Connections, collections and costume construction: Performative reanimation through observation and making

Abstract

Drawing on a material culture approach, this research report explores how a making methodology based on a theatrical costume construction practice can be applied to historical costume re-creation, particularly where the researcher must rely on the interpretation of other available primary sources such as costume drawings, sketches, tailors’ notes and archival records. The report builds on previous research investigating the value of reconstructing historical performance costume where the original costume itself has not survived. It identifies appropriate terminology to describe the practice, as well as the specific contribution the theatrical costume maker can make to this type of research. The report argues for consideration of the phenomenological value of a remaking approach to researching historical performance costume, and how this might sit alongside more established observational, archival-based research methods. It also further questions whether a re-created costume can contain the same power and agency as an extant costume stored in a museum archive, in terms of its direct physical connection with the original performance, designer, maker and wearer. Reflection on all of these points is needed for the development of practice-led research within the field of costume construction for performance.