The 2019 Olivier Award-nominated costume designs

When you see a London show, you’re witnessing world-class creativity in many forms. But one element that always gets us gawping is the sheer imagination that goes into a great costume; the colours, textures, patterns, and sheer aura of a costume that goes so far to creating a character. Some prime examples: the Best Costume Design nominees for the Olivier Awards 2019 with Mastercard.

With so much of a character determined by what they sport under the spotlight, costume designers often have their work cut out. Take the characters dressed by this year’s Best Costume Design nominees: an underground Louisiana laundry where singing washing machines, busses – and even the moon – come to life, with costumes designed by Fly Davis in Caroline, Or Change; a dream 1950s styled home where the happily married Judy indulges in the decade, designed by Anna Fleischle for Home, I’m Darling; a royal Tudor sextet launched into the 21st century through sheer pop power, designed by Gabriella Slade for Six; and a story of Kings and romance in 1860s Bangkok, with costumes designed by Catherine Zuber for The King And I.

So to mark the occasion, we’re inviting you to take a look into the sketchbooks and original designs of this year’s nominees, showcasing the initial thoughts behind the costumes we now know and love. Who’ll win this year’s Best Costume Design award? We’ll find out at the Royal Albert Hall on Sunday 7 April.

You can find out more about the Olivier Awards 2019 here. And if you’re feeling inspired by the below, make sure to check out our Inspiring Future Theatre section to learn more about off-stage careers in all forms.

Fly Davis; Caroline, Or Change

Credit: Fly Davis

Anna Fleischle; Home, I’m Darling

Credit: Anna Fleischle

Gabriella Slade; Six

Credit: Gabriella Slade

Catherine Zuber; The King And I

Credit: Catherine Zuber