Question 1: Explain how costume can help establish a character's personality on stage.

Answer: Costume can reveal a character's personality by using specific colours, styles, and accessories that reflect traits such as confidence, shyness, or villainy. For example, bright colours might suggest a cheerful character, while dark, plain clothing could indicate a serious or sinister personality.

Question 2: Describe how costume choices can indicate the time period of a play.

Answer: Costumes can suggest the historical period by using styles, fabrics, and accessories typical of that era. For example, Victorian costumes include corsets and top hats, while modern costumes might feature casual clothing like jeans and t-shirts.

Question 3: Why is it important for costumes to be comfortable for actors during a performance?

Answer: Comfortable costumes allow actors to move freely and perform without distraction or discomfort, which helps maintain their energy, focus, and believability in the performance.

Question 4: Identify three factors a director should consider when designing costumes for a stage production.

Answer: Factors include the character's personality and role, the setting and time period of the play, and the practical needs such as comfort and mobility for actors.

Question 5: Describe how costume can help differentiate between multiple characters in a scene.

Answer: Distinct costumes with different colours, styles, or accessories help the audience easily identify and distinguish characters, especially when they are on stage together or in quick succession.

Question 6: Draw a costume design for a villain in a play. Include notes on colour, style, and accessories.

Answer: A sketch showing a dark, perhaps black or deep red costume with sharp, angular lines. Accessories might include a cape or mask. Notes should mention that the costume aims to look intimidating and sinister.

Question 7: Sketch a costume suitable for a comedic character. Include key features in your drawing.

Answer: A humorous, exaggerated costume with bright colours, mismatched patterns, or oversized accessories. Notes should indicate that the costume aims to look funny and playful.

Question 8: Explain how costume changes during a play can impact staging and the audience's understanding of the story.

Answer: Quick costume changes can signal a character's transformation or passage of time, helping the audience follow the story. They also add visual interest and can be used to create surprise or comedy.

Question 9: What practical considerations should costume designers keep in mind when creating costumes for a large cast?

Answer: Costumes should be easy to put on and take off, durable enough for multiple performances, comfortable for actors, and suitable for quick changes if needed.

Question 10: Describe the role of accessories in costumes and how they can enhance a character’s appearance.

Answer: Accessories like hats, jewellery, or props can add detail to a costume, making a character more believable and helping to tell their story or personality.

Question 11: Sketch a costume for a futuristic character. Include notes on colour and style to convey the setting.

Answer: A futuristic costume might feature metallic fabrics, sleek lines, and unusual accessories like LED lights or tech gadgets. Notes should mention that the design suggests advanced technology and a modern setting.