Bachelor of Fine Arts in Costume Design

Program Overview

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This Bachelor of Fine Arts program in Theatre Design and Production with a specialization in Costume Design equips students with hands-on experience in all aspects of costume design and technology. Through practical application in fully-staged productions, students gain the skills and knowledge to succeed in the field, preparing them for entry-level positions or further education. The program emphasizes collaboration, communication, and professional preparation, providing students with a strong foundation for a successful career in costume design.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Overview:

This Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program in Theatre Design and Production with a specialization in Costume Design focuses on providing students with hands-on experience in all aspects of costume design and technology. Through practical application in fully-staged productions within theatre, opera, and dance, students gain the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the field.

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Objectives:

• Equip students with the ability to design and develop costumes for various theatrical productions.
• Provide a thorough understanding of costume construction techniques and industry standards.
• Develop strong collaboration and communication skills to work effectively with directors, actors, and other design team members.
• Prepare students for entry-level positions in costume design or further education at the graduate level.

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Description:

The program consists of a comprehensive curriculum covering various aspects of costume design, including:

• Technical skills: Pattern drafting, draping, sewing, dyeing, embellishment, and understanding different fabric properties.
• Historical and contemporary costume design analysis.

• Costume rendering and visualization techniques.

• Collaboration and communication strategies with directors and actors.

• Budgeting and production management for costumes.

Students have opportunities to apply their theoretical knowledge in practical situations through hands-on projects in the costume shop and various production experiences. The program culminates in a capstone project where students create a professional portfolio and website showcasing their skills and accomplishments.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• Costume construction techniques: Pattern drafting, draping, sewing, dyeing, embellishment, textile manipulation.
• Costume history and analysis: Understanding different historical periods and their impact on costume design.
• Costume design principles: Color theory, composition, symbolism, character development through costume.
• Rendering and visualization: Sketching, technical drawing, digital tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator.
• Collaboration and communication: Working effectively with directors, actors, and other design team members.
• Production management: Budgeting, scheduling, sourcing materials, managing costume crews.

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Structure:

• First-Second year: Introduction to costume design, costume rendering, basic sewing and construction techniques, theatre production fundamentals.
• Third-Fourth year: Advanced costume construction, pattern drafting, historical costume study, costume design for theatre, opera, and dance, professional development workshops.

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Individual Modules:

• Introduction to Theatrical Design: Explores fundamental design principles and their application in various theatrical contexts.
• Stage Costuming: Focuses on practical skills like hand and machine sewing, pattern alteration, and basic costume construction.
• Costume Rendering: Develops sketching and rendering techniques to visually communicate costume designs.
• Costume Construction: Delves into advanced construction techniques like tailoring, draping, and millinery.
• Pattern Drafting: Teaches the principles of drafting patterns for garments, including historical and contemporary styles.
• Fashion History: Explores the evolution of fashion throughout history and its influence on costume design.
• Professional Preparation for Design and Production: Guides students in building resumes, portfolios, and websites, and prepares them for professional careers in the field.

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Assessment:

• Studio projects and critiques: Regular assessments of individual and group projects through faculty and peer feedback.
• Exams and quizzes: Theoretical knowledge assessment through written examinations and quizzes.
• Portfolio development: Ongoing refinement of a professional portfolio showcasing design work, construction skills, and creative process.
• Capstone project: Final evaluation of a self-directed project demonstrating acquired skills and knowledge.

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Teaching:

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Methods:

• Individualized instruction: Small class sizes allow for personalized attention and mentorship from faculty.
• Project-based learning: Students engage in practical projects to apply theoretical concepts and develop creative problem-solving skills.
• Collaboration and teamwork: Opportunities to work on projects collaboratively and develop communication skills within a design team setting.
• Guest lectures and workshops: Exposure to industry professionals who share their expertise and experiences.

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Faculty:

• Experienced professionals with expertise in various aspects of costume design.
• Active professionals working in the theatre and entertainment industry.
• Dedicated to providing mentorship and support to students as they develop their artistic abilities.

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Unique Approach:

• Collaboration with Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre: Providing hands-on experience through opportunities to work as part of the production team.
• Industry connections: Building professional networking opportunities through guest lectures, workshops, and collaborations with working professionals.
• Portfolio building and career preparation: Emphasis on developing professional presentation skills and navigating the professional landscape of costume design.

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Careers:

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Career Paths:

• Costume designer for theatre, opera, dance, film, and television.
• Costume technician or supervisor
• Personal stylist or wardrobe consultant
• Fashion designer or pattern maker
• Theatrical and historical costume restorer

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Preparation and Opportunities:

• The program equips students with essential skills and knowledge to enter the professional field.
• Career & Professional Development services provide assistance with resume and portfolio preparation, interview skills, and job searches.
• Opportunities to network with professionals and build industry connections during studies.
• Hands-on experience through production work and internship possibilities prepare students for real-world challenges.

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Other:

• The program provides numerous performance opportunities within the Conservatory's extensive productions and ensembles.
• Study abroad experiences are available to expand cultural awareness and artistic perspectives.
• Learning support services ensure academic success for all students.
• Minors in other related fields like Music, Theatre, or Dance are offered to complement the Costume Design program.