How long have you been working?
I’ve worked for the RSC since March 2023, but have worked in theatrical costuming for 19 years.
Why did you choose this career?
I loved amateur dramatics when I was in my teens, but I enjoyed performing only as a hobby. I’ve always loved drawing and theatre so explored how to combine the two. I remember attending an open day at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff, while in sixth form, and during the open day I watched a performance of Twelfth Night and was able to see behind the scenes and the show’s concept designs. It was then that I became fascinated with how many elements are involved in creating a show, in particular costume.
How did you get started in the industry?
My first paid theatre job was as a Dresser for the Welsh National Opera (WNO). While training at university, I had interviewed the WNO’s Head of Costume for my dissertation and asked if they would pass on my CV (consisting of the productions that had I worked on during university) to the Head Dresser at WNO. Like many jobs it can be a combination of luck, networking and making sure you show your interest.
What educational path did you follow, to aid your career?
I studied Art, English Language and Literature, and Theatre and Drama at A-level, but it wasn’t until I studied for my BTEC Diploma Level 3 in Foundation Studies in Art and Design that I explored different disciplines like Fine Art, while specialising in fashion and textiles. I then studied for a degree in Theatre Design at Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. While there I gained production experience and that helped build my confidence to apply for paid positions when I graduated. I didn’t end up being a designer but enjoyed developing into technical theatre and costuming and contributing to making a designer’s vision a reality. My love of working in theatre lead to postgraduate education while I was working full time with the WNO’s Touring Wardrobe department. I completed master’s degree in theatre from the Guildford School of Acting in 2022. However, I know plenty of professionals working in theatre and costume who didn’t go to university but have plenty of experience and transferable skills like sewing or customer service.
How did you find work experience?
I was fortunate enough to gain production experience while training, but you can gain experience earlier as I have worked with many students while working at producing companies, so it is worth sending your CV and covering letter to any company that you would like to work with. Even if you don’t receive a reply from the company, the application and interview process provide useful experience. And, don’t be put off if you don’t hear anything straightaway.
What do you enjoy the most about your job?
I love the excitement of working in live theatre and working with so many different technicians, performers, stage managers and other professionals. You can start in rehearsals with something that looks nothing like a show but through collaboration and hard work it can suddenly become a reality onstage. It’s a great sense of achievement when a show goes smoothly, but even when something goes wrong it’s still a thrill to work out problems while on the go.
