In this episode of Curtains Up, host Rohan speaks with Brooke Thomas, a costume shop assistant, about the vital role of costuming in theater. Brooke shares her journey into costume design, detailing the intricate processes involved in creating costumes, the differences between her role and that of a costume designer, and the often unseen work that goes into costume preparation. She also offers valuable advice for aspiring costume designers, emphasizing the importance of sewing skills and gaining practical experience.

Takeaways

• There's so much that goes into costuming and trying to get actors in a costume.
• I do a lot of purchasing for the actors.
• Learning how to construct costumes is essential for any costume designer.
• There's a lot of research that goes into the costume world.
• The costume designer is responsible for the overall look and feel of the costumes.
• Measurements are really important for trying to get a very precise fit on clothes.
• There's so much time and energy that goes into what somebody is wearing on stage.
• We pride ourselves in making sure that clothes actually fit really well.
• Sewing is a very good life skill to have.

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Costuming in Theater

04:20 Brooke's Journey into Costume Design

09:13 Roles and Responsibilities in Costume Design

12:40 Behind the Scenes: The Unseen Work of Costumers

15:16 Advice for Aspiring Costume Designers

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