Behind the Seams, Bringing Anastasia to Life
As Concordia Lutheran College prepares for its latest production - Anastasia, part of the buzz is about the transformation occurring backstage. Samantha Eagleson, the costumes coordinator at the College, talks about a love for the work she does that began in childhood. “We delve into decades of collected costumes, adapt what we have, and supplement by hiring or sourcing what we need,” Mrs Eagleson said. “Growing up, my mother made costumes for amateur theatre, and I’d often tag along with Dad, exploring the magical costume rooms.”
“We delve into decades of collected costumes, adapt what we have, and supplement by hiring or sourcing what we need,” Mrs Eagleson said. “Growing up, my mother made costumes for amateur theatre, and I’d often tag along with Dad, exploring the magical costume rooms.”
Some performers wear up to six different outfits in one show, which keeps Mrs Eagleson on her toes managing rapid costume changes.
“It’s a dance of its own,” she jokes, highlighting the variety from “ballroom elegance to the boldness of Russian Cossacks.”
“This year’s production promises some extra wow factor due to the royal family at the heart of Anastasia’s tale. We have set high expectations around the glamour and authenticity associated with this Musical. Our goal is to bring the story alive, and the costumes are the visual backbone of our tale.”
Beyond the designs of her own, Mrs Eagleson loves watching the chorus members embrace their own creativity when hunting for costumes.
“There’s a kind of op shop scavenger hunt excitement in the air,” she said.
Every costume is meticulously planned, steamed, and pressed before the curtain rises, and Mrs Eagleson stays backstage for those inevitable last-minute fixes.
“We’ve got a toolkit ready for anything, it could be a heel, jewellery or a hem,” she added.
Taking on hair and makeup duties as well, Mrs Eagleson ensures every detail enhances the performance, making sure this production will be an unforgettable experience for performers and audiences.
“We are all about making magic happen,” she said.
Tickets for Anastasia the Musical are selling fast, and with the dazzling costumes and immersive storytelling, this is a show you won’t want to miss. Grab your tickets today to experience the magic live on stage and join us in celebrating an incredible production.
