What’s it like… Costume Supervising?

Published on:
11th June 2024

I’m Neve, a first year student on the Costume for Theatre, Film and Television (FdA) course at BOVTS. I have just finished working as a Costume Supervisor and Dresser on The Nobodies, a production which was part of the Summer Festival at The Wardrobe Theatre (23 May – 22 Jun 2024).

The best part of working on the production was all the fun we had backstage – especially with the Assistant Stage Manager as we eagerly awaited our next cues. It was really exciting to work with the actors as well, collaboration across the courses is a really important part of training at BOVTS. My proudest moment was seeing the costumes I had spent so long working on, come to life onstage.

My time working on the productions has come to an end until I start my second year. I am finishing off the term by working on smaller costume makes, including my trouser block and bloomers. I’ve also got to do some returns of costume pieces that have been used in the summer season productions – a visit to Bristol Costume Services awaits!

BOVTS was the only place I wanted to go as it is such a unique and supportive drama school, that provides an incredibly in-depth and personalised experience. The staff and students are so supportive. The training is very ‘hands-on’, and I know that as soon as I enter the industry I will feel confident, experienced and ready.

For more information about the FdA in Costume for Theatre, Film and Television, please visit the course page.

Students drinking coffee in Clifton Village
The training provided by the MFA programme is superb. The depth with which we explore, paired with unyielding curiosity that is met with the most knowledgeable, passionate, expert tutors is what makes BOVTS programme one of the finest around. I feel honoured to call BOVTS my grad school. Rachel McVay, MA Professional Acting Student