Wardrobe is responsible for designing and producing costumes and dressing each production.

How it works

The process begins when the costume designer meets the director. Style, budget and costs are agreed.

When rehearsals begin the actors are measured. Costumes are designed and then either made from scratch or (more usually) sourced from our own extensive stock or from other theatres’ wardrobes or from commercial hire companies.

Shows vary in complexity from small cast modern dress where the cast will probably self-costume, to period epics which call for high levels of judgement and skill in manipulating and ‘making fit’ complex clothing.

Once the production is up and running, it is often the case that costumes have to be maintained, which can range from washing, drying and ironing, to running repairs. We have our own laundry facilities.

A variety of skills may be called upon ranging from basic sewing skills to dyeing and printing, completely altering, and occasionally breaking down the costumes. This is the process of ‘distressing’ a costume, rubbing with sandpaper or soap to make it look worn or greasy.

Learning can be done on the job but dressers/costume supervisors are usually expected to have reasonable sewing skills and a good attitude to the work and flexibility required. There can be a lot of repetition involved in the department and it can be very demanding at times depending on the show.

There has to be a lot of co-operation between the designer, the wardrobe department and the actor to ensure actors get costumes they like and feel comfortable with.

Commitment and reward

The Loft has several people who can help oversee costuming a show – no one will be pushed in at the deep end with a budget and a pair of scissors! Working in the Loft Theatre wardrobe department offers a positive experience for everyone, whether it is to gain an understanding of a working wardrobe department for future study or to simply enjoy being part of a project with enthusiastic and like-minded people.

What to do next

For more information and to find out how to get involved in the wardrobe team, contact Mary MacDonald or Alex Waldram.

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