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Consultancy: Live Interpretation Characters
I work freelance as a costumed interpreter, as well as using character as a means of enhancing lectures and talks.
One of my research interests is in ways of communicating academic themes to both a specialist and generalist audience. Even where such communication is, by necessity, written, awareness of everyday life as a performance can be used to inform analysis and, in some cases, the written result itself.
The following characters are my current core repertoire, based on costume, expertise and potential to explore a number of historical themes. The costumes can of course be used more widely, to portray more generic characters depending on the needs of the site.
Mrs Beeton (1860s)
I portray Beeton at the height of her career as a fashion and housekeeping writer. The Book of Household Management was first published in book form in 1861 and has never been out of print since. making her a character of whom most have heard, but few know more than her name. Beeton can be used to interpret women’s rights and lives, food and dining and class conflict. Examples of Victorian food can be supplied; cookery demonstrations are also possible.
The gown is also suitable for aristocratic daywear, upper middle class best or housekeeper, c.1860-80.
Young Queen Victoria (c.1840-50s)
Interest in young Victoria has been given impetus by the recent film (‘Young Victoria’) , increasing awareness of the energy-filled, impetuous Queen before her better known days as a black-clad widow. As a focal figure Victoria can be used as part of large events, or in smaller, more intimate settings as part of a ‘meet the Queen’ scenario. I know of Alberts and ladies in waiting as well(!)
This gown can be dressed down to be suitable for aristocratic ladies of the 1840s-early 50s.
Regency Miss (1800s)
This character is more generic, and can be named and characterised to suit the site and scenario desired, depending on available information. Regency Miss is most suitable as a member of the minor aristocracy or gentry in an informal setting and can be used to interpret social customs, gender tension and add nuances to what for many people is Jane Austen’s England. I particularly use this character for interpretation based around tea-taking.