Tributes to talented theatrical costume maker

Laura Leo had also been a performer at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

Tributes have been paid to a costume maker whose "many fabulous creations have dazzled" on a theatre's stage.

Laura Leo, the "most talented seamstress", had also been a performer there, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre said, and was due to appear with Bilston Operatic Company in Priscilla Queen of the Desert next month.

That amateur theatre company said her "creativity, talent, and dedication enriched countless Bilston productions" as owner of Leo's Theatrical Costumiers, which has marked its 10th anniversary.

The operatic group stated on Facebook that her "sudden loss has left us all heartbroken".

Bilston Operatic Company said it was "with deep sadness that we share the passing of our beloved friend and company member".

It stated with "endless creativity from an early age, Laura turned her passion into a career she loved and gave every show her unique sparkle and detail".

She was "set to swap the sewing machine for the spotlight as one of our divas" in the October show, it added.

"We were so excited for you all to see her shine on stage, as she lit up our rehearsal room time after time with her powerhouse vocals, radiant smile, and infectious laugh - often arriving with baked treats to share."

The company added she was vibrant, kind, "always generous with her time" and a dear friend to so many.

Laura Leo had "powerhouse vocals" and a "radiant smile", Bilston Operatic Company said

Wolverhampton Grand Theatre said Laura Leo was "a wonderful friend" of the venue.

It added "we all adored working with her" and the theatre's "love and thoughts are with her fellow company members" and family.

Wolverhampton-based Leo's Theatrical Costumiers' website said its name came from her family name and was a tribute to her late grandfather Joe Leo, who ran Leo's Ice Cream.

It supplies "high quality theatrical and fancy dress costumes" with over 50,000 costumes to choose from, it said.

On the theatre's Facebook page, one woman said she met her briefly and "she had such a beautiful and powerful voice, and was full of life and energy".

One man stated: "Laura was one of a kind - she knew and understood shows on a different level. She always had time for you and always wanted the best look for your show."

On Bilston Operatic Company's Facebook page, one woman said: "Laura you were loved by everyone who met you.

"What a loss you are but you'll never be forgotten."

Ms Leo was pictured with her dog, Domino, to help the theatre promote the 101 Dalmatians musical last year