A MUSICAL theatre company has been rummaging around charity shops on a mission to find 600 costumes for its next show.

Knutsford Musical Theatre Company (KMT) is performing Showstoppers at The Grange Theatre from May 22 to 24.

The 53-strong cast in the show will cover a huge range of songs, from those in classics Oklahoma and Anything Goes to highlights from modern day hits like Matilda and Ghost.

The average number of costume changes is 10, with up to 14 changes for some members of the cast, which includes 37 adults and 16 children.

Tracey Abbott, from the KMTC press team, said: “KMTC has only limited budget for costumes, so the charity shops in Northwich are important places for the wardrobe team to search for items that can be utilised.

“Scope, at 53 High Street, in particular has proved useful over the years, providing party dresses, men’s suits, shoes and coats.

“The staff and volunteers in the shop can also give useful advice and ideas.”

The wardrobe team then start stitching to alter and adapt items as needed, which has included making three identical princess dresses for a song from Shrek, The Musical, which is sung by Princess Fiona as she gets older.

One of the company’s most challenging scenes to costume is the excerpt from Matilda, in which all 53 members of the cast need school uniforms.

Lesley Reed, who leads the team, said: “We need to get grey school skirts, grey trousers and white shirts, that will fit adults, and 53 identical school ties.”

Tickets for the show are priced between £8 and £12 and can be booked online at grangetheatre.com or by ringing 0844 8700887.