Title: Costume Designer

Abstract:

For my EDGE project, I costume designed for an independent production of Stephen Sondheim’s Merrily We Roll Along. This musical was performed as a concert version; meaning that some of the scenes and music had been cut out of the final performance. However, the need for costumes was still relevant. Costume designing entails hours of research, meetings, and creative thinking. I was in charge of designing a cohesive costume for every actor and character involved in this production. It was my responsibility to ensure that all the costumes were historically accurate to the time period and style that the director had chosen. While every show carries its’ own challenges, Merrily We Roll Along was especially challenging because this show tells a story that spans across approximately twenty years. Another challenge I faced was only having access to the clothes of the actors and people that they knew. Because of my limited resources, I had to work extra hard to find ways that personal items could be altered and modified to mimic the fashion trends of the late 50’s through the mid 70’s.

Goals and Outcomes:

My goal was to successfully costume design this show, so that I would know whether or not I have the skills required to continue forward in costuming.

My desired outcomes consisted of two parts. First, that completing my project would result in my being able to market myself as a beginning costume designer. Second, that completing my project would enable me to hopefully be able to work with SUU’s head costume designers and continue developing my skills and knowledge of costuming.

Objectives:
The reason I chose this particular project was because it helped me to gain, and strengthen, marketable skills that I will be able to use in my field after I graduate. While I hope that I will be able to act and perform all throughout my life, I understand that that will not always be the case. As a result, when I am not performing, I still want to be able to work in the theatre department. By completing this project, I will be able to apply for costuming positions and continue working in the field that I love as a well rounded actress. That is why this project was and is beneficial to me.

Deliverables:
I will provide a PowerPoint of my original concept designs for each character. In this PowerPoint I will also provide pictures of the final costumes during the run of the show. I will also include pictures that were taken of me as I modified or shopped for costume pieces. Originally I had mentioned providing a photo album or collage along with the PowerPoint, but I changed my mind because a completely digital vehicle made it much easier for me to design, and display my project. Having a completely digital project will also ensure easy sharing to potential employers.