The Lyric Theatre’s latest production of Oscar Wilde’s classic play The Importance of Being Earnest marries the elegance of the Victorian era with a contemporary vibrancy, as illustrated through the meticulously crafted costumes designed by Catherine Kodicek. Set against the backdrop of 1895, the visual elements of this production promise to enhance the satirical undertones of Wilde's work, which cleverly critiques the upper class's frivolities.

Kodicek’s vision incorporates true-to-period silhouettes while infusing a modern twist. As she states, “My main thing for this production is the silhouettes...they’ve got these big sleeves, small waists, big hems – it was completely bonkers." This focus on aesthetics aims to evoke the feelings associated with summer gardens and gaiety, matching the tone of Wilde’s “trivial comedy for serious people.” Drawing from her extensive background in theatre and a deep-seated affection for costume design, Kodicek has been instrumental in creating a visual narrative that complements Wilde's humour and wit.

The collaborative spirit of the costume department further enriches this production, helmed by Kodicek alongside her team, comprising costume assistant Ciara Leneghan and costume supervisor Mairead McCormack. Each member brings unique strengths to the table, fostering an environment where creativity can flourish. Leneghan, who recently joined through a theatre artist fund programme, shares a passion for the visual arts that aligns with the department’s ethos. “We’ve formed a bit of a dream team,” she claims, highlighting the importance of a supportive creative environment.

Mairead McCormack echoes this sentiment, recognising that the camaraderie within their small team helps to navigate the complexities of costume design. The meticulous attention to detail resonates throughout the process, as each member finds joy and satisfaction in the tasks at hand, whether it involves sewing, dyeing, or brainstorming concepts. With a focus on creating not just costumes but also a narrative reflective of the characters’ personalities and backgrounds, Kodicek underscores the importance of grounding design work in the script itself. “You always have to start with the play,” she asserts, showcasing the depth of research that character-driven costume design necessitates.

As the curtains rise for The Importance of Being Earnest, anticipation is palpable, especially as the production promises not just visual splendour but also the nuanced comedy that has delighted audiences for generations. The unique approach taken by the Lyric Theatre, particularly under the direction of Jimmy Fay, aims to breathe new life into Wilde’s work, making it relevant and entertaining for today’s audience. This fresh take is underscored by Kodicek's assertion that the costumes should not only look beautiful but also express the essence of each character, contributing to the overarching narrative.

With performances running until July 6, this production invites theatre lovers to revel in both the lavish costume designs and the magical world of Wilde’s storytelling. As Kodicek passionately encourages, “Firstly, it’s an incredibly funny play...why wouldn’t you come and see it? It’ll be Wilde, witty and the actors will be wonderfully dressed.”

The innovative creative choices made by the Lyric Theatre, combined with the expertise of its costume department, are set to create a truly memorable theatre experience that pays homage to Wilde’s legacy while engaging a modern audience.

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Source: Noah Wire Services