Witnesses of the Past: Costumes as Material Evidence of the Ephemeral Performance

Abstract

 This article focuses on the theory and methodology of historical costume research, which starts with the garment in the archive and contains a comparative, collaborative, interdisciplinary and international approach. It includes the study of preserved eighteenth-century stage costumes in the Swedish Royal Armoury (Livrustkammaren), French costume designs, inventories, dance treatises from the period, experimental reconstruction and performance. Since the early Swedish theatre repertoire was based mainly on French plays and operas, and the costumes were heavily inspired by French design, this study can offer insights into the practice on French stages as well, from where little garments have been preserved. The study departing from costume’s materiality can provide insights into the long-lost performances of the past. Some examples will show what we can learn about costumes’ relation to the movement in the past, their relation to the lighting in the historic theatre, and the overall effect on the audience.