Juozas Statkevičius: "My mission is to enchant and draw people into opera"
Fashion designer Juozas Statkevičius discusses his vision for costumes in opera, particularly in the context of Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream.'
In an interview, Lithuanian fashion designer Juozas Statkevičius shared his insights on the costume design process for opera, highlighting the importance of connecting theatrical visuals with the storytelling of William Shakespeare's works. He emphasized that the creation of costumes starts with the director's concept, where they collaborate on settings, music, and the overall mood of the performance. This collaborative approach is crucial for understanding the characters' environments and how they will move on stage, ultimately leading to the development of costumes that enhance the performance's dynamics.
Statkevičius described 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' as a unique piece that blends elements of fantasy with irony and romance. He aims to create a lively, dynamic world on stage that feels engaging and not static, contrasting with traditional interpretations that might feel more museum-like. The costumes are designed to serve as a bridge to opera, drawing the audience into the mystical world of the performance while also adhering to the evening's 'black tie' dress code in a subtle yet stylish manner.
By collaborating with the opera's creative team, Statkevičius believes that costumes can significantly transform the viewer's experience, making classical works accessible and enchanting to a modern audience. This approach reflects a broader trend in the arts, where traditional narratives are reimagined and presented in ways that resonate with contemporary audiences, emphasizing the importance of visual storytelling in opera and theater.