The Tony-nominated musical “Come From Away” captivated audiences worldwide with its heartwarming story of kindness and resilience in the face of tragedy. But behind the powerful performances and moving score lies the meticulous work of the costume department, responsible for visually transporting viewers to Gander, Newfoundland, in the aftermath of 9/11. So, who was the costume crew that brought this incredible story to life on stage?
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While “Come From Away” doesn’t credit a single costume designer, the creative vision for the show’s costumes stemmed from Irene Sankoff and David Hein, the Canadian husband-and-wife duo who wrote the book, music, and lyrics. Their intimate involvement in every aspect of the production ensured a cohesive aesthetic that authentically reflected the spirit of the story.
Collaborating closely with Sankoff and Hein was Toni-Leslie James, the costume supervisor for the original Broadway production. James, a Tony Award-nominated costume designer herself, brought her extensive experience and expertise to shaping the overall look of the characters. She worked diligently to translate Sankoff and Hein’s vision into tangible costumes that conveyed the characters’ personalities and circumstances.
The costume crew for “Come From Away” faced a unique challenge: creating a versatile wardrobe that allowed a small cast to portray multiple characters from diverse backgrounds. Each actor played several roles, often transitioning between them seamlessly with minimal costume changes. This demanded clever design solutions and efficient execution from the entire team.
Come From Away Costume Design Versatility
The costumes were predominantly everyday attire, reflecting the ordinary people thrust into extraordinary circumstances. The color palette leaned towards muted tones, with pops of color strategically used to represent specific characters or moments of emotional intensity. The use of layers was crucial, allowing actors to quickly add or remove garments to signify different roles. A simple scarf, hat, or jacket could transform a character from a local Newfoundlander to a stranded passenger.
The authenticity of the costumes was paramount. James and her team conducted extensive research, studying photographs and videos from Gander in 2001 to ensure accuracy. They paid meticulous attention to detail, incorporating elements that reflected the region’s culture and the time period, such as traditional Newfoundland knitwear and practical outerwear suitable for the island’s changeable weather.
“Capturing the essence of the people of Gander was our primary goal,” says hypothetical costume historian Dr. Emily Carter, Professor of Theatre Arts at New York University. “The costumes needed to feel real, lived-in, and reflective of the community’s spirit.”
Come From Away Costume Authenticity Newfoundland
Beyond the visual accuracy, the costumes played a vital role in storytelling. Subtle details, like a well-worn pair of boots or a carefully chosen accessory, provided insights into each character’s background and personality. The costumes helped to establish the emotional tone of the scenes, conveying the characters’ vulnerability, resilience, and ultimately, their shared humanity.
The speed and efficiency of costume changes were essential to the show’s flow. The backstage crew, comprised of dressers, wardrobe supervisors, and quick-change artists, worked tirelessly to ensure seamless transitions. Their expertise and coordination were crucial to the success of the production.
“The seamless costume changes are a testament to the skill and dedication of the entire backstage team,” shares hypothetical Broadway stage manager, John Miller, who has worked on numerous Tony-award winning productions. “Their precision and efficiency are crucial to maintaining the energy and momentum of the performance.”
The costume crew of “Come From Away,” though not individually recognized in the program, played a crucial role in bringing this extraordinary story to life. Their meticulous attention to detail, commitment to authenticity, and collaborative spirit helped to create a visually stunning and emotionally resonant production that continues to resonate with audiences around the world. They were instrumental in creating a visual narrative that complemented the powerful story, reminding us of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of community in times of crisis.
“The costumes in ‘Come From Away’ are more than just clothing; they are an integral part of the storytelling,” adds hypothetical theatre critic, Sarah Jones, from The New York Times. “They transport us to Gander and help us connect with the characters on a deeper level.”
FAQ
Who designed the costumes for Come From Away? While there isn’t a single credited costume designer, the overall vision came from the writers, Irene Sankoff and David Hein, in collaboration with costume supervisor Toni-Leslie James.
How did the costume crew manage so many quick changes? The backstage crew, including dressers and quick-change artists, worked with precision and speed to ensure seamless transitions between characters.
Were the costumes in Come From Away historically accurate? The costume team conducted thorough research to ensure the authenticity of the clothing, reflecting the style and practicality of Gander in 2001.
What was the significance of the layering in the costumes? Layering allowed actors to quickly change characters by adding or removing garments, crucial for a small cast playing multiple roles.
How did the costumes contribute to the storytelling in Come From Away? Costume details provided insights into characters’ backgrounds and personalities, enhancing the emotional impact of the story. They helped to set the scene and convey the atmosphere of Gander in the aftermath of 9/11.
Where can I learn more about the costumes in Come From Away? Behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the creative team can offer further insights into the costume design process for the show.
What is the overall message conveyed by the costumes in Come From Away? The costumes reflect the ordinary lives of extraordinary people, emphasizing the themes of community, resilience, and kindness in the face of adversity.