After being my first stop every time I've visited London since I started going seven years ago, Dress Circle is set to close. The reasons for closure are extremely valid and I don't think any of us can criticise the Dress Circle team for not trying hard to keep the shop running in these difficult economic times.
The reason for Dress Circle closing is, primarily, that they cannot afford the rent on the shop. During the past year they have undertaken many fantastic ideas to raise money, including the amazing CD 'Standing Ovation', however this has all been in vain. The management have, also, had discussions with the landlord to see if they can have the rent lowered; yet again this was in vain.
Dress Circle have said that the main reasons they are struggling with the rent are the economic downturn but, probably more prominently, the increase of downloadable music. Personally I love having an actual CD as it feels like I have actually brought a product, nevertheless, many people have turned to the downloadable versions of CDs leaving Dress Circle struggling as its main product is CDs.
Although the website is staying open, I am going to miss visiting the shop when I go to London as it has become a traditional part of my West End Experience. I have loved being able to browse around this amazing and quaint shop and love chatting to the staff; socialising with other theatre lovers is always fab! For me there will be a hole in the West End and my heart where Dress Circle should be. Dress Circle will be missed and I hope that one day it will return to the streets of London's West End.
Bye bye Dress Circle, you will always be the best shop in the world!!!
Hope you enjoyed reading this.
What are your best memories of Dress Circle?
See you soon
Love Kat
xx
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