LADY NIJŌ
Top Girls (2018) by Caryl Churchill
Directed by Imara Savage
Inner layers: polyester satin, screen printed with metallic foil, silk pants
Outer layer: polyester jacquard
Renée Mulder (Costume Designer): "Michelle Lim Davidson played the role of historical figure Lady Nijō, a thirteenth-century Japanese noblewoman and concubine of Emperor Go-Fukakusa from 1271 to 1283. Later in life she became a Buddhist nun, poet & author. We decided to interpret Nijō the way she might have looked in court.
"The process started with reading the script and meeting with Imara Savage (Director) and fellow creative David Fleischer, the Set Designer of the production. We discussed the world of the play and the characters within it. From this starting point I began my research.
"Artworks, manuscripts, films, and literature all played a key role in inspiring the look for this costume.
"Working with Michelle is always such a joy and a pleasure. We had great fun in the fitting room figuring out how Nijō would move in so many layers and so much fabric.
"My favourite part was working with the STC Costume Department.
"From selecting fabrics with (Costume Supervisors) Scott Fisher and Sam Perkins, to witnessing cutter extraordinaire Cheryl Pike deciphering and re-creating historical patterns, along with the other costumiers who expertly worked through every phase of the build from the early calico toile to the finished costume. Art finishing legend Roslyn Keam treated many of the fabrics with metallic foil detailing. And to complete the character, Lauren Proietti (Head of Wigs & Make-Up) was able to recreate Lady Nijō’s incredibly long hair.
"Bringing a look together like this takes passion, skill and a team of amazingly talented and creative people."
Made by Cheryl Pike; Photo by Joanna Shuen