The two costumes are from the play, Medea. Based on Euripedes’ Greek play of the same name, the drama was staged in 5 elaborate performances (26 February – 1 March, 1988) at Fort Canning Park. Presented by Asia in Theatre Research Circus and directed by William Teo (1957-2001), the staging of this play was considered very innovative for its time. Besides the use of the natural environs of the park, the audience were also encouraged to look at the actors’ make-up room, the costumes, and props. The big cast was supported by live orchestra with original score by Mark Chan and the Assistant Music Director, Alex Abisheganaden. Other notable names who worked on this play were, Ashely Lim (Headgear Design), Ho Sweet Woon, Tan Kok Hiang, Yap Yuen Hong (Set Design) and Costume Design (Roy Tik Kin). Keeping in with the inter-cultural approach of Teo, this version of Medea included various Asian cultural forms of dress and music. For example, the two costumes here are inspired by the Japanese kimono. Teo also put in Balinese musical instruments, South Indian Kathakali dancers, Sanskrit chanting, and Chinese musical instruments. Carved by a Balinese mask maker, the actors’ masks showed Noh and Balinese styles. To mark scene changes and create a visual impact, two rugs designed by Eng Tow were rolled and unrolled. Retailing at 8 and 6 (student concession) dollars, the audience was asked to arrive 40 minutes easier to be involved with the cast in its preparation. Greek snacks and drinks were made available.
