Costume, Wardrobe and Props
The wardrobe workflow
Costume work runs from design and sourcing through construction, fitting, maintenance, and quick changes during performance. Understand the roles: costume designer, wardrobe supervisor, dressers, and makers. Fittings, alterations, and continuity records keep a production consistent.
Props and continuity
Props (properties) are handled items; set dressing is non-handled. Continuity - tracking where each prop and costume is at any moment - prevents missed entrances. Prop tables, checklists, and sign-out systems manage this.
Safety and care
Costumes and props can create hazards: trip-length hems, flammable fabrics, heavy headpieces, and weapons props requiring safety protocols. Quick-change areas need privacy, lighting, and safe egress. Laundry and repair schedules keep items performance-ready. Allergens and skin sensitivity matter for makeup and adhesives.
Traps
Questions often test the difference between props and set dressing, or who authorises a costume change (the designer/director, not the dresser alone). Beware options that ignore fire safety for fabrics or weapon-prop protocols.
Worked example
An actor's quick change requires a dresser backstage. The dresser pre-sets the costume, checks fastenings, and confirms timing with the stage manager. If a fastening fails, the dresser reports it and the wardrobe supervisor repairs or substitutes before the next show.
Rule of thumb
Track every handled item with a checklist; continuity failures are usually record-keeping failures.