Dalinda is Opera UCT’s bold departure from traditional period costume design
As the eagerly awaited world premiere of Donizetti’s rediscovered operatic gem approaches on September 4, we delve into the exquisite costumes that will captivate audiences at the Baxter Theatre.
In the realm of opera, where music and vocal talent often dominate the spotlight, the crucial roles of set and costume design are sometimes overlooked.
The upcoming world premiere of ‘Dalinda’ by Opera UCT is a prime example of how these elements can be elevated to new artistic heights, offering both the audience and the cast a visual feast.
With “Dalinda” being fully staged for the first time, it offers a rare opportunity for creative expression.
Inspired by the concept of international costume designer Leticia Parvoleta Ivanova, the production team, including Cape Town’s own costume stylist Widaad Albertus and her team, have risen to the challenge of crafting a visual spectacle that not only complements the music but also reimagines traditional opera costume design.
"Dalinda, being very much an open book, presents both challenges and opportunities," says Albertus. "On one hand, there's the pressure of being the first to ever stage this piece, but on the other, the freedom that comes with it is exhilarating. Without a set precedent, we have the liberty to innovate and create something entirely unique."
Inspired by the historical backdrop of Byzantine Syria in the Middle Ages, towards the end of the Crusades, the costumes in “Dalinda” are anything but ordinary. Under the guidance of William Costabile Cisco and Opera UCT’s director Jeremy Silver, the decision was made to be inspired by the period rather than to adhere strictly to historical accuracy.
This approach allows the costumes to retain elements of recognisability while incorporating a modern twist.
Albertus, with her background in textile design, has leveraged her expertise to experiment with various fabrics and jewels, giving each character a unique identity through carefully curated colour schemes and thematic consistency throughout the acts.
"The costumes themselves have a musicality to them," she hints, suggesting that the visual elements of the performance will resonate with the audience on multiple levels.
Despite the creative freedom, Albertus is fully aware of the responsibility that comes with introducing this lost masterpiece to the world. With over 15 years of experience in theatre costume design, she describes her work on “Dalinda” as some of the most inventive she has ever undertaken.
"When working with history, we usually stick to that because there are existing references and audiences have certain expectations. But with “Dalinda”, we are steering away from that rigidity, rather we are inspired by the period, but are reinventing," says Albertus.
Albertus’s journey into costume design began in high school when a part-time job as a theatre usher sparked her passion for the craft. Despite her formal education in textile design, she attributes much of her expertise to hands-on experience and learning from industry professionals.
"For young people looking to get into costume design, formal training is not always necessary. The best way to learn is by doing — gaining practical knowledge and seeking mentorship from those in the field. You never know it all; there's always more to learn."
Audiences fortunate enough to attend “Dalinda” can expect to be transported to a historical era with a modern twist — where the costumes are as integral to the storytelling as the music itself. Albertus and her team have crafted a visual narrative that promises to be as captivating and innovative as Donizetti’s score.
The word premiere staging of Gaetano Donizetti's “Dalinda”, conducted by Jeremy Silver, Director of Opera UCT is on at the Baxter Theatre from September 4-8, 2024 .
Under 18s can attend for free — seats must be reserved on Webtickets.
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