Our Staff and Our Stock

Jill and Stephen Outhwaite took over Dress Circle in 2002 and have used their knowledge and experience of theatre to expand the business. Jill has experience of wardrobe work with amateur societies and has recently completed a history degree which incorporated research into the history of costume. Stephen has extensive experience of acting and now produces and directs the Flying Ducks Youth Theatre.

2,700 square feet of farm building has been converted to hold the 6,000 plus costumes, stage props and accessories. Dress Circle originally held mainly theatrical costumes, but in 2004 a range of fancy dress costumes was added to extend the choice. The range of costumes in both categories is continually being expanded and, if your choice is not there, every effort is made to obtain it.

Accessories include a vast range of wigs, hats, shoes, gloves, etc., and an increasing amount of retail stock. Stage make-up and face paints are stocked and here Stephen can use his eighteen years experience as a make-up artist to give advice, demonstrations and workshops.

Dress Circle is a member of the British Costume Association and as such follows their Code of Practice.

Personal contact, advice and help is given the highest priority and therefore an appointment system is used to make choosing a costume an enjoyable experience.

Mandy has now joined the business, bringing with her an extensive knowledge and expertise gained from her years performing and assisting with wardrobe with York Musical Theatre Company.