Publisher Description

This updated edition of Costumes for the Stage aims at simplicity in all aspects of designing and making costumes. Starting with five pages illustrating the basic shapes of each period, Sheila Jackson provides practical advice for every kind of play, together with drawings, diagrams, and patterns from which to work. Included are sections on Greek plays, medieval miracles and mysteries, Shakespeare, seventeenth century, eighteenth century, Victorian and Edwardian costume, the twenties and thirties, and the present day. An essential book of costume design.

Author Biography

Sheila Jackson, who designed the costumes for the popular television series Upstairs, Downstairs was Head of Costume at London Weekend Television. She is also the author of More Costumes for the Stage (also published by New Amsterdam). She lives in London.

Review

Even the well-trained designer might learn a few new shortcuts...A useful starting point for the creative amateur. * Theatre Journal *
Theatres with small budgets (probably every theatre) should...use this handbook as a training manual...should become a basic reference. * Kliatt *
Engrossing. A truly comprehensive handbook. * Publishers Weekly *
A book for anyone who has to costume a show on a small budget. * Book Notes *
A lavish and exciting book providing an ideal blend of historical detail, practical suggestion, and imaginative flair. * Speech and Drama *

Long Description

This updated edition of Costumes for the Stage aims at simplicity in all aspects of designing and making costumes. It is designed primarily for those who need to dress plays on a small budget, whether for amateur, semi-professional, or professional groups. Starting with five pages illustrating the basic shapes of each period, Sheila Jackson provides practical advice for every kind of play, together with drawings, diagrams, and patterns from which to work. Included are sections on Greek plays, medieval miracles and mysteries, Shakespeare, seventeenth century, eighteenth century, Victorian and Edwardian costume, the twenties and thirties, and the present day. Each section covers the details of men's and women's clothes (hats, collars, shoes, jewelry, etc.) as well as methods for adapting and simplifying the style of the period. There are also sections on pantomimes and musicals, pageants and school plays, and invaluable advice on underwear, fabrics, measurements and fitting, the use of color, and simple ways to make masks, crowns, and decorations. The revised edition features expanded text and new illustrations. Hundreds of line drawings and no-nonsense, authoritative text combine to make this an essential book of costume design.

Review Quote

Theatres with small budgets (probably every theatre) should...use this handbook as a training manual...should become a basic reference.

Details