The Gilbert and Sullivan National Opera Company
During my 2.5-year internship with the Gilbert and Sullivan National Opera Company under the Head of Costume Design and Wardrobe, I have worked as both a Costume Design Intern and Wardrobe Assistant. Beginning in Philadelphia and continuing in Buxton, England, this opportunity has allowed me to contribute to the full design and build of 7 operas—The Mikado, Yeoman of the Guard, The Gondoliers, H.M.S. Pinafore, Trial by Jury, Iolanthe, and Pirates of Penzance. My responsibilities included conducting in-depth historical and aesthetic research, sourcing and constructing costumes, collaborating with international hire shops, and crafting large-scale sculptural accessories. I also assisted in fittings, alterations, and backstage dressing support for a 30-person cast, across 10 dress rehearsals and 45 performances. From jewelry and headdress fabrication to wig installation and costume maintenance, this immersive experience has deepened my understanding of world-building, theatricality, and the technical demands of costume design for the stage.