1st Skype Meeting with Nelson

Just a couple of notes from our first skype meeting.

• fabric is going to be mailed at the end of this week (squee)
• the production is set essentially in 1954 in mid America (Iowa etc), a small town where the factory is a community
• Remember that the musical is about entertainment and having a good time, so while there is a realistic undertone, there is an element of heightened realism
• Design inspired by Sears catalogue, mail order - fashions filtered down - styles simplified - heightened - bright and almost day glow
• The stage is proscenium and the nearest audience member will be 30-40ft so exaggerated details.

Below are just some notes I scribbled down

Initial Design & thoughts

So this is the design for the character of Gladys, her 4th costume for the show.  Designed by the wonderful Nelson Fields.

I feel this blog will only be informative if I am always completely honest, so I feel I should say that I'm a bit disappointed with the design. I guess when I signed up for a 1950s musical I was hoping for a big pretty 50s circle skirt dress.

On the other hand, its going to be a great opportunity to do something modern(ish) and classic and take the time to do some good construction. I also really like Nelson and his designs, and to be honest, its such a great project that it is an honour just to be a part of it.

So fingers crossed on the fabric!

Welcome to EMP

First post of the new project! This is the Extended Major Project (EMP) blog, a place where I’m going to keep all my thoughts about the project, something I hope will improve my workbook.

EMP is split into two sections, and for part 1 I’m doing a 1950s day dress as part of a collaboration between the AUCB at the University of Kentucky, for a production of The Pajama Game.

For Part 2 I’ll be making an 18th Century Robe A La Francaise for  the character of Sophie for a hypothetical production of Der Rosenkavalier.

So welcome and enjoy.

14/12/2009