What You'll Learn
- The engineering differences between pancake, platter, and bell tutu shapes.
- How a 'bask' and spiral steel boning create a functional, supportive ballet bodice.
- Creative technical tools like forks and fishing wire used in professional tutu construction.
- Maintenance and alteration secrets used by world-class ballet companies for longevity.
About This Video
In this captivating episode of Broche Banter, host Julie dives deep into the intricate world of ballet costume design with expert tutu maker Lucy Simpson. For any dancer who has marveled at the structural integrity of a pancake tutu or the delicate float of a romantic bell tutu, this discussion reveals the engineering marvels hidden beneath the layers of tulle. Whether you are performing as a swan in Swan Lake or the fiery Kitri, the construction of your costume dictates your range of motion on stage.
Lucy shares her wealth of knowledge on how tutus are built to withstand the rigors of professional performance. We explore the specialized components like the 'bask'—the essential waistband that anchors the skirt—and the use of spiral steel boning in the bodice to provide support without sacrificing mobility during complex choreography. Listeners will learn how an internal wire hoop and strategic layering of stiff net create that iconic 'perky' silhouette essential for classical variations.
The transition from a deep plié to a lightning-fast pirouette requires a bodice that moves with the dancer while maintaining a flawless line. The conversation transcends modern techniques as Lucy discusses her archival research into costumes worn by legends such as Margot Fonteyn. It is fascinating to realize that many of the methods used decades ago remain standard in the industry today.
From using plastic forks for precise pleating to fishing wire for gathering net effectively, the tools of the trade are as creative as the costumes themselves. Beyond construction, we touch on the practicalities of costume maintenance within world-class institutions like the Royal Ballet. Discover how costumes are designed for longevity, allowing for frequent alterations and spot cleaning to accommodate different dancers over many seasons.
Whether you are a student preparing for your first en pointe performance or a seasoned professional, understanding the architecture of your costume enhances your appreciation for the art form. Join Broche Ballet for this behind-the-scenes look at the fabric of our craft.
