Dressed to thrill at Scarborough

THE fascinating world of the costume department at the world famous Stephen Joseph Theatre is the subject of the next lunchtime talk at Scarborough Art Gallery.

The talk is by SJT Wardrobe Technician Ruth Hill-Beeley, who says: “I talk about costume as it relates to theatre In the round, exploring the challenges and opportunities it presents, from make-up to mitres, corsets to camouflage, and wigs to very mucky wellingtons. Learn tricks of the trade (how to get changed in 27 seconds for example) and why I need to weight train to be good at my job. View costume created by our in-house department, and maybe even try something on.

“As the only full time member of wardrobe staff at the SJT, there isn’t much that doesn’t cross my path, from washing the socks, to adding the sparkle, and even dealing with quick change disasters.”

Ruth has worked at the SJT for 11 years, starting as an usher while studying for her degree in Theatre Studies, and making herself useful in various roles throughout the building, including box office, production assistant, dresser, outreach assistant, stage manager and even a brief one-time spell as an actor. She graduated in 2004, and settled in the wardrobe department nearly eight years ago.

* Tickets for SMT’s lunchtime talks, which will usually take place on the third Thursday of the month, are £2. Talks start at 12.30pm and last around an hour. Places are limited, so booking is recommended. To book, or for further information, please call the Art Gallery on 01723-374753

Viv Hardwick