Historical Research & Accuracy Project on Translations by Brian Friel 

This was a challenging project, as we had to design within the brief and stay true to the 1830s rural Donegal setting. I focused on fabrics that would have been used during that period, even sourcing Silesia cotton for the lining of the costumes. I stuck to the patterns typical of the time as well. It was my first time drafting and assembling trousers and a frock coat—there were definitely some tears along the way, not going to lie!

I’m particularly proud of the peasant shirt prototype I created, which features gussets on the collar. Below is a glimpse of my process, which was heavily inspired by paintings of the people from that era. My final design drawing combines acrylics and watercolors.

A massive thank you to Eimear Broderick for creating the makeup for my character. She literally brought my vision to life! I portrayed Jimmy, “The Infant Prodigy,” who became my favorite character—he reminded me of so many people in my life, which was a beautiful experience. And of course, a huge thanks to my model as well, I would have been so lost without him.