Costumes and Settings for Historical Plays: The Elizabeth and Restoration Period, 1558-1715

This is the third volume in a series of books about costumes and settings for historical plays. The concept is to offer a full spectrum of design ideas for a particular period-costumes, props and sets.
The series is intended for all of those who are involved in theatre, drama and the history of a particular period. It is an excellent reference for historic costume designers, scenic designers, property masters, weapons masters, producers, directors and actors, or for those who have an interest or enthusiasm for period drama or period design history. Jack Cassin-Scott presents the Elizabethan and Restoration period, which from 1550-1715, covers almost two centuries of contrasting fashion. The middle of the sixteenth century reflects the heavy, artificial splendour of the Spanish influence which is in complete contrast to the drab colour and austere costumes which became fashionable during the years of war and rebellion. Towards the middle of the seventeenth century emerged the dignified and sumptuous Baroque style with its heavy drapery, intermingled with satins and velvets, to be abruptly brought to an end at The Restoration with its revolutionary change in the attire for men and its emphasis on wigs. The author stresses the importance of carefully planned exaggeration of silhouette and colour to heighten the impact of the plays.
The Stage Properties, clearly drawn and captioned, include: certain specific costumes, armour and weapons of nobles and soldiers, as well as musical instruments, details of jewelry, furniture and utensils used for the people of those times. The Stage Settings concentrate on the characteristic features which are clearly represented in the architecture of the period, and when incorporated into the design, with carefully selected lighting effects and appropriate costume and prop designs, can reproduce the correct atmosphere for the chosen period. A selection of plays, suitable for the various theatre groups and/or drama class productions is also given, which adds to the usefulness of this indispensable reference book.