Most MYART costumes are created by individual cast members. For some shows, specific costumes are rented from outside companies or from MYART. However, chances are you will be expected to assemble the elements of a costume.
Every MYART show is set in a certain place and time. This usually provides the historical basis for a show's costumes.
Costume guidelines and other information are provided to the cast, usually within the first couple of weeks of rehearsal. This includes Information about the styles of clothing for the period that the show is set in.
This information will either be provided directly in the costume handouts, or it may be given as liinks to websites. Most of the time, different guidance is provided for the different ensemble groups, with lead costumes having their own unique requirements.
The Costume Designer will select the basic color scheme for the show, and often will specify certain colors to be worn only by certain lead characters. The Designer may also assign different colors to different classes of characters within the ensemble (such as working-class and the wealthy). Specific types of hats, shoes or other articles of clothing may be called for.
In assembling a costume, most cast members rely upon several sources. Often items from closets at home can be used. Thrift stores, rummage sales and surplus stores may also yield appropriate items. Sometimes other cast members can be of help, and finally, making costume articles from scratch may be a good option for those who are so inclined.
Costuming may seem like another daunting responsibility at first, but it is also another opportunity to express your creativity and individual style. And if you feel like you need some help, contact the show's Costume Designer (Just don't wait till the last minute), and you will be encouraged and assisted.