Costumes That Bring a Story to Life: A Costume Design Masterclass by Sarah Grech

Ahead of Mikiel Anton Vassalli College’s annual production, this year’s multidisciplinary triptych L-Aħħar Bastiment: Stories from the Grand Harbour is enriched by a series of masterclasses designed to immerse students in the craft of professional theatre production. Sarah Grech, the costume designer for the production gives a masterclass on costume design.

This masterclass offered a glimpse into the creative journey of a costume designer: from the first encounter with a script, through conversations with the director, to the final realization of a costume on stage.

At the Mikiel Anton Vassalli (MAVC) Main Hall in Ħamrun, Sarah Grech invited a mixed-age group of 18 attendees to participate in a simple exercise; where each participant chose a hat and imagined a story behind a character who would wear this hat. This exercise encouraged thinking beyond the script and reflecting how designers are able to explore a character’s personality, relationships and social world through their clothes.

Practical characteristics of design were also explored; how the actor’s body must be considered and how basic measurements are taken to ensure that costumes not only inspire, but also fit and support the performer as they bring life to a story. Participants sketched full costume ideas for their characters and discussion with the group revealed how conversation can bring a design to life even when a drawing cannot capture every detail. Groupwork also allowed the participants to explore style and how even simple or ready-made pieces can reveal character when chosen carefully.

Another important aspect that was discussed were topics such as costume hire, sustainability and budgeting. The collaborative format allowed ideas to flourish, and the creativity and imagination shown in the designs made the session a truly rewarding experience.

L-Aħħar Bastiment – Stories from the Grand Harbour will be staged on Saturday 9 May 2026 at St. Agatha Auditorium, Rabat. 

Admission is free, but tickets must be reserved in advance via: https://www.ticketline.com.mt/bookings/Shows.aspx?ProductionId=1293