Emma Thompson
August 2007

Although I come from a family of dressmakers and have always been interested in the creative arts, I first become involved in theatre costume while studying for a BA (hons) in Drama at the University of Hull.  I was given the opportunity to supervise productions and take on the role of wardrobe representative for the student committee.

I was interested pursuing a career in theatre costume, but as my experience was mainly extra curricular I found there was a skills gap that prevented me entering the industry straight away.  After working in education for a year I joined the 4 month course in theatre costume construction with the Northern College of Costume.

For the final month of the course I was placed with York Theatre Royal and worked on their annual pantomime, Cinderella, and as assistant on ‘Jack’, a touring production by ‘Tutti Frutti’.  I was then offered another placement at the Manchester Royal Exchange Theatre, where I worked as an assistant on ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’, gaining further knowledge of tailoring techniques.

Since completing my placements I have been working as a wardrobe assistant for the production department of the Birmingham School of Acting, have designed and made a number of bridal gowns and am now back working at the Manchester Royal Exchange on a production of Henry V.

The course at the Northern College of Costume was wonderful and inspiring and I have fond memories of my summer in York, being creative and learning all about the world of costume.

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