Introduction to Costume Design: Fig Leaves in the Theatrical Garden
S06, S07
Daniel Michaelson
What messages are communicated when we wear clothing/costumes? Students work individually and collaboratively to examine the process of costume design, creating visual responses to text, music, and movement. Weekly assignments include script analysis, costume research, sketching, costume construction, and a short paper analyzing the effectiveness of the design elements seen in an outside performance. We investigate how live performance, film, and video differ. Students are required to attend most Bennington College productions, which are then discussed in class. Students may have the opportunity to design an actual small-scale production. Anticipated is at least one field trip to an outside performance and/or a museum. Successful completion of a lab is required to pass this course.