Julius Caesar

Costume Design
Malcolm X Centre

[2024]

The costumes in this modern adaptation of Julius Caesar were informed by the fashions of current politics, including colour, texture and silhouette. The goal for this costume set was to inform a breakdown of a character though one starting costume, where a collar would be undone, sleeves would be rolled up and layers would be removed to indicate a character’s mental state.

Director Tanuja’s approach to this contemporary retelling was focused on status in a societal hierarchy, and whether violence can ever be justified in a political setting, and serve noble ends.

This was my first time working with fake blood - using exact doubles and washable costume pieces was imperative in bringing this production to life. It was really exciting to witness the cast work through the choreography of the fight scenes with Jonathon Howell and understand the power of the narrative through fluid motions and tableau stills. I also had the wonderful opportunity to design alongside Holly Coulson who worked on set - her gorgeous design for the lightbar setup in contrast with the ancient Roman architecture set up the space for dark silhouettes and shadows exquisitely.

Director Tanuja Amarasuriya
Assisstant Directors Patrick Wilson & Belle Streeton
Set Designer Holly Coulson
Sound Design Chris Stuckey
Lighting Design Alice Boal
Costume Supervisors Charlotte Nicholson & Maisie Higgins
Stage Management Emma Mace, Chloe Brine & Pat Heys
Prop Maker Kacey Purnell
Construction Manager Joceyln Chen
Production Photos Mark Dawson