Managing Costumes After a Performance
When theatrical performances conclude, the fate of the costumes can vary greatly. This article explores the different ways in which costumes are managed, from small high schools to large professional companies. It also provides insights into the roles and responsibilities of wardrobe supervisors and other stakeholders involved in this process.
The Role of Schools in Costume Management
At many high schools, theatres have a dedicated stock of costume pieces. These may include handmade items made by parents or teachers, as well as pieces created by the student actors themselves. Often, existing costumes are altered to fit the actors and their roles. Additionally, costumes may be shared or reused between different departments, such as marching band, dance teams, show choirs, and theatre productions.
Some schools retain certain costumes, especially those that have been particularly well-designed or handmade. Other pieces, particularly those that have been used for multiple performances, may be refitted or reused in subsequent productions. This sharing and reusing of costumes helps to reduce waste and preserve materials, as seen in the example of a purple jacket from a prior performance being reused in a different play.
Professional Theatre Companies and Costume Management
The management of costumes in professional theatre companies involves a more structured process. The wardrobe supervisor, a key figure in this context, plays a critical role in overseeing the costume strike (the process of returning costumes to their original state) and disposal.
Depending on the company and the type of production, the fate of costumes can vary. Modern dress productions, for instance, may permit actors to keep the costumes, perhaps for a nominal fee. This is particularly common in smaller or semi-professional companies that rely on volunteers and actors who are passionate about the art form.
Larger companies, such as the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) or the UK National Theatre, maintain a costume stock for reuse or hire. If a costume is not needed for immediate reuse, it may be sold or donated to smaller theatre companies or schools. Specialist costumiers who manage this stock can acquire surplus costumes for hire, such as Harveys of Hove, a notable costume hire company.
Key Players in Costume Management
The process of managing costumes involves several key players:
Wardrobe Supervisor: Oversees the costume strike and disposal process, ensuring that costumes are returned to a suitable condition. specialist costumiers: Purchase surplus costumes for hire, ensuring they reach those who may need them. Actors and performers: May retain costumes, provided they are in a suitable condition, as seen in many smaller theatre productions. Production designers: Ensure costumes are in a fit state for reuse and contribute to the overall production aesthetics.Conclusion
Managing costumes after a performance is a multifaceted process that involves countless stakeholders. From the initial creation of costumes in high schools to the management of surplus stock in professional theatre companies, the fate of costumes can impact the sustainability and accessibility of theatrical productions. By understanding the roles and responsibilities of key players in this process, we can develop more effective strategies for managing costumes and promote a more sustainable theatre industry.