| dc.description.abstract | The purpose of this study is to investigate and categorise the use of a hybrid
of periods in dramatic costume design. The main objective is to examine and
explore the theory of, what this study has named, Anachronistic Costume
Design (ACD).
The first aim is to define ACD, discover the structure of the method, and
analyse the semiotic interpretation and psychology of hybrid-period
performance attire. Secondly, the study researches the use of anachronistic
costuming throughout the ages to gain an understanding of its evolution from
the early emblematic costumes of Ancient Greece to the Modernist costumes
of the early nineteenth century. In combining the established theory and the
knowledge of its historical background, the study then explores the
conventions of ACD in contemporary theatre by proposing a system of
categorisation for the technique. This includes dividing it into three subgenres,
each representing the differing forms in which hybrid-period costume
may manifest. These are classed as: Visual Period Conflict, Concordant
Period Amalgamation and Neoteric Genre Creation. Each category is
supported by a modern case study.
The fusion of time periods in design is an important signifier as it engages a
viewer. It alerts them to alien garments/costumes in a production, resulting
in an increase in audience appreciation of the design and its semiotic
purpose. As this theory has not been clearly codified before (however has
been widely practiced), this research is open to interpretation. The formula
hopes to aid costume students by providing them with a concrete design
method. It should also encourage them to test, and contest, this versatile
costume technique so that it may further develop and expand as a legitimate
design theory. |
