A
very brief addition today; I have not been able to post anything for
a few days because of computer problems, so this is short and
hopefully sweet.
The
setting and costumes for Oliver! lend themselves to an imaginative
approach. The original West End production design by Sean Kenny was
highly innovative, having a revolving set that moved with the action.
This, however is beyond most amateur companies in technology and
cost, much as they might wish for it. It is however possible to
suggest many of the settings with dressing rather than large scale scenery.. Your props team might not forgive you for a minimalist set
that has to be furnished with a lot of dressing, but it can be done.
Costumes
can be colourful or sombre, depending on the mood of your production.
Traditionally Nancy wears red, but this isn't set in stone, and there
are many shades and variations. Much of the boys' wardrobe is ragged
so can be produced from their own old clothes. It is the men's
costumes that most need to be authentic in style. Particularly Mr.
Bumble in his beadle's uniform, and the “better off” male
characters who need frock coats and waistcoats, plus appropriate
hats. The more flamboyant Widow Corney and Mrs Bedwin, who can be in
uniform or just a more genteel style of Victorian dress, are not too difficult as one off pieces.
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