THE memory of Christmas past can be enjoyed as Malvern Theatre Players showcase the talents of its dedicated costume team.

As Christmas approaches, the Players are facing a hectic time preparing for the next production, A Christmas Carol.

That is not all, said company manager Chris Bassett. "We are in the process of constructing sets for the Worcestershire Gilbert and Sulivan Society's performance of The Mikado in January."

The group has recently extended its premises on Grange Road and is redeveloping its set-building workshop into a 100-seat studio, with stage, toilets and kitchen facilities.

"We are really looking forward to having the new studio, but as ever funding has held us back slightly. We will definitely continue to build sets on the premises though, and will arrange performances around the set construction," said Mr Bassett.

While the company's set building skills are clearly in demand, yet another of its talents is currently on display in an exhibition in the foyer of the Malvern Theatres, running until A Christmas Carol.

The exhibition includes a selection of costumes used by the players for Christmas plays and pantomimes over the years, including exotic Aladdin outfits, a lion's mane and a giant Mother Goose costume.

The group has been performing at the Malvern Theatres for 27 years and has built up an extensive wardrobe.

"We never hire costumes from elsewhere. We have a dedicated team within the company who make our costumes.

"We also have genuine period costumes donated to us from individuals," said Mr Bassett.

"We never throw any costumes away; instead we put them into storage so that they can be used in the future. We lend costumes to both amateur and professional theatre companies, and we also hire them out to people for fancy dress parties."

A Christmas Carol runs from January 15 to 24 and will use costumes designed by students studying for a Higher National Diploma at Worces-ter College of Art and Design.

For anyone wishing to hire costume, the Players offices are open from 9.30am to 11am on Saturday, or by phoning 01684 569011.