costumes of much-loved productions including White Christmas, The Wizard of Oz, Into The Woods, My Fair Lady and Alice in Wonderland. Many of the items on sale have been created by the Playhouse’s costume team and freelance makers.
The Playhouse's costume department head, Victoria Marzetti, said: "Behind every costume on stage lies an extraordinary amount of intricate craftsmanship - hours of sewing, ironing, steaming, pleating, and embellishing, all brought together by a dedicated team to create a vivid final picture.
"Costumes are more than fabric; they are expressions of character, emotion, and identity.
“It’s a privilege to be part of the talented team here at the Playhouse. Our sale not only celebrates our 55-year legacy, but also reflects our commitment to sustainability, encouraging people to reuse these pieces, giving them new life."
The sale runs, first-come, first-served from 9.30am-5.30pm on June 28 (last admission 4pm) in the Playhouse’s Barber Studio (enter from the special entrance opposite Leeds Bus Station). Items will cost from £1 upwards, and admission is free, though pre-registration is recommended. Entry will be first come-first served, with a queue outside the building. All the money raised will go to the theatre.
More info and registration here
