Leïlah Dufour Forget
A series to introduce those who work on PPS Danse productions.
Leïlah Dufour Forget / costumes designer for Attractions
Your place of birth?
I was born in Lejeune, a small village in the Lower St. Lawrence.
What is your educational background? How many years have you been practicing your profession?
I completed my training in theater production at the Cégep de Saint-Hyacinthe 6 years ago and since then, I have had the chance to practice my exciting profession.
How do you approach your work?
Each project is unique and is above all for me an opportunity to meet a work, creators and performers. During the rehearsals, we will establish a common language with the team members that will feed me during the design of the costumes. Overall, I would say that at work I am passionate, dedicated, instinctive and positive.
Does your role require a lot of research, meetings and fittings?
Yes, there is first a discussion with the director or choreographer to understand his or her vision of the show. Afterwards, I research images that inspire me. Parallel to this research, I attend rehearsals to get to know the dancers and to follow the creative process. Then, after several research and exchanges with the director or choreographer, there is the creation of the costume models, the shopping or the making, the fittings and the final touch-ups.
What concerns guide you when you work for dance?
Generally, comfort and freedom of movement for dancers are essential in a dance performance, so it is important to communicate well with them and make sure they are comfortable in their costumes. I try to think of the costume as an extension of their body.
How often do you attend rehearsals?
I usually attend rehearsals according to my availability. It’s during these rehearsals that I meet the artists and the work, it’s a step that I love!
Is your work done in stages, in harmony with the other designers?
Yes, certainly! There has to be a good dialogue between the different designers, because all the departments are closely linked, we depend on each other.
