Dance costumes: A new perception

Abstract

This thesis of practice based research is divided into 80% practical work presented in a theatrical atmosphere and 20% exegesis. It examines contemporary dance costumes from a new perception. The work revolves around an idea to restrict body movements and induce new dance techniques. Original dance costumes are needed to bolster the scheme. Therefore, this effort is to discover novel substances and materials to replace orthodox ones; and tackle the relationship of design creativity with material choice. Both are extremely important and have equal effects on the end results.

The work focuses on developing five costumes that convey unusual visionary features via integrated light elements. Various rubber, foam and silicone types were tested because they don’t fit in the concept of comfort and ease that dance costumes normally require. Meanwhile experiments were conducted to integrate Fiber Optics light, LED light and other reflective substance such as crystals into the mentioned materials.