Clothing for actors and musicians on stage
Short answer: On stage it is hot under the lights, and backstage it can be cold and draughty. Actors and musicians need underwear that absorbs sweat, sits quietly under the costume and neither rustles nor shows.
Hot lights and cold wings
Stage lights give off a lot of heat, and a performance or concert can last several hours. Actors move, dance and get lifted, while musicians sit or stand in fixed positions with their instrument. Backstage and in the dressing room it can be cool and draughty. Costumes are often heavy and not made to be washed after every performance. What you wear under the costume therefore matters a great deal for both comfort and hygiene.
Underwear that does not show
Under close fitting costumes and trousers, seams and edges from underwear can show clearly in the light. Underwear with flat seams and a smooth surface is less visible. Bamboo underpants for men are smooth and soft and take moisture away from the skin. Under light costumes, choose a colour close to your skin tone, and try the costume with the underwear at the dress rehearsal, so you can see how it looks under the lights.
A layer between costume and skin
Many costumes cannot be washed often, and a layer between skin and costume protects both. Close fitting inner shorts absorb sweat and stop costume trousers rubbing against the thighs. Bamboo inner shorts are thin and smooth and can be worn under most costumes, including skirts and dresses. They give freedom of movement in dance and choreography on stage.
Feet on the stage floor
Stage floors are hard, and many performers wear shoes chosen for looks rather than comfort. Low socks that do not show above the shoe are often required. Bamboo footies for men sit low and often have silicone at the heel, so they stay in place during movement. Musicians who use pedals benefit from a thin, smooth sock that does not take away the feel of the pedal.
Backstage and between acts
During intervals and backstage, the body can cool quickly after a hot scene. Keep a warm jumper or a dressing gown ready in the wings, so you do not get cold between acts. For long performances it is also a good idea to have a spare set of underwear to change into during the interval, so you start the second act dry. Drink water, because hot lights and dry air dehydrate the body.
Washing and hygiene
Underwear and inner shorts should be washed after every performance, while costumes follow the routines of the theatre or orchestra. Wash at 40 degrees and avoid fabric softener, which makes the fibres worse at absorbing moisture. Air drying is kinder to the elastic. Keep enough sets for a full week of performances, so you always have a clean one ready. If long performances cause discomfort in your back or joints, talk to your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
How do you stop underwear showing in stage lighting
Choose underwear with flat seams, a smooth surface and a colour close to your skin tone, and test it at the dress rehearsal.
Why inner shorts under the costume
They absorb sweat, protect the costume and prevent rubbing between costume and thighs.
What do you do between acts
Put on a warm jumper, drink water and change into dry underwear during long performances if needed.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
