What to wear for amateur theatre
Short answer: As an amateur actor you spend many evenings at rehearsals and stand under hot lights during performances. What you wear under your costume makes a big difference: a thin layer that absorbs sweat, and socks that stay comfortable for hours.
Rehearsals call for clothes you can move in
Early rehearsals are about learning lines and positions. You walk, sit, stand, lie on the floor and repeat scenes many times. Comfortable clothing that allows movement is better than everyday wear. Many theatre groups recommend black clothes for rehearsals, so you look like a neutral figure on stage. Bring an extra jumper, as the stage can be cold when the lights are off.
Under the costume
Costumes are often made from thick or stiff fabrics and are not always easy to wash. A thin layer under the costume takes sweat away from the skin and keeps the costume cleaner between performances. It also makes a scratchy costume more comfortable. See bamboo undershirt for men. Choose a colour that does not show through the costume.
Hot lights and nerves
Under stage lights it gets warm, and nerves make many people sweat more than usual. A layer that moves sweat away and does not cling makes a big difference. Drink water during breaks, and keep a small towel backstage to dab your face and neck without ruining your make-up.
Socks for long evenings
At dress rehearsals and performances you stand on hard floors for hours. Soft socks without hard seams make long periods of standing easier. The costume often decides the colour and length of your socks, but you can choose the comfort yourself. See bamboo socks for men. Bring a spare pair for the interval, especially if your feet tend to sweat.
Quick changes
In many productions you need to change costume quickly backstage. A smooth layer underneath makes it easier to get the costume on and off without it sticking. Lay out your costumes in the order you will need them, and practise the changes until they run smoothly. See all bamboo socks for men if you need several pairs in different colours for different costumes.
Warming up voice and body
Most theatre groups warm up before rehearsals and performances with stretching, breathing and voice exercises. Loose or stretchy clothing matters here. Many actors do the warm up in their underwear and base layers before putting on the costume.
Washing and care
Base layers and socks are washed after every performance at 30 or 40 degrees and dried on a rack. Costumes are washed according to the theatre's instructions, often less frequently. The undershirt protects the costume, so it needs washing less often. If you have a sore throat or voice problems that do not go away, talk to your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
What do you wear to theatre rehearsals
Comfortable clothing that allows movement, often in black. Bring an extra jumper, as the stage can be cold.
Why wear an undershirt under a costume
It absorbs sweat, keeps the costume cleaner and makes scratchy fabrics more comfortable.
How do I manage quick costume changes
Lay out your costumes in order, practise the changes and wear a smooth layer underneath so nothing sticks.
