From dazzling dresses and denim jackets to spectacular sportswear, The Roses Theatre in Tewkesbury has kitted out the cast of its Christmas pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk in all upcycled costumes.
Reflecting the themes of climate change featured within the story, the cast's dazzling costumes have been created entirely from vintage finds and existing fabrics, with every element being inspired by a 'make-do-and-mend aesthetic'.
The production team collaborated with Jokoto Tailoring from Bristol's Old Market to create beautiful historical shapes from existing garments, from 17th-century style doublets and breeches made from Adidas tracksuits; granny square blankets transformed into one of the Dame's many outfits; to a 1980s suit turned into a bodice and skirt for Madam Mayor – with half of all the textiles in the production being sourced from preloved clothing app Vinted.
The pantomime's costume designer, Neil Fortin, said: 'One hundred per cent of our materials are recycled this year. Our goal was to help highlight the wild fun of a production that has gymnasts and dancers live on stage while giving a nod towards the eco-friendly elements of our story.
'You have this really amazing mix of modern athletic wear, trainers and varsity jackets mixed with late Tudor and early Restoration shapes.
'We were especially inspired by the West End and Broadway musical & Juliet, which gave a contemporary note to all those puffed sleeves, corseted bodices and voluminous shirting.'
The Roses Theatre's new director, Olivier Award-winner Derek Bond, added: 'Pantomimes are such a wonderful British tradition, so we take our town’s part in the season really seriously.
'Pantos are a real opportunity to do what The Roses is all about – bringing the community into our theatre and taking the arts out into the community, so that we can all share a wonderful live experience together.
'Like many local theatres, up to a fifth of our annual revenue is generated during panto season. So this panto’s wardrobe may be eco-friendly – but it helps make the theatre and Tewkesbury’s cultural life sustainable, too!
'And with giant beanstalks, surprising giants and those glorious upcycled wardrobes, audiences will enjoy this year’s Tewkesbury panto more than ever. Oh yes, they will!'
For more information, see SoGlos's preview of the Jack and the Beanstalk pantomime at The Roses Theatre.
