Christopher Oram - Designer
There are two very distinct parts of the world; the inhabitants of the island (e.g. Caliban) and the visitors. I'm very keen to identify the characters by a visual identity - by what they wear. So there will be a strong contrast between the worlds. The characters from the island will have lightweight natural fabrics, given the limited resources of living on the island.

The development of a costume - Caliban.
Designers use all sorts of references in order to create a design for a costume or any other aspect of the overall design of a production. Christopher Oram has used ideas drawn from these pictures in shaping his design for Caliban's costume.

The designer must then provide a costume drawing, which will be interpreted by the wardrobe supervisor, Mary Charlton.

At this point the Designer and the Wardrobe Supervisor work closely together and with the other members of the wardrobe team to decide the best methods for realizing the design as a costume to be worn in performance. A pattern is cut and the making of the costume is started.

Costume samples chosen for Caliban's costume

Throughout rehearsals the actor playing Caliban will have costume fittings.

Some costumes need additional decoration, which the designer may undertake.

During the technical rehearsals, Mary Charlton will look at how the costume is working for the actor and members of the wardrobe team will make any necessary adjustments to ensure that it is ready for the Dress rehearsal. Finally the costume is ready for performance.

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