Costume design students from Buckinghamshire New University have seen their work brought to life on stage following a collaboration with Garsington Opera.

The project, which culminated in live performances in early March, gave students the opportunity to work in the fast-paced environment of a professional production.

Under the guidance of Dr Anca Albani, senior lecturer in set and costume design, and Rosie Williams, lecturer in making, students created costumes that met industry standards while remaining true to the designer’s vision.

They adapted to the demands of opera performance, producing garments that balanced durability, comfort and visual impact under stage lighting and physically demanding conditions.

BNU Costume Design Students take centre stage at operaBNU Costume Design Students take centre stage at opera (Image: BNU)

Students also developed technical and problem-solving skills throughout the process, while working closely with the Garsington production team to ensure their handmade pieces fitted seamlessly into the final show.

A highlight of the project came when students saw their creations on stage for the first time, with many also receiving their first professional credit in the official programme.

“Watching the opera was really exciting,” said one student. “It can be difficult to imagine the final result when you’re working on mannequins, so seeing everything come together on stage was amazing.”

BNU Costume Design Students take centre stage at operaBNU Costume Design Students take centre stage at opera (Image: BNU)

Another student added: “Being involved from making through to fittings and finally seeing the costumes on stage made all the hard work feel worthwhile. It was inspiring to see the garments brought to life by such talented performers.”

Dr Albani said: “I was incredibly proud to see our students’ work recognised on stage. This project is a powerful example of collaboration and industry-focused learning.”

Following the success of the initiative, Garsington Opera has expressed interest in continuing the partnership, creating further opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in a professional production setting.

Garsington Opera’s wider learning and participation programme already works with schools and young people across Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire, introducing them to the stories, music and backstage skills that bring productions to life.

The partnership with Bucks New University builds on that ethos by opening up real-world pathways into production arts, from costume and scenic design to stage management and lighting.

The collaboration also reflects Garsington Opera’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of creative professionals through placements, traineeships and community projects rooted in the local area.

For students in High Wycombe and beyond, seeing their names in a professional programme is a tangible step towards careers in the theatre, film and live events industries.