The Power of Costumes
As Halloween approaches, we’re reminded of the magic that costumes can bring to a character—both on stage and in everyday life. In musical theatre, costumes play a vital role in storytelling, transforming actors into the characters they portray and helping the audience dive into the world of the performance. Much like Halloween, costumes in theatre allow people to embrace new identities, step into a fantasy world, and bring stories to life in a vivid and imaginative way.
How Costumes Shape Characters in Musical Theatre
Costumes are more than just clothing in a musical—they are a crucial part of the performance. Every stitch, color, and accessory is chosen to reflect a character’s personality, status, or emotional journey. For example, think of the perfect for the era outfits in Newsies, The beautiful and iconic wardrobe for Frozen, or the vibrant, animal-inspired costumes in The Lion King. These outfits don't just look impressive—they give the audience insight into the world of the show and the characters’ roles within it.
Much like how Halloween costumes allow us to embody our favorite characters or creatures, theatrical costumes help actors connect with their characters. Whether it's a sleek villain outfit or a whimsical ensemble for a comedic character, what actors wear plays a huge part in how they feel and move on stage.
The Halloween Connection
With Halloween just around the corner, it’s a perfect time to celebrate the art of costuming! Whether you’re planning a spooky look or dressing up as your favorite musical theatre character, Halloween is the perfect chance to experience a small part of what performers feel every time they step on stage. The thrill of transforming into someone else—even if only for a night—mirrors the magic of theatre, where costumes transport us to different eras, places, and stories.
Costumes at SMASH
At SMASH Theatre, we know just how powerful costumes can be. Our young performers get the chance to wear incredible costumes that enhance their roles, whether they’re taking on the sea creatures of Finding Nemo or stepping into the vibrant world of Seussical Jr.. Costumes are the finishing touch that helps our students fully embody their characters and bring the story to life for the audience.
This Halloween, as you plan your costume, think about how much fun it is to step into a new character for the night—just like our students do on stage! And who knows, you might just find inspiration in the world of musical theatre for your next costume idea.
