Kilden Teatre Norway 'The Marriage of Figaro'
The Countess in 'The Marriage of Figaro' production by Kilden Teatre Norway and Pop Up Opera London.
This dress was quite a process with construction, a toile had to be made for a Skype fitting as the designer was in Norway. This ensured confidence with the proportions and design so i as the maker was clear of the desired outcome. From this fitting I would be working on it independently and only then see the Norwegian team at a final fitting stage.
From here the garment had to be constructed to a basic stage (pics are below) so the garment could then be ombre dyed. The finished effect is striking!
All the trims where created by me on interpreting the sketch of the designer. As this was a highly conceptual design of a period garment i could be as creative as i wished with no restrictions on historical accuracy as it was for a dreamscape scene in the production.
It was a joy to make!
As this was a process that would stress and weaken the garment i had to reinforce the seams using with salvedge of the fabric in each seam. I constructed the bodice to be larger so once it had been dyed i could then take it apart and back the panels in Calico as it was a light fabric and needed to be heavier looking and re sew it making new holes instead of sewing over the old seam lines which would weaken the seam and cause it deteriorate. As this is an Opera costume it will need to last for many more years and be used many times again and so ensuring it is durable is essential.
This petticoat was quilted by me, it was insisted upon that i make such a heavy petticoat which i felt was unnecessary weight and fullness for the costume. Alas i happily do what i am told!
This was the requested pannier I was asked to construct for the design. The performer was 6ft and for this particular period that is quite tall. The outcome was quite tremendous.