The Joseph Rowntree Theatre in York has added an online shop to its upgraded website and, in addition to the usual theatre gift cards, is now offering theatre teddy bears, theatre tote bags and prints and greetings cards of the art-deco building.

The theatre-themed gifts were due to have been sold at a craft fair which the theatre had planned for 7th November, but new local COVID restrictions led to the cancellation of the event. Luckily for York’s theatregoers, they can now purchase these stocking fillers and secret Santa gifts online.

Barbara Boyce, Volunteering Director of the theatre says, “Many shoppers this year will really miss the usual Christmas markets in the city.  We’re, obviously, on a much smaller scale, but we’re offering some lovely gifts at very affordable prices.”

The theatre commissioned the bags and teddies for a major nationwide fundraiser it took part in earlier this year, #SaveOurTheatres. At only £10 each, they are great value for money and both are light enough to be posted without incurring large costs. The prints and greetings cards are supplied in strong cardboard envelopes to protect them in the post. The prints are the work of local artist ,Elliot Harrison, whose work features a vibrant colour palette inspired by the vintage travel posters of the 20th century.

Graham Mitchell, the theatre’s Fundraising and Events Director says, “These fabulous prints of the theatre make a great gift for any theatre-lover, especially those amongst our local community in York. The packs of greetings cards are suitable for all occasions, being blank inside, but they’d make great Christmas cards and can be framed by the recipient as a special memento of the city.”