Sequins and Sparkles - Exhibition of Danny La Rue's Costumes

Today I visited the exhibition of Danny La Rue's costumes at the Oast Theatre in Tonbridge, and was lucky enough to talk to Annie Galbraith who was La Rue's costumier and close friend. She told me how her house in Tunbridge Wells is crammed full of the late Danny's costumes and memorabilia.  Over the last weeks she has been preparing for the exhibition by framing theatre posters, programmes and reviews of La Rue's performances, and planning the showing of a number of costumes worn by him throughout his flamboyant career as Britain's most loved female impersonator.

The petite and unassuming Annie spoke with great warmth of her friend Danny, and she told me about the costume she had secretly designed and made for his birthday.  She revealed that La Rue was bowled over by the stunning black sequined gown, and exquisite pink and white feather boa which became his favourite costume. Apparently he had chastised her for spending her own money, but Annie explained that she had made it from materials already in the workshop and he was accepting of that.  Not only was he overwhelmed over with the beauty of the gown, but he said it fitted perfectly as it felt as though he had nothing on.  That had to be down to Annie's dressmaking expertise.  The gown remained his favourite costume and is on prominent display at the exhibition.

Annie Galbraith and Danny La Rue's favourite costume

Not only was Annie there to tell me tales of Danny's stage career but I was able to talk to his wig maker too.  A set of La Rue's dressing room has been constructed for the exhibition which contains personal memorabilia including a small collection of religious artefacts,obviously important to the Roman Catholic Danny, placed amidst his makeup and toiletries.

Annie is hoping that the next stop for the exhibition will be Eastbourne. 

Queen Of The Stage

Something very exciting will be happening at The Oast Theatre this weekend.  As part of English Heritage Weekend an exhibition of Danny La Rue's costumes and memorabilia will be on show to the public.  La Rue who was probably Britain's best known female impersonator was known for his sequined gowns and extravagant pantomime costumes.  His final years were spent in Tunbridge Wells at the home of his long time friend and costumier Annie Galbraith, and it was Annie who designed the spectacular glitzy costumes that coined La Rue as 'Queen of the Stage' although he always referred to himself as a 'comic in a frock'.

Not only will the public be able to view the exhibition of elegant costumes, there is the opportunity to see inside and learn more about our local theatre.  There will be children's activities, a small number of classic cars parked in front of the oast and refreshments, including ploughmans, will be on sale in the cafe.

This is an opportunity not to be missed and as it is English Heritage Weekend this fantastic experience is free of charge.