Question 1: Explain why costume choices are important in helping the audience understand a character's personality or role in a play.

Answer: Costume choices are important because they visually communicate a character's personality, status, or role, helping the audience understand the story without words. For example, a villain might wear dark, intimidating clothing, while a hero might wear bright, confident costumes.

Question 2: Describe three different costume ideas for a character who is a brave knight in a medieval play.

Answer: A suitable costume might include: 1) A metallic-looking tunic and helmet to resemble armor, 2) A cape or cloak to signify nobility, 3) Leather boots and gloves for practicality and authenticity.

Question 3: List two ways costume can help differentiate between characters in a play with many roles.

Answer: Costume can differentiate characters by using different colours, styles, or accessories for each role, making it easier for the audience to tell them apart. For example, a king might wear a crown and regal robes, while a servant might wear plain, simple clothing.

Question 4: Draw a costume design for a futuristic space explorer. Include details such as clothing, accessories, and any special features.

Answer: A correct sketch would include a sleek, form-fitting suit with metallic or neon accents, a helmet or visor, and accessories like a jetpack or gadgets. The design should look high-tech and innovative.

Question 5: Imagine you are designing a costume for a character who is feeling sad. Describe what colours and clothing styles you would choose and why.

Answer: I would choose dull, muted colours such as grey or blue to reflect sadness. The clothing might be loose and baggy to suggest a lack of energy or enthusiasm, helping the audience understand the character's emotional state.

Question 6: Identify and explain two challenges a costume designer might face when creating costumes for a play set in a very hot climate.

Answer: Challenges include choosing lightweight, breathable fabrics that still look appropriate for the setting, and designing costumes that don't cause the actors to overheat or become uncomfortable during performances.

Question 7: Sketch a costume for a villain in a pantomime, including features that make it look menacing or dramatic.

Answer: A correct sketch would show dark, sharp-edged clothing, perhaps with spikes or horns, and bold, contrasting colours like black and red. Accessories like a long cape or sinister mask could add to the menacing effect.

Question 8: How can costume help the audience understand the setting of a play (e.g., a fairy tale, a historical period)?

Answer: Costumes can reflect the time period or genre through their style, fabric, and accessories. For example, fairy-tale costumes might be colorful and fantastical, while historical costumes are based on clothing styles from the specific era.

Question 9: Describe a costume suitable for a comedic character and explain how its design might contribute to the humour.

Answer: A comedic costume might include exaggerated features like oversized shoes, bright mismatched clothing, or silly hats. These elements make the character look humorous and help to exaggerate their personality for comic effect.

Question 10: Think about a character who is a royal king. Describe the key elements you would include in their costume to show their status.

Answer: The costume should include a regal crown, a richly decorated robe or cloak, and possibly a scepter or other royal accessories. Bright colours like purple or gold can also signify wealth and authority.