It’s a theatrical truth that a great character is nothing without a grand costume. Fortunately for us, London’s world-class costume designers rise to the challenge year after year, proving their sartorial creativity time and again.
Many of the West End’s favourite characters are defined by their iconic outfits under the spotlight – and there’s certainly an eclectic mix amongst them. The nominations for this year’s Olivier Awards with Mastercard Best Costume Design category alone have seen theatrical stages lit up by sparkling, lavish ball gowns; the dazzling rainbow lights of Broadway tap their way to glory; the nostalgia-infused tones of 1920s and 30s Broadway spring to life; and some delightfully subtle colours empower revolutionary America. Costume designers’ imaginations have truly known no bounds.
To celebrate, we’re treating you to a glimpse inside the sketchbooks of this year’s nominees, which offer a fascinating insight into the original vision behind the costumes we now know and love. Who’ll win this year’s Best Costume Design award? Hugh Durrant (Dick Whittington), Roger Kirk (42nd Street), Vicki Mortimer (Follies) and Paul Tazewell (Hamilton), along with the rest of the viewing public, will find out at the Royal Albert Hall on Sunday 8 April.
You can find out more about the Olivier Awards 2018 here.
Hugh Durrant, Dick Whittington
Credit: Qdos Entertainment © Hugh Durrant
Roger Kirk, 42nd Street
Credit: Roger Kirk
Vicki Mortimer, Follies
Credit: Vicki Mortimer
Young Solange Headdress
Young Hattie Headdress
Young Stella Headdress
Young Hattie
Paul Tazewell, Hamilton
Credit: Paul Tazewell
