The Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester recently marked its 50th anniversary with a special exhibition featuring costumes from its productions over the past five decades. The theatre, which opened in September 1976, is a distinctive seven-sided building made from tubular steel, often compared to a spaceship. This futuristic design contrasts with its location inside a historic Victorian Hall, creating a unique blend of old and new that enhances the theatrical experience. Selina Cartmell, the theatre’s creative director, highlighted how the building's unusual structure creates a dynamic tension with the surrounding architecture. This contrast has made the Royal Exchange a beloved and iconic venue. Over the years, it has hosted performances by well-known actors such as Hugh Grant, Bob Hoskins, Helen Mirren, Andrew Garfield, Maxime Peake, and Don Warrington. The anniversary exhibition, titled "Mythic Reinvention: An exhibition celebrating 50 Years of Costume and Craft," showcases some of the costumes worn by these actors during their time on stage. The exhibition is free to the public and features only a small portion of the theatre’s extensive costume collection, which includes over 25,000 items stored in its archive. All of these costumes are made in-house by the theatre’s costume department, which has been responsible for creating every outfit used in its productions. The exhibition has been curated by Leslie Travers, an award-winning designer who praised the high quality of the costumes. Some of the pieces on display are over 50 years old, yet they remain in excellent condition due to careful material selection and craftsmanship. Travers emphasized that the intimate size of the theatre allows the audience to view the costumes up close, highlighting the intricate details and artistry involved in their creation. Cartmell noted that the exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes work of the costume department and honors the many people who have contributed to the theatre’s legacy. The exhibition will remain open until 15 November, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore the rich history of costume design at the Royal Exchange Theatre.